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8 Best RV Travel Trailers for Full-Time RV Living Adventure in 2024

• Last Updated: February 25, 2024
• 25 minutes read

Selecting the right travel trailer for full-time living can be an overwhelming decision.

Yet, after rigorously testing over thirty models myself, focusing on comfort, durability, and practicality, I’ve come to find that not all RVs are cut out for the lifestyle.

Finding an RV that can truly be called a home is key for those looking to transition into full-time RV living .

Some crucial factors include space, amenities, and how well they can support the everyday needs of full-time dwellers, from solo adventurers to families .

Out of the many I explored, the Winnebago – Micro Minnie 2108DS stood out for its exceptional balance of comfort, functionality, and mobility, making it my top pick for the best overall travel trailer for this purpose.

It’s a prime example of how a thoughtful layout and design can make a space feel like a true home on wheels.

Based on my experience, the top travel trailers for full-time living are:

• Winnebago – Micro Minnie 2108DS : Best overall for full-time living with its compact efficiency.
• Grand Design – Imagine XLS 22RBE : Great for couples seeking comfort and luxury on the road.
• Coachmen – Apex 284BHSS : Ideal for families, offering spacious living and sleeping areas.
• Airstream – Flying Cloud 30FB Office : Perfect for remote workers, featuring a dedicated office space.
• Palomino – Solaire 320 TSBH : Top choice for entertainment, featuring multiple TVs and spacious seating areas.
• Coachmen – Catalina Legacy Edition 343BHTS : Excellent for larger families, with generous living spaces and multiple bedrooms.
• Forest River – Cherokee Wolf Pack Gold 27GOLD10 Toy Hauler Travel Trailer : Best for adventure lovers, with ample storage for outdoor gear.
• Jayco – Jay Flight Bungalow 40RLTS Destination Travel Trailer : A fantastic option for those preferring stationary living with the comforts of a full-size home.

What to Look for in a Travel Trailer for Full-Time Living

Your preferred travel and lifestyle are going to be the biggest factor that determines the features you prioritize in a travel trailer for full-time living.

When shopping for the model that suits your family best, consider the following factors.

Where You Will Stay

Are you the type of person/family that likes to stay in well-appointed RV parks with tons of resources available, or do you love to boondock off the grid for several days at a time.

If you do love to dry camp, then you’ll want to prioritize a travel trailer with large waste and fresh water storage tanks.

You might want to also move things like a generator or solar panels higher up your list of priorities as well. 

Size & Floorplan

What this ultimately comes down to is just how many people will be living full-time in the travel trailer.

If it’s just you enjoying the open road with perhaps a four-legged best friend for companionship, you might lean more toward a travel trailer that’s under 20 feet long, and has one very well-decked-out master suite.

On the other end of the spectrum, a traveling family with two small children might prioritize a travel trailer over 25 feet with a master suite in the front, bunk beds in the back, and a large dinette area for mealtimes.

Power slide-outs can also buy you more precious interior living space as well. 

Length of Stay

Just how long you will stay in one spot might also be a factor. If you will be moving around every week or two, then a travel trailer that hooks up easily and deploys an awning with ease might be a preference.

If you are planning to set up camp and put your feet up for months at a time at the family lake lot, then a destination travel trailer that steps out onto a prepared deck space might top your priority list. 

Where You’ll Be Staying & HVAC

If you plan to live in the sunbelt 12-months out of the year, then a travel trailer with a robust rooftop air conditioner will be a priority.

If you are a tradesman who lives in his travel trailer on remote job sites during the summer but wants to live on the ice fishing all winter, then insulation and a powerful furnace will top your list. 

Payload Cargo Capacity

Since you will be living in it full time, you will likely need to haul more gear and personal effects to maintain your preferred lifestyle full time.

To spare you from living a Spartan existence, you might want to prioritize travel trailers with an above-average payload or cargo capacity. 

If you are going to be towing your full-time travel trailer a lot, then you want to put extra scrutiny into the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) compared to the maximum towing capacity of your intended tow vehicle.

