3 Negatives of RV Life that are Actually Benefits

Traveling by RV or caravan is a wonderful way to see the world, and get out in nature with a family. Having a house on wheels makes naps, snacks, sleeping, and bathroom breaks for children simple. And some people love it so much they decide to make a life of it. To some the logistics of living in a mobile home seems overwhelming, but once you get the hang of it, it can be a really simply wonderful life. Choosing self-sufficient features like solar power and a composting toilet add an element of adventure because you are free to go anywhere you can drive. Living in a rainforest, or right on the beach is a breathtaking experience that allows family to explore together just outside their door.

While living in an RV, you come across families that live full time by choice and others who were forced into it due to life’s circumstances. It can be an interesting mix. It’s not always easy and life’s challenges don’t pause as soon as you hit the road. Whether you dream of living a nomadic life with your family, or you have found your family living in an RV with no other option, there will be ups and downs. Either way, you can enjoy beautiful moments with your family and discover that some of the dark cloudy moments actually have a silver lining.

Here are 3 negatives of RV life that are actually benefits:

1. Cramped Space

One of the biggest differences families feel is the change in size from a house to and RV. Regardless of family or rig size, it can feel crowded. The walls are thin and space is maximized for multi-purposes so it can take some getting used to. It is also cozy and efficient.

The close quarters also make you get out and explore (especially if you have kids who need to burn off energy). Long walks and finding the local parks and recreational areas is good for your health and entertaining. It’s a win/win. Lots of families actually come to like it because there is less to clean and it helps to simplify life in many ways.

2. Toilets and Water

The bathroom is the most complained about aspect of living in an RV. It really does get you up close and personal with your body functions. Of course, there are ways around this, some of the newer rigs do it all at the touch of a button, for most of us it involves hoses and unpleasant smells. Having to dump your grey and black tanks regularly is an ordeal until you get used to it.

The same goes for drinking water. Potable water is a beautiful thing. Having to pay attention to how much water is in your tank and where you can refill is a new experience for many. When you haul your own drinking water by walking for ten minutes, you appreciate that water is life. It is also a wonderful reminder of the privilege of running water so many of us are used to. It’s not actually all that bad and it provides a level of self-sufficiency and understanding our footprint on the earth, that offers a unique perspective.

3. Poor Internet Connection

This one is annoying and it’s not always the case. In some places, RV life provides incredible Wi-Fi options and, in some places, there is none. It can be frustrating to be stuck with no connection, especially when you rely on it to work. For digital nomads, a poor internet connection can make doing business very difficult.

All that being said, and coming from families who have been there, it’s not all bad. Having limited internet access while living in an RV helps you self-regulate and find other things to do. It’s also a great way to live a life where you’re not always updating social media, just living.

If you are where you want to be, it’s easier to turn the negatives into positives if you are where you want to be. And no one is going to feel like sunshine and roses all the time. There are bad days even in paradise. It’s how you handle the bad days and these are meant as suggestions to change your mindset and see that there are always some benefits. It’s so much more fun to dance in the rain then to hide away from it and there is too much to live for to let the struggle to the peak stop you from seeing the view!

Are there other negatives of RV life? Let us know! If you find yourself living in an RV and struggling, please contact us. We’ve been there and we’d love to help.

“Not all those who wander are lost.”

—J.R.R. Tolkien

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Abundant Forest Life uses some affiliate links, which means if you decide to make a purchase we earn a commission that helps support our work, at no cost to you. All recommendations are based on our experiences and shared as part of our mission to have more families enjoy nature, abundance, and free time

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