Living In A RV

Greg Roy asked:


When most people think of RVs, pleasant thoughts of leisure and travel generally come to mind. What is usually never at the first of the list of thoughts regarding RVs is a tragic accident. RV insurance is one of those things in life that you are happy to have and hope you never use. Almost all states require that you have some form of insurance for your RV; it just makes good sense, regardless of the law requiring it. If you plan on buying RV insurance soon, here are a few tips to consider:

If you don’t plan on living in your RV, and you only use it for short, small trips, you may actually want to consult your current homeowners insurance and see if it is covered by that policy. If not, you may want to call your insurance agent and ask if there is a rider that can be purchased to include your RV on your homeowner’s policy. If so, what is the coverage and for how much? Be certain to get a complete picture of exactly what is covered and what the limitations of the coverage are before proceeding.

Often you can save money by adding your RV onto to your homeowners policy, but certain restrictions apply. A common restriction is the the RV must not be registered for road use. If this is a restriction, be certain not to violate it. The financial damage of having an uninsured accident could be catastrophic.

If you do live in your RV, you should clearly state that fact when getting the insurance quote. Some people think that telling the insurance company that you only use the RV for short trips occasionally will save them money if they live in it instead, and perhaps it will. But if you actually do have to file a claim at any point, the insurer has the right to deny the claim based upon false information, if the coverage is written for occasional use and you are actually living in the RV. Why put your entire insurance policy at risk just to save a few dollars? The risk simply isn’t worth it. State what your exact usage will be and you should be fine. For those that spend a good deal of time in their RV, or possibly even live full-time in it, getting an insurance policy from an insurer that specializes in RV insurance would be a wise move. Most auto insurance companies don’t really understand the special needs of the RV lifestyle. You can easily wind up with a policy that is not appropriate for a person who resides in an RV. Many special aspects of RV liability are not included in standard auto insurance. The coverage limits themselves can be very inadequate as well, so it is not advisable to simply go to your auto insurance company and accept what they offer. It would be wise to shop around and get some quotes from RV insurance specialists. Study these proposals to see how they differ from auto insurance and what extra coverage is included. It would be prudent to shy away from any insurance companies that are relatively new, and haven’t had enough time to build up a track record of customer service. Unfortunately, con artists operate in nearly every field, and insurance is included in this group. The insurance industry has had some less than honest people set up a company, sell policies, collect the premiums, and then either just deny most claims or disappear altogether. Most states have an insurance commissioner to prevent this kind of activity as much as possible. Before you buy a policy, check to see how long the company has been in business and check with the insurance commissioner in your state as well, if you do not recognize the name of the insurance company. Be sure that the company is in good standing with them before you decide to buy. Using insurance companies endorsed by major RV groups like The Good Sam Club is usually a wise move for peace of mind as well.

Getting adequate RV insurance is much easier today than it has ever been in the past, and there are more choices than ever too, in large part thanks to the internet. If you are looking for RV insurance, shop wisely. If you use the suggestions given above, you will most likely make a wise and successful choice.



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Ivanovich Cuxev asked:


Many celebrities are opting to have it. A recreational vehicle or RV is more than a luxurious form of transportation. Nowadays, the functionality of an RV is getting more and more practical. Many people are choosing to sell their current homes just so they could finance an effort to acquire an RV.

What makes owning a recreational vehicle worth it? Basically, an RV is an enclosed form of large vehicle that is apparently and practically converted into an improvised home. You may probably seen an episode of MTV Cribs or any other Hollywood celebrity shows wherein an icon’s RV is being featured. You surely have an idea of how the interior looks like.

The Recreational Vehicle

Usually, a recreational vehicle has an interior that is no different from a small condominium. There are stylish windows, the floor is carpeted and the whole place is fully furnished. There are also rooms where the owner could relax and take some sleep. There is a bathroom and a restroom, as well as kitchen and a living room. Basically, an RV is a simple home.

Aside from celebrities who are always on locations for filming and other job-related trips, many retirees are opting to give up their homes to acquire a recreational vehicle. Other homeowners are thrilled by the thought of having different locations for the home. Many people are excited about sleeping in Los Angeles and waking up at San Francisco without leaving home. That is possible if you are living in a recreational vehicle.

Top 4 Must-Know RV Tips

If you are aiming to invest in an RV, it would be helpful if you would initially consider the following guidelines. Take note that a recreational vehicle acquisition is not a usual purchase transaction because RVs usually cost about $100,000 to $1,500,000. That would be a significant investment and would cost as much as a regular home.

1. If you are considering giving up your home in favor of an RV, do not act impulsively. It would be wise if you would first give it a try. You can get the feel by renting an RV for a holiday getaway. This way, you could experience how it is to live in an RV without necessarily making the significant investment. Thus, you can easily abandon the plan if you realize you are not really into it.

2. Recreational vehicle purchases are usually costly. Often, an RV costs as much as regular conventional home. Thus, before taking the transaction, plan ahead. If you can produce the full amount for the purchase, pay in full. Car financing schemes and loans would further inflate the RV’s tag price.

