The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Perfect RV for Full-Time Travel

April Singh
Feb 9
3 min read

Updated: 4 days ago

Choosing the right RV for full-time travel can feel overwhelming. After all, this vehicle will be your home, office, and adventure base for months or even years. I’ve spent a lot of time researching and living on the road, and I want to share what I’ve learned about picking an RV that fits your lifestyle, budget, and travel goals.

Eye-level view of a modern RV parked in a forest clearing — Determine if you need to tow a vehicle or are bringing outdoor toys for adventure.

Understand Your Travel Style and Needs for Full time RV Travel

Before you start looking at RV models for full time RV travel, think about how you plan to use your RV. Will you be traveling solo, as a couple, or with family? Do you want to stay mostly in campgrounds with hookups, or do you prefer boondocking in remote areas? Your travel style affects the size, features, and systems you need.

Solo or Couple Travelers often prefer smaller, more maneuverable RVs like camper vans or small travel trailers. They offer easier driving and parking.
Families or Groups need more space, so Class A or Class C motorhomes, or larger fifth wheels, might be better.
Boondockers should look for RVs with larger water tanks, solar panels, and off-grid capabilities.
Frequent Movers benefit from lightweight models that are easy to tow or drive.

Knowing your travel style helps narrow down your options and focus on what matters most.

Set a Realistic Budget

Full-time RV living involves more than just the purchase price. You’ll need to budget for maintenance, insurance, fuel, campground fees, and occasional repairs. Here’s how to approach your budget:

Purchase Price: New RVs can cost anywhere from $30,000 to over $300,000. Used RVs offer savings but may require more upkeep.
Ongoing Costs: Fuel can be a major expense, especially for large motorhomes. Insurance varies by vehicle type and coverage.
Maintenance: Plan for regular servicing of engines, appliances, and plumbing.
Upgrades: You might want to add solar panels, better insulation, or tech upgrades.

I recommend setting a clear budget range and sticking to it. Don’t forget to factor in your lifestyle expenses on the road.

Choose the Right RV Type

There are several types of RVs, each with pros and cons for full-time travel. Here’s a quick overview:

Class A Motorhomes

Large, bus-like vehicles with plenty of space and amenities. Great for comfort but expensive and harder to drive.

Class B Motorhomes (Camper Vans)

Compact and easy to drive. Ideal for solo travelers or couples who want mobility and simplicity.

Class C Motorhomes

Mid-sized with a distinctive cab-over bed. Balance between space and drivability.

Travel Trailers

Towable by a truck or SUV. Wide range of sizes and layouts. You need a suitable tow vehicle.

Fifth Wheels

Larger towable trailers that connect to a truck bed. Offer spacious interiors but require a heavy-duty truck.

Think about your driving comfort, parking needs, and whether you want a motorized or towable RV.

Prioritize Essential Features

Full-time living means your RV must feel like home. Here are features to prioritize:

Sleeping Arrangements: Comfortable beds with enough space for everyone.
Kitchen Facilities: A stove, fridge, and enough counter space for cooking.
Bathroom: A full bathroom with shower is a must for many travelers.
Storage: Ample storage inside and outside for clothes, gear, and supplies.
Climate Control: Heating and air conditioning for different weather conditions.
Power Systems: Solar panels, batteries, and generators for off-grid power.
Water Capacity: Large fresh water and grey/black water tanks for longer stays without hookups.

Test these features in person if possible. What looks good on paper might feel cramped or inconvenient in reality.

Close-up view of an RV kitchen with stove, sink, and storage cabinets — If you love to cook, choose a kitchen that will work for you.

Inspect and Test Drive Before Buying

If you buy used, a thorough inspection is critical. Look for:

Water damage or leaks
Engine and transmission condition (for motorhomes)
Tires and brakes
Appliances and plumbing
Electrical systems

Take the RV for a test drive to check handling, visibility, and comfort. If you’re new to RV driving, consider renting a similar model first to get a feel for it.