I have lived over 8 years in my 5th wheel in a full-time park. I also am debt free and live on less than $1,000 a month. I spend less than $300 a month which includes my dog's food which I cook myself. We both eat very well I will admit. I don't eat out or fast food, all meals are cooked at home and are healthy meals because I don't eat processed, boxed, or prepared food. Every thing is cooked fresh and from scratch. My utilities run a little high because of the inverter on my unit. My propane costs me less than $120 a year. I have a mini washing machine (no dryer). Spring, Summer, and Fall, I hang my clothes outside to dry. Winter, I use a dryer rack inside. I only drive my car, maybe, 25 miles a month so I can go 4 months on a tank of gas. All I'm saying is, it can be done. I'm happier than I've ever been in my life, I live at about 9,000 ft in the Colorado Rocky Mountains surrounded by forest. So relaxing and makes me want to be more at home than going out somewhere.
Your situation sounds perfect! I cook everything from scratch for myself and 2 pups. I'm looking at a 5th wheel for full time living but having difficulty finding a decent place for an affordable lot rental in Colorado. I don't want to be on the road, just stay in one place if possible. Congratulations on your great living situation!!
Im renting my house out and moving into a used 5th wheel in my moms back yard😅 shes going to charge me $100 a month. I'm hoping I can start saving up money fast!
Robin's $1,550 budget did not include maintenance on her truck and/or RV (or maybe I missed that figure). In 4 years I drove 100,000 miles cross country in my 1999 GMC Savana extended length van fitted with low tech camping equipment. I paid about $5,000 for the used van, and about $5,000 for initial repairs and upgrades to get it ready for the road. In 4 years, my on-going tires and maintenance have cost about $10,000 or $200/month - including a new transmission, radiator, alternator, brakes and other big ticket repairs. It's important to have a good roadside assistance plan with more than the minimum allowance for free towing when repairs are needed.
@@YeahNah100 My van was not technically an RV, so I have AAA's upgraded 100-mile tow coverage.for regular vehicles.. Check around for other choices, depending on what type of rig you have.
I did not hear that either. I know that most people I'm familiar with keep as much as they can in an "emergency" savings account for just such things, including other repairs or possible accidents on the road (recommended $5-10,000)
I have been living in my rv for 3 years at a permanent site. It was the only way I could afford to leave my marriage & continue to pay my half of the house bills. I have to stay in my area for my kid to finish school. I have kept my job. My lot rent & rv payments which includes utilities are less than people are paying for rent before utilities. I'm still keeping the budget tight to pay off old debt & get through the divorce but I'm comfortable & can still afford some extras & fun. Plus I love the state park my rv resort is located adjacent to. Always good walks & outdoor activities for me & the dogs. When my daughter leaves for college I will be debt free, rv paid off & ready for next phase.
same! good for you im so proud and happy for you! i left an abusive situation and there is some freedom and peace in y 23ft motorhome i just pick up my housecar and enjoy. i am praying for your financial emotional and spiritual abundance!
I van lived for a couple of years. Sold the house, retired, and hit the road. It was an adventure, and I learned so much about myself. But I studied Bob W. for 8 years before I pulled the plug. If you are traveling alone, think about getting a rig - used - that you can jump out of bed, run to the steering wheel, crank the engine, and floor it. I would have loved to have a trailer that I pulled with a jeep or a truck, but if you are on BLM at night and someone comes, you can't drive off. And the age of your rig determines how much money you set aside for maintenance and the 'emergency fund' you should have on hand. Willing to learn how to maintain your rig = reduced cost of maintenance. It really is worth the effort to rent a rig and try it for 1 or 2 weeks on your own. Look at how much RV parks costs if you need to plug in and dump your wastes (I think it's expensive and they are booked 6 months in advance). Can you city 'stealth camp' in that rig if you had to? Look at how much BLM land is available where you plan to spend your time (the further east, the less BLM), etc. Basically, do your homework first. Try BLM land camping and see if you like being out in the middle of nowhere with 1 bar of cell coverage. And start off with as little debt as possible because 'stuff happens'.
Looking forward to this series! I have been dreaming of living on the road for years, but my husband wasn't interested. Divorced now and have started a bookkeeping business. Over half my income is now coming from 100% remote clients. This week I am downsizing my house (2 sons still live with me), then I will actually be looking for a Class C RV...for real - not just dreaming about it at an RV show - I cannot believe it!
Congratulations! Good luck, hopefully I’ll be joining you in the next couple of years. So glad you’re job will make it easier for you. I’m a pharmacy tech so unless I take a travel gig (which I totally would!), I’m stuck for a little longer. Happy travels!
I'm thinking about this and living in a RV park full-time close to my work. I am also a single woman with a dog. It's smarter then paying rent for an apartment. I'm also a minimalist.
@@melbapeters5457 Pad rent is much cheaper than most people's taxes and insurance...And I think Op knows that.....I'm actually selling my double-wide in a 55-plus park to do this . I don't need all this space at 1250sq ft. A lot of rv park include the utilities even electricity not all of them but a lot. I'm seeing that for between 500 and 800 bucks a month. You can't do that in an apartment and not everybody can own their house.
@@DutchessCottonPuff pad rent at 500 or 800 a month is not cheaper than most people's insurance and taxes. . It depends on the area you live in . Also after a certain age you actually get your taxes or a portion of them back when you file your taxes.
I'm a live in nurse/caregiver and I can find a job anywhere and I'm also a widow now😢 and it's just me and my Taffy Bean (chihuahua) and I'm so tired of living this way i need to get out and go so I'm looking into buying a mini rv and finally living life. I'm so happy I found your videos and I'm a happy subscriber ❤❤
Oh yes, my budget is covered by my SSI ($2,100/mo) ! Boondocking is a win most days. I use parks to replenish and dump. Perhaps a night of two after 10 days in the woods!
This is a great formula. A 1-3 night stay in a park is a really good idea. It allows you to refill water, dump trash, have power access to clean & recharge, etc. I think is really the only was to this life inexpensively. I think people forget how expensive it can be to drive most days, or to be paying for RV spaces often.
I was a traveling nurse years ago and loved crisscrossing the country. The downside was that I didn't always have time to explore like I wanted to. Now that I'm retired, and spent the last 3 months losing money trying to open a business, I've decided it's time to sell my house and get back on the road.
I have an old Bluebird FC35 and a Jeep scrambler in tow. I have them registered in South Dakota and have Foremost Insurance. I bounce between my children, one in Baton Rouge Louisiana and the other in Sandpoint Idaho. I also spend time with friends in Flagstaff and then in December I migrate to Quartzsite Arizona till March. I have no propane, I have gone all electric and mostly 12 volt DC. 1800 wats of Solar on roof, and 1200 WH of batteries. There are 2 12 volt AC’s on the roof, 3 12 Volt refrigerators one 16 cu ft with top freezer that is just for ice Machine then 2 draw units for freezers. I have been doing this part time for more than 30 years now.
I traveled for three years alone in a small class C. Boondocking is the way to go. I did not have solar although I did install lithium batteries. No internet. My unlimited AT&T worked great $116/mo. I met you briefly, Robin, in a casino overnight Parking lot in Phoenix. You're right on target!!!
to speak to the solo female topic... I just bought a teardrop, but I spent all last summer solo tent camping and at first I was a little hesitant, but by the end of "camping season" I was completely comfortable (I did have forms of protection). I got the teardrop to expand my options. It is incredibly freeing and soul-fulfilling for me to be able to do this solo and knowing that I can do this alone and be happy.
I did a trial run traveling with my trailer and decided traveling around by myself was not for me. So I thought about what attracted me to the idea of this lifestyle and figured out I wanted to live small and I enjoy park life. So I ended up selling my house and buying a 400 sq ft park model in a park where you own your lot. This seems to suit me and my budget is around the $1,500-$1,700 range. I have all the amenities and the comforts of home on a small budget. I will start social security next month and plan to do some writing also.
i do enjoy the traveling, but i am so with you re: the living small! When i first thought about the RV, it was all about traveling But real early on in the RV, i realized that it was heaven to have only the stuff i really want/need, to know what i have and where it is, and have it all in reach! It made me realize that, when this chapter is done, it's a tiny house for me -- or maybe something like you said, a park. Last summer i met some women who had two RVs/sites, one in at a KOA in NH and one in FL and rotated between them. Sounded like a nice way to go. Love watching the youtube channels exploring tiny houses!
This video really made me more interested in RV life. I’m being forced to sell my home and move because they don’t want me to have my dog. So I was thinking of the RV life then I can save money and also travel if I want to. So thank youuu!
Thanks, Robin! 👏 Looking forward to the entire series. Solo, full-timing, female for 7 years and I wouldn’t change a thing either! It’s one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Safe Journey, Road Sister!
Women like u and Robin are so inspiring to someone like me. I'm in a bit of an upside down situation where I have to help out relatives but I do appreciate being solo so that I can at least see a way forward. Sincere thanks for sharing. Best of luck for continued success!
Hi, I love your serie I'll watch it all tonight. Im a single mom with 2 kids pre-teen and teen. My rent just went up $500/month and I cant afford that. Im on IS in Canada and I homeschool my kids. Ive been planning and raising my kids towards the goal of having an offgrid homestead eventualy but now with the rent raise Im looking at exchanging my car for an RV before we become homeless. I've always been independent. I moved accross the country in my car few years ago. Im affraid to get a lemon RV and get stock alone on the side of the road. I don't knnow mecanic at all. I will take note of everything you say and pray I'll be ok. Thanks for helping me through your video.
Clothes. Exactly. When I retired from teaching my clothing budget went to 0 for a couple of years. Then my underwear needed replacing. Lol I shop at Thrift Stores whenever I want a new outfit. Thanks for your video, Robin.
Once I moved into my van, and put the rest of the stuff in storage, I didn't buy anything because if I brought 1 thing new in, something had to be tossed. It really cut down on 'material things' and upped the 'experience life' things.
You have given me goals! Turning 50 this year, have a 5yr plan to start seeing the US on my 55 bday. I've bought your books and have been compiling all the info I can plus started the remote/nomad/self relent job so I have an income.