3. If you choose to take a financing scheme, strive to make a 20% down payment. Usually, car financers and customers agree to a 10% minimum down payment scheme. If you pay 20% of the total amount ahead, the remaining cost to be paid in installment would be lessened. You could also keep up with the current valuation of the RV. Usually, such vehicles’ valuation depreciates two years after the purchase.

4. If you realized that recreational vehicle ownership is not for you, dispose the vehicle by selling at prices that would not spell losses for your investment. You can choose to buy another home after the initiative or return to your old house. With the current high gasoline prices, RVs are truly not advisable to own.

A recreational vehicle is more than a luxury. It could be a necessity as more people nowadays choose to own one over owning a conventional home. The best tip anyone could offer for prospective RV buyers is to find the best deals in the market. There are cheaper RVs available, which are more advisable if you are not aiming to make living in the vehicle a life-long decision.



living in an rv

Anna Hart asked:


Life in an RV can be wonderful or frustrating, depending on what you make it. The author lived full-time in an RV for two years, working on a commissioned book. Actually, she lived in two RVs, one after the other. The first was a 20′ motorhome. Those of us who were “full-timers” rather than vacationers joked about the way to get along with your spouse in a small RV. Whenever you meet going in opposite directions, hug and pivot. We hugged and pivoted in the tiny 20′ motorhome for 365 days. Then we “moved up” to a 30′ 5th wheel and continued to hug and pivot for another 365 days. It was part of keeping a happy marriage while living 24/7/365 in a small RV.

RV Bathroom Furniture

RV bathroom furniture is another part of living in a small RV. (Note: Every RV is small when you live in it.) RV bathroom furniture must be ready to “hug and pivot” to work in as little space as possible.

RV bathroom furniture has several requirements. It must be…

1. Lightweight: Weight is very important when traveling in an RV. The more weight you put into RV bathroom furniture, the harder you will work your engine. You may also slow your travels. Think lightweight! The wooden magazine rack may look better, but the plastic one may weigh less.

2. Practical and efficient: Add nothing that doesn’t earn its keep. RV and camping stores offer hundreds of appealing gadgets. Some serve no real purpose, or do not fulfill promises. When you look at bathroom furniture, consider what it will do for you. Look around to see if there is another item that will better do the job. Small baskets may help you organize, but small boxes may do it better.

3. Mildew-resistant: An RV bathroom is a small, closed space. Unless you want to spend hours scrubbing mildew, make sure all bathroom furniture is mildew-resistant. Shower curtains or pleated doors should be treated to resist mildew. Shower hoses should, too. If you need a curtain or shade at the window, get one in mildew-resistant material.

4. Easy to clean: Most people use an RV for vacations and do not want to spend their time cleaning the bathroom. Look for bathroom furniture that is smooth, free of seams and cracks that collect dirt, mold, and mildew.

5. Stable: Any RV bathroom furniture you add must stay in place when traveling rough roads. Even if you don’t plan to go off-road to a remote campsite, you will encounter tough patches in road construction. Items that will not stay put require frequent packing and unpacking.

RV bathroom furniture that does not meet these criteria should be considered carefully. Chances are good that you will trash it or replace it soon if it fails in one or more points.

RV Bathroom Remodel

An RV remodel of the bathroom gives you opportunity to put some of these principles into practice.

For example, an RV tub may have a glass sliding door. It looks good, and you found a piece of 2×2 that keeps it from sliding while you’re traveling. If you replaced it during your RV model, however, you could lighten your load. Install a lightweight, accordion pleated door in its place. The lighter door will lock in place for travel.

Your RV remodel might be even more radical. You may decide that no one uses that tub. Showers are quicker. Replace the tub with a white corner shower, opening up storage space. A fiberglass shower is a piece of bathroom furniture that is practical, efficient, mildew-resistant, and easy to clean. One-piece, seamless construction installs easily with Super Grip Foam Tape. For less weight, use a shower curtain. Attach a small fastener to hold it in transit.

An RV remodel might also take bathroom furniture from the hall and put it in the bath. Example: Having replaced the tub with a corner shower, move the hallway sink to the space beside the shower. You have free hallway space for a stacking washer/dryer!

Other RV bathroom furniture you might want to change:

1. brighter lights above a dark mirror

2. soap/shampoo dispenser attached to shower wall

3. over-the-door towel holders

4. lightweight medicine cabinet above sink

5. taller, roomier wood vanity

6. additional, plastic shower curtain rod for towels

Helpful Tip

RV bathroom furniture can be found online at any RV parts center. Smaller accessories are usually found at camping supply stores.



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Simply Self Storage asked:


Today, there are many different types of recreational vehicles (RV) on the market. The popularity of RVs is reflected by the many styles, colors, designs which are available for purchase from a variety of manufacturers. RVs are no longer just for the occasional cross country vacation but have become part time homes for some and regular vacation options for others. Owning an RV offers the freedom of traveling without the need to reserve a hotel room. Traveling in an RV lets you set your own schedule and avoid the hustle and bustle of plane travel or the crowdedness of a car, van or sport utility vehicle.

Unless you live in your RV full time, you will need to have some storage options for your RV. Sometimes it’s possible to store your RV in the driveway or on the side of your home, but in many neighborhoods, this is not acceptable which means you will be required to find a place to store your RV. Picking the right storage unit for your RV means understanding the different types of storage units you have to choose from and choosing the one you believe is best for your particular RV.