Ideally, you want the GVWR to be 80% or less than the pickup truck’s GVWR to keep from constantly straining the tow vehicle with all the journey’s from Point A to Point B and Point C.

The gross weight becomes less of a factor if you are going to do something like park a travel trailer at the family lake lot and leave it there year-round. 

Key Travel Trailer Appliances for Full-Time Living

People who live full-time in their travel trailers tend to place a higher priority on certain appliances compared to people who just want to camp in their travel trailers.

This makes appliance choices their own separate category to factor into your traveling lifestyle. 

Washer & Dryer Prep

Most people who live in their travel trailer full time bemoan having to take time out to sit in a laundromat.

If this sounds like you, then you might want to prioritize a model that either has a washer & dryer included in the purchase or comes prepped to have one installed. 

In the same vein as laundry, washing the dishes can be a real pain. Especially if you fall in love with a travel trailer that has a small sink or a single basin sink in the kitchen.

A high-efficiency dishwasher will use only a small amount of water while cleaning the dishes and sparing you a lot of elbow grease.

It also frees up precious counter space that might otherwise be lost to an unsightly dish drainer. 

Large House Batteries

If you are going to be staying off the grid for even a short amount of time, you will likely need to rely heavily on your RV’s house batteries.

A larger battery bank will hold more charge, while also giving you the opportunity to parallel wire them for a longer run time between recharging. 

Generator Prep

While most travel trailers don’t come with a built-in generator, there is a fair number that does .

This is a great way to power your travel trailer when you are camping off the grid, or simply staying at an RV park that doesn’t have compatible shore power available. 

Optional Solar Power

Solar panels are a great way to recharge or maintain the charge on house batteries.

They can also be a great way to save money on the cost of electricity when you are at a campsite that offers shore power.

You ultimately end up paying far less per unit for solar in the long run than you pay per unit when plugged into an RV park’s resources. 

9 Great Travel Trailers For Full-Time RV Living

1. winnebago micro minnie 2108ds.

• MSRP around $31,000
• Length of 22.42 ft.
• Dry Weight of 4,140 lbs.
• GVWR of 7,000 lbs.
• Hitch Weight of 410 lbs.
• Total Fresh Water Tank Capacity of 31.0 gallons
• Total Gray Water Tank Capacity of 25.0 gallons
• Total Black Water Tank Capacity of 25.0 gallons
• Sleeps up to 4 people
• 15,000 BTU Air Conditioner
• 18,000 BTU heater

Winnebago is one of the most popular RV manufacturers of all time, and the Minnie travel trailer is one of their most popular platforms.

So, it only stands to reason that they would make a model that is geared toward an individual or couple who loves full-timing like you see with the Winnebago – Micro Minnie 2108DS.

With an MSRP of around $31,000, it is one of the most affordable options on this list. This makes for easy financing.

Its overall popularity also means that dealerships are likely to have a wide range of optional upgrades for you to customize the creature comforts to your travel style. 

The interior of the Winnebago – Micro Minnie 2108DS has a sofa that converts into a queen-size murphy bed with his and hers wardrobes on each side.

This gives you a couch to lounge on during the day and a bed, all in the same area to save space.

If one of you wants to stay up late, there’s a privacy curtain that can be drawn to enclose the front master suite. 

In the back, you will find a spacious full-size bathroom to meet all your full-timing needs. The shower is separated from the toilet and the rest of the bathroom to give you a true dry bath. 

The towing statistics are another nice thing to appreciate about the Winnebago – Micro Minnie 2108DS.

It has a dry weight of 4,140-pounds, which is well within the range of what a robust mid-size SUV with a towing package can handle. This saves you having to invest in a half-ton truck tow vehicle. 

Just keep in mind that the Minnie’s massive cargo capacity means that you can potentially stuff it with so much gear that it will tip the scales with a maximum gross vehicle weight rating of up to 7,000-pounds.

So, keep your equipment and packing style in mind when you are choosing the right tow vehicle to pair this travel trailer with. 

