20 RV Tips and Tricks for Beginners: The Ultimate Guide to Starting Your New RV Lifestyle

Ready to embark on an exciting journey of open roads and a liberating nomadic lifestyle? 

Transitioning to full-time RV living is an adventure that demands meticulous planning and preparation.

Whether you’re retiring and eager to explore the world anew, seeking a simple way of life, or yearning to set out on adventures whenever the mood strikes, this guide is your compass to navigate the necessary steps and logistics for kickstarting your full-time RV journey.

Read on to discover twenty of our best tips and tricks for beginners seeking to live an RV lifestyle.

RV Tips and Tricks for Beginners: 20 Tips for Starting Your RV Journey

To help start you on your journey and walk you through things step-by-step, we’ve separated our list of tips into several major categories:

• Setting your goals and objectives
• Choosing the right RV
• Budgeting for full-time RV life
• RV life
• As well as a set of additional tips great for getting started off on the right foot

Let’s start with step one: setting your goals and objectives. 

1. Set Your Goals and Objectives

Diving into any venture without a clear vision is rarely a wise approach, and RV living is no exception. 

This lifestyle is enriching but thrives on thoughtful planning and concrete goals.

Before immersing yourself in full-time RV living, it’s important to establish your objectives, budget, and timeline. Defining your goals and setting parameters will simplify everything and keep decision-making from becoming a bottleneck. 

Start by answer these essential questions:

Why do you want to live in an RV full-time?

Are you yearning for a change of scenery? Is the idea of downsizing and embracing minimalism appealing to you? 

Do you crave greater financial and physical freedom or pursue more adventure?

This is the quintessential question. It’s about knowing why you want to start RVing, which will then influence every other decision you make hereafter. 

What are your travel and lifestyle preferences?

Do you aspire to explore diverse regions, settle in one location for extended stays, or strike a balance between both?

Knowing your answer to that will help you decide how you want to travel and where you’d prefer to spend your time. 

What’s your budget for full-time RV living?

Determining your budget is crucial to planning for your RV lifestyle. Don’t plan for what you hope to have, plan for what you have right now. 

Additionally, it’s important to anticipate and budget for RV repairs, as they can be time-consuming and expensive, adding unexpected costs to your journey. 

You can always expand and upgrade down the road. Clear goals will help you choose the best RV type, lifestyle, and expenses to fit your circumstances.

2. How to Choose the Right RV

Choosing the right RV is one of the most important steps when starting out.

There are quite a few different types of vehicles that fall within the “RV” umbrella, some small, some large, and some positively massive. 

Some have bathrooms and some don’t, while some are easy to maneuver and get around in while others can be a bit of a pain.

Knowing what kind of an RV lifestyle you want is about knowing how you want to live then finding the right rig to suit that lifestyle.

Here are the 7 types of “RVs”, including motorhomes, trailers, and truck campers:

*After reading through the types of RVs, check out our top picks for the best RV brands to help you choose here: 11 Best RV Brands and Manufacturers [2024 Guide]. 

Motorhomes

Motorhomes are all-in-one units that include living space and a driving compartment. 

They come in three main motorhome classes:

Class A Motorhomes

Class A motorhomes, or “land yachts,” offer spacious, bus-like luxury. 

They have fully equipped kitchens, roomy living areas, and large panoramic windows for immersive travel experiences.

Pros: 

• Luxury
• Spaciousness
• Amenities
• Perfect for extended travel

Cons: 

• High cost
• Fuel consumption
• Size limitations
• Maintenance expenses

Class B Motorhome (Camper Van):

These RVs are more petite in size, providing a versatile living space comprising a kitchenette, sleeping area, and nimble maneuverability.

Pros: 

• Compact
• Fuel-efficient
• Ease of driving
• Versatile living areas with kitchenette and sleeping quarters
• Maneuverable

Cons: Limited space, fewer amenities compared to larger RVs, not suitable for extended family stays, may feel cramped for some individuals.

Class C Motorhome:

These RVs combine Class A’s convenience and Class B’s maneuverability. 

They offer a spacious living area over the truck cab, often with a bedroom, kitchen, and bathroom. They’re ideal for family adventures and extended trips.

Pros: 

• Versatile
• Comfortable
• Suitable for families
• Spacious living area
• Good amenities.

