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norfla71's avatar
norfla71
Explorer
Jul 21, 2014

Useful advice for long term RV living

Everyone,

I'm still a few years off from hitting the road. When the nest emptys, we're hitting the road for months on end; a whole lot of hemisphere left to explore. I have a few years of weekend camping experience, but this is wholy next level, and need some advice on where to start (we have time ;) )as there are a ton of options out there; I'm trying to pair this down to what's really needed, and what can be left on the camp store shelves or dealer lot.

Our rig has a ton of storage, so we can pack quite a bit. However, I'm not so sure we need to pack the house up every time we hit the road. Experiences vary, but what (as a general rule) does everyone find is most needed, and what can be left at home? We plan on spending more time outside, so a nice grille and residential fridge are comming, once we get the garage electrical fixed and upgraded.

14 Replies

  • Duct tape, WD-40, battery charger, shovel and cat litter or salt, spare or extra "parts", tarps, tools, bungies and come-a-longs. Because s#!@ happens.
    Books (Kindle) or hobby supplies for bad weather.
    Generator.
    You only need 2 sets of sheets, but more towels than you think. (leaks, spills)
    TP that dissolves.
    Convection/Toaster oven is more versatile than a toaster, and electric frying pan for when you run out of propane. And a Crock-Pot is nice.

    If you want to go to Mexico, I have more...
  • My Class C has as much storage as we need to pack for 2 for 2 months at a time. I'm not sure what people stow in those huge basements I see below many Class As. I've noticed that I do the same thing in the RV as I do at home, I buy too much stuff I don't need.

    We pack 3 outdoor chairs, a small grill, a screen house, a BOSS vacuum cleaner, basic tools, 2 bikes (packed in the back of the CRV), all my computer equipment fits under 1 dinette bench, and all the other usual stuff.

    I don't miss anything from home when we're gone.
  • I just had a great laugh reading your post...when we first started out in our Airstream, I took 9 pairs of shoes...9!! My hubby still laughs. We now have a Class C and actually carry less than we did in the TT! Due to experience and a lot of teasing...I now travel with 3 pair.
    I believe its going to be an experience thing as we all have different wants/needs as to what we take. Last year we took a 3 month trip and for the first time, we felt we hadn't overpacked...until hubby walked into Home Depot one day...boys and their toys!
    Dog Folks is pretty spot on!
    Safe travels.
  • Pack 1/2 the clothes you think you will need.

    Allow twice the time to explore.

    Take twice the amount of money you think you will need.

    This sounds trite, but I kid you not.