2. Grand Design – Imagine XLS 22RBE

• MSRP around $30,000
• Length of 25.92 ft.
• Dry Weight of 5,125 lbs.
• Payload Capacity of 1,870 lbs.
• GVWR of 6,995 lbs.
• Hitch Weight of 497 lbs.
• Total Fresh Water Tank Capacity of 43.0 gallons
• Total Gray Water Tank Capacity of 82.0 gallons
• Total Black Water Tank Capacity of 37.0 gallons
• 25,000 BTU heater
• 18 Gallon Water Heater
• Four Season Protection Package

The MSRP of $30,000 for the Grand Design – Imagine XLS 22RBE is just one of the many impressive factors that make this travel trailer a good choice for full-time living..

With a gross vehicle weight rating of under 7,000-pounds, it is comfortably towable by a half-ton pickup truck or a full-size SUV.

The floorplan is also very appealing for a single person or a couple who wants to live in their travel trailer full-time. 

One of the major things that jump off the page with the Grand Design Imagine XLS is the Four Season Protection Package.

This makes it one of the best travel trailers for full-time living for a couple or a small family that needs to handle everything the four seasons can throw at them.

It includes key features like an upgraded 25,000 BTU High-Capacity Furnace, Heated & Enclosed Underbelly with Suspended Tanks to prevent freeze-ups, as well as a heat ducted floor and residential grade ventilation system throughout. Even the roof and front cap offer superior R-40 insulation. 

When you take a closer look at the interior layout you find a queen-size master suite in that well-insulated front nose cap to keep you and perhaps a spouse toasty warm on a cold winter night.

A single power slide-out section expands the available floor space in the open concept living area to give you a truly homey feel.

The exterior of the Grand Design Imagine XLS also has a lot of the touches that help transform a travel trailer into a home.

The 18-foot awning expands to give you an outdoor porch area with plenty of elbow room.

There’s also an unobstructed pass-thru storage bin to let you conveniently stow all your outdoor gear, to keep from tracking dirty inside.

There’s even an LP quick connect for your favorite gas grill and a retractable spray nozzle hose to rinse off the dog.

These exterior creature comforts go a long way toward feeling like you are “Living” instead of “Camping.”

3. Coachmen Apex 284BHSS

• MSRP around $50,000
• Length of 32.58 ft.
• Dry Weight of 6,022 lbs.
• Payload Capacity of 1,578 lbs.
• GVWR of 7,600 lbs.
• Hitch Weight of 810 lbs.
• Total Fresh Water Tank Capacity of 50.0 gallons
• Total Gray Water Tank Capacity of 70.0 gallons
• Total Black Water Tank Capacity of 35.0 gallons
• Sleeps up to 10 people

With its queen-size master suite in the front, bunk beds in the back, and a ton of creature comforts the Coachmen – Apex 284BHSS is one of the best travel trailers for full-time living to meet a family’s needs.

The bunk beds in the back are great for school-age children, but also big enough to accommodate a teenager’s needs and give them a place to feel is truly their own. 

The MSRP of the Coachmen – Apex 284BHSS ranges around $50,000, though there are a fair number of national dealerships who are willing to offer promotional sales, or will wrap optional extra’s into the initial purchase price. 

It’s when you turn your eye to the weight and storage statistics that things start to get interesting with this full-time-capable travel trailer.

With a gross vehicle weight rating of 7,600-pounds, it is comfortably within the range of what you can pull with a half-ton pickup truck or a full-size SUV.

This spares you from having to invest in a larger vehicle to tow it, which makes it appealing to traveling families who are on the go. 

The large power slide-out section of the Coachmen – Apex 284BHSS gives it a lot of interior living space.

It gives you enough elbow room to let everyone feel like they have their own area.

It also makes the most out of the open concept living room and kitchen combo to feel like a real “Home.” The bathroom in the back even has a basin deep enough to bathe a young child. 