Metal RV storage buildings may be the best way to store your RV. Metal RV storage buildings are made of steel that is strong enough to withstand virtually all weather conditions, including hurricanes. Choosing a metal RV storage building as your option will most likely entail building the structure yourself or having it erected for you on your property. Of the many advantages that choosing a metal RV storage building to store your RV, the price, the convenience, the durability and the location are all advantages that make the metal RV storage building an excellent choice to store your RV in when you are not on the road and want to protect your RV.

RV garages provide a secure storage place that ensures your RV will be protected by being stored inside a garage space that you must pay a rental fee that may be due weekly, monthly quarterly, for an entire year or another arrangement specified by the garage owner(s). RV garages are great for storing your RV for an entire season or longer but shouldn’t be discounted for short storage needs as well. RV garages are not as convenient as building your own metal RV storage building but are the next best indoor option if you cannot build a metal RV storage building. Additionally, RV garages are usually relatively easy to locate and offer flexible terms on the length of time you can store your RV there.

RV storage sheds are similar to metal storage buildings but are not complete enclosures. RV storage sheds can offer good protection for your RV in terms of covering and keeping most weather elements off your RV. RV storage sheds do not require you to purchase a building kit since you are only renting the storage shed space for the amount of time that you need it. If you are looking for short term temporary storage for your RV, an RV storage shed is most likely your best option. RV storage shed owners usually have flexible terms and inexpensive rates that allow you to store your RV for a period ranging from a few weeks to extended periods of a year or more.

Outdoor RV storage units may very well be the most economical option for storing your RV. These storage units are often comprised of wide open areas such as parking lots that are secured by gated access that may also be protected by security personnel. Outdoor RV storage units may be adjacent to and owned by RV sales stores, offering a convenient place to store your RV alongside new ones. Outdoor RV storage units are a great local way to have access to your RV when you need it. Even if you have paid for your rental in advance, outdoor RV storage units are often stored in a manner that allows you to move your RV if you want to.

Picking the right storage unit for your RV means knowing what you want from your storage unit whether it is building your own or using the storage facilities of a rental company. Understanding the terms of your RV storage rental agreement is important to ensure you have space for the amount of time you want. The right RV storage guarantees you some peace of mind.



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Andrew Van Valer asked:

Many people, young and old, have the dream of traveling around the US seeing all the many sites each state has to offer. Long lasting friendships are built and with new technologies available, it makes it easier to stay in touch to find the next place to meet. But did you know many full and part-time RV’ers are able to generate excellent incomes while they enjoy the freedom of the RV lifestyle? Most RV entrepreneurs are retired or semi-retired recreational vehicle travelers who want to stay active and earn a little extra money while enjoying the rewarding RV lifestyle. A surprisingly large number are younger people and families trading their conventional jobs for the freedom and adventure of the open road. Whatever the reason, a growing group of self-reliant singles and couples have chosen a wonderful new lifestyle that combines working with full-time or part-time travel.

Have you ever thought of combining a way to make money with the lifestyle you wanted to live? For more and more people they are finding that it makes total sense. The latest trend is finding a business that allows you to follow your dreams, have a wonderful life style with the benefits of additional cash flow. So what are the benefits of running a home based business out of your RV?

Well there are many. For one, you meet a lot of like-minded individuals with the same goals and aspirations you have. There are whole communities of people who like this lifestyle. It is projected that there will be a huge boom coming in the next 10 years because of the baby-boomers. Let’s take a look at some of the seemingly “ordinary” things that can be leveraged by running a business from a RV.

When you find a product or service that you can distribute while on the road and you choose to do the best job possible to be profitable, many of the expense that you might have after taxes are allowed before tax. That is exactly how the people who are rich have done it. What kind of expenses you ask? Well how about fuel, RV repair, space rental, computer costs, wireless cards, laptops, meals and entertainment, and many other expenses. Which of your ordinary lifestyle expenses are deductible when you are a home based business running it out of an RV? If you legitimately work your business to make a profit, you can write it off. Check with your CPA and make sure your goal is to be profitable in the long run!

The first step in getting started is to find a business that works for you! Of course in any business, your intent is to make a profit as soon as practical. But it important to find a business that has a service or product that you are become passionate about because that makes you profitable faster. You love what you do. What types of products or service are you interested in? What products can you easily distribute while traveling? Do you like health products, fuel economy technologies, online shopping or many others.

What kind of business works for people on the road. Your only goal is to share the products and services with people and maybe help them distribute the product or service as well. Many of these businesses provide the business owner with proven business systems. Like a franchise, the business owner buys the rights to distribute an existing product line. Usually at a very reasonable cost – $100 – $500. These businesses provide the business owner with proven business systems.

What is your overhead? Usually much lower then a franchise because they do not manage a storefront operation. It is all done through word-of-mouth, personal demonstrations or some allow internet marketing. The best opportunities offer long-term educational programs that hone leadership, salesmanship and communication skills. And as you will find out shortly, the fees are tax deductible along with many other RV expenses.

