Motorhome Living For Beginners

How To Live The Simple, Stress Free RV Lifestyle, Become Independent & Debt Free

By Jim Jackson

Copyright©2014 Jim Jackson

This book or any portion thereof may not be reproduced or used in any way whatsoever without the written consent of the Author except for the purpose of brief quotations for book reviews.

Disclaimer

This book is intended to be a general guide, to raise awareness, and to help people make informed decisions in the context of their own personal circumstance.

The author accepts no responsibility for any loss or injury be it personal or financial, as a result for the use or misuse of the information in this book. If you have any doubts or concerns after reading this book, please speak to a

 qualified person before taking any actions.

Contents

Introduction

Chapter 1

Motor Homes VS. Traditional Homes

Chapter 2

Finding the Ideal RV for You (What to Look For)

Chapter 3

What Accessories You Need and How to Choose Them

Chapter 4

Food Storage and Preparation

Chapter 5

Safety-What Precautions You Need to Take

Chapter 6

How to Test Your RV

Chapter 7

Selecting the Ideal Location - What You Need to Know

Conclusion

Introduction

While it may seem like a pipe dream to some, living in an RV permanently is very doable, but you need a good approach. People often talk about it or want to do it. Others are out there doing it because it’s their choice. Perhaps they want to work in different locations or have a bit of freedom to travel the length and breadth of the country. If you are considering living in an RV full-time, you will need to plan very carefully in order to make that living enjoyable and easy to live. After all, an RV is a limited space compared to a house, and it’s not merely as simple as that. Budgeting to live within your means while on the road is something else entirely. Planning is the answer, and this guide helps you to decide upon many of the considerations that will help you make a wise choice.

Type of RV

There are quite a few types, and it’s a matter of what you can afford or know what is on the market. By visiting a few outlets for RVs, you will be better able to assess the kind of RV you would find comfortable to live. Remember, this isn’t a holiday. It’s a place to live, and you will need to establish what you need in the way of space while you are on the road. Many people find their dreams shattered because they didn’t plan on the type of RV and simply took to the road in one that didn’t suit their requirements, finding the experience disappointing.

Comfort level

What comfort are you prepared to give up? It’s a realistic person who will assess whether they need:

Entertainment such as satellite TV

Washer and Dryer

Trailer to take extra things such as bikes or even a small car

Look at the advantages of living camping style as if the weather in your neck of the woods is hot, then the need for extras such as a dryer may not be a high priority.

However, if you intend to live in an RV full time and travel, there will be a need in winter. You could overcome this by stopping off at a Laundromat and washing your clothing and sheets on a regular basis and opt to choose a cheaper RV, or you may not be willing to sacrifice those things that are part of the life you take for granted. Either way, it will affect the amount of money that you spend initially.

Cooking and necessities

Different RVs offer different things. For example, one could expect to find basic kitchen facilities move in ready. A microwave, an oven and stove top would normally be standard in a reasonably good quality RV, but are you willing to live in a van that smells of cooking? It’s important to decide before buying, because there are other RV models which offer outside cooking under a canopy that may be more suitable. That canopy will also add extra space for entertainment, and if you are living permanently in an RV, entertainment will be one of the things you can expect to take part in regularly, either with other RV dwellers or friends and family that you visit along the way.

Believe it or not, there are thousands of people who have found that their lives on the road are not only satisfying, but they are also very rewarding. With the correct amount of planning, budgeting and common sense discussion on how to make that home mold to your life, RV living can be like waking up to a new adventure every day of the week. When you read through this guide, you will find that it tells it how it is and that you will have all the information you need at your fingertips.

Chapter 1

Motor Homes VS. Traditional Homes

There are many differences between living in a traditional home and living in an RV. Before hitting the open highway, consider these differences to make sure that you are comfortable with the available solutions. Some of the differences include storage space, heating and air conditioning, entertainment choices, hot water usage, cooking, expert help, relationships, mail, and investments. An RV can be a tempting proposition, but make sure that your reasons for choosing this lifestyle are realistic ones to make the most of the opportunity, rather than finding yourself dragged down by it.

Size

Size is a major consideration. People are accustomed to their homes being quite large. Now imagine an RV. The RV has everything you need built into it, and the different classes of RV offer different living space.  Giving a brief overview will show you what this means in terms of living space:

Class A RV – That’s the big ones – and these can be huge 45 foot long vehicles that offer most home comforts, but they’re still not as big as a house. These are difficult if you are not accustomed to driving a large vehicle and certainly take some care parking.