Robin your hair is stunning! I went silver about a decade ago & love, love, love not having to color it. Mr & I have been using our RV this summer more then ever ( just retired) but find we trip over each other. I could easily live alone in it but not as a couple. Even in a small space he still asks me “where’s the ……..”
Wow, this was great! I need you in my life, seriously! I'm considering making this move. I turned 60 this year, and I have a house in MD (DC area) and I have 10 acres in Farmville VA (3 hours away). I'm thinking of going RV full time, rent out my house, install a full RV hookup on my VA land, and or put a metal framed barn garage with RV hookups inside so for the most part, I can park in there free most of the time. Then when I want to hit the road, I can just go! My plan is to RV for 4-5 years, while saving money and paying off the MD house and my rig (whatever that will be), then build a house (I'm thinking triple wide modular) when I'm 65. The ultimate plan is to have everything paid off by 70 so I can retire with no mortgages/vehicle payments and have all the flexibility a girl could want! I'm nervous about how to get started, what rig can I handle, will I have to upgrade my pickup or do I go Class C....UGH!!!
I am inspired! I have never seriously considered the nomad life. Turned 68 this month and am once again starting a full time job I DON’T want! So, perhaps I can make this type of change. I’ll keep watching. Thank you!
I’m seriously considering this as well. I was diagnosed with brain cancer the end of last year, and she makes a solid point…if you learned TODAY that you only had 2 years left, would you still go to work? After my chemo gets done, maybe then…I’m trying to convince my other half….that’s not working out so great 🙁😝🤪
A new solo woman here and I just found out today and I've had this camper for 10 months and living in it for seven but I don't have a water tank!!😭 I'm new obviously so I just want the people out there to know and look for all the equipment that I assumed was on it. I also assumed there was a spare tire on it and there is not 😭 Talk about an expensive lesson!! I overpaid anyway just because they're all expensive right now. I'm still free 😉 Thank you Robin for doing this series 🙏💞
My curiosity is peaked big time. How were you living in it for seven months and not know you don’t have a water tank? Have never heard of an RV without a water tank. Please share the name and type of camper.
@@ceciliapetrowsky2572 I've been plugged in since I've had it so a couple of guys that camped next to me I saw them draining something different so I started asking them and then he showed me and was telling me and then he came and looked at mine and that's when it was discovered. They have years of experience and I seen the difference
Shelly, another full-time solo woman here who had never done this RV thing, and was certainly not a diesel mechanic, before heading out. The first year was goddawful, so much went wrong, but i finally realized that just is what i had to go thru trying to take on so much new stuff at once. So yes, the expenses rolled in, it was stressful and i was hemmoraghing cash ... but eventually it all settled down, i ended up much wiser and confident in my ability to tackle whatever came up, and now i cannot imagine doing anything else. In fact, my biggest problem now is how/what to do with the furniture i put in storage because i won't be needing it for quite some thime, if ever! That said, i think the biggest piece of advice i would give anyone about this is to give yourself permission to get off the road if you need a break -- I did that for a couple months last spring and it did me (and my sweet senior dog) the chance to get rested, healthy, grounded, and ready for the next chapter. It felt odd at first, almost like i was giving up, but that's upside down - it's all about the ability to discern what you need and the freedom to see about doing it. ps-when i first was driving my RV in super hot weather, i put the ac on expecting it to cool down the house (i'm in a class C) - i turned on the generator but no ac! i was panicked thinking there was a problem with the ac...when i got to the park, the fellow there took a look and (very kindly) told me i needed to actually plug the RV into the outlet (that led to the generator) ...who knew??? (clearly not me). It's just something we have to go thru... :)
@@maddiesnuffles2241 I want to thank you so much for these encouraging words that I really need to hear right now. Just got done with a huge storm and I had a big puddle of water on top of my kitchen sink I don't see anything dripping or anything running down the Walls it's just like a puddle out of nowhere? I got to laugh to keep My sanity about it lol I'm glad I stayed at a campground this summer so I could learn about it close to home 😁
My wife and I did something different we live on lake Cumberland in a house boat. My wife works from the boat and I am a trucker. Mt rent was 2200 a month now all my bills are about 2500 that's the house boat two cars and my pontoon. Slip fee it 4700 a year . The house boat is 480 a month and it about 800 square feet. It 16 × 61 ft we have 1258 miles of shoreline to camp out on. We have 4 full time live aboard at the end of the dock where we are . The nice thing is we help each others out .
Robin, I have been following you for couple of years now. I think you were one of the first "nomads" I tuned into. I'm so glad you are still out there doing what you love and sharing your knowledge and experience with us so that maybe we too can become nomads someday or simply live vicariously through you! Keep up the great work! Huge fan!
Need to add in a considerable and constantly replenished emergency fund, I believe. Including hotel stays for when your RV is being repaired. Sometimes they can't even accept your RV for weeks, because they're already all booked up.
I am currently in Crescent City California for August because it’s cool. At an RV park it’s 13.50 a night for full hooks if I stay 30 days. Close to markets and the Ocean 🦭 seals and beautiful views.
We just finished an 8000 mile 5 week road trip with our 5th wheel and loved EVERY second of it. Did we ever dislike coming home and going back to work. We are heading into the planning stages and in 2 years will hopefully be on the road full time! I've been subscribed for awhile now, but I'm really looking forward to this series! Thanks for all the info you share with us!
I am excited to watch your upcoming series. I am turning 52 this year and retirement is extremely close. I will have my 30 years of experience as an educator on January 1, 2024. I told my husband that I want to be a 'dorky RV couple' and travel the US when we retire. I am hoping we can make it happen!!
I've been watching you for over a year now. I have been soaking up all your knowledge. I just turned 62 and not quite ready to retire, but when I am I will be using your info. Thanks for being there for people like me.
Great advise Robin. I also took about three years to plan for full time RV living and retirement. I purchased my 25FT class C in April. I found a reasonable place to park my RV using the Neighbor app. This has allowed me to use my RV 4 days each month, to do some modifications and slowly move in while, I continue to downsize and prepare to sell my condo in Miami, Florida. Yes I am also a solo traveler, and look forward to meeting others, once I am on the road. Cheryl
HI Cheryl.. I was born & raised in Havana, Florida? Sold my home in PP and currently in AIRBNB. I became a little? Tough living here & the more I research this I want to do it.. and single nomad I'd be. So, good luck to you and maybe we can hook up around Dizzy World MCO .. Blessings for us to succeed in our future dream. 💪🌈❤️
One thing certain people have to think about- the value of an rv goes down over time- but if you buy a house- the value goes up over time. You might lose on a house over a short time but most of the time- long term it goes up in value.
Here is my thought on that. Sell the big house and buy a couple of rentals. Or, if you have not bought yet, then you are the prime person to do 'Stealth Camping' or live in a RV to save on rent for a down payment. Once you have the rentals, hire a maintenance company to watch and maintain and get your rig and travel. If you ever want to get off the road, move into the rental unit and live for a while.
Depreciation depends on the RV quality and how well it's cared for. Appreciation on a house depends on upkeep, yard care, and the neighborhood improvements. Lots of variables.
I'm about to do it. I need this, because I feel so trapped and just dead or existing .When you know it's time, you just know it! My mechanic and my brother both told me it's the most brilliant thing they ever heard of. I can't wait.
Hi Robin, this is very generous of you to share your details. I hope your watchers appreciate your sharing. Im grounded with serious health problems so travelling in a van is out of the question. Ive been watching you and living vicariously for a few years and l thank you for the pleasure you have given me. You look a lot younger with the softer hair style and your skin is glowing. Van life is obviously agreeing with you. Love from Australia. 💕🐨
Admire what you are doing. Thought I wanted to be nomadic but I’m establishing a homestead and learning to produce our own food. LOL! About the polar opposite to going nomad. We also have a wooded property we think we shall develop into an RV park. 😇
@@mauimama3673 RUclips search. I like several. PERMACULTURE PASTURES and Justin Rhodes’ channels are two. I found Justin Rhodes when their RUclips was an RV journey visiting families homesteading and farming then they returned to his family farm and homesteading. Oh! And Greg Judy at Green Pastures Farm has a couple good books and wonderful RUclips, and all these just scratch the surface. But it does preclude my old dream of an RV and being nomadic.
I found a 33ft 2007 Bumper Pull Trail Runner with a Super Pull-Out for $4500. I work the US/Global as an Engineer, and while I’m domestic, it’s plenty big enough for my wife, chihuahuha, and dad that visits❤️ Our Savings has Exponentially Bloomed since doing this.
Thank you for this video. I’ve been thinking about RV living for sometime and I’m glad I found your channel. I’m 70, single woman, retired, a professional photographer, and currently live with my family. The mobility of an RV lifestyle is appealing to me.
Sure until your RV breaks down, you have a flat tire, or your water pump breaks and then what? You can't cook, can't flush the toilet and it's going to cost you at least $200 / $250 to have a mobile RV technician come out and try and diagnose the problem! It's appealing until its 14 degrees in Alabama and your water hose is frozen and the insides of your windows are glazed with ice!
@@faithsrvtrip8768 it’s all part of the journey. I sold my house and nearly everything a year ago and bought a Class A. I’m a 60 yo small, single woman and every time I wake up seems like there’s something new to fix. But I jump on You Tube and figure out most of it myself. My mobile RV guy has really only had to come to install a new AC (extended warranty covered) and repair my slide. I’ve installed new ceiling vent fans, completely tore down and rebuilt my leaking wet bay, gone to war not just once with my Vacuflush system, just installed a new shore cord to my ATS, wired a new 110 circuit to my panel for a washer dryer and those are just off the top of my head. I’ve done so much more and all myself without assistance. This is within my first year. To me, it’s inconvenient and sometimes it’s a really cold night without any power when my shore cord went out and gen wouldn’t start. But it’s all an excellent learning experience. I’m full time but parked and will be on the road soon. All of this happening “to me” has only made me resilient and more determined and I have no fear of soloing now. All the “what if this breaks or…” have left me.