Typically a distributor buys a product from a company, sells it to customers and earns a commission, usually about 25%. The distributor also recruits, sponsors or trains other distributors for which they receive ongoing compensation under a variety of compensation plans which vary from company to company. These types of businesses, direct distribution channel, attracts customers by keeping prices lower than in the traditional retailing business system.

The benefit of direct distribution can be enormous. In addition to comprehensive training and minimal startup costs, this method of doing business offers you the choice of either full time or part time work, great tax benefits and a the ability to work out of your RV. You take a minimal risk while working for a reputable national or international business. By building your own network of distributors, you can also create a passive income. All of the backend service like order processing, shipping, accounting, personal web sites and insurance are typically handled by the company. Most importantly, this type of business allows you to invest your money and time in what you love to do, with pre-tax dollars because you are operating a business making you a profit in the long term

Before committing yourself to a particular company, you need to evaluate it. Is it a valid company? Are you right for this type of business? Do you know what product you have passion for? Is the company and the people you associate yourself with run them with honesty and the highest ethics?

It isn’t difficult at all to do – and is a lot of fun. Find you Passion, Find your Business and Team – and get started! Use your RV to share your products and services to your community by using the recreation rooms at each stop! Make new freinds and live the life of YOUR dreams.

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Simply Self Storage asked:


Sometimes referred to as the Buckeye State, Ohio is a part of the tri-state areas that include Illinois, Ohio and Michigan. These states share the common borders of the Great Lakes and are appreciated by many residents and tourists alike for the various waterfront locations you can travel to and camp at with your recreational vehicle (RV).

RVs have taken on a life of their own over the years. In the past, you didn’t see very many RVs on the road at all and if you did, they were something of a novelty for families who were the outdoorsy types that preferred not to bother with hotels and certain conveniences they offer.

The impression of RVs and their styles and uses have come a long way since those times. Many different types of people now own RVs. Some older individuals who are retired even go so far as to sell their traditional home and travel around the country living in their RV. Obviously this indicates a change in the trend of buying RVs and an appreciation for RV living that is far greater than it was in the past.

Whether you own an RV or are considering purchasing one, you should take a few basic considerations in as you make your RV choice. The first consideration is where you live. If you are residing in an apartment building, there is nowhere in your residential area that you can store your RV when you are not driving it. The parking lots are clearly designated for regular cars, trucks and motorcycles and you may even have signed to the terms in your rental agreement that said you would not attempt to store an RV on the parking lot.

With respect to apartments, there are too many people living in a designated space to allow for RVs to be stored on the parking lot near your apartment. This means there is no way that the complex owner can let one or two people store their RVs on the lot and not give the same privilege to all, which is not feasible. The second reality is that most apartment building parking lots are made of blacktop, not concrete. Allowing the weight of an RV to rest in the same spot for an extended period of time on blacktop is almost certain to damage the blacktop and leave a permanent impression.

If you live in a condominium or single family home that is governed by rules that are established by a homeowner’s association. This means that the rules they set forth are the ones that are applicable to your home or condo and they cannot be deviated from without incurring a penalty or fine or having your RV towed away in violation of said rules.

Even if your primary place of residence does not prevent you from parking your RV right next to your house, there are some other factors to consider. For example, if you live in the Midwest, you can expect the winter to be very cold and expose your RV to harsh conditions that cannot be avoided by simply placing a cover over your RV.

For these reasons and others, you need to have a place to store your RV during the winter when it’s cold or for extended periods when you are not using it. Ohio RV storage is an excellent choice for such storage. Choosing Ohio RV storages takes advantage of the choice to place your RV out of harm’s way and into a facility or shed where many other RVs are stored securely and kept save by regular surveillance.

Ohio RV storage is an option that lets you store your RV in some of the most inexpensive storage facilities anywhere in the country. The state of Ohio is easily accessible from Kentucky or Michigan, making it a great central location to get your RV to. Ohio is also a great place to get inexpensive gas when you need to fill up your RV tank after it’s been in storage and before you hit the road.

Getting to RV storage in Ohio can be by the interstate highway or by one of Ohio’s turnpikes. If you are planning to take one of the turnpikes for to get to an Ohio RV storage facility, make sure you schedule your arrival so the facility can receive your RV. Allow plenty of time to drive your RV at a reasonable speed. Make sure that you bring enough money for tolls.



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Nelson Stewart asked:

RVing isn’t necessarily known as the most environmentally friendly activity on the planet, but as many RV owners can attest, living in an RV is a great way to experience our beautiful environment, and it’s an affordable way to enjoy your retirement. Burning some fuel may be unavoidable, but there are many ways to lower your impact (and some that will save you money at the same time).

Although you may find any number of approaches to greening your recreational ride, the biggest savings will be in your power and sewage systems and in your fuel consumption.

Composting toilets are available for RVs (and cabins and boats) – these are ideal for places that can’t connect to sewer or septic or in areas prone to drought. Composting toilets use significantly less water than traditional systems (some use none at all!). Installing one in the RV means you won’t have to worry about pump outs, and you will lower your pollution quotient significantly.