Class B RV – In this class, you are talking “small” as most can park in a standard garage, but for a couple who plan their adventure, they may just be a good choice. Spontaneous living is what it’s all about, and you will find that instead of having an overhead area or a master bedroom suite, you will have to adjust the living space to fit what you plan doing in it. For example, you may be moving a table to create a bed.

Class C RV – These are much smaller and easier to maneuver if you are unaccustomed to driving large vehicles. The problem is that the space will never be as big as a house, but the advantage is that if you can organize your life into neatness, then you may find a 33 foot long RV in this class will suit you.

Air Conditioning and Heating

These are luxuries that you associate with a house. However, only high-end RVs will have them. You need to look at what an RV offers and learn to adapt. Instead of thinking “air conditioning” you may find yourself thinking “adaptive living” and opting for an RV with a canopy to give you the possibility of shelter from the hot sun. For heating, there are many options. If you are heating a small space, it’s obviously going to cost less money to heat that space, but be aware that different types of heating may produce condensation in the RV, and that’s not that comfortable to live. Dry heat is much better and arranging your life to suit the temperatures even better. Buy extra blankets unless you have a class A RV with all the extras.

Hot Water and Kitchen Space

Traditional homeowners often enjoy taking long, hot showers. Those living in an RV often need carefully to monitor the amount of hot water that they use because usually the hot water tank is much smaller and needs to be regularly topped up. There are ways that you can get around this by parking in camps that have shower blocks.

Likewise, kitchens in most RVs are smaller than those in traditional homes. The smaller the kitchen, the harder it is to cook a gourmet meal. If you love to entertain guests while cooking, and then living full-time in an RV might not be for you as many RVs only seat eight people or less. On the other hand, many people enjoy entertaining friends outside their RVs under the stars at night. There are two ways to look at it. The smaller the space, the less you have to clean, but it does mean adopting your lifestyle to fit the space you are unaccustomed to. However, a canopy helps considerably because it opens up the catering space, and more people can be invited to enjoy a meal. Think carefully about whether you want an outer cooking area or an internal one, because often the external cooking area with a canopy gives a lot more versatility.

Professional Repair Help

When something breaks in a traditional home, there is usually a large choice of professionals that you can call to fix the problem. This is especially true when it comes to plumbing and electrical. Many people living in an RV learn that they must fix things themselves as they usually break miles away from the closest RV shop. If you are going to love living in a house on wheels full-time, then you must know how to change a tire, check the fluids in the RV, fix a leaking roof in the pouring rain storm, and check the propane tank. In addition, those living in an RV need to consider what they will do if the RV needs to go into a shop overnight.  Many people love being self-sufficient. They love being able to fix their problems without relying on other people. Though there is the disadvantage of having to seek out repair shops and if your mobile home breaks down in the middle of nowhere that isn’t fun. The alternative is to take out an insurance that will cover breakdowns and also pay for accommodation if the RV needs taken to the shop.

Entertainment Options

While most people with traditional houses can get a wide range of television channels, those living in RVs often find that they have very few choices without installing an expensive satellite dish. Even then, many televisions get interference simply because of where the RV parked. Radios often do not work well in RVs because they also often receive a lot of interference.

There are ways to overcome the boredom factor. Taking to the road offers opportunities to enjoy the surroundings rather than simply switch on the TV set. If you have a contract with an Internet provider, perhaps you can be entertained by online programs, though would you rather do that than watch a shooting star in the October sky? Internet may help you to keep in touch with friends and family who you are away from, and that’s a good thing. You may also find that you use it a lot for answering your emails or simply looking things up.

Relationships with Other People

Many people with traditional houses love building relationships with their friends and neighbors. These same people love living close to family and spend a great deal of time with them. Those living in an RV move locations frequently. This can make it difficult to build lasting friendships. Many people living in a house on wheels find that they enjoy meeting a vast number of people in different parts of the country and collect a lot of friends who are like minded and can share experiences with them. Often they stay connected with people they meet in route and become very good friends.