Thank you so much for this video! I love when you say "Don't think I am special" because that's exactly what I was thinking you know, "Others can do this, but not me" I just started considering living a nomadic lifestyle and the way you talk is refreshing and encouraging. I can't wait to watch all your future videos in this series!
WOW!!THAT'S AMAZING..HOW DO U MANAGE IN THE FREEZING WEATHER? ON CAMPGROUNDS ETC.??I HAVE A RAV 4.🚙BUT THINKING ON BUYING AN RV OR VAN🤔..I DO HAVE 3DOGS🤷🏼♀️.
@@harrisonheart5043 I put foam board along the inside walls and then hang a decorative blanket. I have a portable battery box i use for all my cooking and plus a small personalized heater into it. I use an electric blanket as well. I live very very simple. I love it.
@@cindysegar1426 OMY GOSH!! THAT MAKES SO MUCH SENSE 🤦🏼♀️I AM PRAYING I GET OUTTA THIS HOUSE &BEGAN MY LIFE ON THE ROAD!!THANKS FOR THE INFO!!🙏🏻🙋🏼♀️💜🐕🐕🐕
Omg…you were basically reading my life out loud regarding your previous situation before RV life. 😭😭😭 …working a job that makes me unhappy just to pay a mortgage. Thank you for this video. You’ve truly inspired me, and you now have a new Subscriber ❤
Looking forward to seeing the rest of this series! I'm still in the planning stages, but hope to be on the road sometime next year, so this video was just what I was needing to help determine if I can make it on my current retirement budget or if I will need to supplement. Your videos are my favorites because you have put so much thought and research into the subject!! Thanks Robin 💕
glad i just ran across your channel. I'm in the process of going full-time in the next 9 months and your story resonates so much with my own. Life is short. Live
Thanks for the video - good to see you back at it~ I just wanted to tag a note to the comments about keeping money aside for repairs. I had a terrible time with that my first year even though i bought what should have been a very good vehicle (a MB for pitys sake!). Anyway, just wanted to say that, when thinking about the cost for repairs (chassis or house), don't forget to include the cost of alternate housing. Often you can work something out so that you don't have to completely vacate, possibly even staying at the repair/service center overnight in your rig, but sometimes you just can't and you find yourself booking hotels/airbnbs etc. And don't forget to factor in the possible additional cost if you have a pet.
How many RVs have you purchased in the timeframe? How much do they depreciate over 5 yesrs? How much would a sticks and bricks have appreciated? A sticks and bricks is often the largest asset people have for retirement. There's life after RVing, and if you haven't saved, you're up the creek.
Great video! Glad to have found you!!! We are moving in our rv (which is technically a class B motorhome) in June!! We have been talking about it for at least 4 years and we are finally taking the plunge! With a family! We are worship musicians and this will open us up to go wherever God says whenever He says! So excited, and tbh, nervous 😅
I admire your resources. I advise anyone if you're in a situation all of this woman's advice and don't work yourself to death to maintain what you have. While you're not thrilled or even happy or satisfied with it. I've sold concrete homes in pool homes. My adult disabled son will live with me the rest of his life. At no income to me. Based on our capitalist government. I worked hard and I kept one acre a three bedroom two bath renovated mobile into a wide open space two bedroom two bath mobile. A heavy vehicle paid off. And started Social Security at 62. I retired myself at 57 by selling my concrete pool home. I have friends who say cruel things like one of their friends said they would never dragging out never. Live in a mobile home. For me my home is sustainable I have two other Mobiles on my property that one of my son's friends who has disabilities lives in for free. He has no income through the government. Or his family. Again are capitalist heartless government is hardest on the disabled always hardest on the women. We must find our path. It does not surprise me that 66 or 68% of these women going out on their own. It's exhausting doing everything for men. And they're not a lot of men who do for themselves. And equally due for another. Not saying that some don't. I was blessed that my father did. Shocked that two husbands and a fiance didn't. And I just find it so much smoother in life. Not to have to manage all of their life for them. As well as their money worship. Why I don't worship money or things. I live so happily and what I have. And the more I see women like you living on their own or taking care of their children. Or helping with their children while they get about their way. I say congratulations to you for making change that gave you a better happier more Serene and joyful existence. Here to spread love and happiness. Not to be Shackled by things or to things. Very long time ago I told my friends and other people if they ask. I am happy in myself. I am okay with myself. I am pleased with myself and my life. I got rid of the constraints of others. And focused truly unsustaining myself so that my son would have something to sustain him. And as it turned out he didn't go into the military or off the university. He has health issues that he will need help the rest of his life. I am so pleased that I have something that is mine and that I can help others if I have to or need to or want to. I help myself by downsizing as we say. I've never been happier.
I've been watching your videos for a long time. I carry the DREAM. 70's coming up in Nov. and I still BELIEVE! I look forward to your next in the series. This one is a home run! You go girl!! XOXO
This is the life I’ve wanted since 2012. It’s now 2023, I struggle on where to start. I’d like to go state to state work a few months an move on. Thank you so much for your vid I will have to watch them all
I’ve been trying out , trying the boondocking -but water tank becomes grey water/ black water soon enough-then you NEED to find a place to dump them. This is as constant as looking for gas and propane refills. Managing power needs is to be minded to as well. Even If you don’t have a Travel trailer or 5th wheel to unhook - Hooking up water and dumping gets faster but if you want to take showers or wash dishes requires water. So skills will be honed, that’s for sure ! It’s not easy- but neither was being a Pioneer Woman. A harder path but I think it keeps me in good shape 😎. I’m not sure how to “manage” my water uses for a 2 week stay. I’m hoping that’s to be found on a different video ?
Put a dishpan in your sink. Dump into gallon jug. Use dirty dishwater for toilet flushing. Same with bathroom sink water. Put toilet tissue in trash can with a cover,( like Mexico). Get a 3 gallon water with pump nozzle for drinking and washing hands. Keep in bathroom. Collect any water in pan. I have a 20 gallon fresh water tank. Carry 13 gal fresh for drinking for dog and I. I can shower 2-3 times. (Use wash clothes and wet wipes other days)and wash dishes 3 times. ( use a spray bottle with vinegar, water and dish soap). Spray, let sit to sterilize a few minutes, wipe with paper towel rinse. I dump every 10-12 days.
It depends where you compare to. A rural town compared to a large city like New York. I live an hour from Las Vegas. My mortgage was less than $400 a month, (before I tacked on a one ton dually truck in a refi). It is cheaper for me to stay home than travel. A new heavy duty truck now costs more than my house did, (purchase price for house was $52k). Your costs will only go up not having realestate of some sort. My costs are locked in for the next 15 years. Then the house will be paid in full and it will just be property taxes.
Robin you rock! You explain and motivate like no other. No fluff about living the Nomad life for sure! I started my journey the same month and you did and feel we are Nomad Sisters. I bought both romance books and your other 2 books. You are a wealth of knowledge. So happy you "get" it! Love our life!
this is exactly my idea maybe getting a class or a trailer not sure... but I am only one person i kind of want like a laundry and such with a land. maybe shelter in case of heavy rains and so forth.
Great tips! I travel (and park) full time in my R-Pod 180 and have a small SUV to tow it around the country. I spend about 1/3 of what I did in my house. I work as a writer and dog trainer. I have way more time and energy to enjoy life, visit kids and grandkids in other provinces etc. This life is definitely not for everyone, but for me, it's one of the best decisions I ever made.
I have found your channel and very happy about it, you see I am 67 year old lady starting my adventures.I am from Canada and will be trae I got the USA most the time and am finding your tips and adventures very enlightening. Wish me luck haha scary but exciting a life long dream.
nice to find this video in my notifications today. great presentation and so well researched and factual. We have been Covid bound for two and half years,(older and had to be extra careful) but this fall and next spring summer fall, we intend to be roaming and boondocking. we have an older fiberglass Scamp 19 that we set up for boondocking and are eager to get back on the road.
Its taken me years to buy my truck camper, find the right truck and make modifications to my vehicle. Both are paid off, thankfully. Getting the right set up and gear takes planning and $$. Great advice!
Excellent video and excited for the series! I will probably never be a full-time nomad, but you give lots of good information that helps me plan the trips I want to take when I retire next year. Thanks.
Thanks for sharing your info. We are a retired couple FTing for the last 3 1/2 yrs in our 1999 National Tropical MH pulling a Chevy Cobalt toad. We discovered we like to boondock a lot so have been doing that most of the time. We spent last winter at the LTVAs in the Quartzsite area. The summer before we boondocked all through the cool Colorado Rockies, never spending a dime on RV parks or campgrounds. When we first started out, we budgeted around $3k a month but have since revised that downward to around $2,700/mo. This includes everything including RV maintenance and repairs and even medical insurance and expenses. This winter we will be staying in a little RV park in S, TX for only $170/mo, (+ electric) for a FHU 50A site. We eat very well.
Robin, good stuff! This may sound weird but Ray travels alone almost full-time (excl. holidays, birthdays, etc. when he comes home) and Vicki prefers our beach house except a couple times a year when she meets Ray at some place she wants to visit. Our house is paid for, but our RV is not, but even then, $1550 is about what our RV monthly costs are too. Obviously, we have significant differences in expenses with Robin ($420 RV payment, $80 RV insurance, near $0 for propane because Ray doesn't use fridge except when Vicki is with him, $65 cell phone w/truly unlimited data, $68 for Thousand Trails membership where we stay 60% of the time, etc.,etc.) Maintenance & Repairs are extremely variable so make sure you have an account for that or credit cards which end up with payoffs issues altho' we use the 0% transfers which just entail a transfer fee.
I’m so glad I found your channel. My goal is to go full time RV in the next year. I’m spending time researching, ect . You are answering so many of my questions especially as a 50yr single woman wanting to do this 💕 thank you
I sold my house and had a tiny house built. While my new home was being built I lived in my 5 by 8 teardrop camper. If I had known how happy I would be traveling I may not have invested in the tiny house. I would go back on the road but I am helping raise my grandsons. That was unexpected but in life we need to make sacrifices for those we love.
