Category: RV Tips

Full-Time RV Living: The Real Truth

Many people dream about traveling across the country in an RV, enjoying a fun and carefree lifestyle while exploring new places and making memories. After more than five years of full-time RV living, I can tell you that we’ve done exactly that. We’ve seen a large part of the United States, experienced incredible adventures, and created memories that will last a lifetime.

But we’ve also learned something important: full-time RV living comes with its own unique challenges.

You can watch the video I made on this subject instead by clicking on the image below:

Full-time RV living

The reality of full-time RVing isn’t what many online creators make it seem. It’s not one endless vacation, and it’s not constant drama and disasters either. The truth lies somewhere in between.

If you’re considering full-time RV living, here are the most important things you need to know before making the leap.

Table of Contents

  • Is Full-Time RV Living Right for You?

    • 1. RVs Require Constant Maintenance and Repairs

    A large part of your life will revolve around the RV you own.

    Unlike a house, which needs occasional maintenance, RVs require almost constant attention. Every mile you travel shakes, vibrates, and stresses the components of your RV. Things loosen up, wear out, and break.

    You also need to understand that finding qualified RV repair technicians isn’t always easy. In remote areas, repair services can be difficult to find. Even in large cities, repair shops often have long waiting lists.

    Then there’s the cost.

    RV repair labor rates commonly range from $150 to nearly $200 per hour, and those expenses can add up quickly.

    My Recommendation

    Learn to perform basic RV maintenance and repairs yourself.

    In my experience, about 80% of RV problems can be handled by the average owner with a little guidance. Fortunately, there are countless resources available online that can help you learn how to troubleshoot and repair many common RV issues.

    Learning a few basic repair skills can save you a tremendous amount of money and frustration.

    2. RVs Depreciate Quickly

    Another reality that surprises many new RV owners is depreciation.

    An RV is not like real estate. It generally does not increase in value over time. In fact, most RVs lose value rapidly, especially during the first few years of ownership.

    When planning your finances, be sure to factor depreciation into your budget. It’s an expense many people overlook.

    3. Can You Really Live in a Small Space?

    An RV may feel spacious during weekend trips or vacations.

    Living in it full-time is an entirely different experience.

    The question you need to ask yourself is:

    Can I comfortably live in this small space day after day, year after year?

    Some people thrive in smaller living quarters. Others quickly feel confined.

    Being honest with yourself about this question can save you from making an expensive mistake.

    4. Relationships Can Be More Challenging on the Road

    One of the unexpected challenges of full-time RV living is maintaining relationships.

    You’ll meet many wonderful people while traveling, but often you’ll be like ships passing in the night. People come and go quickly, making it difficult to build long-term friendships.

    For people who enjoy solitude, this may not be a problem.

    But if you’re naturally social and enjoy deep, lasting relationships, full-time RVing can sometimes feel lonely.

    My Recommendation

    Research ways to build and maintain relationships while traveling. Staying connected intentionally can make a tremendous difference in your overall happiness on the road.

    5. Full-Time RV Living Is Not One Long Vacation

    Many people imagine every day on the road as another vacation day.

    The reality is much different.

    You still have to:

    • Wash dishes
    • Do laundry
    • Clean the RV
    • Run errands
    • Handle finances
    • Work, if you’re earning income remotely

    Daily responsibilities don’t disappear simply because you move into an RV.

    In fact, some full-time RVers discover they have less time for adventure than they expected.

    My Recommendation

    Be intentional about scheduling time for travel and fun experiences. Otherwise, everyday responsibilities can easily consume your time.

    6. Inconvenience Becomes Part of Everyday Life

    One word that describes full-time RV living well is:

    Inconvenience.

    Many campgrounds and boondocking locations are far from grocery stores, restaurants, medical facilities, and shopping centers.

    You may become accustomed to driving 30 minutes—or even an hour—to get groceries or other necessities that once took only five or ten minutes to reach.

    For some people, this isn’t a problem.

    For others, it becomes a major source of frustration.

    If convenience is extremely important to you, think carefully before choosing a full-time RV lifestyle.

    7. Overcrowding Has Changed the RV Experience

    The RV community has grown tremendously in recent years, especially since the COVID pandemic.