The wear and tear on a relationship when a couple travel together may be made worse by lacking space. There’s not much privacy, and there’s no place to escape to. However, those taking to the road often realize this in advance and will talk things through before making a trip, so that the relationship doesn’t suffer as a result of the lack of space.

addressed envelope with stamp 01 public domain art uploaded anonymously from OCAL 0.18Mail

While mail is delivered to a traditional house, those living in an RV must come up with unique solutions. Having family members post it on gets to be a chore and although the least costly solution, it’s probably better to use a mail forwarding service, though be careful. In a traditional house, mail is straightforward although you may need a couple of services, such as FedEx depots where you are heading or an arrangement with a mail forwarding company which you keep in touch with via the Internet or phone.

Investment Value

The investment value of bricks and mortar is something that is solid and which usually increases over time, except in times of housing price slumps. Although there are slumps in prices, generally speaking, a house keeps its value if cared for and kept equipped and well maintained. The RV, however, will lose value. However, it will be cheaper to live in than a house, allowing people who choose this manner of living the possibility of placing any money they have gained from property sales into investments for income.

Although an RV won’t gain value, it will give its occupants the adventure of a lifetime, with different scenery every day and the possibility of enriching their lives through these changing experiences. Traditional homes aren’t like that. However, there are certain people who enjoy their “nesting” instinct and who find that RV living isn’t the same. The choice is a very individual one. If traveling with other people, make sure that everyone concerned knows what they are getting themselves into.

Chapter 2

Finding the Ideal RV for You (What to Look For)

Before you start thinking about packing the RV, make sure to choose the RV that is right for your needs. RVs come in three different classes. In addition, many people choose to live in conventional travel trailers and fifth wheel travel trailers. Each type has its advantages and disadvantages. Understanding the differences helps individuals choose the type that meets their needs the best.

Class A

Class A RVs look very similar to a bus, except that they have a slide out units that allow those living in a house on wheels to enjoy more room. These units are usually between 32 and 40 feet long. They are usually between 102 and 108 inches wide. Many drivers find the size of the vehicle to be very intimidating, and some report that they are hard to drive.

Most are configured to have a separate rear bedroom that sleeps two comfortably, although some are configured to sleep up to eight people comfortably. They are usually the most luxurious units available, and often include many different amenities including full-size refrigerators, entertainment centers, and centrally controlled heating and air conditioning units. Class A motorhomes usually provide the most comfortable ride when cruising down the highway. They also usually have the largest batteries. They usually are the least fuel efficient when compared to other RVs. They are also quite difficult to take off the road to hidden away places.

Class B

Class B RVs also referred to as van campers. They are usually between 16 and 23 feet long. They are usually between 78 and 85 inches wide. Their size allows drivers to feel more confident behind the wheel. It also means that they park in a normal parking  space making is getting around much easier. They can be configured to sleep between two and four people comfortably. Storage is extremely limited in these units, so living in them full-time can be very challenging. The advantage to a Class B RV is that they are usually much less expensive than a Class an RV.

Class C

Class C RVs range in length from 20 to 33 feet. While most are 92 inches wide, there is some minor variation. Almost all Class C RVs are configured to sleep two comfortably above the cab. Some are configured with a rear bedroom to sleep another two people. In addition, some have a slide out third bedroom, and many have a slide out living room. While Class A RVs can be constructed based on a unique chassis, Class C motorhomes are built on a van chassis. This sometimes helps owners find parts easier. If you plan on towing a second vehicle, then check the towing capacity of these RVs as it is often less than with Class A or Class B RVs. The great news for those on a limited budget is that they usually can be purchased for less money than a Class an RV while providing enough room to live comfortably.

Conventional Travel Trailers

Another vehicle pulls conventional travel trailers. Once the travel trailer has parked in a suitable area, the vehicle can then be used for transportation without the expense and problems of towing vehicle. Conventional travel trailers usually range in length between 21 and 28 feet and are usually about 80 inches wide. If you are considering living in a travel trailer full time, then look for units that have slide outs to increase your square footage. Keep in mind that it is not safe to move about in a travel trailer while moving down the highway. In fact, in many states, it is illegal to ride in one while it is moving.

Fifth Wheel Travel Trailers

Many people are choosing to live in an RV full-time choose a fifth wheel travel trailer. All fifth wheel travel trailers require a pickup to tow it, and the larger units require a super duty pickup. These units are extremely stable as they are towed down the highway, unlike a conventional travel trailer which may sway back and forth. These trailers are usually configured to sleep two people, but can be configured to sleep up to six people. Depending on the unit, many have luxuries otherwise only found in Class A RVs.

