RV Living Communities
What is an RV Living Community?
An RV living community is a group of individuals or families who live in recreational vehicles (RVs) either full-time or part-time. These communities can be physical locations, such as RV parks or campgrounds, or virtual spaces, like online forums or social media groups, where RVers connect, share experiences, and support one another.
Types of RV Living Communities:
- RV Parks and Campgrounds: These are physical locations where RVers can stay for extended periods. RV parks may offer various amenities like hookups for electricity, water, and sewage, as well as recreational facilities such as swimming pools, Wi-Fi, and laundry rooms. Some parks are specifically geared toward long-term or full-time RV living, offering a sense of community with regular events or social gatherings.
- RV Resorts: These are high-end, luxury RV parks that may provide even more upscale amenities, such as spas, golf courses, and fine dining. They often cater to full-time RVers looking for a more resort-like living experience.
- Boondocking Locations: Boondocking, or dry camping, is when RVers live off-grid in natural spaces like forests, deserts, or public lands without hookups. While these locations may not offer the amenities of a park, they can foster tight-knit, more adventurous communities where people share tips on off-grid living.
- Online Communities and Forums: There are many online platforms where RVers connect to share knowledge, advice, and experiences. Websites like Facebook groups, Reddit, and specialized RV forums have thousands of members who discuss topics like RV maintenance, travel destinations, work-from-home opportunities, and more. These virtual communities are great for networking and finding support from fellow RVers.
- Full-Time RVers and Nomadic Groups: Some RV living communities focus specifically on full-time RV living or nomadic lifestyles. These groups often organize events, meetups, or rallies where members can come together to socialize, swap stories, and learn from one another.
Benefits of Being Part of an RV Living Community
- Support and Advice: Whether you’re new to RV living or a seasoned pro, being part of a community provides access to a wealth of knowledge and experience. Other members can offer tips on RV repairs, route planning, or navigating RV life challenges.
- Social Connection: Living in an RV can sometimes feel isolating, especially if you’re traveling solo or as a couple. Communities provide opportunities for socializing, making friends, and even attending events like potlucks, happy hours, or camping trips.
- Networking Opportunities: RV communities, both physical and online, often connect people with similar interests. Digital nomads, writers, and small business owners can benefit from networking with others who share similar career or lifestyle goals. These connections can lead to job opportunities, collaborations, and advice on balancing work and travel.
- Shared Resources: Members of RV communities often share valuable resources like maps, guides, and recommendations for the best places to camp, work remotely, or access essential services like fuel and food. Additionally, RV parks and online communities often have dedicated bulletin boards for job postings, gear swaps, and other useful announcements.
- Sense of Belonging: Being part of an RV living community gives you a sense of belonging, even when you’re constantly on the move. It’s reassuring to know that there are others out there living the same lifestyle, facing similar challenges, and enjoying the same rewards.
In essence, an RV living community is more than just a place to park your RV; it’s a support network, a social circle, and a way to connect with like-minded people who share a passion for the RV lifestyle. Whether in person or online, these communities offer both practical assistance and emotional support to those who choose to live on the road.
RV Living Communities for Full-Timers
- Escapees RV Club: One of the oldest and largest RV communities, offering support, education, and events for full-time RVers.
- RVillage: A social network for RVers to connect, share experiences, and find local events.
- Xscapers: A sub-group of Escapees for working-age RVers who balance travel and remote work.
Boondocking & Campground Resources
What is Boondocking?
Boondocking refers to camping in an RV without hookups for electricity, water, or sewage. It’s also known as dry camping and typically takes place in natural, undeveloped locations, such as forests, deserts, or on public lands. The term “boondocking” is often associated with free camping, although some locations may charge a small fee or require permits. Unlike staying in RV parks or campgrounds, boondocking gives RVers the opportunity to enjoy remote, off-grid living and a closer connection to nature.
Key Features of Boondocking:
- No Hookups: RVers do not have access to utilities like water, electricity, or sewage connections. This means RVers must rely on their RV’s battery, solar panels, or generators for power and bring in their own water supply, managing waste through self-contained systems like holding tanks.
- Remote Locations: Boondocking is typically done in more secluded or less developed areas, such as national forests, Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands, or other public lands where camping is permitted. These locations offer peace, privacy, and a unique outdoor experience.
- Self-Sufficiency: Because there are no amenities, boondocking requires RVers to be self-sufficient. This includes having the right equipment, such as extra water, power sources (like solar panels), and waste disposal methods. RVers also need to be prepared for weather conditions, limited access to resources, and the challenges of living off the grid.
- Cost-Effective: One of the main appeals of boondocking is that it’s often free or low-cost, especially when camping on public lands. This makes it an attractive option for those who want to save money while enjoying the freedom of RV living.
