Fulltiming - Part 6

Finding the Right Fulltiming Rig

Once the decision to become a fulltiming RVer has been made and the necessary preparations have been finalized, it's time to concentrate on selecting the right recreational vehicle. A fulltiming rig will be asked to perform in ways a normal RV will not. It must be built to withstand the rigors of living, not just vacationing. For this reason, the selection criteria used must be a little different.

Many fulltimers begin their new adventure using whatever unit they own at the time or upgrade based upon their financial means. Depending upon the quality of the rig, this may be an acceptable option. However, to make sure the RV will withstand the demands of fulltiming, it will be important to keep a few key points in mind:

• Selection should be based upon how the rig will be used. Will you travel heavily and demand maneuverability, or will your camping habits require a unit that's spacious and filled with amenities.
• It will be important to choose a size that's right for you. Backcountry campers will appreciate smaller, more versatile units. Resort lovers will be more comfortable in larger rigs with better weight-carrying capacities.
• Consider the ease of driving and parking when selecting a fulltiming rig. If you become apprehensive every time you get behind the wheel, then something smaller may be right for you.
• The climate where your RV will be used most should be a factor in your decision. If you plan to spend time in colder areas, then the unit's insulation and plumbing systems must be up to the task.
• Unless you plan to spend all your time in full-hookup environments, you will want to select an RV with "boondockability." It should have batteries, a propane tank, a freshwater tank, holding tanks, a fuel tank, and possibly even solar panels with the capacity to support you for long periods without hookups.

Although the typical fulltimer is viewed as a wealthy retiree tooling around the country in a luxury motorocoach, this is far from the norm. Many fulltimers are completely happy pursuing their dreams in far less. The most popular fulltiming rigs are fifth-wheel trailers, class A motorhomes, and travel trailers, but many RVers live the fulltiming lifestyle using class C motorhomes, vans, fold-down campers, and truck campers. Often this is done out of affordability, but many times the choice is just a good match for the preferences of the user.

Part 7 > Size Requirements