Heading out on new adventures, exploring the world around you and being closer to nature are all exciting parts of moving into an RV. But one element of full-time RV life that may be harder to adjust to is living in a more minimalist way, without many of your creature comforts. However, there are tips that can help you part with some belongings, prioritize the essentials and adapt to your new lifestyle without feeling like you have to give up everything you own.
If you need additional funds to renovate, redecorate or repair your RV before you move in, an RV loan offers fixed terms and predictable monthly payments, which could be easier to budget for in the months to come.
Here are some steps you can take to embrace a more minimalist lifestyle as a full-time RVer.
Think through your needs
As you start to figure out what items to have on hand in your RV, consider your work, hobbies and how you like to live day to day. For example, if you work remotely, you may need to have more tech-related items with you. If you have a hobby like skiing or playing the guitar, you’ll want to figure out how to store those items, so they’re available when you need them. When it comes to clothing and personal care items, think about what you reach for every day or most often.
Declutter and organize
Once you have a sense of the items you want to bring with you, it’s time to declutter and organize the rest of your belongings. Especially if you live in a house, this could take time and a lot of energy. Pace yourself and start well in advance of your move.
You may have items to donate, sell or toss as you downsize. Consider hosting a yard sale, taking your clothes, books and furniture to a secondhand or charity store, or selling your belongings online. Put any extra money you earn toward outfitting your RV or funding your travel.
If you decide to rent a storage unit while you’re on the road, you could try to plan your travel schedule so that you can switch out clothes and other supplies every few months or a few times per year, such as when you need coats in the winter or lighter clothing in the summer. Staying as organized as possible and labeling all your boxes will make this process easier.
Find smart storage solutions
You’ll likely have much less storage space in your RV, so it’s important to plan accordingly and make sure everything has a home — you don’t want items flying about or sliding around while you’re on the road. As you start moving items into your RV, utilize storage bins, vertical hangers and compression storage bags.
If you have a larger Class A motorhome, you could also think about multi-use furniture, such as a couch that folds into a bed or a dining table that doubles as your workspace. If you can, place storage bins and containers under any furniture to keep them secure and out of the way.
Digital versions of movies, music, books and magazines will take up much less space.
Change up your shopping habits
When it comes to buying items like groceries, toiletries and other essential supplies, you may need to switch up how you shop. Think about what you need for a week or two at a time rather than stocking up for months. Buying in bulk can be more cost-effective, but you may not have room to store a 24-pack of paper towels or a mega-box of your favorite snack. That said, you may want to find room for extra bottled water, toilet paper and first aid supplies.
You might consider meal planning so that you can map out exactly what ingredients you need to buy, especially if you aren’t always going to be near a grocery store. While this may be a big change, it could also be a fun and creative challenge. Give yourself time to adjust and see what minimalist living strategies work best for you.
Embrace a more minimal way of life
Sometimes, being intentional and thoughtful about what you need and downsizing your belongings can feel like a fresh start. Focusing less on what you have and more on the world around you can be eye-opening, especially as you explore in your RV. If you’re moving into an RV full-time and looking to adapt a more minimal lifestyle, think through your needs and the items that are most essential to your daily life. Declutter and organize, streamline your belongings, utilize smart storage solutions and consider your shopping habits.
Stay flexible and keep evaluating what you own, what can go and what you may be able to get more use out of. Letting go of material possessions could help you embrace a life of greater freedom on the road.
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