Hi there! Love your video, one more line item that you should include, that can be quite expensive is the maintenance of an rv and/or your towing vehicle. My husband and I have been class-A rvers for over 25 years, we definitely know firsthand how expensive it is to keep up with maintenance and how fast they deteriorate. For example, tires only last at best 5-6 years, we just replaced all 6 at a cost of $6500 with only 7400 miles on them, they were brand new looking but developed dry rot, very common on rvs due to the weight and/or sitting around for extended periods. We also had our generator serviced 4 months ago for $2200. One of the 3 slideouts needed extensive repairs 9 months ago due to water intrusion, that was a shocking $4700. God forbid your rv develops any water leaks, you have to constantly be on top of all openings such as windows, doors, sky lights, and any roof installed equipment. My husband lives with a caulking gun on his back pocket and he's constantly checking for any cracks that will turn into water intrusion and a mold breading ground inside the rv, and we ended up with a water leak that was impossible to see until we noticed the extensive damage inside the slide out. In 25 years, we have seen it all. We have had 6 class A rvs, once they begin to develop problems we get rid of them like a hot potato. Our current rv is only 5 years old, and just in 2022 our maintenance expenses are north of $18,000 and we are not full-timers and use it 2-3 times per year on average and it only has 19,000 miles on it, so it's not seeing the tear and wear of a full-timer. My husband and I joke, that everything on the RV is on a timer, because when one thing breaks, soon after you'll have a cascading effect, and a trip to the repair shop gets very expensive very quickly! Rving is a very expensive lifestyle. You don't know what you don't know, you are still too new to rving, wish you all the luck and safe travels!!
I traveled for a couple of years (solo female) and had a great time. Not traveling right now due to some health problems but hope to get back on the road in the next year or so. I used to love to either Boondock or stay in National Forests for the two week period and then go to an RV park for a night or two. While I was there I would flush out all my tanks, fill up my water tank, wash all my dishes really good, shower and do laundry and then I’d be ready to go again! It also took me 2-3 years to prepare for full timing, and In fact I worked the first two summers at “destination locations” to supplement.
Thanks for all the info me and my wife have decided to buy an rv and live a more simple life. Working my life away at a job I hate and hating my hometown I’m just ready to start this new chapter in my life. We are giving ourself two years to get all the info so thanks for making videos. I subscribed and gonna binge watch your videos lol.
You have to include the "depreciation" of your RV as part of your expense, since an RV will lose most of its value over 20 yrs, so if you spent $50K on an RV, the monthly depreciation is about $200. You also have to add repairs & maintenance of the RV too, which is probably 1% of RV value per yr, or another $40 a month.
Right. You must have had accounting. That's the problem with these types of channels. The biggest fallacy is that you are "saving money" by not having a mortgage. Actually, the mortgage is how you save money, i.e. build equity. Plus there is appreciation in home value.
I’m excited for this series. I love all your videos. I’m hoping to get out on the road by next spring. So I’m in that planning time you were talking about. 😊
YOU inspired me to full time - read your books - i got a simpler job, going to flush my small debt, and in the evenings here with me and my dog, do flexible remote work - now i got my mi-fi going - a chore! sadly, i cannot "do waht i do" anymore, which is why i am here. I was an EHS professional. They changed my job from "behavior based personal safety" to "compliance and nonsense 'regulations' that aren't really 'rules'. I am very sad that i cannot pass my knowledge to others, because of the QUALITY of people entering the workforce..if they even do that! I will say that i have a good gig here at the end of the world, but if you wanted to caravan, I'd be right behind you, trying to learn more and LIVE more. THANK YOU ! (from everyone!)
Food, water and toiletries. Gas, propane and repairs on vehicle and trailer, Medical insurance, vehicle an trailer (depending on your set up) insurance. Pet food, supplies and medical-Care (if you have pets)... Camping fees (if you choose to stay at parks). Cost of your traveling vehicle (up front or monthly cost)... Nothing cheap about living this life.. However the experience can be priceless an all we have is time...
Yes, Robin, this is very useful info. Thanks for compiling it. The vehicle and RV insurance and registration rates are really surprising. I know different residence states can help lower those rates, but I'll be looking forward to your updated video on: 1) what you find in your search for lower rates as a Colorado resident; 2) what you find are current comps from a few other states (like Nevada, Arizona, Texas, etc.). I'm in Oregon, and we don't have sales tax, but we do have sizeable registration rates and, depending on exact county and city, wildly different vehicle insurance rates. With all these variables, it's very difficult to accurately plan a budget to prepare for future expenses -- whether living in a stationary home, with only part-time RV travel, or going full-time. Add to that all the uncertainty about inflation and rising insurance rates, in general, I'm not sure it's possible to stick within a budget for those of us on limited incomes. So, all the info you can share is very welcome, indeed! 😉💞
Yeah SS is not going to cut it Even a pension would have to be great to make up for no income I wouldn’t go out with less than $4-5grand monthly guaranteed
I went full time almost 3 years ago and wouldn’t trade this life for anything. My income was reduced 40%, yet I’m putting more aside than before. Oh. And I’m traveling a HECK of a lot more. Yep. Good life.
Great information! May I ask how much, on average, you tend to spend on regular car/camper maintenance and unexpected repair issues? A monthly or yearly breakdown would be helpful. Thank you!
Living in an RV for three years have us the ability to buy a large log cabin on acres with a lake view in San Diego county. We have a well and solar and no neighbors. Being open minded can really help you realize your dreams.
I've been watching you from the beginning and I'm so glad to see how happy you are. It's been quite the road and you've been an enormous help to the camping/nomads out there and we've learned a LOT from your videos---thank you! Keep 'em coming!
Planning and practice. We spent three years planning and two years of practicing on vacations and weekends. Now we wake up everyday somewhere new, pleased with our choices. Take time to get it right. Your advice is spot on. We live large at $625 a week.
I'm paying 150% attention to you and your lifestyle. Do I think about a nomad life....yes I do. I'm twice widowed, no kids no family, $1050 rent, pay all utilities, wondering what's next. I'm bored. I miss my furbaby I gave away for this apartment. My health is good for a mature gal. I have one debt; a 6 yr old car I bought 18 months ago.
@@bnyob3463 I gave her to a wonderful friend who has a backyard for her and a doggie door too. After 4 months I adopted another furbaby because I missed the first one so much. I did not want to disrupt her life by asking for her back. She is doing wonderfully and is happy and healthy. Would I like to have her back...YES. But it is in her interest I decided to let things be. Instead, I adopted another to give her a good life. I'd would starve myself before denying her food. So there. Stick that where the sun doesn't shine -- LOL
Please go for it!! Go for the RV. You have no liability. Be happy and travel. But it would limit you if you have 9to5 job. Seems nomad life is best for work from home. I wish I was in the USA ,this would be my life
This was very good enjoyed it! In the future on the #'s please add missing items like auto service, laundry, showers, water & waste dump. I like a 12 month running average to get a better average. If you could breakout groceries, dining vs entertainment plus add in activities & fees too. Thanks & can't wait to see more!
There are a lot more monthly fees you didn’t include robin, such as mailbox, laundry, Amazon prime, roadside assistance, tolls, vehicle maintenance, memberships, this is a just a few you need to add if plan to do full time.
Whew! I hear you on that cost of living in Denver - rent and auto insurance are ridiculous. It's one of the reasons I'm looking to move into and travel in an RV full-time next year. Thank you for encouraging the free spirit adventurers like myself to get out there.
I have lived over 8 years in my 5th wheel in a full-time park. I also am debt free and live on less than $1,000 a month. I spend less than $300 a month which includes my dog's food which I cook myself. We both eat very well I will admit. I don't eat out or fast food, all meals are cooked at home and are healthy meals because I don't eat processed, boxed, or prepared food. Every thing is cooked fresh and from scratch. My utilities run a little high because of the inverter on my unit. My propane costs me less than $120 a year. I have a mini washing machine (no dryer). Spring, Summer, and Fall, I hang my clothes outside to dry. Winter, I use a dryer rack inside. I only drive my car, maybe, 25 miles a month so I can go 4 months on a tank of gas. All I'm saying is, it can be done. I'm happier than I've ever been in my life, I live at about 9,000 ft in the Colorado Rocky Mountains surrounded by forest. So relaxing and makes me want to be more at home than going out somewhere.
Your situation sounds perfect! I cook everything from scratch for myself and 2 pups. I'm looking at a 5th wheel for full time living but having difficulty finding a decent place for an affordable lot rental in Colorado. I don't want to be on the road, just stay in one place if possible. Congratulations on your great living situation!!
Im renting my house out and moving into a used 5th wheel in my moms back yard😅 shes going to charge me $100 a month. I'm hoping I can start saving up money fast!
That's a great plan, and at the least, a great start.
many people doing the same thing. rent out their house and move in with their parents. not sure if they charge any money in their family. lol
most of them to take care of their old parents. some just for cheaper expense. or both of them.
Robin's $1,550 budget did not include maintenance on her truck and/or RV (or maybe I missed that figure). In 4 years I drove 100,000 miles cross country in my 1999 GMC Savana extended length van fitted with low tech camping equipment. I paid about $5,000 for the used van, and about $5,000 for initial repairs and upgrades to get it ready for the road. In 4 years, my on-going tires and maintenance have cost about $10,000 or $200/month - including a new transmission, radiator, alternator, brakes and other big ticket repairs. It's important to have a good roadside assistance plan with more than the minimum allowance for free towing when repairs are needed.
Can you recommend a good roadside service?
@@YeahNah100 My van was not technically an RV, so I have AAA's upgraded 100-mile tow coverage.for regular vehicles.. Check around for other choices, depending on what type of rig you have.
Great advice. If the RV breaks down, these folks are homeless.
Registration in Colorado is paid month to month? Meaning tags for the truck and the fifth wheel?