    As a result:

    • Campgrounds are more crowded.
    • Reservations are harder to get.
    • National parks often fill quickly.
    • Popular boondocking locations are busier than ever.

    Unfortunately, some newer RVers are unfamiliar with proper RV etiquette, which can occasionally create unpleasant situations.

    Even worse, some of the best boondocking areas have been damaged or permanently closed because of irresponsible behavior by a small number of campers.

    Rising Campground Costs

    Increased demand has also driven campground prices higher.

    Campgrounds and RV parks continue expanding and upgrading their facilities, and those costs are often passed on to RVers through higher campsite fees.

    Expect campground costs to continue increasing over time.

    My Recommendation

    Look for ways to reduce your camping expenses through memberships and discount programs.

    One of the best decisions we made was purchasing a Thousand Trails membership, which has saved us a tremendous amount of money over the years.

    Whatever route you choose, have a plan for controlling your camping costs.

    Is Full-Time RV Living Right for You?

    After more than five years on the road, here’s my honest assessment of the kind of person who thrives in full-time RV living.

    You should be:

    Financially Prepared

    Full-time RVing is not always inexpensive. Unexpected costs are part of the lifestyle.

    Flexible

    Almost everything about RV life involves change. Plans shift, repairs happen, weather changes, and unexpected situations arise.

    A Problem Solver

    Challenges occur regularly. The ability to solve problems calmly will make your experience much more enjoyable.

    Patient

    Inconvenience is part of the lifestyle. Patience will help you handle those frustrations far better.

    Persistent

    This may be the most important quality of all.

    If you’re persistent, you can work through the challenges and still enjoy everything that makes full-time RV living so rewarding.

    Because despite all the difficulties, the fun, adventure, and freedom are absolutely there.

    Final Thoughts

    Full-time RV living is neither a perfect dream nor a constant struggle. It’s a lifestyle filled with incredible experiences, meaningful memories, and unique challenges.

    The more honestly you understand those challenges before you start, the better prepared you’ll be to decide whether this lifestyle is truly right for you.

    If you can embrace change, solve problems, remain patient, and persist through the inevitable challenges, full-time RVing can be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life.

    Safe and happy travels, my friends. Until next time.

    The 3 Biggest Travel Trailer Buying Mistakes To Avoid

    This article is about the 3 biggest travel trailer buying mistakes that I see all the time as a certified RV inspector.

    Of course, for many people, a travel trailer is the gateway into the RV lifestyle. They’re usually the least expensive type of RV to purchase, they can be towed by a wide variety of vehicles, and they offer an affordable way to start exploring the country.

    Travel trailer RVs

    Unfortunately, that’s also why many first-time buyers end up making expensive mistakes.

    After inspecting hundreds of RVs over the years, I’ve seen the same problems appear again and again. The good news is that nearly all of them can be avoided if you know what to look for before you buy.

    Let’s look at the three biggest travel trailer buying mistakes RV shoppers make—and, more importantly, how you can avoid them.

    Quick Answer

    The three biggest travel trailer buying mistakes that shoppers make are:

    • Buying a trailer that exceeds their tow vehicle’s capabilities.
    • Purchasing a poor-quality RV that doesn’t fit their camping style.
    • Skipping a professional RV inspection before taking ownership.

    Avoiding these three mistakes can save you thousands of dollars and countless hours of frustration.

    The biggest travel trailer buying mistakes

    Table of Contents

    Mistake #1: Buying More Trailer Than Your Tow Vehicle Can Handle

    Perhaps the most common—and potentially dangerous—mistake is choosing a travel trailer that’s simply too much for the tow vehicle.

    Not matching the travel trailer with the tow vehicle is one of the biggest travel trailer buying mistakes

    If you’ve spent much time on the highway, you’ve probably seen it yourself. The rear of the truck is sagging, the trailer appears to be pushing the tow vehicle around, and the entire combination just doesn’t look stable.

    Unfortunately, that’s usually because it isn’t.

    Why Does This Happen?

    In many cases, buyers are simply getting bad advice.

    Sometimes it comes from a salesperson eager to make a sale.

