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Avi_Gili's avatar
Avi_Gili
Explorer
Jan 01, 2017

Choosing an RV for full timers

Hi guys, we are new to RVing but are very enthusiastic. We are looking to buy our first RV and live in it full time. We heard people refer to it as “Full timing.” We’re hoping to get some tips from all the experienced folks out here and recommendations on selecting our first RV. At the moment, we don’t have a vehicle for the towing. To not be limited by the vehicle, we’re looking to decide on an RV and then buy the truck that best suit for towing it.

After doing a research about the different options available, we came up with a list of features we need in an RV.

RV requirements list:
Budget $13,000
Travel trailer / Toy hauler
Up to 30ft length
Sleeps 2 minimum
Queen bed
Sitting area with a table
Private sleeping area (area that can be close off)
Ramp back door - preferable
Kitchen i.e. refrigerator, range oven, microwave, sink etc
Shower & toilet
No expandable tent (hybrid)
Awning
2 axles

Any suggestions regarding make and models of RV based on those features and budget would be greatly appreciated!
  • Of course it all boils down to "how much can you afford"? An interesting sidebar for full-timers is the "work-camper" role. Free sites, minimum wage and just a few hours per week. Lot of folks do this.....meet all kinds of people (interesting, of course).

    g'luck!
  • For FT look at storage. A number of RV are manufactured for the "weekender" and give up storage for a large "living" space.

    Having said the above. I could do without about 1/2 of the stuff I have in the TT. . . . . :B
  • For full timing I think your hudget is a little short. Remember, your going to be living in this RV full time. But for your 13K an older Arctic Fox TT might be a good option. Depending on how often and where your planning to spend winters toy haulers with that huge back door might be a big mistake. Almost everything else on your list is pretty standard fare on all RVs. So, how about laundry facilities? Do you want a bath tub or is a shower only OK? Do you plan to live in one place or move around? Do you plan to boon dock or established RV parks? What do you intend to tow it with? Budget for living? Remember full timing is generally not cheaper than apartment living. Factor in 35 to 50 dollars a night for RV spaces can add up in a hurry.