Everything You Need to Know About Living in an RV

RV living is a growing trend for those seeking adventure, freedom, and flexibility. Whether you are a retiree, digital nomad, or just someone looking for a change of pace, RV living offers many unique experiences and opportunities. However, it's more complex than simply buying an RV and hitting the road. There are many aspects to consider when switching to RV living, such as different types of RVs, how to finance an RV, and tips for living out of an RV legally and technically.

Types of RVs

There are many different types of RVs available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The right RV for you may be a towable trailer, a motorhome, or a pop-up camper. If you’re unsure which RV type suits your travel plans, you can visit Camping World to learn about specific differences between RV types. The experts at Camping World will also help you explore layouts, sizes, and everything else you need to know to select the RV type that’s best for you. Some of the most popular types include:

• Class A Motorhomes: These are the largest type of RV, usually ranging from 25 to 45 feet in length. Class A motorhomes are built on a bus or truck chassis and offer many of the amenities found in a home, such as a full kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping quarters.
• Class B Motorhomes: These RVs, also known as campervans, are smaller and more compact than Class A motorhomes, typically ranging from 16 to 22 feet in length. They are built on a van chassis and offer more modest living space but are easier to maneuver and park than larger RVs.
• Class C Motorhomes: Class C motorhomes are a happy medium between Class A and Class B, ranging from 21 to 32 feet in length. They are built on a truck chassis and offer a mix of amenities and compactness, making them a popular choice for families.
• Travel Trailers: Travel trailers are a type of RV pulled behind a vehicle, usually a pickup truck. They come in various sizes and styles, from lightweight tent trailers to large luxury models.
• Fifth-Wheel Trailers: Fifth-wheel trailers are similar to travel trailers, but they are designed to be pulled by a pickup truck with a special hitch in the truck’s bed. They are larger and more spacious than travel trailers and offer many amenities found in Class A motorhomes.
• Park Models: Park models are an RV designed for long-term camping or permanent living. They are usually less than 400 square feet and can be parked in an RV park or other designated areas.

RV Financing

If you're looking to buy an RV, you may need to finance the purchase. There are several options available for RV financing, including:

• Bank Loans: You can take out a personal loan from a bank to finance your RV purchase. This is a good option if you have good credit and can get a low interest rate.
• RV Dealership Financing: Many RV dealerships offer financing options, such as loans and leases. These options can be convenient, but shopping around and comparing rates is essential to get the best deal. Consider the affordable RV financing options available at Camping World. When you buy an RV through Camping World, you can rest assured that you’re getting the best loan rate in the market through their leveraged preferred dealer status with manufacturers and lenders. 
• Manufacturer Financing: Some RV manufacturers offer financing options directly to consumers, so be sure to check with the RV manufacturer you're interested in.
• RV Financing Companies: RV financing companies also specialize in financing RV purchases. They can offer competitive rates and flexible terms, so it's worth considering this option.

Living Out of Your RV

Living in an RV full-time can be a rewarding experience, but it's essential to know the legal and technical aspects of RV living. Here are some tips to help you get started:

• Register Your RV: You'll need to register your RV with the DMV in your state of residency. Some states require you to register as a full-time resident if you plan to live in your RV for an extended period. This will determine your state of residency and affect your tax and voting status.
• Find Legal Campgrounds: Not all campgrounds allow full-time RV living, so it's essential to research and find campgrounds that cater to long-term residents. Make sure to check the park's policies and rules before making a decision.
• Monitor Your Utilities: Living in an RV requires you to manage your own utilities, such as electricity, water, and waste. You'll need to know how to conserve resources and monitor usage to avoid overloading the RV's systems.
• Stay Within the Law: Different states have different laws regarding RV living, so it's important to research the rules in the states you plan to visit. Some states restrict how long you can park in one spot, while others limit overnight parking in rest areas.
• Maintain Your RV: Living in an RV requires regular maintenance and upkeep to keep it in good working condition. This includes routine check-ups on the electrical, plumbing, and mechanical systems. By purchasing your RV through Camping World, you can access their nationwide service network with expert mechanics available 24/7 to help with emergency same-day services, upgrades, and customizations to your RV. 

Living in an RV is a unique and exciting way to experience the world and bring the comfort of home on the road with you. Before buying your RV, consider the options available to you for the type of RV and financing of the RV. Living in an RV is an adventure of its own, but to avoid restrictive laws, be sure to do your research about where you can park and stay overnight. With the proper preparation and research, you can have a successful and enjoyable RV living experience.