If there is a minor complaint about this family-friendly travel trailer for full-time living it’s the lack of any sort of washer & dryer prep.

If you are okay with spending a few extra hours each week at a laundromat, this isn’t a big deal. 

4. Airstream – Flying Cloud 30FB Office

• MSRP around $110,000
• Length of 30.83 ft.
• Dry Weight of 6,757 lbs.
• Payload Capacity of 2,043 lbs.
• GVWR of 8,800 lbs.
• Hitch Weight of 903 lbs.
• Total Fresh Water Tank Capacity of 52.0 gallons
• Total Gray Water Tank Capacity of 41.0 gallons
• Sleeps up to 6 people
• 28,500 BTU Air Conditioner
• 30,000 BTU heater
• Tankless Water Heater

Airstream is the classic American travel trailer, and one of the most popular travel trailer brands embraced by full-timers of yesteryear as well as today.

The problem is that their “Classic” model tends to have a price tag based on brand recognition, while also feeling like they skimped a little on modern amenities to preserve that “Classic” feel. 

That is where the Flying Cloud travel trailer comes perfectly into play. It has all the look and feels of a Classic Airstream travel trailer, though it carries a price tag of around $110,000 instead of $160,000.

There are 15 different floorplans available, though we chose the Airstream – Flying Cloud 30FB Office for its ability to appeal to a traveling tradesmen, or a job site supervisor who needs to stay in comfort while living on a remote job site. 

When you look at it from the outside, you will see all the signature gleam and aerodynamic shapes of a classic Airstream travel trailer.

When you step on the inside, you find a modernized travel trailer with a lot of creature comforts and innovation.

This includes things like a tankless water heater for on-demand hot water, a large bathroom, and a lounge area that separates itself from the front bedroom. 

In the back, there is also a small, yet functional office. It’s the perfect place for a foreman or job site supervisor to take care of the paperwork and keep important documents in one orderly place. 

When it comes to the towing statistics, the GVWR of 8,800-pounds and the heavy Hitch Weight of 903-pounds means that the Airstream – Flying Cloud 30FB Office is better suited to being towed by a three-quarter or one-ton pickup truck.

This is the typical pickup truck you see a lot of “Bosses” having at construction sites, to begin with.

Though it might put this travel trailer out of your range if you already have a half-ton pickup truck that you love. 

5. Palomino Solaire 320 TSBH

• Length of 36.25 ft.
• Dry Weight of 7,958 lbs.
• Payload Capacity of 1,865 lbs.
• GVWR of 9,825 lbs.
• Hitch Weight of 1,085 lbs.
• Total Fresh Water Tank Capacity of 44.0 gallons
• Total Gray Water Tank Capacity of 98.0 gallons
• Total Black Water Tank Capacity of 30.0 gallons
• 13,500 BTU Air Conditioner
• Washer & Dryer Prep (Optional)

The Palomino – Solaire 320 TSBH is a relatively heavy 36-foot travel trailer with all the comforts of home and then some.

While it can technically sleep up to 10 people on paper, it is arguably better suited for a couple or retirees who want to have the grandkids come to stay for a weekend. 

The master suite is one of the things that jumps off the page right away.

It has a true king-size bed built into one of the three slide-out sections, with floor space for two people to walk around. This is rare in a lot of front-mounted king-size master suites. 

The other thing to like is the corner closet that comes with washer & dryer prep. A dealership will have affordable stackable models for you to choose from, which lets you save time and money, without having to go to a local laundromat.

Palomino also made sure to build this version of the Solaire with a large enough gray water tank to handle the washing machine water, which isn’t always the case with the competitors. 

A large slide-out at midship gives expands the livable space for the open concept kitchen and living room.

It has a comfortable sofa, a cozy dinette, and a large entertainment center just like you would expect in a brick & mortar home. 

The rear of the Palomino – Solaire 320 TSBH has a separate small living room area with its own entertainment center.

There’s also a sofa sleeper with a fold-out bunk. This gives teenagers or visiting family members their own living space. 