Cons: 

• Moderate fuel consumption
• May be challenging to park in tight spaces
• Not as spacious as Class A motorhomes
• Can be pricier than Class B options

Towable Trailers

Travel Trailers:

Travel trailers come in many sizes and configurations. 

They offer a towable home-away-from-home, typically including a living area, kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping quarters.

Pros: 

• Towable
• Affordable
• Has various sizes and layouts
• Spacious interiors
• And is good for long-term travel

Cons: 

• Towing requires a suitable vehicle
• Setup and leveling at campsites
• Limited amenities compared to motorhomes
• May feel cramped for larger families

Check out our top picks for best travel trailers here: 7 Best Lightweight Travel Trailers: 2024 Edition. 

Fifth Wheel Trailers:

Fifth-wheel trailers are towable RVs known for their unique front extension that extends over the towing vehicle’s bed. 

This design provides extra living space, often with multiple levels, luxurious amenities, and higher comfort.

Pros: 

• Spacious interiors
• Residential-like comfort
• Separate living areas
• Suitable for long-term stays
• Great for couples or families

Cons: 

• It requires a larger and more powerful tow vehicle
• May have height restrictions
• Is larger and heavier
• And has limited accessibility in tight camping spots

Toy Haulers:

Toy haulers are RVs equipped with a garage space at the rear. 

They cater to outdoor enthusiasts, offering space to store and transport recreational gear like bikes, ATVs, or motorcycles while providing comfortable living quarters.

Pros: 

• Dual-purpose for adventure and living
• Spacious garage area
• Suitable for active lifestyles
• Ample storage
• Great for families

Cons: 

• Requires a suitable tow vehicle
• Limited living space compared to non-toy hauler models
• May feel less luxurious
• Potential fumes from stored equipment

Truck Campers

Truck campers are compact RVs designed to be secured on the bed of a pickup truck. 

They have cozy, efficient living space, typically including a sleeping area, kitchenette, and sometimes a small bathroom.

Pros: 

• Compact and maneuverable
• Budget-friendly
• Easy to store
• Versatile for off-road adventures
• Excellent for solo travelers or couples

Cons: 

• Limited space
• Fewer amenities compared to larger RVs
• May require a specific truck for hauling
• May feel cramped during extended stays

With so many different options, it’s reasonable to feel overwhelmed. 

But if you start your search by considering your individual needs, it will become much easier to narrow your search down. 

Visiting dealerships can be a great resource for actually being able to stand in the space and get a feel for the layouts you like.

And, sometimes, renting or borrowing different types of RVs is an option to get a feel for what feels most compatible for you.

3. How to Budget for Full-Time RV Living

A fundamental step in preparing for full-time RV life involves budgeting. 

Financial management plays a vital role in the full-time RV living experience. While it can be notably more cost-effective than owning a home or renting, comprehending potential expenses is equally important. 

Some key budget considerations and essential RV tips for beginners include: staying at RV park chains like Sun RV Resorts can be a cost-saving strategy, as these chains often offer special deals.

Consider these items when setting up your budget:

RV Purchase or Loan Costs

Decide whether to take out a loan for your RV or purchase it outright. 

Both situations have perks. And don’t forget to research the tax you will owe in your state of purchase, along with the registration fees.

Campground Fees

Many options exist for long—and short-term stays at RV campgrounds and RV parks. 

These range from very affordable to very expensive, depending on the area, season, and the amenities offered, such as hookups, bathroom facilities, cable, and WiFi services. 

When planning your stays, it’s crucial to research and select the right RV campground or RV park, emphasizing the importance of booking in advance to secure your spot. 

Also, consider that longer stays and lease agreements at these locations are significantly cheaper than short-term stays, making them an attractive option for those exploring an area thoroughly.

Fuel and Maintenance

Your gas mileage will be higher no matter what RV you get. 

When towing a travel trailer, an F150 may usually get 15-18 mpg, but only 9 mpg. To get a realistic idea of costs, you must account for fuel expenses and regular RV maintenance in your budget.

Insurance

Shop around for different insurance policies to ensure adequate RV insurance coverage. Just remember that the cheapest option isn’t always the best.