Chapter 3

What Accessories You Need and How to Choose Them

Living in an RV full-time does not mean living without accessories. There are many choices available on the market today. A person can find entertainment, cooking, water systems and laundry options.

Entertainment Options

Many people living full-time in a house on wheels still want the latest in entertainment options. Therefore, many people choose to install a satellite dish on top of their RV. If interested in doing this, then look for a satellite offering digital video broadcasting (DVB) signal acquisition that works with all the major networks like Dish and Direct. In addition, seek an in-motion satellite dish as it captures the signal even while moving.

Others are choosing to use their Internet connection to watch TV, email, and in some cases even work. While more campgrounds than ever before are offering free WIFI, many full-time people install their Internet. Internet sticks that plug into the side of your computer and create a mobile hotspot are available. Others full-timers choose to install an Internet satellite dish on their house on wheels. These dishes operate similar to a television satellite dish and allow users to connect wherever they roam.

Cooking Options

Most RVs come with a small kitchen, but many full-timers find it inadequate. Manufacturers have listened and create a host of accessories to enhance the kitchen. Refrigerators often do not get as cold as the ones in traditional houses, so manufacturers have created refrigerator fans that help to decrease the temperature inside the refrigerator. Others find that they need more ice than is available in the recreational vehicle, so manufacturers have created portable ice machines. Portable freezers help the full-time make fewer trips to the store while ensuring that frozen treats and meats stay frozen. Many RVs come with microwaves, but many people choose to replace the original unit with new microwaves that are more powerful and larger allowing them to prepare complete meals in them. In the not so distance past, those moving an RV had almost to empty the refrigerator, or the food would fall out while traveling. Today, manufacturers have produced many options to help food stay in the refrigerator while moving.

Preparing the majority of the meals outside is one solution. Most outdoor kitchens open from the side of the RV when it is stationary. Many contain a sink, a two-burner range, and a small refrigerator. Some come with a microwave and an LP-gas grill. If considering an outdoor kitchen, look for one with a long hose on the sink, as it can double instead as a place to rinse off dirt and sand, instead of tracking it through the RV.

Water Systems

If the full-time person living in a house on wheels plans on traveling a lot, then a water purification system may be a requirement. These systems help ensure water safety and often helps to keep travellers feeling well. Full-timers can choose between purifying all of the water in the RV or just part of it such as the water used to cook and drink.

Those living in an RV find that they have at least three choices. Carbon filters are a possible solution. Before choosing this option, be aware that the water smells of carbon and that stagnation in the freshwater tank can be a problem requiring the tank to be cleaned out on a regular basis.

Other people choose to use ceramic filters. These filters are designed to remove many contaminates from the water including sediment and bacteria. Some ceramic filters are a solid block and can be removed, cleaned and replaced. Others have a carbon filter, causing the tank to need cleaning out on a regular basis. Ask suppliers how often filters need replacing as you will have to add this to your budget.

Some living in an RV full-time chooses a ultra-violet light filtration system. These systems are outstanding for the full-timer who worries about coliforms, cryptosporidium, giardia, and other pathogens. When choosing a ultra-violet light filtration system, make sure to choose one large enough for the RV and uses the same type of voltage as is in the RV.

Still others choose to install a reverse-osmosis system. Most people choosing this option install an in-line unit that filters all water entering the RV for taste, and that removes a limited amount of sediments. People who use a lot of water may want to consider a canister reverse-osmosis system. Many use a three canister system with the first two removing sediments from the water, and the third containing a phosphate cartridge. While many people use a standard size canister, those living in a house on wheels full-time often choose a jumbo size, so that they do not have to replace the canister as often.

Laundry

A person living in an RV full-time needs several cleaning accessories. One consideration is laundry. In the not so distant past, people had to spend hours in hot stinky Laundromats washing and drying clothes. Today, those living in a house on wheels can have washers and dryers in their units. Some people choose a compact, stackable RV washer and dryer. Most of these units can handle about 12 pounds. These units are typically 30 inches wide, 30 inches deep and about 70 inches tall. Many people are choosing to build a small closet within the RV to accommodate these units that can usually wash and dry at the same time. Make sure that your RV has enough power to handle the unit, and keep in mind that you usually need to be hooked up to water and sewer for these units to work.