The exterior of the Palomino – Solaire 320 TSBH is also well-appointed with the creature comforts of a home on the road.

The 21-foot awning gives you a huge sitting area out of the sun. There’s also a large outdoor kitchen area with a refrigerator and sink to replicate the feeling of a grill on your back deck. 

6. Coachmen Catalina Legacy Edition 343BHTS

• MSRP around $52,000
• Length of 38.5 ft.
• Dry Weight of 8,620 lbs.
• Payload Capacity of 2,180 lbs.
• GVWR of 10,800 lbs.
• Hitch Weight of 1,252 lbs.
• 35,0000 BTU furnace

The Coachmen – Catalina Legacy Edition 343BHTS is another travel trailer set up for full-timing that includes a washer and dryer prep.

Adding a stackable unit saves you a lot of money in laundromat costs, without taking up a lot of space in the queen-size master suite’s corner closet.

Though this isn’t the only way in which this well-appointed travel trailer feels like a “Home” instead of a “Camper.” 

When you step into the bathroom you are treated to the kind to the kind of quality features you want to live with.

This includes things like a large shower with a true glass door instead of plastic, as well as a large RV toilet and a deep basin sink. 

The rear of the Coachmen – Catalina Legacy Edition 343BHTS is essentially a separate living room with an entertainment center and a comfortable couch.

If your children or your grandchildren want to visit for a weekend the entire rear transforms into a comfortable guest bedroom without robbing you of any of the living space in the midship open concept kitchen and family room. 

When you step outside you’ll also find a lot of like-home convenience features.

Including an outdoor camper kitchen and a rear bumper gear rack for things like mountain bikes or hanging outdoor clothes. Not to mention a large pass-thru exterior storage bay. 

All this comes with an impressively comfortable MSRP of $52,000 new. Though the gross weight of nearly 11,000-pounds does mean that you will need at least a three-quarter-ton pickup truck to tow it.

If you are going to be moving around a lot you might want to lean toward a one-tone truck for your tow vehicle. If you don’t already have one, this can factor into the overall cost of ownership. 

7. Forest River – Cherokee Wolf Pack Gold 27GOLD10 Toy Hauler Travel Trailer

• MSRP around $64,000
• Length of 33.5 ft.
• Dry Weight of 7,860 lbs.
• Payload Capacity of 3,546 lbs.
• GVWR of 11,406 lbs.
• Hitch Weight of 1,206 lbs.
• Total Fresh Water Tank Capacity of 100.0 gallons
• Total Gray Water Tank Capacity of 76.0 gallons
• Total Black Water Tank Capacity of 38.0 gallons
• 40,0000 BTU furnace

The Forest River – Cherokee Wolf Pack Gold 27GOLD10 is a toy hauler travel trailer that is nicely geared for a couple or a small family that loves full-time living.

Yet it is also geared to let you live in comfort when you want to take your travel trailer home off the grid for a week or so of boondocking. 

The MSRP of the Forest River – Cherokee Wolf Pack Gold 27GOLD10 is also very friendly for a toy hauler travel trailer.

It only costs around $64,000 totally loaded and ready to pull off the dealership’s lot.

Though the gross vehicle weight rating does push the limit of what a half-ton pickup truck can safely pull when it’s fully loaded.

If you don’t already have a three-quarter-ton truck to pull it, you will need to factor that into the overall cost of ownership. 

The living and sleeping accommodations in this toy hauler travel trailer are the definition of the word “Spacious.”

You see this with the truly king-size master suite in the front with enough room on each side of the bed for his and hers nightstands, and wardrobe closets.

There’s also enough floor space to dress and walk around easily, which isn’t always the case with a lot of other master suites that basically jam a king-size bed into the bedroom. 

The large power slide-out section adds to the overall floor space that flows through to the kitchen.

It houses a family-size dinette as well as a comfortable jack knife sofa that feels like a true living room, as it faces the entertainment center and pantry. 

The rear cargo area garage is large enough, and the payload capacity is high enough to easily hold an ATV, golf cart, or UTV.