I did not hear that either. I know that most people I'm familiar with keep as much as they can in an "emergency" savings account for just such things, including other repairs or possible accidents on the road (recommended $5-10,000)
I have been living in my rv for 3 years at a permanent site. It was the only way I could afford to leave my marriage & continue to pay my half of the house bills. I have to stay in my area for my kid to finish school. I have kept my job. My lot rent & rv payments which includes utilities are less than people are paying for rent before utilities. I'm still keeping the budget tight to pay off old debt & get through the divorce but I'm comfortable & can still afford some extras & fun. Plus I love the state park my rv resort is located adjacent to. Always good walks & outdoor activities for me & the dogs. When my daughter leaves for college I will be debt free, rv paid off & ready for next phase.
same! good for you im so proud and happy for you! i left an abusive situation and there is some freedom and peace in y 23ft motorhome i just pick up my housecar and enjoy. i am praying for your financial emotional and spiritual abundance!
Wow I look up to u I am in your position and am just starting out.❤
thank you for that point about vehicle maintenance
🎉 awesome 👍🏼
I van lived for a couple of years. Sold the house, retired, and hit the road. It was an adventure, and I learned so much about myself. But I studied Bob W. for 8 years before I pulled the plug. If you are traveling alone, think about getting a rig - used - that you can jump out of bed, run to the steering wheel, crank the engine, and floor it. I would have loved to have a trailer that I pulled with a jeep or a truck, but if you are on BLM at night and someone comes, you can't drive off. And the age of your rig determines how much money you set aside for maintenance and the 'emergency fund' you should have on hand. Willing to learn how to maintain your rig = reduced cost of maintenance. It really is worth the effort to rent a rig and try it for 1 or 2 weeks on your own. Look at how much RV parks costs if you need to plug in and dump your wastes (I think it's expensive and they are booked 6 months in advance). Can you city 'stealth camp' in that rig if you had to? Look at how much BLM land is available where you plan to spend your time (the further east, the less BLM), etc. Basically, do your homework first. Try BLM land camping and see if you like being out in the middle of nowhere with 1 bar of cell coverage. And start off with as little debt as possible because 'stuff happens'.
Looking forward to this series! I have been dreaming of living on the road for years, but my husband wasn't interested. Divorced now and have started a bookkeeping business. Over half my income is now coming from 100% remote clients. This week I am downsizing my house (2 sons still live with me), then I will actually be looking for a Class C RV...for real - not just dreaming about it at an RV show - I cannot believe it!
I have a 2021 Jayco Redhawk 24B that I may need to sell? Farmhouse decor (cream cabinets) and only 16K miles. How do we connect?
@@nancyatwater2617 Now that would be awesome!! I am guessing a 2021 would be more than I can afford! And I am in Canada...
Congratulations! Good luck, hopefully I’ll be joining you in the next couple of years. So glad you’re job will make it easier for you. I’m a pharmacy tech so unless I take a travel gig (which I totally would!), I’m stuck for a little longer. Happy travels!
Valuable series!
Very happy for you..
I'm thinking about this and living in a RV park full-time close to my work. I am also a single woman with a dog. It's smarter then paying rent for an apartment. I'm also a minimalist.
I've seen RV parks charge upwards of $35 a day and they aren't very nice
Living in an RV park is like living in a mobile home park you have to pay for pad rent. I own my home and the only thing I pay is taxes and insurance.
@@melbapeters5457 Pad rent is much cheaper than most people's taxes and insurance...And I think Op knows that.....I'm actually selling my double-wide in a 55-plus park to do this . I don't need all this space at 1250sq ft. A lot of rv park include the utilities even electricity not all of them but a lot. I'm seeing that for between 500 and 800 bucks a month. You can't do that in an apartment and not everybody can own their house.
@@DutchessCottonPuff pad rent at 500 or 800 a month is not cheaper than most people's insurance and taxes. . It depends on the area you live in . Also after a certain age you actually get your taxes or a portion of them back when you file your taxes.
@@DutchessCottonPuffRV parks are gross
I'm a live in nurse/caregiver and I can find a job anywhere and I'm also a widow now😢 and it's just me and my Taffy Bean (chihuahua) and I'm so tired of living this way i need to get out and go so I'm looking into buying a mini rv and finally living life. I'm so happy I found your videos and I'm a happy subscriber ❤❤
I'm so sorry for your loss. Hope you find your new real life:) I'm about to also. See me on RUclips soon lol love you
I'm on disability and can't get anyone to rent to me so I'm living in hotels on my savings. hoping this may be an option.
Oh yes, my budget is covered by my SSI ($2,100/mo) ! Boondocking is a win most days. I use parks to replenish and dump. Perhaps a night of two after 10 days in the woods!
This is a great formula. A 1-3 night stay in a park is a really good idea. It allows you to refill water, dump trash, have power access to clean & recharge, etc. I think is really the only was to this life inexpensively. I think people forget how expensive it can be to drive most days, or to be paying for RV spaces often.
I was a traveling nurse years ago and loved crisscrossing the country. The downside was that I didn't always have time to explore like I wanted to. Now that I'm retired, and spent the last 3 months losing money trying to open a business, I've decided it's time to sell my house and get back on the road.
if your ever in North Georgia world harvest gives free food and clothes every Friday 2pm-4pm
I have an old Bluebird FC35 and a Jeep scrambler in tow. I have them registered in South Dakota and have Foremost Insurance. I bounce between my children, one in Baton Rouge Louisiana and the other in Sandpoint Idaho. I also spend time with friends in Flagstaff and then in December I migrate to Quartzsite Arizona till March. I have no propane, I have gone all electric and mostly 12 volt DC. 1800 wats of Solar on roof, and 1200 WH of batteries. There are 2 12 volt AC’s on the roof, 3 12 Volt refrigerators one 16 cu ft with top freezer that is just for ice Machine then 2 draw units for freezers. I have been doing this part time for more than 30 years now.
I traveled for three years alone in a small class C. Boondocking is the way to go. I did not have solar although I did install lithium batteries. No internet. My unlimited AT&T worked great $116/mo. I met you briefly, Robin, in a casino overnight Parking lot in Phoenix. You're right on target!!!
to speak to the solo female topic... I just bought a teardrop, but I spent all last summer solo tent camping and at first I was a little hesitant, but by the end of "camping season" I was completely comfortable (I did have forms of protection). I got the teardrop to expand my options. It is incredibly freeing and soul-fulfilling for me to be able to do this solo and knowing that I can do this alone and be happy.
I did a trial run traveling with my trailer and decided traveling around by myself was not for me. So I thought about what attracted me to the idea of this lifestyle and figured out I wanted to live small and I enjoy park life. So I ended up selling my house and buying a 400 sq ft park model in a park where you own your lot. This seems to suit me and my budget is around the $1,500-$1,700 range. I have all the amenities and the comforts of home on a small budget. I will start social security next month and plan to do some writing also.
I like the allure of the small house lifestyle as well. 👍👍💯💯
i do enjoy the traveling, but i am so with you re: the living small! When i first thought about the RV, it was all about traveling But real early on in the RV, i realized that it was heaven to have only the stuff i really want/need, to know what i have and where it is, and have it all in reach! It made me realize that, when this chapter is done, it's a tiny house for me -- or maybe something like you said, a park. Last summer i met some women who had two RVs/sites, one in at a KOA in NH and one in FL and rotated between them. Sounded like a nice way to go. Love watching the youtube channels exploring tiny houses!
Curious how you find parks like you are describing.
U just didn’t like being or doing stuff alone or u felt unsafe?
@@YeshuaKingMessiah I felt safe because I stayed in campgrounds. I think I could do it if I stayed a few months in each place to build community.
This video really made me more interested in RV life. I’m being forced to sell my home and move because they don’t want me to have my dog. So I was thinking of the RV life then I can save money and also travel if I want to. So thank youuu!
I just left a high pressure job 15 months ago. Stepped up and cared for my dad for 6 months of that time. I enjoy your channel.
Thanks, Robin! 👏 Looking forward to the entire series. Solo, full-timing, female for 7 years and I wouldn’t change a thing either! It’s one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Safe Journey, Road Sister!
Women like u and Robin are so inspiring to someone like me. I'm in a bit of an upside down situation where I have to help out relatives but I do appreciate being solo so that I can at least see a way forward. Sincere thanks for sharing. Best of luck for continued success!
Hi, I love your serie I'll watch it all tonight. Im a single mom with 2 kids pre-teen and teen. My rent just went up $500/month and I cant afford that. Im on IS in Canada and I homeschool my kids. Ive been planning and raising my kids towards the goal of having an offgrid homestead eventualy but now with the rent raise Im looking at exchanging my car for an RV before we become homeless. I've always been independent. I moved accross the country in my car few years ago. Im affraid to get a lemon RV and get stock alone on the side of the road. I don't knnow mecanic at all. I will take note of everything you say and pray I'll be ok. Thanks for helping me through your video.
Clothes. Exactly.
When I retired from teaching my clothing budget went to 0 for a couple of years. Then my underwear needed replacing. Lol
I shop at Thrift Stores whenever I want a new outfit.
Thanks for your video, Robin.
Once I moved into my van, and put the rest of the stuff in storage, I didn't buy anything because if I brought 1 thing new in, something had to be tossed. It really cut down on 'material things' and upped the 'experience life' things.
You have given me goals! Turning 50 this year, have a 5yr plan to start seeing the US on my 55 bday. I've bought your books and have been compiling all the info I can plus started the remote/nomad/self relent job so I have an income.
Girl I am with you!
Robin your hair is stunning! I went silver about a decade ago & love, love, love not having to color it. Mr & I have been using our RV this summer more then ever ( just retired) but find we trip over each other. I could easily live alone in it but not as a couple. Even in a small space he still asks me “where’s the ……..”
Wow, this was great! I need you in my life, seriously! I'm considering making this move. I turned 60 this year, and I have a house in MD (DC area) and I have 10 acres in Farmville VA (3 hours away). I'm thinking of going RV full time, rent out my house, install a full RV hookup on my VA land, and or put a metal framed barn garage with RV hookups inside so for the most part, I can park in there free most of the time. Then when I want to hit the road, I can just go! My plan is to RV for 4-5 years, while saving money and paying off the MD house and my rig (whatever that will be), then build a house (I'm thinking triple wide modular) when I'm 65. The ultimate plan is to have everything paid off by 70 so I can retire with no mortgages/vehicle payments and have all the flexibility a girl could want! I'm nervous about how to get started, what rig can I handle, will I have to upgrade my pickup or do I go Class C....UGH!!!
