Would You Ever Live in a Tiny House on Wheels?
Why not? Over the past nine years, my partner and I lived in a recreational vehicle (RV) with just 400 square feet of space, and we found it to be a more than viable option for comfortable and efficient living.
According to various estimates, millions of people choose to live in RVs, making this lifestyle not only popular but also quite common. While the idea of full-time RVing might seem unconventional at first, it's far from new or unusual. The simplicity and practicality of this lifestyle are evident in the millions who choose it as a way of life.
Full-Time RVers: A Couple’s Experience
For instance, we met another couple who had lived in a pickup camper for seven years, covering a much smaller space than our RV. Although they genuinely loved their chosen way of life, they decided to settle down due to the need for more personal space. This small illustration highlights the fact that a moveable home doesn't have to be overly restrictive or limited.
Reinventing the Wheel: The Problem with Tiny House Hunters
The most absurd part is the reinvigoration of the RV concept through shows like "Tiny House Hunters" on HGTV. The elaborate and impractical designs seen on these programs are not only a waste of time but also fundamentally misguided. Imagine the complexity and impracticality of a 50-foot-long mansion on wheels, navigating through crosswinds and bridges like the Tacoma Narrows – it’s a recipe for disaster.
Why complicate the process so much when RVs are specifically designed for both living and mobility? RVs are built with lightweight materials to ensure they can be moved without the need for a commercial truck. They are also equipped with the essential utilities needed for a comfortable living, including water, waste water tanks, electricity, and propane.
Practicality and Cost: RVs vs. Mansions on Wheels
RVs offer an unparalleled balance between cost-effectiveness and practicality. Unlike the one-off “Mansions on Wheels” featured on HGTV, RVs are cheaper and are built with the numerous needs of RVers in mind. They are designed to allow for easy relocation, and the initial setup and maintenance are far simpler than constructing a fully custom mobile home.
Advice for Those Considering Full-Time RVing
If you’re thinking about embracing this lifestyle, I highly recommend joining organizations like the Escapees, which offer valuable guidance and experiences from fellow RVers. The organization provides insights and advice based on the vast knowledge and experience accumulated by its members.
Considering the choice between a trailer and a motorhome, each has its advantages. A motorhome generally offers quicker unhooking and setting up times, making it the preferred choice for those traveling frequently. For instance, in Texas, a couple in a fifth wheel and my partner and I arrived at a park at the same time. It took me 20 minutes to fully set up the motorhome, while the fifth wheel owners managed to get it done in just 40 minutes, and it took us about 10 minutes to get ready to leave in the morning compared to the 45 minutes they required.
To fully understand and enjoy the lifestyle, it's crucial to research the existing solutions and knowledge base. A simple Google search can provide you with a wealth of information and experiences from those who already live this way. This approach avoids the pitfalls of reinvention and allows you to tap into the wealth of expertise available in the community.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are ever thinking about living in a tiny house on wheels, do your research and explore the wealth of knowledge and experiences available. Embrace the simplicity and practicality of RV living and avoid unnecessary complications. With a little effort and knowledge, you can enjoy the freedom and comfort of RV living without the impracticality of modern mansion-on-wheels designs.