Living fulltime in a Class B RV
In this short guide, we will discuss: Is living fulltime in a Class B RV possible? We will explain the pros and cons of living in a Class B RV, the costs and the things to take into consideration before moving.
Is living fulltime in a Class B RV possible?
Living fulltime in a Class B RV is more than possible. The B-Class is probably the hottest model right now due to the #vanlife craze. And its popularity is justified! These converted valves are very flashy and efficient, perfect for nomads who need the minimum! Class B often has a table that converts into a bed and an efficient small bathroom that serves as a shower, sink and toilet.
- Pros: These RVs are very handy for their ease of driving and the fact that they can be parked almost anywhere. Their gas mileage is also lower than a standard RV and maintenance costs tend to be cheaper too!
- Cons: You might feel a bit stuck after living in a B-Class for a while. Naturally, due to their small size, they offer less storage space and facilities than other types of RVs.
Why live fulltime in a Class B RV?
If you like to take short and frequent trips, but get carried away by the idea of making all the travel arrangements, the Class B motorhome is a good option to consider. B class RVs are a modified version of the cargo vans with a top roof and sometimes wider sides.
The appeal of these vehicles is that they come equipped with facilities for the basic necessities of life. By choosing a Class B motorhome, you are avoiding a problem that is often the bone of contention and a burden on your finances – accommodation.
- Why do you want to buy an RV? Class B motorhomes are good for short trips during the weekend or short vacations. Check how many people will be travelling on these trips, use this information to decide the size of your vehicle
- What size RV is right for your needs? Class B motorhomes vary in their dimensions, with the general length from 16 to 21 feet. Look at the specifications and photos of the different models. Smaller vehicles are easier to drive and park, but they can be overwhelming when it comes to living space and storage.
Use space as your main criteria because crowded conditions don’t make for a big party. Although you can spend less time in the caravan than outside, you will have to stay in if the weather is bad. Fine-tune the choice of two or three options. Find and write down details of dealers that sell the models you are interested in
- Pay a visit to the dealerships. Take a look at the models you are interested in. Examine the interior carefully to see the space allocated for sleeping, cooking and eating. Pay attention to toilets always – it should include properly mounted water reservoir tanks. Visualize what it will be like when all the people travelling occupy the vehicle.
- Choose wisely. Striking a balance between size and drivability. Larger vehicles are comfortable, but they also mean difficulties in driving, parking, and higher toll rates. Decide how much you are willing to pay for the Class B motorhome, factor in fuel costs, and take into account the likelihood of repairs over time.
More tips for living in an RV full time
Living full-time in an RV isn’t the same as living in a house. Here are some tips to make sure you can do it. Make a list of all your essentials, go visit a motorhome and imagine where you would store your things.
The advantages of living in an RV full time:
- No routine, feeling of always travelling and living in the present.
- Possibility of reducing your lifestyle (by choosing a less expensive country).
- Living with fewer ties means living a little freer.
The disadvantages of full-time life in an RV:
- You will have to live in a cramped space with less stuff.
- As a couple, you will have less privacy and will have to support each other despite the closeness. Solo, the feeling of loneliness, of course.
- Buying a motorhome is not an investment for your old age. Unlike a house, you won’t sell it for more than you bought it.
Other questions you may be interested in
Can Class B RV fit in the garage?
Why does Class B Cost More Than Class C?
The costs of living fulltime in a Class B RV
Yes, living in an RV comes at a cost, and often much more than what people might expect. For more readability and understanding, I will refer to monthly expenses for two people. Annual expenses will be reduced to the month.
- Vehicle purchase price – First, there is the purchase price of the vehicle, from a few thousand dollars for an old converted van to a few tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars for the most expensive new motorhomes.
Whether you are buying new or used, you should keep in mind that you will be reselling your vehicle one day or another.
To find out the monthly cost of your vehicle, therefore, subtract the resale price from the purchase price. Then you just have to divide the amount obtained by the number of months that you have kept it.
Take the example of a used motorhome bought at $15,000, and sold for $10,000 two years later. Here is the monthly cost obtained: 15000-10000 / 24 = $208.33
- Become a minimalist. It’s making sure that you can live on little, or at least a lot less, than what you have today. Fewer clothes, fewer pairs of shoes, gadgets etc. Could you live in a space as small as a motorhome without most of your personal items? It is not easy.
- Have a good reason to live in a motorhome. This is fundamental. Don’t go on a whim. The risk is to regret this choice quickly. For most full-time RVers, it’s the desire to see new places. Seeing the world is a great reason to choose a motorhome. Meeting new people is another. Either way, you need a reason, and a good one.
- Have the necessary funds. Whether you are a self-employed entrepreneur or your boss allows you to work from home, whether you are retired or have won the lotto, you must finance your project. And as we saw above, RV life costs more than most people imagine. Do your expense calculations well and set aside money accordingly.
If your motorhome breaks down, you may have to pay for a hotel room for one or more nights. Unless you are near an acquaintance who can accommodate you. Whatever happens, have an emergency fund for exceptional situations.
Final advice
If you want to live full time in a Class B RV, take the time to do your research. I cannot stress this enough, especially if you are considering buying a used motorhome. Be more than vigilant, take your time. It would be a shame if after a few days or a week you did not feel well in your new motorhome.
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FAQ on Living fulltime in a Class B RV
Why are Class B RVs so expensive?
Class B RVs are more expensive than Class A or C motorhomes because there aren’t so many models on the market and they are often made from more expensive materials. Class B motorhomes are compact and shorter when compared to Class A. They look like equipped vans, giving the B-Class the nickname motorhome or conversion van.
Why live in a Class B RV?
If you like to take short and frequent trips, but get carried away by the idea of making all the travel arrangements, the Class B motorhome is a good option to consider. B class RVs are a modified version of the cargo vans with a top roof and sometimes wider sides.
What is the cost of living in an RV vs a house?
Living in an RV can certainly be cheaper than living in a house or apartment. The cost of living in the United States is more expensive than in 79% of countries in the world, no wonder many choose the RV life! The estimated monthly costs for a single person in the US is $2,611 – and that price can be brought down if you choose to live in a motorhome.