Daily Living Costs

Ensure to include groceries, dining out, entertainment, and miscellaneous expenses.

Emergency Fund

Set aside money for unexpected repairs or emergencies. 

Understand how much you may have to pay for your out-of-pocket insurance portion. 

Also, consider the cost of finding another place to stay if temporary repairs are needed.

Downsizing and Decluttering

Living in an RV means downsizing your possessions. 

Embrace the minimalist lifestyle by decluttering and removing items you no longer need. Keep only what’s essential and space-efficient to maximize your RV’s storage capabilities. 

Considering the limited storage space in an RV, it’s crucial to be strategic about what you keep to ensure everything fits and your living space remains comfortable and organized. 

It’s amazing how liberating it can be to simplify your life and focus on the things that bring you joy.

Embracing RV Maintenance

Regular RV maintenance is crucial for keeping your home on wheels in top shape. 

Learn basic RV maintenance tasks such as checking for leaks, servicing the engine, and maintaining your RV’s appliances. 

With some “know-how,” you can save money by keeping your rig and doing minor repairs yourself.

Check out some of our guides on proper RV maintenance to make sure your water, heat, and other systems are working properly:

• RV Filtration System: Ultimate Water Filter Guide
• Heated RV Water Hose Tape: Best Way To Heat Your Hoses
• 3 Best RV Water Pumps: Troubleshooting a Bad Pump, Tips for Choosing, and More
• Mastering RV Tank Draining: Expert Tips and Essential Tools
• The Best RV Propane Pigtail hoses

6 Tips for RV Living

Now, let’s talk about tips for RV living. You’ve set out and are living the life, what should you know to make the most of your travels?

Here are some tips for living the RV life to its fullest:

4. Stay connected on the road

In today’s connected world, staying online is essential. 

Invest in reliable internet and communication solutions for work, entertainment, and safety. Mobile hotspots and Wi-Fi boosters are great options, even in remote locations.

5. Use an RV trip planning app for planning and managing your routes (and more) 

RV trip planning apps are an amazing resource for both planning out your trip ahead of time as well as for managing your trip while you travel.

Depending on the app you use, you can do things like:

• Plan routes using a convenient visual map
• See local campgrounds and parks and plan stops and recreational outings
• As well as real RVer reviews for those camps and parks
• Track your mileage and gas spend

Check out our list of the best RV trip planning apps: 7 Best RV Trip Planning Apps.

6. Join the RVing community

RVers support each other and love sharing stories, tips, and friendship. 

Make sure you become part of this community because it is a fantastic way to learn from others and build a support network of like-minded people.

7. Embrace change and flexibility

Finally, be open to change and flexibility. Full-time RV living is dynamic, with unexpected challenges and opportunities. 

Embrace this lifestyle’s adaptability, and you’ll find that every day brings something new and exciting.

8. Consider an RV warranty

An RV warranty covers your RV repair costs due to manufacturer-related failures, such as when the transmission fails before its time after purchasing your RV due to an issue not related to wear-and-tear, weather, or other event. 

You can also take advantage of a variety of additional benefits, as RV warranties typically include roadside assistance features.

An RV warranty will typically pay for itself within the first two years of purchasing one, and it offers an added layer of protection while you’re on the road.

Check out our complete guide on the best RV warranty companies here: 5 Best RV Extended Warranty Companies + How to Shop for a Warranty [2024 Guide]. 

9. Have a backup power source

Nothing will serve you better than a good RV generator. 

However, it shouldn’t be your only source of power. Modern portable solar panels are relatively inexpensive and offer a great, convenient source of backup power that also serves to take some of the load off of your generator.

Check out our top picks for best portable solar panels for RVing here: 7 Best Portable Solar Panels for RVing and Camping. 

4 Tips for RVing with Dogs 

RVing with dogs is a unique experience that comes with its own rewards and challenges.

If you plan on traveling with a furry companion, follow these tips to ensure that they have the best experience possible (and you the least headache!). 

10. Think about them during the shopping process

We talked about the shopping for an RV earlier, so we won’t harp on the details here. 

Just keep in mind that making the most of RVing with your dogs starts when you’re shopping for your RV. 

Think about where they’ll sleep, hang out, and what makes them most comfortable. Also think about ease of access based on the size of your dog. 