Though it is much more than that. When you pull your “Toys” out the rear ramp converts into an outdoor porch or deck where you can sit back and enjoy a pleasant summer evening, just like you would on your deck at home. 

The Forest River – Cherokee Wolf Pack Gold 27GOLD10 is a great option for couples who like to spend the summer “Hosting” a private campground or contract operating a primitive campground for the forest service.

You can set it up as a seasonal home in the summer, with a golf cart or ATV to let you patrol the campground. Then it packs up to let you head south before the snow flies. 

8. Jayco Jay Flight Bungalow 40RLTS Destination Trailer

• MSRP around $56,000
• Length of 41.3 ft.
• Dry Weight of 11,825 lbs.
• Payload Capacity of 1,825 lbs.
• GVWR of 13,000 lbs.
• Hitch Weight of 1,495 lbs.
• Total Fresh Water Tank Capacity of 38.0 gallons
• Total Gray Water Tank Capacity of 71.5 gallons
• Total Black Water Tank Capacity of 39.0 gallons

While destination travel trailers like the Jayco – Jay Flight Bungalow 40RLTS are truly mobile, they are geared more for families who want to park up their travel trailers for months if not years at a time.

You see this in the signature large sliding glass door that is intended to step out onto a semi-permanent deck.

It makes this a great travel trailer for full-time living at the family lake lot or your own private retirement village. 

For all the comfort and luxury you get the MSRP of the Jayco – Jay Flight Bungalow 40RLTS is a very friendly $56,000.

Though this doesn’t include the cost of some of the optional extras like the washer & dryer prep in the spacious master bath. 

Where you want to keep this destination travel trailer and how often you want to move it can be a factor in the overall cost of ownership.

With a gross weight of 13,000-pounds and a hitch weight of nearly 1,500-pounds, you will need a three-quarter to a one-ton pickup truck to safely tow it.

If you are planning to park it at a seasonal or long-term campsite, then this is a non-factor.

If you are going to move it around every month or two, then you will need to factor in the tow vehicle cost or the cost to hire a tow company to move it for you. 

The interior of the Jayco – Jay Flight Bungalow 40RLTS is well appointed and designed to be a true home for a couple or a small family who wants a weekend retreat that is ready 24/7/365 days a year.

It has a comfortable queen-size master suite in the front with tons of storage.

A spacious master bath, and an open concept kitchen, and a living room with an entertainment center that houses a 40-inch flatscreen TV. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you get homeowner’s insurance on a full-time travel trailer.

If you are living in your travel trailer full-time you need to carry comprehensive full coverage, which will replicate the coverage you would get in a brick & mortar homeowner’s insurance policy.

Though with so many people turning to full-timing in their RV, insurance providers are becoming more willing to consider homeowner’s insurance for travel trailers. Though conditions may vary. 

How Much Does It Cost To Insure A Travel Trailer For Full-Time Living?

Comprehensive coverage for a travel trailer will average between $1,000 to $2,000 a year and will be influenced by the MSPR as well as the current value.

Many insurance providers will offer additional coverage options for high-value items that you keep full-time in your travel trailer.

How Much Does It Cost To Transport A Travel Trailer?

If you don’t want to make a major investment in a large pickup truck just to tow your travel trailer every few months, you can usually hire a towing service for around $3.30 per mile within 100 to 250 miles.

Beyond 250 miles, you might want to consider “Shipping” your travel trailer on a flat-bed semi-truck, which could cost as low as $1.25 per mile. 

Full-timing in a travel trailer is an increasingly popular trend that has many people enjoying life without all the hassles of taking care of a yard or being forced to deal with the same old neighbors.

It’s also a great way for couples and retirees to enjoy life in some exotic locations, without the exorbitant costs of investing in a traditional timeshare. 

The type of travel trailer that’s been for you to live in full-time will vary depending on the size of your family as well as your travel style.

You will also need to factor in the cost to tow it or the investment in a tow vehicle for some of the larger models. 

