Full-Time RV Living vs. Stationary RV Living – Which Suits You?
Understanding Full-Time and Stationary RV Living
Living in an RV full-time can be a dream for many, but it's important to understand the differences between full-time and stationary RV living. While both options offer unique benefits, they cater to different lifestyles and needs.
Defining the Lifestyles
Full-Time RV Living involves living and traveling in your RV year-round. You don't have a permanent "home base" and are on the move, anywhere from weekly to seasonally. This lifestyle is ideal for those who want to see the country, enjoy freedom from material possessions, or have flexible work that allows mobility.
Stationary RV Living, on the other hand, means living in an RV but staying mostly in one place. You might rent a long-term campsite, live in an RV park, or keep your RV parked on private land. While you may still take trips, your RV serves as your primary home.
Both lifestyles can simplify your life, allowing more time outdoors and with loved ones. However, they are not the same, and the right choice depends on your personal goals and needs.
Cost Considerations
While both options can be budget-friendly, the costs vary significantly based on your choices.
Full-Time Travel Costs include: - Fuel (your highest variable cost) - Campground fees or boondocking - Maintenance (tires, oil, repairs) - Travel-day food - Internet for remote work
Traveling more means spending more, while slowing down can help save money.
Stationary Living Costs include: - Lot rent or campground membership fees - Utilities (some parks include them, some don’t) - Wi-Fi or internet service on site - Routine RV maintenance, usually less frequent
Staying still can be significantly cheaper than traveling, especially with long-term rates. Many parks offer monthly stays at a fraction of nightly rates. If reducing living expenses is your main goal, stationary living often wins.
Lifestyle: Freedom vs. Stability
Your daily rhythms and how you want life to feel are essential considerations.
Full-Time Travel Lifestyle involves: - New grocery stores every time - Frequent route planning and campground booking - Weather-based decision making - "Travel days" that can go beautifully or sideways
This lifestyle rewards flexibility, requiring the ability to adapt to change.
Stationary RV Lifestyle offers: - Familiarity and routine - A stable community if you stay long enough - The ability to settle into local activities, churches, or clubs - Fewer surprises and logistics
This lifestyle rewards consistency, offering a simpler life without constant travel.
Community: How You Meet People Changes the Experience
RV life is full of incredible people, but the way you meet and connect with them differs.
Full-Time Travelers often meet new people at: - Campgrounds - Facebook groups - Hiking trails - Dump stations (a social club for RVers)
You may form fast, intense friendships, but you'll also part ways often.
Stationary RVers can build deeper relationships because: - You see the same neighbors regularly - You become part of the community - People know you, your dog, your routine, and even your lawn flamingos
If you crave long-term connection, stationary living offers a more consistent social environment.
Real-Life Experiences
Mary, Tim, & Harley are 8-year full-time RVers traveling in their Jayco Seneca. At Life In The RV, they help future and new RVers turn "someday" into a plan, with honest guidance, road-tested advice, and real-life RV living from people who actually live it.
