Buying an RV for full-time living is nothing like buying a weekend trailer. It’s a lifestyle change, an investment, and, if you’re not careful, it can become a financial and logistical headache. After more than two years of planning, buying, selling, and upgrading, we’ve learned firsthand what matters when selecting the right rig for life on the road.
This guide is for families who want the full-time RV experience — not just weekend trips — and it’s packed with the lessons we wish we’d known before we hit the road.
1. Rent First, Research Always
Before you commit to buying, rent different types of RVs. We changed our minds several times over two years of planning. What seemed perfect on paper — like a bus — turned out to be a poor fit for our lifestyle, even though we loved the idea.
Renting helps you understand:
- Layout and space needs
- Driveability and maneuverability
- How your family functions in a given space
Even after renting, we learned the hard way: our first fifth wheel and truck had major engine issues. Nine months in, we had to sell both and start over.
2. Inspect Before You Buy
We can’t stress this enough: have the RV thoroughly inspected. Don’t just glance at it in the lot. Your inspector should check:
- AC and heating systems
- Plumbing and water systems
- Electrical systems
- Engine (if motorized)
- Seals, seams, and roof integrity
An inspection can save you from nightmares like a non-functioning AC in the Texas summer or catastrophic engine failure on a remote road.
3. Research the RV Year, Model, and Manufacturer
Every year and model has quirks. Some are easy to overlook until you’re living full-time in the rig. Check:
- Owner forums and Facebook groups for reviews
- Common issues specific to that year/model
- Dealer reputation and reviews across multiple sites
Full-time RVers are usually honest and helpful — post in those Facebook groups and you’ll get insights you won’t find anywhere else.
4. Consider Your Family’s Space Needs
When we upgraded, we realized how important personal space is:
- Our kids each have their own area (son in the loft, daughter in the master bedroom)
- My husband and I converted the garage into a bedroom/office/reading space
- We plan to make the back into a patio with a screened-in enclosure https://amzn.to/3HKLafK
Previously, sharing space caused everyone to crowd into the living room with blankets and pillows — not ideal for full-time life. Think ahead about how everyone will use the space daily, not just for vacations.
5. Storage is King
Our first fifth wheel had almost no cabinet space. Even after downsizing, it was a daily struggle to put away kitchenware, kids’ school supplies, and essentials.
Now, storage is one of our top priorities. We made sure the upgraded RV had plenty of cabinets without sacrificing living space. Don’t underestimate the importance of functional storage when living full-time.
6. Power, Hookups, and RV Size
Full-time RV living isn’t just about comfort — it’s about logistics. Know your power needs (30 amp vs. 50 amp) and understand how that affects where you can camp.
- 30-amp is fine for smaller rigs, but may limit appliances.
- 50-amp provides more flexibility for larger setups.
- Adapters can bridge the gap ([affiliate link]), but you’ll still have limitations.
Also, consider size: a 40-foot toy hauler is luxurious but limits your campground options. Conversely, a tiny 15-foot travel trailer may leave your family feeling cramped. Find a balance between comfort and maneuverability.
7. Buy Used When Possible, But Do Your Homework
We personally preferred to buy used and outright — we wanted minimal debt. Loans on RVs (new or used) can be a trap, and many owners never get fully “right side up” on their payments.
Some tips:
- Don’t limit your search to your home area — prices vary by region. We found better deals in San Antonio than back home in North Carolina.
- Facebook Marketplace is an excellent resource for used RVs.
- Always shop around and compare — don’t buy the first one you see.
8. Know Your Manufacturer & Dealer
Do research on the RV manufacturer and the dealer. Some dealers have stellar reputations, while others cut corners. Check multiple review sites, forums, and full-time RV groups. Ask questions, verify service history, and don’t be afraid to walk away if something feels off.
Final Thoughts
Full-time RV living is amazing, but it’s not something to jump into blindly. Rent before you buy, inspect thoroughly, research models, consider space and storage, and understand power and hookup requirements.
When done right, your RV can be your home for years — but skipping these steps can turn your dream into a nightmare. Take your time, do the work upfront, and your journey on the road will be smoother, safer, and far more enjoyable.
How This Post Supports Our RV Adventures
Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means if you click on a link and make a purchase, we may earn a small commission — at no extra cost to you.
We only recommend products, services, and resources that we personally use, love, or believe will genuinely help fellow full-time RVers. Using these links helps support our blog and keeps us sharing tips, lessons, and guides from our life on the road.
Thank you for helping us continue this adventure!
