The RV industry has been seeing tremendous growth over the last few years. It’s growing at a rapid pace and sales are hitting numbers not seen since the mid-1970’s. Currently, more than 9 million families own at least one RV for seasonal recreation. But for many, RVing isn’t just a summer activity. For many, it’s become a lifestyle. In fact, industry experts estimate that roughly 1 million or more families live in their RVs full-time.
And while it may be a difficult number to pin down due to the lifestyle’s fluid and nomadic nature, it’s evident that more and more people are trading in their brick and mortar homes for a home on wheels. Whether weekend warrior or full-time RVer, it’s undeniable that there’s something that draws people to the RV life. So, what is it that makes this lifestyle so appealing? Don’t worry; we’re going to tell you.
1. It’s Affordable
One of the biggest reasons people are drawn to RVing is because it’s an affordable way to travel the country. Depending on whether you own an RV or rent one through a peer-to-peer site like RVshare, you can save anywhere from 25 to 60% or more on travel costs! Whereas hotel stays and flights can cost hundreds of dollars a day, renting an RV can cost as little as $30 per day. Even after adding on campground fees and gas costs, you still end up saving money over the costs of air travel and hotels. RVing makes travel possible for virtually any budget.
Affordability is also a huge reason why people decide to live in their RVs full-time. Even if you were to finance an RV, in most cases, RV payments and insurance are going to be a lot less than mortgage or rent payments. For many, living in an RV is an obvious alternative to renting or buying a home – and it comes with the added benefit of being able to pick up and move to the next location whenever you want.
2. You Can Still Work on the Road
Gone are the days where you had to be retired, rich, or have a hefty stash of savings to be able to RV. Thanks to technology and more job flexibility, a vast majority of RVers are able to work out of their RVs. And, since you don’t need a ton of money to go RVing, you can even work part-time to support your lifestyle. Many full-time RVers are freelance writers, consultants, photographers, and IT workers. Really, though, any job that offers remote work will do. Workamping is another viable option. A lot of Workamper jobs offer a decent wage on top of additional benefits like free RV sites and hookups. It’s almost like they’re paying you to travel!
3. It’s a Sensible Way to Explore the Country
You know that feeling when you get back from vacation and you immediately need another one? That’s the feeling that you get from being rushed. Think about it; you save up for months, meticulously plan your itinerary and budget, and try to cram everything there is to do into one week-long vacation. By the time vacation is over, you can hardly remember what happened during the whirlwind of activity.
RV travel embraces the opposite. Traveling at a slower pace – at your pace – is encouraged. It’s about taking it slow, enjoying the sights, and spending time exploring new places. It’s not about feeling obligated to do everything at once because you spent a ton of money on a hotel or a flight. And while it is important to do a little planning (like campgrounds and routes) when you go RVing, you’ll also have the freedom to fly by the seat of your pants – if you want to. Plus, with all the money you save RVing, you’ll be able to stretch your vacation a little longer.
4. It’s Great for Independent, DIY Types
RVs offer endless customization. Even RV travel offers endless customization. You can go anywhere you want and still have the comforts of home with you. You could plan a tour of the country’s biggest cities, the poshest campgrounds, the spookiest towns, the kitschiest shops – literally any kind of trip you can think of! Obviously, this strikes a chord with people who love to take hold of the reins and forge their own paths.
And oh boy, if you’re a DIY project person, you will absolutely love owning an RV. Just find yourself a nice vintage trailer and get to work. Don’t like the carpet? Install hardwood floors. Can’t stand the furniture? Reupholster the cushions. Want to make your RV a boondocking machine? Add solar panels and a compost toilet. The possibilities are limitless to take any old RV and make it a reflection of you.
5. Most Importantly: It’s Good for You!
It’s true. Travel makes us wiser and well-rounded. Studies have shown that traveling enhances creativity, relieves stress, and can even strengthen your relationship with your significant other. RV travel, in particular, teaches you how to adapt and think on your feet, which is always a good skill to have. You’ll not only learn how to be a better planner; you’ll also learn how to embrace the unplanned. It’s a specific, yet highly valuable skill set that can only be learned through experience.
Aside from teaching you a bunch of awesome new skills, RVing just simply makes you a happier person. It’s the joy of living simply and getting back to nature. It’s falling asleep to the sounds of nature while a cool breeze blows through your window. It’s the excitement of hitting the road, blasting your favorite music, and heading toward your next adventure. Mostly, it’s pure, unadulterated freedom. And that sounds pretty great to us.
Ready to Go RVing?
You’re probably about ready to get an RV now – why not? If it’s your first time, you might want to consider renting one from a site like RVshare so you can get the hang of what it’s like to travel in an RV. Renting an RV is also a fun way to research different makes and models before you buy one. Either way, we’re sure you’ll be hooked after your first trip. Have you traveled in an RV or rented an RV before? Share your experiences in the comments!