Our Journey to RV Life: From Dream to Reality
Imagine this: You're sitting in your recliner, sipping a cup of warm coffee, watching the sun rise above the trees over a distant mountain range. Two months ago, the scenery where you sat was the same, but instead, you were watching the sun rise over the beach. Before that, you were just outside a major city. Before that, in the desert. This isn't a mere vacation - it's your ever-changing backyard because you have afforded yourself and your future that option. You decide to step outside into the fresh air and take a deep breath; maybe you'll finish that cup out here listening to the gentle breeze before you log on to begin work for the day; who knows, it's up to you. This is the dream that's been whispering to us (my husband and I)- the dream of RV life, a life of freedom, adventures, trials we'll overcome, and, more than anything, experiences.
I know what you're thinking. "Another family ditching the 9-to-5 for life on the road? How original." Trust me, I've had those same thoughts about myself. If I’m honest, though, these past couple of years have been nearly unbearable in hardships. Major surgeries, autistic meltdowns, housefires, and more 12-hour days than I care to count; I don’t even know what a 9-5 is anymore. So hear me out, right along with that, “Are you out of your mind?” Lies a hard dose of real. This isn't about escaping reality or living out some perfect fantasy, it's about redefining what 'home' means, choosing experiences over things, and facing our fears head-on. After all, isn’t that what we’ve been doing all along anyway? This feels different; I'm a little afraid of this. Terrified of all the things that could go wrong, more than that fear, though, I'm scared of staying stagnant in something that doesn't feel right to me. Being here, scheduling out between the chaos when I can feed my wanderlust spirit feels unnatural. I've been on a trajectory of choosing experiences first for a while now. It started with just 5 items for Christmas instead of many little gifts, which morphed into increasingly significant family vacations. I got my travel agent license, which was a logical next step, and here we are.
Today, I want to share our journey towards embracing the RV lifestyle. It's a big decision, filled with equal parts excitement and trepidation. The RV "how-to" books on my nightstand explain both sides of that happy fear. So, if you've ever found yourself daydreaming about hitting the open road or wondering what it would be like to carry your home on your back like a turtle (even if you have a solid aversion to turtles as I do), you're in good company. Let me start by asking how you grow and transform if you only allow yourself to be planted in the same dirt.
Why RV Life? The Call of the Open Road
For us, the appeal of RV life can be summed up in a few words: freedom, experiences, scenery, quiet, and activity.
Freedom in being able to change the scenery around you regularly if you so choose and bringing on new experiences as you do so from where you are. Also, the quiet comes with spending so much active time in nature. I want to be outside all the time as it is. It calls to me to experience and play. After all, playing as an adult is very important. It's something so many of us never really think about, but it's part of growing, regardless of age. The method may change, but the ability to let loose and have a good time doesn't. Having an RV means having all these things regularly, without the tie-downs of having a regular home.
As someone who sometimes feels awkward in crowded social situations, I find solace in nature. It grounds me, reminding me that I'm part of something bigger. That feeling of being at one with the universe? Priceless.
Financial Goals: Saving While Exploring
Now, let's talk money. Our primary financial goal while RVing is to save money. Yep, you heard that right! We want to improve our financial outlook while living this adventure-filled life. Money in the bank is never a bad thing. I used to see savings as unnecessary, but with age comes wisdom, and now I see it as a freedom I never afforded myself. I want to live below our means and work jobs we love while on the road. The goal is to spend quality time together, not full of worry, because we have something to fall back on if we need it. This journey is about exploring and enjoying each other with less stuff and more experiences. It's a delicate balance but one we're committed to achieving.
Experiences and Destinations: The World is Our Oyster
What excites us most about RV life is the exploration! Imagine hiking around red rocks, standing in awe beneath giant trees, and then heading back to your cozy home on wheels. Now, I love a good hotel room stay (and there will still be more), don't get me wrong, but there is something about the comfort of our own space wherever we roam.
We're looking forward to experiencing diverse climates and terrains while having our favorite humans (and fur friends) by our side. And remember the joy of a home-cooked meal after a day of adventure!
Social Life on the Road: Finding Our Tribe
Our vision is a semi-social RV life. While we cherish solitude, we're thrilled about making friends on the road and becoming part of a like-minded community. I have met some of the best humans on vacations, more so than I do staying in one place. Meeting other couples or families on the road and having a little campfire together sounds fun. Maybe we can plan to camp together in another location sometime. It takes a village, right?
Skills to Develop: Embracing New Challenges
While we're not total newbies to outdoor activities (hello, hiking, and biking!), we're excited to take our skills to the next level. Rock climbing, paddle boarding, and more intense outdoor sports are on our bucket list. RV life is the perfect opportunity to dive deeper into these passions.
The Timeline: Our Three-Phase Plan
We've got a plan, and we're sticking to it! Here's the timeline:
1. Phase 1 (December 2025): Buy the RV and start "living" in it while we prepare our house for sale.
I 100% want to have a few trips under my belt before we hit the road full-time. We could even live in the RV part-time for a stint while we fix the house to sell it. That way, we'll be accustomed to all the quirks and the ins and outs of Rving long before we actually are on the road. It seems wise to me.
2. Phase 2 (Fall/Winter 2026): Put the house on the market and sell it.
Who knows? Our house could sell right away or sit on the market for a while. No one knows, but it's better to have time to sell it before we leave. Even if it means we have to do a short-term rental somewhere since it's winter, I would rather be safe than sorry.
3. Phase 3 (May 2027): Hit the road!
Yes, it seems like a long time, but good things come to those who prepare. Plus, this timeline allows us to align with our daughter's high school graduation, giving her the time with friends and other things she needs.
Our RV Travel Style: Slow and Steady
I'm all about slow travel. It allows one to take it all in and not rush to see everything a place has to offer in one fail swoop. You have time! I envision moving our "home base" about 4-6 times a year, staying in each campground location for at least 3-4 months with shorter weekend trips off the grid. This approach will get to know each area, take day trips, and avoid the rush of typical tourism.
For our RV setup, we're looking for something with essential hookups for longer stays. For me, a balance between nature and comfort is vital.
The Challenges and Excitement Ahead
Of course, transitioning to RV life comes with its challenges. Downsizing, figuring out work arrangements, and adapting to a new lifestyle are all part of the journey. But that's what makes it exciting!
We're looking forward to less hustle and bustle, more intentional living, and creating a life filled with experiences rather than things.
Wrapping Up: The Road Ahead
As we embark on this journey, we're filled with emotions – excitement, nervousness, and anticipation. But most of all, we're filled with hope for the adventures ahead.
To all of you dreaming of RV life, remember: it's not just about the destination; it's about the journey. And what a journey it's going to be!
Stay tuned for more updates as we prepare for our big adventure. The road is calling, and soon, we'll answer!