Properly installed, composting toilets have no odor and are already being used in public highway facilities in Sweden. The technology makes use of aerobic decomposition – using oxygen to speed up the process, microbes work at the solids while the 90 percent water content evaporates through a venting system. This eventually reduces solids to one to two percent of the initial volume, producing soil instead of sewage. Composting toilets come either as self contained units, which can be rather large, or as systems that flush to a separate composting unit.

Another green idea is to harness the power of the sun. You can choose a portable solar kit for your RV or mount a unit right on the vehicle, depending on your power needs. Since solar panels produce DC power, the same system used by RVs, there is no need for conversion. This makes RVs a particularly good application for solar technology. With the right system you can keep your batteries fully charged and enjoy your electricity without plugging in.

If these changes feel like too much, don’t despair: there are smaller, common sense steps anyone in an RV can take to protect the environment. By parking your RV for the season, you can enjoy affordable living and make some new friends without burning much fuel . There are plenty of RV parks that will allow you to enjoy your vacation in a community setting. Alternative fuel sources, such as biodiesel, can also provide a lower impact vacation, but check with your engine manufacturer before use.

Of course you should be aware of your surroundings and always use RV designated campsites when on the road. Rather than driving, bring your bike along to explore natural areas – this will also lower your fuel consumption.

Use environmentally friendly, non-toxic products on board. Cut down on disposable products, recycle your packaging (even if it means packing it home) and dispose of your garbage properly.

Combining the composting toilet, solar power system and alternate fuels with a little common sense will have you touring without a trace – your RV will be practically off the grid. Making a few small changes can lower your impact significantly and help contribute to a healthier environment for us all.

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Thom Kingsley asked:


The factors that determine your RV insurance rates often go undisclosed, leaving insurance buyers in the dark and making decisions about prices that don’t seem to add up. This article illustrates the key factors that determine your RV insurance rate and offers suggestions for saving as much money as possible when you purchase coverage.

1) Storage Location – by State and by Zip Code

If you store your RV in Florida during hurricane season, there’s a higher potential for wind and flood damage than if you store it in Arkansas. In certain states and zip codes, crimes are more likely to occur. Your decision on where to store your RV when it’s not in use affects your overall insurance rate. Talk to your RV insurance agent to determine if it could pay you to store it in a zip code – or state – away from your current location. Your RV may need to be registered in the state where you store it though, so be sure to discuss this factor with your agent.

2) Type of Use – Full-Timer vs. Recreational

If you plan to live in your RV full-time, you need an insurance policy that works like a floating home-owners policy that follows you everywhere you go. If you’re a weekend warrior, you can get different coverage that won’t cost you as much. Be honest when you’re signing up for your policy though – saving a little money can end up costing you thousands if your claims adjuster thinks you’ve fudged the truth during your application.

3) Membership with RV Association

In addition to a number of perks such as reduced rates at RV parks, your membership at the RV association of your choice could earn you a discount on your insurance rates. This is likely something that’s mentioned in the brochures or on the website of your selected RV association. Be sure to mention any memberships when you’re talking with your RV insurance sales rep.

4) Discount for Multiple Policies with a Company

Mention your current insurance companies when talking with your insurance agent, as you may be eligible for a multiple-policy discount. Be prepared on your call by gathering the names of your current insurance providers beforehand.

5) Deductible Options – a Higher Deductible Equals Lower Rates

This one’s obvious, but it’s something people often agonize over when they’re discussing options with an agent. Make sure you know what your out-of-pocket-expense tolerance is before you start discussing this factor. Knowing what you can afford will save you the agony of having to make a snap decision that could have a big affect on your future financial situation. If you have a small fund set aside and collecting interest for damages, you could well save a little chunk on your insurance costs.

6) Type of Unit

For some insurance companies, a class A motor home is more expensive than a class C to insure. If insurance price is of no concern to you, don’t worry about this factor; however, if you’re looking to keep your fixed costs as low as possible, you might do some advance research to make sure you’re getting the cheapest-to-insure RV possible.

7) Previous RV Ownership

Do you have any previous RV driving experience? Your insurance agent will likely ask you about your past RV driving history, but if not be sure to let them know how long you’ve been an RVer as you may be eligible for discounts.

Age

There are some perks that come with growing older – one of them is lower RV insurance rates. Check with your agent to see if there are any discounts you’ve earned through the sheer virtue of the duration of your life’s experience.

9) Driving History

RV insurance companies look at your driving history in non-RV vehicles. They have to start somewhere. If your record is relatively clear of accidents and claims that were your fault, then you could be looking at a decent-sized discount.

10) Insurance Claims History

If you have a long history of opening insurance accounts and soon after filing a claim, your new RV agency is going to see you as a risk. Your history is likely to be a strong factor in your final insurance rate. Be sure to minimize the number of claims you’re making – insurance companies pay an independent agency that tracks an individual’s claims and protects them much the way credit ratings protect credit companies.

11) Home Ownership Discounts

Owning a home can affect your RV insurance costs too – it shows insurance companies that you’re likely not a full-timer, and displays your level of responsibility. If you’re curious about your savings on this, just ask your agent while you’re on the phone.

12) Marital Status

Insurance companies believe your marital status affects how safely you drive, and the likelihood that you’ll make a claim. You may feel differently when you’re lost and arguing with your beloved about missed turns in the middle of a windstorm. Either way, your status does affect your insurance rates.

