Living in an RV: Real Experiences from Years on the Road

1. Living and Traveling in an RV

Here’s what I learned while living and traveling in an RV with my husband for 1,353 days.

2. The Beginning of Our Journey

Our first RV trip was a surprise for my husband’s 30th birthday, a rambling four-day ride through California’s tallest Redwoods. It sparked a previously unconsidered possibility for our next move.

Two years later, stifled by the lack of space and the high cost of living in San Francisco, we purchased a 27-foot Winnebago and named her Layla, reminiscing about childhood summers filled with Eric Clapton’s music. Our goal was to see more of the United States while exploring new home base options.

3. Adapting Layla for Life on the Road

Layla, our Class A motor home, is about 50 square feet. It features a queen-size bed, a kitchenette, a dinette, and an outdoor bar area. Although it seems small, the layout felt more expansive than our former 450-square-foot apartment.

To personalize Layla, we updated the interiors, removing old window valances and installing a white tile backsplash in the kitchen, alongside a fun red-and-white wallpaper bathroom.

4. Preparing for Life Off the Grid

My father-in-law assisted in upgrading Layla’s batteries, enhancing our ability to camp off the grid. This allowed us to “boondock” at numerous locations like national forests, Cracker Barrel, and Walmart.

With Layla ready, we embarked on what we initially envisioned as a year-long journey across the country.

5. Adventures and Lessons Learned

Shortly into our journey, I reflected on offline Google docs while we drove past California’s Wilson Lake. However, reality struck when the large drawer beneath the fridge popped open, teaching us the lesson: reinforce everything.

We eventually boondocked with a stunning view of Mount Lassen, sipping wine and sleeping to the sounds of nature. The RV life taught us about the joys of cold beers on a paddleboard and the frustration of missed package deliveries.

6. Embracing Unexpected Experiences

Throughout our travels, we engaged with friends in diverse locations, from St. Louis to Savannah, making memories together in our cozy RV space.

Each city offered unique experiences, whether it was dining in Memphis or exploring Nashville. We witnessed the beauty of nature while walking through Green Mountain National Forest and enjoyed the thrill of being on the road.

7. Continuous Learning in the RV

After 12 years of marriage, this trip tested our relationship through the challenges of RV life, where tasks like backing into spots and maintaining water supplies became daily hurdles.

Amidst these challenges lay incredible joys—witnessing wildlife, enjoying local delicacies, and stargazing in International Dark Sky Parks. Each experience brought us closer, reinforcing our bond as we navigated both the beautiful and challenging aspects of RV living.

8. The Joys of Home and Adventure

Our experience with Layla was transformative and unforgettable. The journey was unpredictable but filled with awe and excitement.

Living on the open road, free from the constraints of urban life, provided a sense of luxury that we cherish. Now, as we settle into our new home in the Hill Country just outside Austin, Texas, we enjoy the comforts of space while continuing to prioritize adventures and each other.