Myth #1: You can’t live full time in an RV.
Tell that to the 1 million Americans who already do! (RCIA) With the flexibility and comfort of an RV, people can travel at their convenience and leisure, or in response to a need such as a career that requires a lot of travel (such as traveling nurses). RVers are able to move around the country based on the weather, not just personal interest. RVing in winter can be tricky business – though doable – so many full-timers move regions based on the time of year. A lot of full-time RVers made the switch to a mobile lifestyle for other regions, including: a desire to explore in an economical way, to downsize possessions and keep only what’s truly needed, or to be able to visit friends and family more readily. There are lots of reasons why people make this decision, and it’s a decision hundreds of individuals, couples, and families make.
Myth #2: RVs are for old people.
According to a new study released by RVIA, 51 percent of RVers today are younger than 55 years old, with 22 percent of RVers being between the ages of 18 and 34 years old. The average age used to be over 60 just a few years ago. So although you may see a lot of gray hair around the campground, you’ll see a lot of other colors, too. RVers are diverse lot, including across the age spectrum. And now with workamping and road schooling becoming more popular, convenient, and acceptable, there are more families and younger individuals hitting the road and living the RV lifestyle outside the high RV season.
Myth #3: You can’t RV with pets.
According to Go RVing, 68 percent of folks who RV owners bring a pet along with them. They choose that way of travel and living because it is suitable for pets, too. Most of these pets are dogs, though some RVers bring their cats along. Pets can be included in many outdoor activities, can stay unsupervised in an RV (follow some basic guidelines for dogs and cats) for short periods of time, and owners don’t need to worry about the extent of their vacation or how much a stay at the kennel is going to cost.
Myth #4: You can’t work while RVing.
This has changed significantly in recent years, thanks to private and state campgrounds investing in connectivity infrastructure, the more broadly available mobile network across the nation, and advances in technology (hello, smartphone). People can stay connected easier than before – both a blessing and a curse. Remote work options have also taken off strongly since the start of the pandemic, giving people the choice to live and work from anywhere as long as they have connectivity. Learn more about workamping.
Myth #5: RV parks are always crowded.
This is true and false. The past two years have seen a significant boom in camping interest, which means campgrounds, RV parks, and RV resorts are busier than ever. However, there are things savvy RVers can do to help limit the crowds. Suggestions include camping in the middle of the week instead of the weekend, camping during the off-season instead of the high season, and choosing less popular areas at which to camp and driving either your tow vehicle or toad to the hot spots. Flexibility and adaptability are key.
Myth #6: You need a special license to drive an RV.
Some RVs are very long or weigh a lot, but you do not need a special license to operate a motorized RV or to pull an RV trailer. Your state driver’s license is sufficient in most states, including Michigan. However, we encourage all RV owners to practice driving their rig or towing their trailer and feel comfortable with it, especially if you are new to RVing, it’s a brand new RV, or it’s been a while since you’ve traveled with it.
Myth #7: RVs can be stored anywhere.
Where you store your RV matters… a lot. Just because you have an open space in the front yard or your friend has a covered barn doesn’t mean it’s the right place for your RV. In places like Michigan where we have four seasons and some brutal cold in the winter and blistering days in the summer, it’s important to store your RV appropriately. Remember, an RV is an investment and you want to protect that investment. A covered location atop of gravel, sand, or optimally concrete is best – avoid vegetation. Winterize your RV if you won’t be using it in those months, and protect the top of your RV from debris or critters. Check out these tips for storing your RV.