Others choose combination RV washers and dryers. These units are energy efficient and take about three hours to finish a load of laundry. Since the unit washes and dries, people are free to do other activities. Many require only 13 amps of power to operate. Buyers can find both vented and non-vented units. Many combination washers and dryers use up to 20 gallons of water to wash a single load, and non-vented models can use an additional five gallons while drying the clothes. Portable units hook up to an existing faucet within the RV. While small in size, most complete a small load of laundry in 15 minutes. These units are energy efficient, and buyers can even find units that operate without electricity.

There are many accessories available to make living in an RV more enjoyable. People living in an RV permanently need to consider which ones fit their lifestyle the best, as room seldom exists for all of them. In addition, consider the amperage of these units and compare it to the available power. Water storage and sewer storage should also be something to inquire about.

Chapter 4

Food Storage and Preparation

Most traditional houses contain plenty of storage. When you first take the plunge to living full-time in an RV, the kitchen space may seem extremely limited. This is especially true of storage space. Couple that with the vibration caused by a vehicle moving down the highway, and soon the person choosing to live in an RV full-time may wish they had never taken the plunge. Instead of getting frustrated by it, embrace the lifestyle while learning some helpful tips from experts.

Invest in a Pizza Stone

An often overlooked consideration is kitchen pans. While most cooks at home have many pans, there is no room in an RV for all those pans. Instead of carrying cookie sheets, invest in a high-quality pizza stone. Many propane ovens do not have even heating. Placing the food on a pizza stone and then placing it in the oven helps to even out the heat. While travellers can obviously cook pizza on the stone, it can be used for many other things. Cookies can easily cook on the stone, as can breads and strudels. Slice vegetables thin, drizzle the vegetables with oil and bake them on a pizza stone. The stone is also a perfect solution when preparing frozen foods, as the stone helps to absorb the ice crystals allowing the cook to prepare crispy frozen delights easily.

Buy Skillets and Pans with Foldaway Handles

A huge problem for many people living in an RV full time is that the handles on pans and skillets take up a huge amount of space. Instead of wasting this space, buy skillets and pans with foldaway handles. Then, the pans fit in a much smaller space. In addition, pay attention to the pans that are useful and eliminate those that get used.

Watch Recipe Sizes

Many recreational vehicles have extremely small ovens. If the pan required by the recipe is too big for the oven, consider cutting the recipe in half. Sometimes baking a recipe in two different pans allows it to fit in the oven better, and it lowers cooking times, allowing more economical cooking.

Pack in Grocery Bags

If you’re living in an RV full-time but would love to buy food in larger amounts, make a grocery list of all your favourite dishes. Then, divide the ingredients into small plastic bags containing only the amount you need for that recipe. Place any glass bottles inside a clean sock to prevent the jar from breaking from vibration. Do not include perishables in the bag. Staple the bag closed. Then, attach a recipe card to the bag and list the perishables that you need to buy just before making the recipe. This eliminates much of the space used by packaging.

Make Mixes Ahead of Time

Making basic mixes ahead of time allows you to save time when preparing favourite treats. It also helps to ensure that you can prepare some dishes even if the RV breaks down miles away from help. A favourite mix is a basic baking mix similar to Bisquick.

Basic Baking Mix

2 1/2 cups whole wheat flour

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 cup baking powder

2 tablespoons sugar

1 tablespoon salt

1 cup shortening

Method:

Combine the flours, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the shortening until the mixture resembles small peas. Place in a square rectangular container until ready to use. This store for up to six weeks and can be used in any recipe requiring Bisquick. Use it as a breading mix for chicken or fish, in pancakes and waffles, or in pot pies. Once a person starts using this mix they will never go back, and it is cheaper than the alternative.

Make Your Own Spice Mixtures

Many people living in an RV full-time find that they do not have room for the many little bottles of spices that they would like to have. In addition, they are very difficult to hold in place when moving down the highway. Instead of relying on little bottles, make favourites in larger amounts and store them in small airtight containers. While the initial cost can be higher, the containers stay in place better, and the camper can be sure always to have a stock.