I am inspired! I have never seriously considered the nomad life. Turned 68 this month and am once again starting a full time job I DON’T want! So, perhaps I can make this type of change. I’ll keep watching. Thank you!
Please be careful. This isn't cheap or easy and it's hard!
I’m seriously considering this as well. I was diagnosed with brain cancer the end of last year, and she makes a solid point…if you learned TODAY that you only had 2 years left, would you still go to work? After my chemo gets done, maybe then…I’m trying to convince my other half….that’s not working out so great 🙁😝🤪
@@krittenhs Healing light and love to you❤.
My gosh please can we talk I'm doing the same damn thing!!!!
Don't let a number stop you.. I'll be 70, husband 76, and we want to transition from our 7 acre 100 yr homestead to a smaller, newer, easy-care RV.
A new solo woman here and I just found out today and I've had this camper for 10 months and living in it for seven but I don't have a water tank!!😭 I'm new obviously so I just want the people out there to know and look for all the equipment that I assumed was on it. I also assumed there was a spare tire on it and there is not 😭 Talk about an expensive lesson!! I overpaid anyway just because they're all expensive right now. I'm still free 😉 Thank you Robin for doing this series 🙏💞
My curiosity is peaked big time. How were you living in it for seven months and not know you don’t have a water tank? Have never heard of an RV without a water tank. Please share the name and type of camper.
@@ceciliapetrowsky2572 2004 Coachman Concord I believe it was taken out because there is a tank hole in the back with a door cover
@@ceciliapetrowsky2572 I've been plugged in since I've had it so a couple of guys that camped next to me I saw them draining something different so I started asking them and then he showed me and was telling me and then he came and looked at mine and that's when it was discovered. They have years of experience and I seen the difference
Shelly, another full-time solo woman here who had never done this RV thing, and was certainly not a diesel mechanic, before heading out. The first year was goddawful, so much went wrong, but i finally realized that just is what i had to go thru trying to take on so much new stuff at once. So yes, the expenses rolled in, it was stressful and i was hemmoraghing cash ... but eventually it all settled down, i ended up much wiser and confident in my ability to tackle whatever came up, and now i cannot imagine doing anything else. In fact, my biggest problem now is how/what to do with the furniture i put in storage because i won't be needing it for quite some thime, if ever!
That said, i think the biggest piece of advice i would give anyone about this is to give yourself permission to get off the road if you need a break -- I did that for a couple months last spring and it did me (and my sweet senior dog) the chance to get rested, healthy, grounded, and ready for the next chapter. It felt odd at first, almost like i was giving up, but that's upside down - it's all about the ability to discern what you need and the freedom to see about doing it.
ps-when i first was driving my RV in super hot weather, i put the ac on expecting it to cool down the house (i'm in a class C) - i turned on the generator but no ac! i was panicked thinking there was a problem with the ac...when i got to the park, the fellow there took a look and (very kindly) told me i needed to actually plug the RV into the outlet (that led to the generator) ...who knew??? (clearly not me). It's just something we have to go thru... :)
@@maddiesnuffles2241 I want to thank you so much for these encouraging words that I really need to hear right now. Just got done with a huge storm and I had a big puddle of water on top of my kitchen sink I don't see anything dripping or anything running down the Walls it's just like a puddle out of nowhere? I got to laugh to keep My sanity about it lol I'm glad I stayed at a campground this summer so I could learn about it close to home 😁
My wife and I did something different we live on lake Cumberland in a house boat. My wife works from the boat and I am a trucker. Mt rent was 2200 a month now all my bills are about 2500 that's the house boat two cars and my pontoon. Slip fee it 4700 a year . The house boat is 480 a month and it about 800 square feet. It 16 × 61 ft we have 1258 miles of shoreline to camp out on. We have 4 full time live aboard at the end of the dock where we are . The nice thing is we help each others out .
Robin, I have been following you for couple of years now. I think you were one of the first "nomads" I tuned into. I'm so glad you are still out there doing what you love and sharing your knowledge and experience with us so that maybe we too can become nomads someday or simply live vicariously through you! Keep up the great work! Huge fan!
Need to add in a considerable and constantly replenished emergency fund, I believe. Including hotel stays for when your RV is being repaired. Sometimes they can't even accept your RV for weeks, because they're already all booked up.
I am currently in Crescent City California for August because it’s cool. At an RV park it’s 13.50 a night for full hooks if I stay 30 days. Close to markets and the Ocean 🦭 seals and beautiful views.
Lock your vehicle, especially at Walmart. Its beautiful but-
We just finished an 8000 mile 5 week road trip with our 5th wheel and loved EVERY second of it. Did we ever dislike coming home and going back to work. We are heading into the planning stages and in 2 years will hopefully be on the road full time! I've been subscribed for awhile now, but I'm really looking forward to this series! Thanks for all the info you share with us!
How much did you spend on your 5 week trip?
My wife and I have toyed with the idea of RV’ing full time but we have 5 little girls so we aren’t sure how well it would work 😂
I love living through you and other people who live this lifestyle. Thanks for all the adventures! ♥
I am excited to watch your upcoming series. I am turning 52 this year and retirement is extremely close. I will have my 30 years of experience as an educator on January 1, 2024. I told my husband that I want to be a 'dorky RV couple' and travel the US when we retire. I am hoping we can make it happen!!
Yes! I’m paying $2,500 w/o bills & 4 kiddos ! Ty for this video , we are really trying to get to this nomad life ASAP! 🎉❤
I've been watching you for over a year now. I have been soaking up all your knowledge. I just turned 62 and not quite ready to retire, but when I am I will be using your info. Thanks for being there for people like me.
Great advise Robin. I also took about three years to plan for full time RV living and retirement. I purchased my 25FT class C in April. I found a reasonable place to park my RV using the Neighbor app. This has allowed me to use my RV 4 days each month, to do some modifications and slowly move in while, I continue to downsize and prepare to sell my condo in Miami, Florida. Yes I am also a solo traveler, and look forward to meeting others, once I am on the road. Cheryl
Why would you buy an RV and park it? That defeats the whole purpose of living in an RV and traveling.
HI Cheryl.. I was born & raised in Havana, Florida? Sold my home in PP and currently in AIRBNB. I became a little? Tough living here & the more I research this I want to do it.. and single nomad I'd be. So, good luck to you and maybe we can hook up around Dizzy World MCO .. Blessings for us to succeed in our future dream. 💪🌈❤️
I recommend not selling your condo but rent it out.
It isn't for everyone but the ones that love it, love it.
One thing certain people have to think about- the value of an rv goes down over time- but if you buy a house- the value goes up over time. You might lose on a house over a short time but most of the time- long term it goes up in value.
but if you buy a vintage rv the value goes up
Here is my thought on that. Sell the big house and buy a couple of rentals. Or, if you have not bought yet, then you are the prime person to do 'Stealth Camping' or live in a RV to save on rent for a down payment. Once you have the rentals, hire a maintenance company to watch and maintain and get your rig and travel. If you ever want to get off the road, move into the rental unit and live for a while.
Depreciation depends on the RV quality and how well it's cared for. Appreciation on a house depends on upkeep, yard care, and the neighborhood improvements. Lots of variables.
I'm about to do it. I need this, because I feel so trapped and just dead or existing .When you know it's time, you just know it! My mechanic and my brother both told me it's the most brilliant thing they ever heard of. I can't wait.
Hi Robin, this is very generous of you to share your details. I hope your watchers appreciate your sharing. Im grounded with serious health problems so travelling in a van is out of the question. Ive been watching you and living vicariously for a few years and l thank you for the pleasure you have given me. You look a lot younger with the softer hair style and your skin is glowing. Van life is obviously agreeing with you. Love from Australia. 💕🐨
Admire what you are doing. Thought I wanted to be nomadic but I’m establishing a homestead and learning to produce our own food. LOL! About the polar opposite to going nomad. We also have a wooded property we think we shall develop into an RV park. 😇
⬆⬆BEWARE!⬆⬆
Interested in homesteading, where do I start?
@@mauimama3673 RUclips search. I like several. PERMACULTURE PASTURES and Justin Rhodes’ channels are two. I found Justin Rhodes when their RUclips was an RV journey visiting families homesteading and farming then they returned to his family farm and homesteading. Oh! And Greg Judy at Green Pastures Farm has a couple good books and wonderful RUclips, and all these just scratch the surface. But it does preclude my old dream of an RV and being nomadic.
@@mauimama3673 best source available is on RUclips, see the channel Roots & Refuge. Jess is the homesteader with her husband Jeremiah.
Can I come camp there when you turn it in an RV park
Robin thanks for revisiting this topic. It was super helpful. I turn 60 in April- I’m well on my way to being nomadic by then. Thanks for all you do.
I found a 33ft 2007 Bumper Pull Trail Runner with a Super Pull-Out for $4500. I work the US/Global as an Engineer, and while I’m domestic, it’s plenty big enough for my wife, chihuahuha, and dad that visits❤️
Our Savings has Exponentially Bloomed since doing this.
Thank you for this video. I’ve been thinking about RV living for sometime and I’m glad I found your channel. I’m 70, single woman, retired, a professional photographer, and currently live with my family. The mobility of an RV lifestyle is appealing to me.
Sure until your RV breaks down, you have a flat tire, or your water pump breaks and then what? You can't cook, can't flush the toilet and it's going to cost you at least $200 / $250 to have a mobile RV technician come out and try and diagnose the problem! It's appealing until its 14 degrees in Alabama and your water hose is frozen and the insides of your windows are glazed with ice!