    “Sure, your truck can tow it.”

    Sometimes it comes from a well-meaning friend who has limited towing experience.

    Neither opinion is nearly as valuable as knowing the actual weight ratings.

    Learn The Weight Ratings

    The problem isn’t that weight ratings are difficult—they really aren’t.

    In fact, there are only a handful of numbers you need to understand, including:

    • GVWR
    • GCWR
    • Payload capacity
    • Tongue weight
    • Tow rating

    Once you understand how those numbers work together, matching a tow vehicle to a travel trailer becomes much easier.

    Don’t Guess—Weigh Your RV

    Even after you’ve purchased your trailer, your job isn’t finished.

    Many owners continue loading camping gear until every cabinet and storage compartment is full, assuming that if everything fits, everything must be fine.

    Unfortunately, that’s simply not true.

    A travel trailer can exceed its weight rating long before it runs out of storage space.

    That’s why it’s a smart idea to visit a CAT Scale or another certified public scale after loading your trailer for a trip. The cost is minimal, but the information you receive is invaluable.

    CAT scale

    The Cost Of Getting It Wrong

    An overloaded towing combination can create several problems:

    • Poor handling
    • Longer stopping distances
    • Increased sway
    • Premature wear on the tow vehicle
    • Transmission damage
    • Suspension damage
    • Tire failures

    More importantly, it creates unnecessary safety risks for you and everyone else sharing the road.

    Mistake #2: Buying The Wrong Travel Trailer

    Once buyers feel confident about towing, they often make another costly mistake.

    They buy the wrong RV.

    Not necessarily the wrong floorplan—but the wrong travel trailer.

    The Dealer Experience

    Many buyers visit a dealership before they’ve done much research.

    As soon as they arrive, a salesperson begins showing them various models.

    While many salespeople are honest and helpful, it’s important to remember that their job is selling RVs—not necessarily helping you find the best RV for your unique needs.

    Bad RV salesperson

    Without realizing it, buyers often end up looking at trailers the dealership wants to sell rather than the ones that truly fit their lifestyle.

    Looking At The Wrong Priorities

    There’s nothing wrong with considering:

    • Floorplans
    • Furniture
    • Interior colors
    • Décor
    • Appliances
    • Entertainment features

    Those things certainly matter.

    The mistake happens when those features become more important than build quality.

    A beautiful travel trailer that spends months in the repair shop isn’t much of a bargain.

    Brand Quality Matters

    One misconception I hear regularly is that “all RV brands are basically the same.”

    They’re not.

    Some manufacturers consistently build better products than others.

    Learning which brands have earned a reputation for better construction can dramatically improve your buying experience.

    Be Careful With Social Media Advice

    Unfortunately, many buyers turn to Facebook groups and online forums for guidance.

    While social media can sometimes provide helpful information, it can also become an echo chamber of misinformation.

    Beware of social media advice

    You’ll often find:

    • Contradictory advice
    • Emotional opinions
    • Brand loyalty battles
    • Isolated horror stories
    • Recommendations based on very limited experience

    Rather than relying solely on social media, spend time learning from experienced inspectors, technicians, and educational resources.

    Full-Time Living Requires A Different Kind Of Trailer

    This is another mistake I see regularly.

    Some buyers plan to live in their travel trailer full-time but purchase an inexpensive entry-level model designed for occasional weekend camping.

    That rarely ends well.

    Most entry-level travel trailers simply weren’t designed for the continuous use that full-time living demands.

    If full-time RVing is your goal, invest in a trailer built to withstand that lifestyle.

    Mistake #3: Skipping The RV Inspection

    Finally, there’s one mistake that can turn an exciting purchase into months of frustration.

    Skipping the professional RV inspection. In fact, this is one of the most common of the biggest travel trailer buying mistakes that is made.

    Unfortunately, this happens far too often.

    What Usually Happens

    The typical buying process looks something like this:

    The buyer purchases the RV.

    They take it camping.

    Problems begin appearing almost immediately.

    They return to the dealership.

    The repairs take weeks—or sometimes months.

    Before long, the excitement of owning an RV has been replaced by disappointment.