Creole Seasoning Blend

6 tablespoons salt

4 tablespoons onion powder

4 tablespoons dried oregano

4 tablespoons onion powder

4 tablespoons dried basil

2 tablespoons black pepper

2 tablespoons dried thyme

2 tablespoons cayenne pepper

2 tablespoons white pepper

Stir all the spices together and store in a small container. This mixture can be used to flavour rice, soups, meats, and stews.

Ranch style seasoning is also easily made by a person living in a house with wheels. Add a little buttermilk and make a great ranch dressing. A tablespoon or two of this mixture mixed with a pound of hamburger meat makes outstanding hamburgers.

Store Glass Jars in Socks and Buckets

One common problem encountered when living in an RV is the possibility of breakages. This often occurs when traveling down the highway as jars rattle together. It can especially happen if the RV must come to a sudden stop. People living in a home with wheels can easily eliminate this problem. Place the glass jars inside heavy knee high socks. Then, place the glass jars inside a bucket or tub. While it is not guaranteed to stop all jars from breaking, the cushioning from the sock helps to keep the jars from hitting together. If one does break, the sock helps to soak up the spill. In addition, the mess is contained to the bucket or tub which is much easier to clean than the carpet, walls, and cupboard.

Transport Cans in Lids

Before embarking on the adventure of living in an RV full-time, head to your favourite office that does a lot of printing. Ask them for lids to their copy paper boxes. These lids are extremely sturdy in most cases. Then, place your cans in the lid. Place the lid in the cupboard in the RV, as the lid helps to keep the cans in place while you are transporting the RV and levelling it.

While the person living in a house with wheels full-time often has to cook differently to a person in a traditional house, almost any recipe can easily be prepared in an RV with a little ingenuity.

Chapter 5

Safety-What Precautions You Need to Take

Living in a house with wheels requires travellers to be acutely aware of the safety hazards that exist. While most trips go smoothly, there are always hazards that can occur. Preparing for them ahead of time helps to ensure that the new lifestyle is enjoyable.

Propane Gas

According to a major insurance company, the number one accident claim on RVs is leaking propane gas tanks. Therefore, it is vital to check for these leaks on a regular basis. Get a small bowl and place five tablespoons of water in it. Add one tablespoon of liquid dish soap. Slowly stir the mixture, without forming bubbles, until dissolved. Use a small paintbrush to paint the mixture around the tank fittings. If the mixture bubbles, then there is a gas leak. Immediately turn off the gas valve and tighten the fittings. Then, retest the mixture. If the second attempt is also unsuccessful, then it is best to consult a professional or replace the fitting.

Tires

People die each year while riding in an RV because the tires are overloaded, underinflated or old. Tires need checked on a regular basis, and replacement tires are an expense that those living in a house with wheels on a full-time basis need to allow for in their budget. Start by making sure that the tires are the correct size for the RV and will easily handle the weight of the RV. Check the tire pressure on a regular basis, as under-inflated tires cause decreased gas mileage and can cause the vehicle to handle poorly. If any internal parts of the tire are visible, then it needs to be replaced. Tires that have less than 6/32 inch tread depth also need to be replaced as these tires often blow out.

Carelessness

Many accidents occur each year because the traveller did not take proper precautions before moving the RV. Before paying for an RV, the new owner should make sure that they know how to stow the steps, slide-outs and awnings properly. Then, the owner should follow the proper procedure each time. They should make it a practice to walk around the RV before leaving a final time to make sure that everything stowed correctly.

Overloading Loading

It is vital to not overload your RV. Some of the reasons include wear on the brakes, suspension, and tires. Owners find that RVs have three different weight limitations. The Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) is the weight of the RV when loaded.

Manufacturers give the vehicle this amount to help ensure your safety. The only way to know what your RV weighs when fully loaded is to weigh it on scales available at most truck stops. Never exceed this weight. If the full-time is towing a vehicle, then that weight

needs to be considered as well. In addition, the weight of each axle needs to be considered.

If the owner discovers that their RV is overweight, then they need to remove items from the RV until they reach the GVWR. Consider what items are excess to actual needs. Even though the person living in an RV is more limited in storage than a person living in a traditional home, things still tend to accumulate.

The second place that many full-timers can eliminate weight is in the water system. Make sure to dump the gray and black water tanks on a regular basis. Each gallon of water dumped from these tanks weighs approximately 8 pounds. In addition, if the RV located at the site where there are water hook-ups most of the time, then drain the fresh water tank until it is only 25 percent full.