@@faithsrvtrip8768 it’s all part of the journey. I sold my house and nearly everything a year ago and bought a Class A. I’m a 60 yo small, single woman and every time I wake up seems like there’s something new to fix. But I jump on You Tube and figure out most of it myself. My mobile RV guy has really only had to come to install a new AC (extended warranty covered) and repair my slide. I’ve installed new ceiling vent fans, completely tore down and rebuilt my leaking wet bay, gone to war not just once with my Vacuflush system, just installed a new shore cord to my ATS, wired a new 110 circuit to my panel for a washer dryer and those are just off the top of my head. I’ve done so much more and all myself without assistance. This is within my first year. To me, it’s inconvenient and sometimes it’s a really cold night without any power when my shore cord went out and gen wouldn’t start. But it’s all an excellent learning experience. I’m full time but parked and will be on the road soon. All of this happening “to me” has only made me resilient and more determined and I have no fear of soloing now. All the “what if this breaks or…” have left me.
Thank you so much for this video! I love when you say "Don't think I am special" because that's exactly what I was thinking you know, "Others can do this, but not me" I just started considering living a nomadic lifestyle and the way you talk is refreshing and encouraging. I can't wait to watch all your future videos in this series!
And maybe remind viewers that you can live in ANYTHING. Not just an rv. I live full-time in a Honda crv and i absolutely love it!!!
WOW!!THAT'S AMAZING..HOW DO U MANAGE IN THE FREEZING WEATHER? ON CAMPGROUNDS ETC.??I HAVE A RAV 4.🚙BUT THINKING ON BUYING AN RV OR VAN🤔..I DO HAVE 3DOGS🤷🏼♀️.
@@harrisonheart5043 I put foam board along the inside walls and then hang a decorative blanket. I have a portable battery box i use for all my cooking and plus a small personalized heater into it. I use an electric blanket as well. I live very very simple. I love it.
@@cindysegar1426 OMY GOSH!! THAT MAKES SO MUCH SENSE 🤦🏼♀️I AM PRAYING I GET OUTTA THIS HOUSE &BEGAN MY LIFE ON THE ROAD!!THANKS FOR THE INFO!!🙏🏻🙋🏼♀️💜🐕🐕🐕
Omg…you were basically reading my life out loud regarding your previous situation before RV life. 😭😭😭 …working a job that makes me unhappy just to pay a mortgage. Thank you for this video. You’ve truly inspired me, and you now have a new Subscriber ❤
Looking forward to seeing the rest of this series! I'm still in the planning stages, but hope to be on the road sometime next year, so this video was just what I was needing to help determine if I can make it on my current retirement budget or if I will need to supplement. Your videos are my favorites because you have put so much thought and research into the subject!! Thanks Robin 💕
glad i just ran across your channel. I'm in the process of going full-time in the next 9 months and your story resonates so much with my own. Life is short. Live
Thanks for the video - good to see you back at it~ I just wanted to tag a note to the comments about keeping money aside for repairs. I had a terrible time with that my first year even though i bought what should have been a very good vehicle (a MB for pitys sake!). Anyway, just wanted to say that, when thinking about the cost for repairs (chassis or house), don't forget to include the cost of alternate housing. Often you can work something out so that you don't have to completely vacate, possibly even staying at the repair/service center overnight in your rig, but sometimes you just can't and you find yourself booking hotels/airbnbs etc. And don't forget to factor in the possible additional cost if you have a pet.
How many RVs have you purchased in the timeframe? How much do they depreciate over 5 yesrs? How much would a sticks and bricks have appreciated? A sticks and bricks is often the largest asset people have for retirement. There's life after RVing, and if you haven't saved, you're up the creek.
Great video! Glad to have found you!!! We are moving in our rv (which is technically a class B motorhome) in June!! We have been talking about it for at least 4 years and we are finally taking the plunge! With a family! We are worship musicians and this will open us up to go wherever God says whenever He says! So excited, and tbh, nervous 😅
God will be with you guys wherever you’ll go!
I admire your resources. I advise anyone if you're in a situation all of this woman's advice and don't work yourself to death to maintain what you have. While you're not thrilled or even happy or satisfied with it. I've sold concrete homes in pool homes. My adult disabled son will live with me the rest of his life. At no income to me. Based on our capitalist government. I worked hard and I kept one acre a three bedroom two bath renovated mobile into a wide open space two bedroom two bath mobile. A heavy vehicle paid off. And started Social Security at 62. I retired myself at 57 by selling my concrete pool home. I have friends who say cruel things like one of their friends said they would never dragging out never. Live in a mobile home. For me my home is sustainable I have two other Mobiles on my property that one of my son's friends who has disabilities lives in for free. He has no income through the government. Or his family. Again are capitalist heartless government is hardest on the disabled always hardest on the women. We must find our path. It does not surprise me that 66 or 68% of these women going out on their own. It's exhausting doing everything for men. And they're not a lot of men who do for themselves. And equally due for another. Not saying that some don't. I was blessed that my father did. Shocked that two husbands and a fiance didn't. And I just find it so much smoother in life. Not to have to manage all of their life for them. As well as their money worship. Why I don't worship money or things. I live so happily and what I have. And the more I see women like you living on their own or taking care of their children. Or helping with their children while they get about their way. I say congratulations to you for making change that gave you a better happier more Serene and joyful existence. Here to spread love and happiness. Not to be Shackled by things or to things. Very long time ago I told my friends and other people if they ask. I am happy in myself. I am okay with myself. I am pleased with myself and my life. I got rid of the constraints of others. And focused truly unsustaining myself so that my son would have something to sustain him. And as it turned out he didn't go into the military or off the university. He has health issues that he will need help the rest of his life. I am so pleased that I have something that is mine and that I can help others if I have to or need to or want to. I help myself by downsizing as we say. I've never been happier.
I've been watching your videos for a long time. I carry the DREAM. 70's coming up in Nov. and I still BELIEVE! I look forward to your next in the series. This one is a home run! You go girl!! XOXO
Thank you for sharing it deeply connected with me and gave me the confidence to move forward with my journey! ❤️🙏
@CreativityRV - Robin...TY so much for this series. It's going to be very good info for me. Getting closer to moving into my van!
This is the life I’ve wanted since 2012. It’s now 2023, I struggle on where to start. I’d like to go state to state work a few months an move on. Thank you so much for your vid I will have to watch them all
I’ve been trying out , trying the boondocking -but water tank becomes grey water/ black water soon enough-then you NEED to find a place to dump them.
This is as constant as looking for gas and propane refills. Managing power needs is to be minded to as well.
Even If you don’t have a Travel trailer or 5th wheel to unhook -
Hooking up water and dumping gets faster but if you want to take showers or wash dishes requires water. So skills will be honed, that’s for sure !
It’s not easy- but neither was being a Pioneer Woman. A harder path but I think it keeps me in good shape 😎. I’m not sure how to “manage” my water uses for a 2 week stay. I’m hoping that’s to be found on a different video ?
Put a dishpan in your sink. Dump into gallon jug. Use dirty dishwater for toilet flushing. Same with bathroom sink water. Put toilet tissue in trash can with a cover,( like Mexico). Get a 3 gallon water with pump nozzle for drinking and washing hands. Keep in bathroom. Collect any water in pan. I have a 20 gallon fresh water tank. Carry 13 gal fresh for drinking for dog and I. I can shower 2-3 times. (Use wash clothes and wet wipes other days)and wash dishes 3 times. ( use a spray bottle with vinegar, water and dish soap). Spray, let sit to sterilize a few minutes, wipe with paper towel rinse. I dump every 10-12 days.
It depends where you compare to. A rural town compared to a large city like New York. I live an hour from Las Vegas. My mortgage was less than $400 a month, (before I tacked on a one ton dually truck in a refi). It is cheaper for me to stay home than travel. A new heavy duty truck now costs more than my house did, (purchase price for house was $52k). Your costs will only go up not having realestate of some sort. My costs are locked in for the next 15 years. Then the house will be paid in full and it will just be property taxes.
Robin you rock! You explain and motivate like no other. No fluff about living the Nomad life for sure! I started my journey the same month and you did and feel we are Nomad Sisters. I bought both romance books and your other 2 books. You are a wealth of knowledge. So happy you "get" it! Love our life!
Yay! You're back! You sound happier and happier and less and less stressed every year, Robin! I'm learning a lot! Thanks!
Another great, fact filled video. Thanks, Robin. Looking forward to the series. I am a full-time van lifer
this is exactly my idea maybe getting a class or a trailer not sure... but I am only one person i kind of want like a laundry and such with a land. maybe shelter in case of heavy rains and so forth.
Great tips! I travel (and park) full time in my R-Pod 180 and have a small SUV to tow it around the country. I spend about 1/3 of what I did in my house. I work as a writer and dog trainer. I have way more time and energy to enjoy life, visit kids and grandkids in other provinces etc. This life is definitely not for everyone, but for me, it's one of the best decisions I ever made.
What’s ur monthly expense?
I have found your channel and very happy about it, you see I am 67 year old lady starting my adventures.I am from Canada and will be trae
I got the USA most the time and am finding your tips and adventures very enlightening. Wish me luck haha scary but exciting a life long dream.
nice to find this video in my notifications today. great presentation and so well researched and factual. We have been Covid bound for two and half years,(older and had to be extra careful) but this fall and next spring summer fall, we intend to be roaming and boondocking. we have an older fiberglass Scamp 19 that we set up for boondocking and are eager to get back on the road.
Its taken me years to buy my truck camper, find the right truck and make modifications to my vehicle. Both are paid off, thankfully. Getting the right set up and gear takes planning and $$. Great advice!
Excellent video and excited for the series! I will probably never be a full-time nomad, but you give lots of good information that helps me plan the trips I want to take when I retire next year. Thanks.
Thanks for sharing your info. We are a retired couple FTing for the last 3 1/2 yrs in our 1999 National Tropical MH pulling a Chevy Cobalt toad. We discovered we like to boondock a lot so have been doing that most of the time. We spent last winter at the LTVAs in the Quartzsite area. The summer before we boondocked all through the cool Colorado Rockies, never spending a dime on RV parks or campgrounds. When we first started out, we budgeted around $3k a month but have since revised that downward to around $2,700/mo. This includes everything including RV maintenance and repairs and even medical insurance and expenses. This winter we will be staying in a little RV park in S, TX for only $170/mo, (+ electric) for a FHU 50A site. We eat very well.
