Embarking on the journey of full-time RV living is a dream for many, offering freedom, adventure and the opportunity to explore the country from the comfort of your own home on wheels. While fifth wheels often steal the spotlight in discussions about full-time RVing, travel trailers have their own unique appeal, especially for couples seeking a cozy and manageable living space. We have narrowed down what we feel is the best travel trailer for full-time living! Let’s explore why travel trailers may just be the best RV for full-time living based on the experience and insight of seasoned nomads…us!
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When it comes to selecting the best travel trailer for full-time living, there are several key factors to consider including space, amenities and overall comfort. Drawing from firsthand experiences as an empty nest couple, our journey begins with a reflection on the unexpected circumstances that led us to embrace full-time RV life with the travel trailer we already had!
The Appeal of Travel Trailers for Full-Time Living
When we dreamed about full-time RV life, we always pictured ourselves in a fifth wheel. When we were faced with an unexpected life change that gave us the opportunity to pursue full-time RV life, we decided to hit the road with what we had, our 28’ travel trailer that we had just purchased for road trips 13 months prior! After all, the day we decided to purchase it, we looked at each other and jokingly said, “We could TOTALLY live in this!” While a fifth wheel may have been the initial goal for our dream of full-time RV life one day many years down the road, our experience on the road has affirmed our love for travel trailers. Here are some reasons why travel trailers are our top choice for full-time living especially for empty nest couples.
Cost-Effectiveness
In terms of affordability, travel trailers often present a more budget-friendly option for full-time RV living. They are typically less expensive than fifth wheels, require a smaller tow vehicle and offer manageable costs for solar installations (if desired), making them an attractive choice for nomads on a budget.
Comfort and Customization
Despite their compact size, travel trailers can offer ample comfort and customization options. From spacious kitchens and dining areas to cozy bedrooms and functional workspaces, travel trailers are designed to maximize living space and enhance the overall RVing experience.
Versatility
Travel trailers offer versatility. With the ability to fit into national parks and navigate through tighter spaces, travel trailers provide the freedom to explore diverse landscapes with less limitations than fifth wheels.
Is there a Best RV for Full-Time Living?
Everyone is going to have different wants and needs when it comes to full-time RV living. While brands and quality differ, each person also has their own standard for quality which can differ greatly from person to person. Finding the best RV for full-time living for you and your situation is the goal. We are sharing our opinion based on our standard for quality and our personal experience, but our standards, wants and needs may be very different from yours.
Exploring Our Top 2 Picks
As experienced nomads who have explored countless models and floor plans, we’ve narrowed down our top picks for travel trailers ideal for full-time RV living.
The Grand Design Imagine series stands out for its thoughtful design, build quality, spacious interiors and four-season protection package, especially the heated and enclosed underbelly and dump valves and designated heat duct to subfloor.
1. Grand Design Imagine 2670MK
Features like opposing slides, ample kitchen storage and counter space, the beautiful kitchen island, cozy theater recliner seating and a designated workspace make it our favorite and a favorite among couples seeking comfort and functionality on the road.
2. Grand Design Imagine 2970RL
While you don’t get the designated workspace in this model, you do get something the 2670MK doesn’t have, which is the theater seating plus a sleeper sofa with side tables. The dining area can easily become a multipurpose workspace. We also love the large kitchen island (larger than the 2670MK) and the spacious pantry.
Pros and Cons of Living in a Travel Trailer Full Time
While travel trailers offer numerous benefits for full-time RV living, it’s important to consider potential drawbacks as well.
Pros of living in a travel trailer:
Versatility: Travel trailers offer greater flexibility in terms of campsite options, truck size and ease of towing
Cost-Effectiveness: Travel trailers are often more affordable than larger RVs, making them accessible to a wider range of nomads.
Comfort: Despite their compact size, travel trailers are cozy and comfortable!
Cons of living in a travel trailer:
Limited Storage Space: Storage space is definitely more limited in a travel trailer compared to a fifth wheel. The outdoor storage compartments are also smaller.
Smaller Tank Sizes: Travel trailers have smaller tank sizes compared to fifth wheels which can pose a challenge if extended boondocking is a goal.
Smaller Living Area: You definitely don’t have the larger living areas that fifth wheels offer.
Tips for Choosing the Best RV for Full Time Living
As you’re searching for the best RV travel trailer, make a list of things you aren’t willing to compromise on. We carefully considered our daily life and how we spent our time when we purchased our second travel trailer. In addition, our first travel trailer was a two-season RV, and we quickly realized that a four-season protection package was going to be a must have. Our list of non-negotiables included:
Desk area
Comfortable seating
Kitchen island
Ample pantry space
Overall storage space
Four season protection package
Things we considered when we were looking for our RV:
What will we be able to access on travel days? Can we get to the kitchen? Bathroom? Bedroom?
Is the seating comfortable?
When we’re cooking our normal meals, do we have enough prep space?
Where will I put our small appliances in the kitchen that we NEED to have with us?
Will there be enough space for groceries, dishes, pots, pans and other kitchen items?
Is the shower a good size for our needs?
Is there enough vanity counter space for me to do my makeup? Dry my hair?
Is there enough closet and drawer space in the bedroom?
Are there enough outlets throughout the RV, and are they conveniently located?
We knew to never expect the stock RV mattresses to be comfortable so that was never on our list. Lol
Final Thoughts: The Most Important Thing You Can Do Before You Make Your Decision
In conclusion, the best travel trailer for full-time living ultimately depends on your individual preferences, lifestyle requirements and budget considerations. Whether you prioritize versatility, comfort or affordability, there’s a travel trailer out there to suit your needs. Our number one recommendation before jumping into the full-time RV lifestyle is to try before you buy. We rented an RV through Outdoorsy which was such a fun adventure but also gave us time to assess our wants and needs. When you rent an RV, preferably one of the models that has made it to the top of your list, you have time to live in it and see how it all feels, think about where you will put things, and decide if there is too much or not enough space. By exploring different models, renting before you buy and carefully assessing your must-have features, you can make an informed decision and embark on the adventure of a lifetime with confidence!
Get packing, hitch up your trailer and hit the road to endless possibilities and unforgettable experiences in your dream travel trailer for full-time RV living! We hope to see you on the road!