If the full-time RV owner has still not met the weight and is towing a vehicle, then consider moving items to the car. Most vehicles can carry up to 1,000 pounds when moving down the highway, so use it as a trailer to haul things.

Pest Control

Pest control is a continual battle for many people living in a house on wheels full-time. These pests can chew through wires, plastic, and rubber lines. Make sure to store food properly at all time so that pests are not drawn to the RV. In addition, try laying two fragrant dryer sheets in each cupboard. The smell from the dryer sheets naturally repels bugs. Use mothballs in any storage bins located below the RV.

Fire Safety

Fires can send an RV up in smoke much faster than a traditional home. Therefore, full-timers should have a UL 217 integral battery-operated detector in the kitchen area of the RV. If the RV is a class a unit, then install a second smoke detector in the bedroom area. In addition, install a 5 pound "BC" rated fire extinguisher near the exit from the RV, and keep a 5 pound “A” rated fire extinguisher in the cab area.

Carbon Monoxide and LPG

Carbon monoxide and gas leaks can be deadly. Therefore, make sure that the RV has both types of detectors fitted. For best detection, the carbon monoxide detectors should be placed about four feet above the floor in the bedroom area, and a second detector housed in the living room area. An LPG detector should be installed close to the floor in the kitchen area for best results. Make sure that all detectors made for use in RVs.

While living in an RV can be fun, it is important to keep safety in mind constantly. Make sure to monitor constantly for leaking propane. Watch the tires make sure that they stay in great condition. Stay alert and remember to store steps, slide-outs, and awnings properly. Weigh the house on wheels on a regular basis and eliminate excess weight as needed. Take steps to control for best as they can harm wires, lines, and hoses making living in the RV dangerous. While chances are nothing will ever happen, make sure to keep smoke detectors, smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors and LPG detectors in working order at all times.

Chapter 6

How to Test Your RV

Regardless of the type of RV you choose to live in; there are many factors to keep in mind when choosing the right RV. Like other vehicles, RVs lose a good portion of their value as soon as you drive them off the dealer’s lot. Therefore, it makes sense to look at used RVs. When looking at these units, make sure to try some tests to ensure that they are a problem free.

Look for Leaks

Start by soaking the RV with water from a water hose while someone else is inside the trailer. In areas where the RV is most likely to leak, hold the water stream on the area for about 16 seconds. Pay special attention to:

Air conditioning unit(s)

Antennas

Awnings

Basement storage

Doors

Ladder and luggage racks

Slide-outs

Spotlights

Vents

Windows

Windshield

Spotting damage in these areas now can help avoid costly repairs later. Taking this step can also help make you more comfortable in the RV should it decide to rain in the middle of the night.

Insist on Operating Every Appliance

An RV contains many different appliances. Before purchasing every RV, ask the owner to explain them all to you. This ensures that you know all the upgrades and other details about the RV. In addition, make sure that they all work properly. If the RV is not connected to the water, insist that you will not buy the RV until it is. Then, check for water leaks in every sink, shower, toilet, and the water pump. In addition, follow the lines to ensure that there are no leaks. Insist that the owner operate the slides and watch to see that they operate smoothly. If they seem to hesitate or skip, then reconsider purchasing the RV as they can be very expensive to replace.

Take the RV to a Mechanic

If you have completed the water test and if every appliance works properly, then insist on taking the RV to a mechanic. When possible, use a mechanic that works on RVs on a regular basis. Ask them to go over the RV and inspect it carefully. Many of these vehicles do not holdup as well as a normal car. Many owners discover that they start experiencing problems at 60,000 to 70,000 miles.

RVs come in three different categories. Class A RVs are the most luxurious and are usually the largest. Class B RVs are built to resemble a van, and are often too small to make a great house on wheels. Many people living in a house on wheels full time, love Class C RVs, as they are larger than class B, but usually have a lower price tag, because they do not have as many luxuries. Understand that a new RV loses much of its value as soon as it hits the road. Therefore, it is usually a good idea to check used RVs. When buying used, look for water leaks and that every appliance operates properly. Take the RV to a mechanic and have them check the vehicle carefully.

Chapter 7

Selecting the Ideal Location - What You Need to Know

There are many location choices for those seeking to live in a house on wheels full time. Considering goals allows the person to choose the location that is right for them.

