Our Plans to Travel the Country in an RV

Ever since I was a little kid I’ve had this dream of traveling in an RV. I remember my dad would take my sister and I to RV shows in Indianapolis (where I grew up), and I was so enamored by these homes on wheels. I just thought it was the coolest thing ever. Now at 30 years old, I still think RVs are the coolest thing ever. All of these years later, despite my love for RVs, I’ve never traveled in one. And here’s the kicker – now I want to live in one full time so I can travel with country with Wynston. And I’m about to make it happen.

I’m a single woman with three cats and a dog. I own a business and work from home. I don’t have any commitments holding me to one place. And I wanna hit the road…because I can.

I have a new found love for traveling with Wynston. When we explore new places I feel so free. I feel a sense of peace and serenity that I don’t get anywhere else. And I’m ready to do that full time.

The Plan

Before I make a purchase, I will rent an RV a couple times with Wynston. Renting for a few nights at a time will allow me to get a feel for what I’m up against. The experience will help answer such questions as, “Can I do this alone? What elements do I need or not need in an RV? Does Wynston like this?” Renting will be a good way to determine first and foremost if the concept is reasonable.

If all goes well, I want to purchase a used RV. I personally don’t think it would be a smart financial investment for me to purchase brand new. Plus, they are expensive! I’m thinking my budget will be around $30-40k for a Class B or Class C unit.

I have a few priorities when choosing the best RV for us:

• Full functioning bathroom with toilet and shower (even if it’s a composting toilet)
• Comfortable bed
• Space to work on my laptop
• A spot for a litter box
• New-ish or low miles so I don’t have to worry about too much maintenance

I’m thinking something like this…

I’m amazing how many options we have in terms of available RVs to purchase. I found one like the above photo that is a 2018 as opposed to a 2015 for the same price. The inside of the 2018 is lighter wood, flooring and counter tops, which I prefer, but the 2015 only has 2,000 miles on it! It seems that I’m not going to have a problem finding something that I like within my budget. I do prefer a floor plan like the above because it’s nice and open.

The photo below is the 2018 Thor Motor Coach Freedom. It’s a similar layout, but it’s brighter inside, which I like. Since both RVs cost the same amount, I would have to look inside both to see which one “feels” better. But these are simply examples of what I’m interested in.

Both RVs shown above have a slide out and bed above the cabin, which I would most likely use for storage.

I’m also interested in looking at Class B RVs, although the price point is higher. They are smaller, so I’m not really sure why they are almost $30,000 more than the Class C models. Maybe because they are easier to maneuver? A Class B would be great if I were just traveling with Wynston, but since I have three cats I think I need more space.

My friend Sarah lives full time with her cat in the model shown below. She’s one of my inspirations!

Although the point of traveling in an RV is to see the country and experience the outdoors, I still need to be comfortable since the RV will be my home. I still have to work full time, so I will be spending a considerable amount inside my RV (or sitting right outside of it). My priority is keeping my animals comfortable, as well.

Eventually when we hit the road I want to travel the entire country. Depending on the time of year I will start where the weather is nice and drive away from the bad weather. If it’s snowing in Minnesota, I’ll be in the west. If it’s 120° in the desert, you’ll find me enjoying the Midwest. You get the picture

Along our journeys I plan to stop and see as many friends and family as possible. I understand life on the road can become lonely so I want to be around people that I love whenever possible. Luckily as a blogger I have friends all over the country!

Although I don’t have a specific day or even month in mind to begin our journey, I want you all to be a part of every step. There are several variables involved in such a massive life change, so I want to make sure I plan and research the best I can.

I have spreadsheets, lists and pages full of suggestions, tips and my thoughts. Next step – head to an RV show next week! Wynston and I are ready to start stepping foot in future home options.

Have you ever traveled in an RV with your dog? Do you have any advice or suggestions for us?

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