Have you ever dreamed of hitting the open road and living a life of adventure? Imagine waking up to breathtaking views of majestic mountains or crystal-clear lakes, exploring new cities and towns, and meeting new people along the way.
Full time RVing in Canada is the perfect way to turn this dream into a reality. With the freedom to travel wherever you choose, you can experience all the beauty and diversity that Canada has to offer. But how do you make this dream a reality?
In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about living the dream of full time RVing in Canada, from choosing the right RV to finding the best campsites and making a living on the road. So, buckle up, and get ready to hit the road!
Table of Contents
Benefits of full time RVing
Living full-time in an RV can be an incredibly fulfilling and rewarding experience. Here are just a few of the benefits of full-time RVing in Canada:
- Freedom and Flexibility
One of the biggest advantages of full time RVing is the freedom and flexibility it provides. When you live in an RV, you can travel wherever you want, whenever you want. You’re not tied down to a specific location, and you can change your plans at a moment’s notice. Whether you want to spend a week hiking in the mountains, a month exploring a new city, or a year traveling across the country, full time RVing gives you the flexibility to do it all.
- Affordability
Full time RVing can also be a more affordable way of living than traditional housing – depending upon how you travel and your choice of RV.
While the initial cost of purchasing an RV can be significant, the ongoing costs of living in an RV are often much lower than those of owning a home or renting an apartment. You don’t have to worry about property taxes, utility bills, or other expenses associated with traditional housing. Additionally, many RV parks and campgrounds offer affordable rates for long-term stays.
- Sense of Community
Living in an RV full time can also provide a strong sense of community. RVers tend to be a friendly and welcoming group, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to meet other travelers and make new friends. Many RV parks and campgrounds also offer social events and activities, making it easy to connect with others who share your interests.
Challenges of full time RVing
While full time RVing can be an incredibly rewarding experience, it’s important to be aware of the challenges that come with this lifestyle. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Limited Space
Living in an RV means living in a smaller space than you may be used to. This can be a challenge for some people, especially if you’re used to having a lot of room to spread out. It’s important to be mindful of the space you have and to make the most of it by staying organized and minimizing clutter.
- Maintenance and Repairs
Another challenge of full time RVing is the ongoing maintenance and repairs that come with owning an RV. It’s similar to having a regular house – things breakdown and regular maintenance keeps everything operating smoothly.
From routine maintenance like oil changes and tire rotations to more significant repairs like replacing a water heater or fixing a leaky roof, there’s always something that needs attention. It’s important to budget for these expenses and to have a plan in place for handling unexpected repairs.
- Finding a Place to Stay
While there are plenty of RV parks and campgrounds across Canada, finding a place to stay can sometimes be a challenge. During peak travel season, popular campgrounds can fill up quickly, and finding a last-minute spot can be difficult. It’s important to plan ahead and to have a backup plan in case your first choice of campground is full.
We recommend the RV Trip Wizard – read more here.
Planning your full time RVing Lifestyle
Before you hit the road full-time, it’s important to take some time to plan out your lifestyle. Here are a few things to consider:
- Your Travel Style
What kind of travel do you enjoy? Are you someone who likes to move quickly from place to place or do you prefer to stay in one spot for longer periods of time? Knowing your travel style can help you plan out your route and choose the best campgrounds and RV parks for your needs.
An important thing to remember is that you are a full time RVer and the secret is to SLOW DOWN! This is not a vacation – it’s your new RV lifestyle.
- Your Budget
Living full-time in an RV can be more affordable than traditional housing, but it’s still important to have a budget in place. Consider your monthly expenses, including food, gas, campground fees, and any other expenses you may have. It’s also a good idea to have an emergency fund in case of unexpected expenses.
- Your Work Situation
If you plan to work while on the road, it’s important to consider your work situation before you hit the road. Will you be working remotely or will you need to find work as you travel? Knowing your work situation can help you plan out your route and choose the best campgrounds and RV parks for your needs.
More and more Canadians have the ability to work remotely which makes living the RV Lifestyle a reality.
Choosing the right RV for full time living in Canada
Choosing the right RV is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when embarking on a full-time RVing lifestyle. Here are a few things to consider:
- Size and Layout
When choosing an RV for full-time living, size and layout are important factors to consider. You’ll want to make sure you have enough space to live comfortably, but you also don’t want an RV that’s too large to drive or park in certain areas.
- Quality and Durability
It’s also important to choose an RV that’s built to last. Look for RVs with high-quality materials and construction, and consider purchasing from a reputable manufacturer.