Live Near Work

Some people find it necessary to work and may be limited to locations where work is plentiful. Some employers even let those living in an RV full-time park an RV in the company’s parking lot and live there, although this depends upon state laws. It may not be a possibility in certain states, and you need to find somewhere where you can commute easily but also live a relatively normal life when work finishes for the day. It’s hardly fitting to hang washing in the company car park! Check out parks within a reasonable distance from your work.

Travel by Finding Different Jobs

Others that must work for a living find that frequently moving is the right lifestyle for them. These individuals travel until they find a location that interests them and then stay there for a while. Once they have worked and saved some money, the open highway calls again, and they seek out a new location with a new adventure.

 Location Independent Jobs

Others choose to work at jobs that they can do from any location. One possible job is writing for the Internet. The person writes an article and then gets paid for their work. Since the article is submitted by Internet, this job can happen from almost anywhere in the world. Still others choose to live in their house with wheels in the most scenic locations and paint or photograph the scenes before them and then sell these photographs or paintings to support their lifestyle.

Missions

Those who love to share their faith can find positions where they can share their beliefs working for a church while living in an RV full time. Often camps love to allow RV livers to stay on their property. Others choose to head into areas where there has been a natural disaster to help with the aftermath.

Volunteer

Many state and national parks offer free camping in exchange for a little work. Many of these opportunities include staying in the campground and ensuring that everything stays peaceful. Sometimes, these people living in a house on wheels full-time organize events for other campers. Sometimes they help around the park with maintenance chores. There are many locations where a person can live in an RV full time. The individual circumstances often help dictate the right choice for each.

Use Property Gains to Finance Your Lifestyle

If you sell a home to take to the road, invest what you can to produce a monthly income. Every little bit helps and if you do this, you won’t be tempted to spend everything you worked hard to gain by having a house in the first place. This little nest egg helps a lot. In this case, you have the option to park wherever you find the inspiration to stop. Take in the scenery and enjoy the road is what owning an RV is about.

Conclusion

Living in a house with wheels full-time can be a wonderful adventure that many people enjoy. Before starting out on this adventure, consider the differences between living in a traditional house and an RV including being miles from anywhere, lack of space and entertainment options.

If a person decides that the lifestyle is for them, he or she should be able to find the ideal RV size to meet personal needs. In addition, make sure to consider the accessories that help making living easier including water, laundry, and cooking options.

One area that many people struggle with is cooking. Consider how to store items so that they do not break or fall out of cupboards while traveling down the open highway. In addition, consider using pans with folding handles and mixes to help eliminate wasted space.

Before commencing on any journey, consider the safety of the RV including LP gas, fire and carbon monoxide safety. Then, start to choose the right RV making sure to test it completely before and shortly after purchase. Most people find that taking short trips and then working up to longer trips helps them acclimate to the lifestyle.

People living in an RV full time live in a variety of locations. Some people are more focused on choosing a location based upon their need to work while others living in an RV choose to pursue missions or volunteer work.

In most cases, the advantages of living in an RV full-time far outweigh the disadvantages. This is a lifestyle choice that many people enjoy completely.

There is one other consideration which hasn’t gotten mentioned, and that’s the tax advantages. If you are permanently on the road, then you can claim any state as your home state. A favorite for RV owners who live in their RV all the year round is South Dakota since their tax incentives are worth considering. There is no housing tax on RVs and no state income tax!

If you can budget well and learn the tricks that make RV living cheaper then, it's a step toward freedom and a real possibility of seeing different places and new faces. Sometimes, talking to people who have chosen to live full time in their RVs, make it sounds astounding by wishing they had thought of it years earlier. Investigate, budget and make it a real possibility.

From The Author

Thank you for taking the time to read this book. As an author, I understand the importance of creating books which my readers will find both enjoyable and informative. If you have the time and feel generous, please don't hesitate to leave an honest review of this book..........Jim Jackson

Other Book By Jim Jackson

Prepper's Pantry

http://www.amazon.com/Preppers-Pantry-Survival-Guide-Storage-ebook/dp/B00N3WTOFO/

Camping And Cooking For Beginners

http://www.amazon.com/Camping-Cooking-Beginners-Outdoors-Backpacking-ebook/dp/B00M856AOA/

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