Benefits of Boondocking
- Freedom: Boondocking offers RVers the freedom to camp in unique, less crowded locations, away from the commercialized atmosphere of RV parks. It allows for more flexibility in travel and an authentic outdoor experience.
- Peace and Quiet: Many boondocking spots are located in remote areas, offering a quiet, peaceful environment where RVers can enjoy solitude, wildlife, and nature.
- Closer to Nature: Boondocking often takes RVers to scenic, untouched areas like mountains, deserts, or forests, providing opportunities for hiking, stargazing, and other outdoor activities.
- Low-Cost or Free: With no fees for camping in many boondocking spots, it’s a cost-effective way to travel and camp long-term, especially for full-time RVers or budget-conscious travelers.
Challenges of Boondocking
- Limited Amenities: Without hookups, RVers must plan carefully and bring everything they need, including water, food, and power sources. Waste disposal can also be a challenge, as there are no sewer connections.
- Accessibility: Some boondocking locations are remote and may require driving on rough or unpaved roads, which can be difficult for certain types of RVs or inexperienced drivers.
- Safety and Legal Concerns: It’s important to follow local regulations and rules about boondocking. Some areas may restrict camping, while others may require permits. Additionally, boondocking in unsafe or unauthorized areas could result in fines or safety hazards.
Boondocking is about embracing an off-grid, self-sufficient RV lifestyle, typically in remote locations without the comfort of hookups. It’s a favorite among adventure-seeking RVers who value solitude, connection with nature, and the freedom to roam without the constraints of traditional RV parks or campgrounds.
Boondocking and Campground Resources
Campendium: A site offering reviews and listings for campgrounds, RV parks, and boondocking locations.
Freecampsites.net: A resource for finding free and low-cost camping spots.
Harvest Hosts: Stay overnight at wineries, farms, and attractions as part of your RV membership.
Campspot: Book and manage your campsite reservation online for a variety of campgrounds throughout the US.
KOA Campgrounds: America’s favorite campgrounds typically offer special pricing for longer term stays.
Hip Camp: Non-traditional camping locations and campgrounds for private camping and unique RV camping experiences.
RV Maintenance and Repair ServicesÂ
- IRV2 Forums: A community forum for sharing advice on RV repair, maintenance, and technical issues.
- RV Repair Club: Offers instructional videos and guides on RV repairs and maintenance.
- RV Tech Library: A comprehensive collection of RV technical articles for do-it-yourselfers.
RV Travel Planning & Navigation Tools
- Roadtrippers: Plan your RV road trips with detailed itineraries, points of interest, and RV-friendly stops.
- RV Trip Wizard: RV-specific trip planning tool that accounts for RV dimensions, avoiding low bridges and difficult roads.
- AllStays: App and website that provides information on RV parks, campgrounds, rest stops, and parking.
RV Insurance and Safety
- Good Sam RV Insurance: Specialized insurance for full-time RVers, covering motorhomes and travel trailers.
- National General Insurance: Full-time RV insurance that covers personal belongings, liabilities, and collision.
- RV Safety & Education Foundation: Resources for learning about RV safety, including towing safety, weight distribution, and more.
RV-Friendly Banks & Mail Services
- Escapees Mail Service: A popular mail forwarding service for full-time RVers.
- Traveling Mailbox: A virtual mailbox service that allows RVers to view and manage their mail remotely.
- Ally Bank: Online banking suitable for RVers, with no brick-and-mortar locations but plenty of digital services.
RV Internet and Connectivity OptionsÂ
- Mobile Internet Resource Center: Guides and product reviews for staying connected while traveling in an RV.
- Skyroam: A mobile hotspot that offers global WiFi access, making it easier to stay connected on the road.
- Starlink for RVs: A satellite internet service by SpaceX, designed for RVers needing reliable connectivity in remote areas.
How to Find Work and Earn a Steady Income for RVersÂ
- Remote Year: Programs for remote workers to travel and live around the world, including in RV-friendly locations.
- We Work Remotely: Job board for remote work opportunities across different industries.
- FlexJobs: A job board specifically for remote, freelance, and part-time work.
Health and RV Living
- FMCA (Family Motor Coach Association): Offers benefits like health insurance plans for RVers.
- SkyMed: Emergency travel medical evacuation insurance for RVers.
- Nomad Health Insurance: Healthcare coverage options tailored to the nomadic lifestyle.
RV Lifestyle Blogs and YouTube Channels
- Technomadia: A blog and YouTube channel by full-time RVers sharing tips on mobile internet, RV life, and remote work.
- Gone with the Wynns: A blog and YouTube channel documenting full-time RV living and travel adventures.
- The RV Geeks: YouTube channel focused on RV maintenance, repairs, and DIY tips.