- Features and Amenities
Finally, consider the features and amenities that are important to you. Do you need a full kitchen and bathroom? How important is storage space? Do you want a slide-out for extra living space? Knowing what features are important to you can help you choose the right RV for your needs. Looking for more information on choosing or renting an RV? Read more here.
Searching for your RV? Look here.
Budgeting for full time RVing
Before embarking on a full-time RVing lifestyle, it’s important to have a budget in place. Here are a few things to consider:
- Monthly Expenses
Consider your monthly expenses, including food, gas, campground fees, and any other expenses you may have. It’s important to be realistic about your expenses and to have a plan in place for managing them.
Looking for budgeting information – read more here.
- Emergency Fund
It’s also a good idea to have an emergency fund in case of unexpected expenses. Aim to save enough money to cover at least three to six months of living expenses.
- Income
Finally, consider your income. If you plan to work while on the road, make sure you have a plan in place for finding work or working remotely. If you’re retired, make sure you have enough savings to support your lifestyle.
Finding campgrounds and RV Parks in Canada
There are plenty of campgrounds and RV parks across Canada, but finding the right one can be a challenge. Here are a few tips for finding the best campgrounds and RV parks:
- Research Online
The internet is a great resource for finding campgrounds and RV parks. Look for websites and forums that cater to RVers, and read reviews from other travelers to get an idea of what to expect. Learn more about the RV Trip Wizard here for planning your route, campgrounds and everything else you want to know when planning.
- Ask Other RVers
I always end of speaking with RVers in the campground – asking questions and helping them where I can. If you meet other RVers on the road, don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations. Other RVers can be a great source of information about the best campgrounds and RV parks in the area.
- Plan Ahead
During peak travel season, popular campgrounds can fill up quickly. It’s important to plan ahead and make reservations in advance to ensure you have a spot.
We spent way too much on campground fees! Read more here.
Maintaining your RV for full time living in Canada
Maintaining your RV is an important part of a full-time RVing lifestyle. Here are a few tips for keeping your RV in good shape:
- Follow a Maintenance Schedule
Create a maintenance schedule and stick to it. This should include routine maintenance like oil changes and tire rotations, as well as more significant repairs like replacing a water heater or fixing a leaky roof.
- Keep Your RV Clean
Regular cleaning is also important for maintaining your RV. Keep the interior and exterior of your RV clean and free of clutter to prevent damage and maintain its value.
- Address Problems Quickly
If you notice a problem with your RV, address it quickly. This can help prevent more significant damage down the road.
Tips for successful full time RVing in Canada
Here are a few additional tips for making the most of your full-time RVing lifestyle in Canada:
- Be Flexible
Flexibility is key when it comes to full time RVing. Be prepared to change your plans at a moment’s notice and to adapt to new situations. Isn’t that what this adventure is supposed to be all about?
- Embrace Minimalism
I know – easier said than done! Living in an RV means living with less. Embrace minimalism and focus on the experiences and memories you’ll create on the road.
- Stay Connected
Finally, stay connected with family and friends back home. Technology makes it easy to stay in touch, and regular communication can help you feel connected even when you’re far from home. Not only is this important for you but it’s important for your family and friends to feel comfortable with your new RV lifestyle.
Legal and regulatory requirements for full time RVing in Canada
Before embarking on a full-time RVing lifestyle in Canada, it’s important to be aware of the legal and regulatory requirements. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Insurance
Make sure you have the appropriate insurance coverage for your RV. This may include liability coverage, collision coverage, and comprehensive coverage. This is one of the very difficult challenges that many Canadian RVers have to face. Full time RV insurance is hard to find – so ask your fellow RVers, check with your insurance agent and do your research.
- Licensing
If you plan to drive your RV, make sure you have the appropriate driver’s license and registration. Do you need an air brake endorsement?
- Residency
If you plan to live in your RV full time, you’ll need to establish residency in a particular province or territory. This may involve obtaining a driver’s license, registering to vote, and registering your vehicle.
We’ve researched each province and territory as to what they require – you should find helpful information here.
Conclusion: Living your dream of full time RVing in Canada
Full time RVing in Canada can be an incredibly rewarding experience, providing freedom, flexibility, and adventure. By choosing the right RV, budgeting appropriately, and planning your route and campgrounds carefully, you can make your dream of full time RVing in Canada a reality. So, what are you waiting for? Hit the road and start living your dream today!
Are you a full time RVer in Canada? We would love to hear form you. Please tell us your story – sharing is what this is all about.
Do you dream of becoming a full time RVer in Canada? Do you have questions? Please comment below.