    Why An RV Inspection Matters

    A certified RV inspector can discover many of these issues before you ever take possession of the RV.

    Hire a certified RV inspector

    That gives you the opportunity to have repairs completed while the RV is still the dealer’s responsibility.

    Instead of discovering problems on your first camping trip, you can begin enjoying your RV with much greater confidence.

    “I Can’t Afford An Inspection”

    I occasionally hear buyers say they simply can’t afford an RV inspection.

    My response is straightforward.

    If an RV inspection stretches the budget beyond its limit, then the RV itself may already be beyond that budget.

    Compared to the purchase price of a travel trailer—and the cost of unexpected repairs—a professional inspection is one of the best investments you can make.

    Travel trailers are also among the least expensive RVs to inspect, making the value even greater.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is the biggest mistake first-time travel trailer buyers make?

    The most common mistake is buying a trailer that’s too heavy for their tow vehicle because they don’t fully understand towing weight ratings.

    Should I trust the tow rating published by my truck manufacturer?

    It’s a good starting point, but you also need to consider payload capacity, tongue weight, passengers, cargo, and the loaded weight of the trailer.

    Is a professional RV inspection really worth it?

    Absolutely. A certified RV inspection can uncover expensive problems before you finalize the purchase and may save you thousands of dollars in repairs.

    Can I rely on social media when choosing an RV brand?

    Social media can provide useful experiences, but it should never be your only source of information. Opinions often conflict, and many recommendations are based on limited experience.

    Are travel trailers good for full-time living?

    Some are, but many entry-level travel trailers are designed primarily for weekend camping and vacations. If you plan to live in your RV full-time, choose a model specifically built for extended use.

    Final Thoughts

    Buying a travel trailer should be exciting—not stressful.

    Fortunately, avoiding the biggest mistakes isn’t complicated. Learn how towing weights work, choose a travel trailer based on quality instead of appearance alone, and never skip the professional inspection.

    Those three steps alone can dramatically improve your chances of buying a travel trailer you’ll enjoy for years instead of one that spends far too much time in the repair shop.

    Safe and happy travels, my friends.

    Best RV Slide-Out Systems: Which One Is Right for Your RV?

    So what is the best RV slide-out system? Let’s talk about that!

    As a certified RV inspector, I’ve inspected hundreds of RVs with every major slide-out system currently on the market.

    And when you’re shopping for a new or used RV, one feature you’re almost guaranteed to encounter is the slide-out room. Slide-outs have become one of the most popular features on both towable RVs and motorhomes because they dramatically increase the available living space.

    Not everyone is a fan of slide-outs, however. Some RV buyers purposely avoid them because they’ve heard stories about expensive repairs, water leaks, or slide failures. Those concerns are understandable. Like any mechanical system, slide-outs require maintenance and can occasionally develop problems.

    Even so, most RV owners decide the added interior space is well worth the tradeoff.

    If you’ve ever stepped inside an RV with opposing slide-outs, you know exactly what I mean. When both rooms are extended, the interior suddenly feels much more like a small apartment than an RV.

    The key is understanding that not all RV slide-out systems are the same.

    Some are designed to move very large, heavy slide rooms. Others are intended only for smaller bedroom or wardrobe slides. Choosing the right system—and knowing whether it’s being used correctly—can make a significant difference in long-term reliability.

    Let’s take a closer look at the five most common RV slide-out systems, how they work, and the pros and cons of each.

    You can also choose to watch my video on this subject by clicking on the image below:

    The best RV slide-out system

    Quick Answer: If you’re looking for the most reliable RV slide-out system, I recommend the electric through-the-frame rack-and-pinion system. It’s proven, durable, handles heavy slide rooms exceptionally well, and is relatively easy to repair if something eventually wears out.

    Table of Contents

    Electric Through-the-Frame Rack and Pinion Slide System

    If I had to describe one slide mechanism as the workhorse of the RV industry, this would be it.

    The electric through-the-frame rack and pinion system has been around for many years. It’s proven, dependable, and capable of handling extremely heavy slide rooms.

    Electric through-the-frame rack and pinion slide system

    Many higher-quality RV manufacturers continue to use this system on their largest slides because of its strength and durability.