13) Your Credit Rating

Finally, your RV insurance company believes that the manner in which you treat your credit could be a strong indicator of how you’re going to treat your RV. If you’ve got good credit, you’re likely to see a small decrease in your insurance rates. If you’re curious about the size of the decrease, be sure to check with your insurance agent.



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Bill Revill asked:


It’s no secret amongst experienced RV travelers: self-reliance saves money. The more independent you are of tourist parks, power hook-ups and all those other so-called necessities, the further your budget will stretch. And the greater will be your freedom.

In fact serious RV nomads find real challenge in living comfortably on remote campsites, and in replenishing resources along the way. But no matter how successful we may be in this quest, there’s one universal factor that can destroy our plans and negate all our skills in one cruel blow: Poor health. In just a day or two, years of experience could be all but wiped out.

There seems little doubt that, to be truly independent, good health must be our first priority. Without it, all else is wasted.

OK. So what’s the good news?

Well, the best thing about health is that it’s pretty much a do-it-yourself program. You have, within yourself, considerable power to make a significant impact. Believe it or not, for the majority of us, that means we require little or no help from the medical and pharmaceutical fraternities!

Of course, any comprehensive D.I.Y. health program comprises a range of inter-dependent activities, but while on the road there are three key elements that RV travelers ought to consider:

1. Protection (against physical and biological threat)

2. Exercise

3. Diet

PROTECTION

Even the healthiest people in the world have a fundamental need to protect themselves. After all, countless simple hazards have the potential to put us “out of action”, and mobile, outdoor lifestyles certainly present those sorts of threats.

For example, motoring hazards confront us in several forms. There’s the ever-present risk of mechanical failure — such as brakes or steering — that could result in personal injury. Even seemingly minor problems like a leaking exhaust system can become a major threat under certain circumstances.

The solution rests largely in keeping vehicle, caravan, motorhome or whatever in the best condition possible. Regular servicing, along with daily inspections, almost guarantee that mechanical problems won’t arise unexpectedly.

Driving conditions are another risk. Heavy traffic, narrow mountain roads, and high wind present a range of tricky situations. Again, the risk can be minimized simply by taking extra care.

Slow down, fasten your seat belt, and stay alert and you can feel assured that, apart from an occasional adrenalin surge, everything will be all right.

The other area where we may need protection is in countering a variety of potential biological attacks. Impure water, for instance, can very quickly ruin your day — perhaps a whole week! When in doubt, boil drinking and cooking water vigorously for at least three minutes.

Contaminated or spoiled foods may have a similar effect, so strict hygiene and careful refrigeration are even more critical than back home in suburbia. You also need to be extremely thorough when disposing of kitchen and toilet waste. Here in Australia, our reputation for hordes of over-friendly flies is indicative of a more serious potential threat to our health.

Other insects, too, can be a problem. Mosquitoes, spiders, wasps, ants and scorpions are just a few of the common nasties across the country, so travelers should prepare accordingly with screening, repellents and appropriate clothing.

In essence, protection boils down to this: BE CAREFUL. Don’t take risks, and apply a generous dollop of common sense.

EXERCISE

Even when traveling, it’s a good idea to maintain a reasonable exercise program. But there is a catch: To avoid costly courts or gyms, or the added weight of exercise equipment, the range of suitable activities while living on the road is severely limited.

Fortunately, the best exercise of all is walking. It’s free, requires only sturdy, comfortable footwear, and can be enjoyed anywhere.

Even so, the real benefits of walking are its gradual, but certain and significant effects on your health. It helps lower blood pressure, reduces body weight, and develops efficient heart and lung functions. All of which are free!

Not only that, you can build a walking program slowly over several months from, say, a 15 minute stroll to a 45 minute vigorous walk. Do that four or five times each week and you’ll soon be getting about all the exercise you need. Before long, you’ll feel great, look good and sleep better. And you’ll have fun doing it.

DIET

For optimum health on the road we need to take a holistic view of diet. By my definition, then, diet is the sum total of everything taken into the body — usually via the mouth.

The greatest favour we can do for ourselves is to take control over this daily process. Even years of abuse can be reversed if you make a firm commitment to improve your selection and quantity of foods, drink and other substances.

Worst intake of all is cigarette smoke. Maybe it’s not always possible to avoid other people’s expired smoke, but if it’s you doing the smoking, you certainly can take charge. For your health, your finances, and your traveling independence, if you smoke, make a determined effort to stop.

Another common substance is alcohol. Although it’s not up in the same danger zone as nicotine, your body benefits enormously if you limit the intake of alcoholic drinks.

But don’t get me wrong here. A glass or two of beer or wine are very enjoyable, and in limited quantity alcohol is now believed to be beneficial in helping us to relax. It’s those long, hard drinking sessions, repeated frequently over many years that eventually take their toll.

So it’s wise to try to limit alcohol intake by, firstly, substituting a glass of water for every second or third alcoholic drink, and secondly, making a few days each week completely alcohol free. Your body soon rids itself of toxin build up, allowing vital organs to resume their job.

