Thinking about making your RV dreams a full-time reality? You're not alone. More people than ever are choosing the freedom of full-time RV living. Understanding full-time RV costs is crucial when choosing the right RV for your new lifestyle. Let's walk through everything you need to know to make the best choice.
Just like choosing a traditional home, picking the right RV type is crucial for long-term happiness. Whether you're considering a motorhome or travel trailer, your choice will affect everything from living space to full-time RV insurance costs. Let's look at the three most popular options for full-timers, with real insights from people who live in them.
Think of Class A motorhomes as luxury condos on wheels. They're those big, bus-shaped RVs you've probably seen cruising down the highway. While they might look intimidating at first, many full-timers swear by them for their spacious living areas and home-like amenities.
What you're getting:
Size: 26-45 feet (picture a large school bus)
Price: Usually $100,000-$200,000+, depending on features
Living Space: Often 200-400 square feet of living area
Real talk about Class A living:
Perfect if you love entertaining or need space for remote work
Great for couples who want separate spaces within their RV
Ideal if you plan to stay at luxury RV resorts (they usually have plenty of room for big rigs)
Keep in mind:
You'll need to tow a car for running errands (trust us, you don't want to take this beast to the grocery store)
Fuel costs can be significant – expect 8-10 MPG
Some state parks and national parks have size restrictions
Class C motorhomes are like the Swiss Army knife of RVs – versatile, manageable, and practical. Understanding Class C insurance rates is important when considering this popular option. You'll recognize them by their over-cab sleeping area, which adds bonus space without making the RV too enormous to handle.
The practical details:
Size: 21-35 feet (think: large moving truck)
Price: $50,000-$150,000
Living Space: About 130-200 square feet
Why many full-timers choose Class C:
Easier to drive than Class A (especially in cities)
Better fuel economy (usually 10-14 MPG)
More campground options due to smaller size
Real-world considerations:
Storage space is decent but requires creative organizing
Perfect for solo travelers or couples
Good option if you're new to RV driving
Fifth-wheels are the favorite choice for many full-timers who want maximum living space without the complexity of a motorized RV. With competitive travel trailer insurance rates and flexible living options, they offer an excellent balance of comfort and practicality.
The basics:
Size: 25-45 feet
Price: $35,000-$125,000 (plus your tow vehicle)
Living Space: Often the most spacious option, up to 500 square feet
Why fifth-wheels make sense:
Usually offers the most living space for your money
Your truck doubles as a regular vehicle
Often feels more like a traditional home layout
What to think about:
You'll need a powerful truck (and yes, that means more expense)
Setting up camp takes longer than with motorhomes
Towing can be challenging for beginners (but you'll get the hang of it)
When you're living in your RV full-time, certain features move from the "nice-to-have" to the "must-have" category. For year-round comfort, look for the best RV insulation features and climate control systems.
Living full-time means dealing with all four seasons, including managing winter RV maintenance challenges. You'll want:
Temperature control that works:
Proper insulation (look for R-13 or higher in walls)
Dual-pane windows (worth the extra cost)
Heated holding tanks (trust us on this one)
A robust air conditioning system (15,000 BTU minimum)
Your RV's roof materials play a crucial role in both comfort and insurance rates. Choose quality materials that can handle year-round exposure.
Full-time living means bringing more stuff than a weekend camper. Smart storage includes:
Inside your RV:
Plenty of closet space (with room for real hangers)
Kitchen storage that fits regular-sized plates and appliances
Hidden storage spots (under the bed, in bench seats)
Outside storage:
Pass-through storage bays
Dedicated space for outdoor gear
Weather-protected compartments
These are the features that make daily life easier:
Kitchen must-haves:
Residential-size refrigerator
Real counter space (not just a tiny strip)
Adequate pantry storage
Bathroom essentials:
Shower with enough height clearance
Good water pressure system
Decent-sized black water tank (minimum 40 gallons)
Living space priorities:
Comfortable seating that works for daily use
Good lighting (natural and artificial)
Space for a workspace if you're working remotely
When choosing your RV, consider factors like size and weight. For easier towing, explore lightweight trailers that offer both comfort and efficiency.
For those seeking the ultimate in comfort and amenities, these luxury models offer exceptional quality and features:
Newmar Dutch Star: The gold standard for luxury living on wheels
Tiffin Phaeton: Where comfort meets reliability
Entegra Coach Cornerstone: When you want all the bells and whistles
These models offer excellent value with many luxury features at more moderate price points. Understanding RV warranty coverage can help you make a smarter investment.
Forest River Cedar Creek: Solid construction meets smart design
Grand Design Solitude: Perfect for extended stays
Jayco North Point: Reliable comfort that won't break the bank
Quality full-time living doesn't have to drain your savings:
Keystone Montana: The people's champion of fifth-wheels
Heartland Landmark: Smart design on a budget
Forest River Cardinal: Practical luxury that makes sense
Regular RV insurance isn't enough when you're living in your rig full-time. You need coverage that treats your RV like the home it is. Many owners also consider RV rental insurance to offset costs when they're not using their rig.
What full-time RV insurance typically covers:
Personal liability (similar to homeowners insurance)
Personal belongings coverage
Emergency expense coverage
Specialized coverage for things like:
Roof replacement
Pest damage
Storage unit coverage while traveling
Money-saving tip: Many insurance providers offer discounts if you bundle policies or install safety features. Some even offer lower rates if you complete RV safety courses.
Making the switch to full-time RVing requires preparation, including mastering RV towing basics if you're choosing a towable option.
Making the switch to full-time RVing is exciting, but it takes some planning. Here's a practical timeline:
6-12 months before:
Research and choose your RV type
Get your insurance squared away
Start downsizing your belongings
3-6 months before:
Take RV driving courses
Plan your mail forwarding
Join RV clubs for discounts and community
1-3 months before:
Practice living in your RV
Set up your domicile state
Create your maintenance schedule
Q: What size RV is best for full-time living? A: For most couples, 35-40 feet provides optimal space. Consider your lifestyle, parking needs, and comfort requirements when choosing size.
Q: How much does full-time RV insurance cost? A: Costs vary based on RV value, coverage needs, and usage. Multiple carrier comparisons can help find competitive rates for your specific situation.
Q: What are the most important features for full-time RV living? A: Key features include all-season capability, adequate storage, reliable systems (electrical, plumbing, HVAC), and durable construction.
Q: Can I use my RV for both full-time living and rental income? A: Yes, but specific insurance considerations apply. Ensure your policy allows for both uses and includes appropriate coverage, and make sure you use a trusted peer-to-peer RV rental marketplace like Outdoorsy.
Living full-time in an RV is an adventure that requires proper planning and protection. Before hitting the road, check your state RV requirements for insurance and registration.
Note: Coverage options vary by state and situation. Let's make sure you get the right protection for your specific needs.
Roamly Insurance Group, LLC ("Roamly") is a licensed general agent for affiliated and non-affiliated insurance companies. Roamly is licensed as an agency in all states in which products are offered. Availability and qualification for coverage, terms, rates, and discounts may vary by jurisdiction. We do not in any way imply that the materials on the site or products are available in jurisdictions in which we are not licensed to do business or that we are soliciting business in any such jurisdiction. Coverage under your insurance policy is subject to the terms and conditions of that policy and is ultimately the decision of the buyer.
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