11. Introduce your doggo to the RV before setting out

One of the most important steps you can take to make traveling with your dogs successful is to introduce them to it over a period of time before ever setting out. 

Take them for short joy rides and occasionally hang out with them in your RV while you Netflix, read, or cook to get them accustomed to being in the RV.

This will go a long way towards keeping them happy and comfortable on the journey ahead. 

12. Bring the right gear

To have a successful trip with your pup, you’ll need certain gear to make sure that they stay safe, healthy, and happy.

Some of the most important items include:

• Water bowl
• Pet food and treats
• Toys
• ID tags
• Leash and safety harness

But that’s just the beginning. You’ll also want to consider cleaning supplies, medicine, campsite items, and weather-based gear. 

To find more tips for RVing with your dogs, check out our complete guide: RVing with Dogs: 14 Travel Tips + 22-Point Gear Checklist. 

13. Purchase a pet monitor

An RV pet monitor tracks the internal temperature of your RV and can send you alerts when the temperature (or humidity, depending on the monitor) reaches dangerously high or low levels.

Death by heat is a very real issue when it comes to keeping your pets in an RV for any period of time.

Sometimes, you need to leave them unattended for short periods to go for a store run or another errand. 

During the time you’re gone, on a hot day it can take very little time at all for your RV to reach dangerously high internal temperatures.

Check out our guide on the top RV pet monitors: 3 Best RV Pet Monitors: Top Picks of 2024.   

7 Additional RV Tips for Beginners

Here are a some additional tips to consider if you’re starting out on your RV journey: 

14. Get outdoor speakers

Consider investing in outdoor RV speakers to enjoy your outdoor living space.

15. Purchase a bunk mattress

An RV bunk mattress is an essential investment if you have trouble sleeping or need a more customized mattress for a good night’s sleep.

16. Learn how to fix an RV oven to avoid potential issues

Cooking in an RV is an enjoyable experience, but if you have RV oven problems, you need to know how to troubleshoot.

17. Know how to keep your RV clean

From an RV washer dryer combo to a vacuum for travel trailer, keeping your RV living space clean is essential for a healthy environment.

18. Protect yourself property from the elements

Stay away from the sun’s harsh rays with RV awning sun shade. Investing in an RV weather station should also be a top priority to ensure you stay safe from impending storms.

19. Don’t leave home without the right gear

Proper preparation is key to a fulfilling and successful RV trip, whether short or long-term. 

It’s important to make a list of all the gear you’ll need before setting out. Here’s a short list some of the more essential items to bring:

Cleaning supplies:

• Cleaner
• Wipes
• Hand towels
• Trash bags

Kitchen supplies:

• Spices
• Containers
• Condiments
• Pots and pans
• Dishes and silverware

Medicine:

• First aid
• Medication 
• Hydrogen peroxide

Toiletries and bedding:

• Extra towels
• Extra blankets and bedding
• Soap, toothpaste, and other toiletries

Tools and camping supplies:

• Tool kit (something with the basics: screwdriver, wrench, hammer)
• Flashlights (at least one with solar charging capability)
• Utility knife
• Extra chargers, portable charging stations, and batteries
• Portable solar panel
• Matches

Weather-based:

• Winter and summer clothes
• Raingear

20. Use checklists to keep yourself organized

There is –a lot– you need to have in order before leaving to make sure you’re prepared for any occasion.

This is where a checklist can help. This includes everything from the gear we spoke about above to inspecting an RV before you buy, completing pre-trip maintenance items, and preparing for certain types of extreme weather.

Here are a few of the great checklists we’ve created to help you do all of that:

• RV Winterizing Checklist
• RV Inspection Checklist for New or Used RVs (Before You Buy)
• Ultimate RV Maintenance Checklist
• De Winterize Travel Trailer Checklist

Have more tips and tricks?

RVing is a lifestyle, one which can throw all kinds of curveballs and challenges at you.

However, it’s also a deeply fulfilling and exciting way to live.

Planning, execution, adaptation, and learning from experience, these are all critical ingredients to making the most of life on an RV. 

We hope these tips help you get started living your best RV life.
What other tips do you have? Run into something we didn’t cover on this list? Reach out on Facebook or Instagram and let us know!