    How It Works

    An electric motor drives gears connected to steel rack-and-pinion arms that extend through the RV frame. Those arms push the slide room out and pull it back in.

    Rack and pinion gears

    Some buyers become concerned when they notice openings cut through the RV frame for these arms. Fortunately, this usually isn’t an issue. Manufacturers reinforce the frame around these openings, and I have not seen widespread structural problems associated with this design.

    Advantages

    • Extremely reliable
    • Excellent for large and heavy slide rooms
    • Proven design with years of successful use
    • Electric motor is generally easy to service or replace
    • Manual retraction is available if the motor fails

    Disadvantages

    • Slightly heavier than some newer systems
    • Requires through-frame installation

    Overall, this remains my favorite slide system because of its excellent reliability and long service history.

    Hydraulic Through-the-Frame Rack and Pinion System

    Hydraulic slide systems are another excellent choice, especially on larger luxury RVs.

    Instead of using an electric motor to move the slide room, this system uses hydraulic cylinders (also called hydraulic rams).

    Hydraulic rack and pinion rv slide system

    One thing that surprises many new RV owners is just how quickly hydraulic slides move.

    The first time you watch one extend, it almost seems too fast. Don’t worry—that’s completely normal.

    Advantages

    • Extremely powerful
    • Handles very heavy slide rooms with ease
    • Smooth operation
    • Often includes manual retraction if hydraulic pressure is lost

    Disadvantages

    The biggest drawback isn’t reliability—it’s control.

    Many hydraulic systems operate multiple slide-outs simultaneously. Rather than controlling each slide independently, pressing one button may move two or more slides at the same time.

    This isn’t necessarily a problem, but it’s something buyers should know before purchasing.

    Schwintek Slide System

    Few RV slide systems have generated as much discussion as the Schwintek system.

    Unfortunately, much of its reputation comes from being used in situations where it really wasn’t designed to operate.

    Schwintek rv slide-out system

    Why Schwintek Gets a Bad Reputation

    The Schwintek system performs very well when it’s used exactly as intended.

    Problems usually occur when manufacturers install it on oversized or particularly heavy slide rooms. Those larger slides place much greater stress on the mechanism, increasing the likelihood of failures.

    In many cases, the slide system receives the blame when the real issue is improper application.

    Where Schwintek Excels

    The Schwintek system works exceptionally well on:

    • Bedroom slides
    • Wardrobe slides
    • Smaller kitchen slides
    • Lightweight slide-outs

    Advantages

    • Lightweight
    • Reliable when used correctly
    • Smooth operation
    • Manual retraction available

    Disadvantages

    • Not ideal for large or super slides
    • Can experience synchronization issues if overloaded

    When matched with the proper size slide room, I’ve found the Schwintek system to be much more reliable than many people believe.

    Cable Slide Systems

    Cable-operated slide systems have also received their share of criticism over the years.

    Once again, much of that criticism comes from improper maintenance rather than poor design.

    How Cable Slides Work

    Heavy-duty steel cables pull the slide room in and out using pulleys located around the slide opening.

    Cable RV slide-out system

    These cables must remain properly tensioned to operate correctly.

    Advantages

    • Lightweight
    • Reliable when maintained properly
    • Works well on smaller slide rooms

    Disadvantages

    The biggest downside is space.

    Unlike many other slide mechanisms, the cable system’s operating components are typically mounted inside the RV above the slide opening.

    That equipment usually occupies about five inches of interior space that other slide systems don’t require.

    Cable maintenance is also important.

    Owners should regularly inspect for:

    • Frayed cables
    • Loose cable tension
    • Signs of wear

    If the cables remain in good condition, these systems generally perform very well.

    Manual retraction is usually possible unless a cable has actually broken.

    SlimRack Slide System

    SlimRack is one of the newer slide systems entering the RV market.

    In many ways, it resembles the Schwintek system, although it appears to have a more robust design.

    Slim-rack RV slide-out system

    Advantages

    • Compact design
    • Stronger appearance than Schwintek
    • Manual retraction available
    • Performs well on smaller slide rooms

    Potential Concerns

    One trend I’ve begun noticing concerns me.