With regard to food intake, as far as possible build your meals around fresh fruit and vegetables. When these aren’t available, canned or dried substitutes provide equivalent nutrition. Other high value foods include breads — particularly wholegrain — cereals, pasta and rice.

At the same time, try to limit your consumption of salt, sugar, oils and fats, desserts and sweets, cakes, butter, fast foods, and full-fat dairy products. Even eggs and fatty meats should be eaten in moderation. Not only does health improve, you also stand to save a bundle.

Finally, if you’re more than 10 percent overweight, gradually cut back on the groceries.

Sounds easy doesn’t it? But you know as well as I do that nothing worthwhile is ever easy. Initially, like any change in lifestyle, effort and discipline are necessary.

Nevertheless, the really good news is, the increased freedom and independence will definitely make it all worthwhile.



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Bill Revill asked:

One of life’s many paradoxes is our constant desire to gain maximum control over our ‘operating environment’, despite the knowledge that so many aspects of daily life remain beyond our influence. Result being, we spend considerable time, money and effort attempting to get everything just right before taking ‘the plunge’.

In the military, as I recall, this was referred to as the ‘Ready – Aim – Fire’ principle, whereas many human endeavors are, in fact, better suited to the more appropriate method of ‘Ready – Fire – Aim’! And it seems to me that preparing for a fulltime life on the road is a fine example of this latter approach. After all, there are so many unique skills and practical techniques involved, it’s reasonable to expect that much of what we need to know cannot be learned sitting at home. As they say, one learns to ride a bike by riding a bike.

Accordingly, while there is a raft of personal preparations to get squared away, there is much about serious ‘bumming around’ that simply evolves as each day rolls by. By way of illustration, out there on the road you’ll find that few if any long-term, committed nomads have identical travelling outfits, nor do each follow precisely the same routines as when they first set out on the road. (One question I love to ask the old hands is: ‘If you were starting out again, is there anything you’d do differently?’)

So, if you dream of taking up the wandering life, though you may be unsure as to what you need or how you might travel, I suspect the Buddha would simply say: ‘Follow your heart. Our time in this life is limited.’

Nevertheless, it still behoves all good RV nomads – and intending nomads – to place considerable emphasis on getting their outfit right, and then equipping themselves for a long and trouble-free life on wheels. (Nothing much wrong with hedging your bets by building up an abundance of good karma!)

Of greater importance than travel hardware, though, is your nomadic ’software’: YOU, ie, your personal mix of attitude, personal preparations, and strategies for living on the road rather than simply travelling on the road. Because most often, it’s the mental / psychological pressures rather than equipment failures that result in wannabe nomads scurrying back to suburbia.

In short, although you do need to look carefully at equipment and hardware, right up front during your preparation and planning phase you and your team must get absolutely clear on what lies ahead. To put it bluntly, you are heading toward a substantial culture shock!

That’s right: shock. After all, if you’ve spent the past thirty or fifty years wallowing in the comforts and relative boredom of modern western society, taking a giant step ‘backward’ into a lifestyle positioned somewhere between ‘upper third world’ and ‘new-age fringe-dweller’, you have a mixed bag of challenges ahead. Heading onto the road fulltime, with some dewy-eyed notion that you’re embarking on a romantic adventure, is asking for trouble. Not necessarily trouble of the ‘money can fix it’ variety (though there are sure to be a few of those), more of a ‘what the hell are we doing here’ personal confrontation.

The first attribute, then, which serious nomads should add to their psychological toolbox is mental tenacity, sufficient to accept, meet and live with all the interpersonal / societal negatives that we drifters bump up against along the way. Get ready, for example, to have humanity’s contempt directed toward you. Not every day, perhaps, but from time to time you will sense it, subtle though it may be. If not fully committed to the lifestyle, if you don’t feel the Zen – some ‘higher purpose’ in the whole thing – those jibes may slowly erode and ultimately destroy your self-esteem. Next stop: Suburbia.

The best defence against pressures of this sort is to find some deeper reason for becoming a fulltime RV traveller. Perhaps a hobby, a ‘calling’, some sort of mobile money-earner, or even a personal Holy Grail – anything that provides you with the ‘justification’ for such a ‘bohemian lifestyle’, while at the same time adding purpose and depth to your days and your travels.

Examples might include fossicking, fruit picking, writing, wineries, historic sites, bird watching, visiting bush pubs, searching for inner truth, or here in Oz, that good old standby, ’seeing Australia’.

Having said that, however, there are countless fellow nomads out there who are happy – even proud – to thumb their noses at designer bias and opinion, and just ‘do it’. You have to decide for yourself which approach fits best, so that any necessary lifestyle preparations, by way of training and equipment, are included as you ramp up to ‘Departure Day’.

Of course, identifying and building a ‘purpose’ is only one small part of your learning curve. To move from a fully supported, fixed, urban existence, to a high level of mobile independence, requires a certain amount of training, learning and research. Fortunately, independence is a skill and as such it can be learned. Moreover, this wandering nomad thing has been going on since mankind first walked upright, so you’ll find an endless variety of sources from which to learn.