You are inspirational! You also take the anxiety out of a possibility!
Robin, good stuff! This may sound weird but Ray travels alone almost full-time (excl. holidays, birthdays, etc. when he comes home) and Vicki prefers our beach house except a couple times a year when she meets Ray at some place she wants to visit. Our house is paid for, but our RV is not, but even then, $1550 is about what our RV monthly costs are too. Obviously, we have significant differences in expenses with Robin ($420 RV payment, $80 RV insurance, near $0 for propane because Ray doesn't use fridge except when Vicki is with him, $65 cell phone w/truly unlimited data, $68 for Thousand Trails membership where we stay 60% of the time, etc.,etc.) Maintenance & Repairs are extremely variable so make sure you have an account for that or credit cards which end up with payoffs issues altho' we use the 0% transfers which just entail a transfer fee.
I’m so glad I found your channel. My goal is to go full time RV in the next year. I’m spending time researching, ect . You are answering so many of my questions especially as a 50yr single woman wanting to do this 💕 thank you
I sold my house and had a tiny house built. While my new home was being built I lived in my 5 by 8 teardrop camper. If I had known how happy I would be traveling I may not have invested in the tiny house. I would go back on the road but I am helping raise my grandsons. That was unexpected but in life we need to make sacrifices for those we love.
I’m glad you’re doing this series’s
Hi there! Love your video, one more line item that you should include, that can be quite expensive is the maintenance of an rv and/or your towing vehicle. My husband and I have been class-A rvers for over 25 years, we definitely know firsthand how expensive it is to keep up with maintenance and how fast they deteriorate. For example, tires only last at best 5-6 years, we just replaced all 6 at a cost of $6500 with only 7400 miles on them, they were brand new looking but developed dry rot, very common on rvs due to the weight and/or sitting around for extended periods. We also had our generator serviced 4 months ago for $2200. One of the 3 slideouts needed extensive repairs 9 months ago due to water intrusion, that was a shocking $4700. God forbid your rv develops any water leaks, you have to constantly be on top of all openings such as windows, doors, sky lights, and any roof installed equipment. My husband lives with a caulking gun on his back pocket and he's constantly checking for any cracks that will turn into water intrusion and a mold breading ground inside the rv, and we ended up with a water leak that was impossible to see until we noticed the extensive damage inside the slide out. In 25 years, we have seen it all. We have had 6 class A rvs, once they begin to develop problems we get rid of them like a hot potato. Our current rv is only 5 years old, and just in 2022 our maintenance expenses are north of $18,000 and we are not full-timers and use it 2-3 times per year on average and it only has 19,000 miles on it, so it's not seeing the tear and wear of a full-timer. My husband and I joke, that everything on the RV is on a timer, because when one thing breaks, soon after you'll have a cascading effect, and a trip to the repair shop gets very expensive very quickly! Rving is a very expensive lifestyle. You don't know what you don't know, you are still too new to rving, wish you all the luck and safe travels!!
I traveled for a couple of years (solo female) and had a great time. Not traveling right now due to some health problems but hope to get back on the road in the next year or so. I used to love to either Boondock or stay in National Forests for the two week period and then go to an RV park for a night or two. While I was there I would flush out all my tanks, fill up my water tank, wash all my dishes really good, shower and do laundry and then I’d be ready to go again! It also took me 2-3 years to prepare for full timing, and In fact I worked the first two summers at “destination locations” to supplement.
Thank you for this! You’re the first USEFUL video I have seen on living in an RV!
Looking beautiful and fresh Robin. You always provide great info and advice. Safe travels 🌄
Thanks for all the info me and my wife have decided to buy an rv and live a more simple life. Working my life away at a job I hate and hating my hometown I’m just ready to start this new chapter in my life. We are giving ourself two years to get all the info so thanks for making videos. I subscribed and gonna binge watch your videos lol.
You have to include the "depreciation" of your RV as part of your expense, since an RV will lose most of its value over 20 yrs, so if you spent $50K on an RV, the monthly depreciation is about $200. You also have to add repairs & maintenance of the RV too, which is probably 1% of RV value per yr, or another $40 a month.
Right. You must have had accounting. That's the problem with these types of channels. The biggest fallacy is that you are "saving money" by not having a mortgage. Actually, the mortgage is how you save money, i.e. build equity. Plus there is appreciation in home value.
I’m in the process of saving my money to buy a decent cheaper Rv…. I don’t know how well my budget will hold up but I’m more than ready to get started
I’m excited for this series. I love all your videos. I’m hoping to get out on the road by next spring. So I’m in that planning time you were talking about. 😊
YOU inspired me to full time - read your books - i got a simpler job, going to flush my small debt, and in the evenings here with me and my dog, do flexible remote work - now i got my mi-fi going - a chore!
sadly, i cannot "do waht i do" anymore, which is why i am here. I was an EHS professional. They changed my job from "behavior based personal safety" to "compliance and nonsense 'regulations' that aren't really 'rules'.
I am very sad that i cannot pass my knowledge to others, because of the QUALITY of people entering the workforce..if they even do that!
I will say that i have a good gig here at the end of the world, but if you wanted to caravan, I'd be right behind you, trying to learn more and LIVE more.
THANK YOU ! (from everyone!)
Very practical and useful presentation. Thank you.
Thanks, Jim!
Food, water and toiletries. Gas, propane and repairs on vehicle and trailer, Medical insurance, vehicle an trailer (depending on your set up) insurance. Pet food, supplies and medical-Care (if you have pets)... Camping fees (if you choose to stay at parks). Cost of your traveling vehicle (up front or monthly cost)... Nothing cheap about living this life.. However the experience can be priceless an all we have is time...
It's alot cheaper but ok
Yes, Robin, this is very useful info. Thanks for compiling it. The vehicle and RV insurance and registration rates are really surprising. I know different residence states can help lower those rates, but I'll be looking forward to your updated video on: 1) what you find in your search for lower rates as a Colorado resident; 2) what you find are current comps from a few other states (like Nevada, Arizona, Texas, etc.). I'm in Oregon, and we don't have sales tax, but we do have sizeable registration rates and, depending on exact county and city, wildly different vehicle insurance rates. With all these variables, it's very difficult to accurately plan a budget to prepare for future expenses -- whether living in a stationary home, with only part-time RV travel, or going full-time. Add to that all the uncertainty about inflation and rising insurance rates, in general, I'm not sure it's possible to stick within a budget for those of us on limited incomes. So, all the info you can share is very welcome, indeed! 😉💞
Inflation!!!
Yeah SS is not going to cut it
Even a pension would have to be great to make up for no income
I wouldn’t go out with less than $4-5grand monthly guaranteed
I went full time almost 3 years ago and wouldn’t trade this life for anything. My income was reduced 40%, yet I’m putting more aside than before. Oh. And I’m traveling a HECK of a lot more. Yep. Good life.
Great information! May I ask how much, on average, you tend to spend on regular car/camper maintenance and unexpected repair issues? A monthly or yearly breakdown would be helpful. Thank you!
Living in an RV for three years have us the ability to buy a large log cabin on acres with a lake view in San Diego county. We have a well and solar and no neighbors. Being open minded can really help you realize your dreams.
So much great information. Thanks for helping us look realistically at this .
Of all the RV full time living Q&A videos I've seen (which is A LOT lately) yours has by far been the most helpful 🙌🏼
I've been watching you from the beginning and I'm so glad to see how happy you are. It's been quite the road and you've been an enormous help to the camping/nomads out there and we've learned a LOT from your videos---thank you! Keep 'em coming!
Planning and practice. We spent three years planning and two years of practicing on vacations and weekends. Now we wake up everyday somewhere new, pleased with our choices. Take time to get it right. Your advice is spot on. We live large at $625 a week.
$2500 is bare minimum imo
I would say $4K rly (with catastrophic repairs etc that suddenly come up-monthly deposit into a savings)
Thank you Robin for the information! Appreciate it.
bullhead city az 40 ft puma, full time rv park silver creek rv park $395.00 mo for everthing/ elec, water, sewer, trash,cable, pool.
I'm paying 150% attention to you and your lifestyle. Do I think about a nomad life....yes I do. I'm twice widowed, no kids no family, $1050 rent, pay all utilities, wondering what's next. I'm bored. I miss my furbaby I gave away for this apartment. My health is good for a mature gal. I have one debt; a 6 yr old car I bought 18 months ago.
@@bnyob3463 I gave her to a wonderful friend who has a backyard for her and a doggie door too. After 4 months I adopted another furbaby because I missed the first one so much. I did not want to disrupt her life by asking for her back. She is doing wonderfully and is happy and healthy. Would I like to have her back...YES. But it is in her interest I decided to let things be. Instead, I adopted another to give her a good life. I'd would starve myself before denying her food. So there. Stick that where the sun doesn't shine -- LOL
Please go for it!! Go for the RV. You have no liability. Be happy and travel. But it would limit you if you have 9to5 job. Seems nomad life is best for work from home. I wish I was in the USA ,this would be my life
@@bnyob3463 There's always some mean-spirited hater in every crowd
This was very good enjoyed it! In the future on the #'s please add missing items like auto service, laundry, showers, water & waste dump. I like a 12 month running average to get a better average. If you could breakout groceries, dining vs entertainment plus add in activities & fees too. Thanks & can't wait to see more!
There are a lot more monthly fees you didn’t include robin, such as mailbox, laundry, Amazon prime, roadside assistance, tolls, vehicle maintenance, memberships, this is a just a few you need to add if plan to do full time.
Also maintenance happens on a house also
@@justforfun4623it does but that’s the point. Comparing budgets.
Love this! I’m in Denver born and raised. It’s getting way too expensive here. This lifestyle looks worth trying out.
Thank you for the information. Love all your video's!
Whew! I hear you on that cost of living in Denver - rent and auto insurance are ridiculous. It's one of the reasons I'm looking to move into and travel in an RV full-time next year. Thank you for encouraging the free spirit adventurers like myself to get out there.