    Some manufacturers are installing SlimRack systems on very large or super slide rooms.

    When I inspect these installations, I often see the mechanism under significant stress.

    While time will ultimately tell how these systems perform over the long term, I would currently be cautious about buying an RV with SlimRack installed on particularly large slide-outs.

    For smaller slides, however, I think the system is perfectly acceptable.

    Which Is The Best RV Slide-Out System?

    This is the question I hear most often.

    The honest answer is that all five systems can perform very well when they’re used for the type of slide room they were designed to handle.

    That’s the important part.

    No slide mechanism can compensate for being asked to move more weight than it was engineered to carry.

    If manufacturers match the proper slide system to the proper slide room, and owners perform regular maintenance, most slide systems provide years of dependable service.

    That said, if I had to choose my personal favorite, my rankings would look like this:

    1. Electric through-the-frame rack and pinion
    2. Hydraulic through-the-frame rack and pinion
    3. Schwintek (for smaller slides only)
    4. Cable slide system (when properly maintained)
    5. SlimRack (primarily on smaller slides)

    The electric through-the-frame rack and pinion system continues to earn my top recommendation as the best RV slide-out system overall because it’s proven, durable, easy to service, and capable of handling almost any slide room manufacturers build today.

    Don’t Forget About Slide Maintenance

    Regardless of which slide mechanism your RV uses, proper maintenance is essential.

    Routine inspections can identify small problems before they become expensive repairs.

    Regular maintenance should include:

    • Cleaning slide seals
    • Inspecting rubber wiper seals
    • Checking slide alignment
    • Looking for loose fasteners
    • Inspecting cables or gears (depending on the system)
    • Keeping mechanisms clean
    • Following your manufacturer’s lubrication recommendations

    Taking just a little time each season can dramatically increase the lifespan of your RV’s slide-out system.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Which RV slide-out system is the most reliable?

    In my experience, the electric through-the-frame rack and pinion system has the best long-term reliability. It’s been around for many years, handles heavy slide rooms well, and is relatively easy to repair if problems develop.

    Are hydraulic slide systems better than electric?

    Not necessarily. Hydraulic systems excel at moving very heavy slide rooms quickly and smoothly, but electric rack-and-pinion systems offer excellent reliability while allowing independent control of individual slides.

    Is the Schwintek slide system unreliable?

    Not when it’s used correctly. Most Schwintek problems occur when manufacturers install the system on oversized slide rooms that exceed its intended capabilities. On smaller bedroom and wardrobe slides, it generally performs very well.

    Are cable slide systems dependable?

    Yes, provided they’re properly maintained. Regular inspections for frayed cables and proper cable tension go a long way toward preventing problems.

    Should I avoid buying an RV with slide-outs?

    For most RV buyers, no. Slide-outs greatly improve interior living space and comfort. While they do require maintenance, the benefits usually outweigh the potential drawbacks.

    How often should RV slide-outs be inspected?

    I recommend inspecting your slide-outs before every major trip and performing a more thorough inspection at least twice each year. Catching small issues early is far less expensive than repairing a failed slide mechanism.

    Final Thoughts

    Slide-outs have transformed the RV industry by making modern RVs far more comfortable and spacious than ever before. While every slide mechanism has its own strengths and weaknesses, none of them should automatically be considered “good” or “bad.”

    The real key is making sure the slide system is being used for the type and weight of slide room it was designed to move.

    If that happens—and you keep up with regular maintenance—you’ll likely enjoy years of trouble-free operation.

    Personally, I continue to give the edge to the electric through-the-frame rack and pinion system because of its proven reliability, strength, and serviceability. So that’s my selection as the best RV slide-out system!

    Hydraulic systems come in a close second, especially on larger luxury RVs.

    As with nearly every aspect of RV ownership, a little knowledge goes a long way. Understanding how these systems work will help you make a more informed buying decision and keep your RV performing its best for years to come.

    If you’d like to learn how to properly inspect and maintain your RV’s slide-outs, be sure to watch my slide maintenance video. A little preventative care today can save you from a very expensive repair tomorrow.

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