You could, for instance, study pioneering lifestyles and how the early settlers tackled their daily challenges; or perhaps delve into the nitty-gritty of the ’survivalist’ and ‘homesteading’ movements. Other fertile fields of gypsy techniques can be found amongst the lives of explorers, and Earth’s ‘real’ nomads, such as the Australian Aborigines, American Indians, hoboes and swaggies. Within their lives and their stories you’ll find many similarities – and many of the answers to the day-to-day trials of self-reliance.

Another early stage of your nomadic apprenticeship ought to be setting out on the road for increasing periods of time to field test a few ideas for yourself. Certainly, short holidays will seem nothing more than ‘junk food’ to the true nomad, but to become independent and resourceful to any useful degree you do need to get out and practice the skills and techniques involved. It’s an endless process of reading, thinking, trial and error, and practice – all of which develop both experience and confidence.

During this process you will also be ‘easing’ yourself into the life of a nomad. You might start by hiring a caravan or motorhome to ‘try it on for size’. Meanwhile, your first taste of overnight independence might be in a national park or state forest. And essential skills like camping, bush cooking, first aid, map reading, vehicle maintenance, and 12-volt power should start to play an ever-expanding role. Because the truth is, no matter which way you dress it up, moving from a house to a ‘box on wheels’ is likely to involve a significant step down from your current living standards so it’s sure to be stressful. Baby steps are the best way to go.

Mind you, any knowledge, skill or piece of kit that eventually enables you to replace or supplement all those amenities and utilities enjoyed at home (or those of a tourist park) serve to increase independence. It pays, therefore, to start by asking yourself how you might satisfy – or better, reduce – your lifelong reliance on daily necessities such as power, lighting, water, refrigeration, toilet, shower, etc.

By the way, at the risk of jumping about here I should point out that, among all the skills that should or could be learned, those that offer potential to become sources of income on the road are doubly valuable. If you become adept at, say, mechanical repairs, baking bread, article writing, cutting hair, sewing, or basic carpentry, you can, potentially, use these skills to top-up finances along the way. In other words, concentrate your time and effort on skills that either make or save money.

At this point, you may be forming the impression that being a nomad requires a certain level of mental toughness. Well, you’re darned right it does! But it’s more an attitudinal toughness than physical. And it will come over you quietly, as a by-product of all this learning.

Another example of attitudinal toughness lies in the comparative level of ‘roughing it’ that each of us is prepared to accept. If decisions regarding comfort and convenience aren’t discussed and mutually agreed with partner or group, troubled waters lie ahead! Get together with your team members and talk about the standard of lifestyle that suits your goals, your commitment, and your budget. Once settled, subsequent preparations – in terms of skills development and finances – can be directed along this chosen path. Keep in mind, however, we all tend to choose our own personal (and slightly different) path, so remain true to your own aspirations, values and needs (not to mention your limitations!), rather than being swayed by friends or experienced nomads.

On that point regarding other team members: Sure, there may be only one other, but whatever the number, they each have a different view of what ‘nomadism’ entails, secretly influenced by their own levels of ‘mental toughness’. Ignore them at your peril! There is always room for compromise.

Not only do travel companions harbour various (possibly unspoken) fears and uncertainty about minor annoyances such as dust, heat, flies, remote and lonely campsites, creepy-crawlies, and bush toilets, each also has his or her own ‘dependencies’ and comfort zones to dismantle, such as friends, relatives, television, social activities, family memorabilia, and an array of home luxuries. All the cards must be turned face-up on the table before detailed preparations and financial commitment get too far advanced.

Besides, no matter what the quality or degree of your preparation and planning, difficulties WILL occur; problems come along regardless of where we are or how we live. Even so, chances are better than good that – accidents aside – most ‘road’ problems are easier to fix than those of suburbia – depending, of course, on all of the above.

Yes, the Zen here is mental toughness: Being prepared to take measured risk, then being ready to cope with and rectify problems as they arise. Trust your judgment and abilities, particularly your natural ability to learn, to gain experience and to get better, day-by-day, in all that you do.

Interestingly enough, none of this stuff is age-dependant. Nor is it dollar-dependent. Provided we stick to reality and practicality, while steering clear of fantasy and dreaming, any of us can learn to become a ’smart’ nomad within the parameters of our limitations, plans and goals.

On the other hand, there are a number of hidden traps that you won’t find mentioned in the ‘positive’ press about RV lifestyles. For example, if you (or any member of your party) has a strong craving for any of our modern-day ills – like alcohol, drugs, sex, television soapies, Internet, telephones, gambling, etc. – now’s the time to start the ‘weaning off’ process. Otherwise your nomadic life may be voluntarily but prematurely cut short. Here again, gradual change is best, so allow plenty of time.

There is no doubt, a change as significant as fulltime bumming around requires loads of focused preparation. Indeed, across a planning horizon of less than two years I would think it unlikely that you could resolve, or even consider, all that you should. On the other hand, this long period of preparation and planning is part of the fun: the anticipation leading to excitement, the trips that lead to skill and confidence, and the experience levels that lead to safety. Allow sufficient quality time to enjoy and absorb this evolutionary process.

Remember: over-planning is far better than no planning, but be sure to incorporate sufficient flexibility to accommodate the new ideas, diversions, and changes that inevitably arise.

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