What is the best RV for full-time living?
Because Class A motorhomes have the most space and amenities, they're often considered the best RVs to live in full-time. While Class C motorhomes are smaller, they're typically more affordable and boast plenty of amenities. If you desire a travel trailer for your full-time residence, fifth wheels can offer considerable space and regularly have multiple slide-outs to expand your living area. Smaller RVs may limit your ability to store supplies and the comforts of home that you want for full-time living, so make sure you choose an RV with sufficient carrying capacity.
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How to choose the best RV for full-time living
Your first decision as a full-time RVer is to choose between a motorhome and travel trailer. Motorhomes are driven and take practice to maneuver when they're the size of a bus. Trailers require a tow vehicle. Even small trailers hooked up to a standard-size vehicle require practice to drive because they add length and move independently in turns.
With a towable travel trailer, you can unhitch the towing vehicle to make supply runs or day trips. If you have a motorhome, you must drive it when you need supplies or tow a car to use for excursions.
Here are three additional factors to consider when buying an RV to live in year-round:
Cost
The best RV to live in full-time is one you can afford without worry. When setting your budget, consider how much you can spend upfront and how much you can afford for running costs like campground fees, RV insurance, and fuel.
If you don't already have an adequate tow vehicle, include that in your budget. If you can't afford a new RV with the features or size you need, you may be able to buy a used RV and make upgrades or changes.
Size and carrying capacity
There are limitations on how big an RV can be and still be roadworthy. Many campgrounds and national parks have stringent rules about size. Smaller RVs may be better if you want the greatest flexibility for travel. However, some RVs — like truck campers — are minimal, which may limit your ability to RV in the winter or keep enough supplies on hand for longer trips.
RV size isn't just about the vehicle's length. Every RV has a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) — the total weight of the RV itself plus any supplies and belongings you carry. Depending on the size of your water and gas reservoirs, even a large RV may not be weighted to carry as much as you need. The best RVs for full-time living will have enough carrying capacity that allow you to bring the comforts of home.
Durability
Your motorhome or travel trailer must be able to withstand severe weather and constant use when you live in your RV full-time. Make sure your motorhome or trailer has good insulation and weatherproof seals to handle various climates.
Construction is also especially crucial when your RV doubles as your permanent home. RVs built with solid frames and high-quality materials, such as aluminum or fiberglass, can prove durable against daily wear and tear. In addition, your RV's plumbing, electrical and heating/cooling systems should be reliable and robust.
Which motorhomes and travel trailers are best for full-time living?
Here are the leading types of RVs if you plan to use a motorhome or travel trailer as your permanent residence:
- Class A motorhomes: Large and luxurious, these motorhomes have full kitchens, washer/dryer units and other residential-style appliances, and ample room to relax. They're often equipped with multiple bathrooms (including showers)—ideal if you have a family. If larger class A motorhomes seem too expensive and harder to maneuver, smaller class A motorhomes can still offer a spacious interior. Check out the top 5 class A RVs, according to Outdoorsy. Learn more about Class A motorhome insurance.
- Class C motorhomes: Smaller than class As, but with plenty of amenities, these "mini-motorhomes" generally offer good storage space, fuel efficiency, handling (they're built on a truck chassis) and modern, comfortable interiors. They often come with a cab-over bunk, which is perfect for extra sleeping space or another storage option. Camper Report lists the five best class C floor plans for full-timers. Learn more about Class C motorhome insurance.
- Fifth wheels: With high ceilings, multiple slide outs, and separate living areas, fifth wheels can provide a mix of comfort and practicality. The hitch design offers stability and easy towing functionality if you're a full-timer with plans to travel frequently. Fifth wheels often have more storage space than other RV types and many come with large bathrooms and full-sized kitchen appliances. See morethanaweelin.com's picks for the best fifth wheels for full-timers. Learn more about fifth wheel insurance.
Do you need insurance if you live in your RV full-time?
While "full-time" RV insurance isn't required by law, nearly every state mandates RV insurance before you can drive your motorhome. If you live in a travel trailer or motorhome, RV insurance can be a critical in protecting your home against theft, vandalism, fire, weather, and more. A full-timers RV policy also offers coverage if you're liable for injuries or damages while your RV is stationary. Additionally, loss assessment coverage can cover fees charged by an RV association to pay for repairs to common areas of an RV park.
Find out more about full-time RV insurance.
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