If you are a tradesman or project supervisor at a remote job site, then the Airstream – Flying Cloud 30FB Office might be the best travel trailer for full-time living to meet your needs.

It has Airstream’s classic look at a more reasonable purchase price than the “Classic.” It also has great living accommodations and an office for all your important papers in the rear. 

If you are looking to retire to the family lake lot, or you don’t have intentions of moving around a lot, then a destination travel trailer like the Jayco – Jay Flight Bungalow 40RLTS might be the best option to meet your lifestyle.

It has a sliding glass door that lets you step out onto a separate deck, as well as the master suite and well-appointed living room that a couple needs to feel truly at home. 

If you love to bring a runabout golf cart or ATV with you, and you want to bask in a pleasant evening on the porch then a toy hauler travel trailer like the Forest River – Cherokee Wolf Pack Gold 27GOLD10 might be perfect for full-timing.

It lets you bring your toys with you from campsite to campsite, then transforms the rear into a spacious back deck.

About Author / Aaron Richardson

Aaron Richardson is an expert RVer and the co-founder of RVing Know How. Aaron, along with his wife Evelyn, has been living and traveling in their Keystone Fuzion RV since 2017. Their adventures span across the country and beyond, including memorable RVing experiences in Mexico. Aaron's passion for the outdoors and RVing shines through in his writings, where he shares a blend of travel stories, practical tips, and insights to enhance the RV lifestyle.

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Not sure why out of all of the awesome choices made by Grand Design and Winnebago you picked their smallest and least luxurious models. It almost seems like you skewed the choices so people would naturally gravitate towards the larger ones you offered. Not sure anyone wants to full-time in an Imagine XLS or Micro-minnie unless they have a smaller Truck and can’t pull something larger. Those two models are suited for Non full-time people in my opinion.

James Lehman

This is by far the most useful and concise article about travel trailers I’ve ever read. You really chose a percise and well-rounded list. Thank you for posting it.

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12 Best Travel Trailers for Full-Time Living (& Brands To Avoid)

This article summarizes recommendations and important information before buying any travel trailer, especially if you plan to live there. Throughout this post, we will explain some differences to remember when families, couples, and single people are looking for the 12 Best Travel Trailers for Full-Time Living . This video is just a sneak peek at the 12 top picks featured in this extensive review.

So, you will see that we have divided the article’s content into general considerations to think about beforehand. We explain what you should analyze and why we chose the campers we chose as the Best Travel Trailer for Full Time Living with a Family, Small Travel Trailers for Full-Time Living for a Single Person and couples, and the best Destination Travel Trailer for live-in full-time.

With our years of RV living experience, we will guide you in this process now that you have decided to live full-time in a camper trailer. Also, we have added some tips explaining what kind of floor plans (and even brands) of travel trailers you should avoid for full-time living and why . These are the best campers to live in full-time.

Table of Contents

12 Best Travel Trailers for Full-Time Living: Small, Luxury, 4-Season, For Singles, Couples, and Families on the Current Market

This summarizes the 12 Best Travel Trailers for Full-Time Living in the current market. This review includes small and lightweight travel trailers, luxury and 4-season travel trailers, destination travel trailers, and features such as washer and dryer connections, outdoor kitchens, etc. As usual, we classify floor plans as suitable or recommended for a single person, couples and senior couples, and families of 4, 6, or more people.

• Terra Rover Travel Trailer by inTech: Perfect Small 4-Season Camper
• Alta LE 1600MRB Small Travel Trailer by East and West RV
• No Boundaries NB19.1: Toy Hauler under 5,000 lbs. for Full-Time Living by Forest River
• Reflection 312BHTS: 2-Bedroom Luxury 4-Season Travel Trailer with Bunks

Palomino Solaire 320TSBH: Master King Bedroom and Bunk Travel Trailer

• Rockwood Signature 8336BH: 4 Slides Out Travel Trailer

Imagine 3210BH: Rear Quad Bunkhouse Room Travel Trailer

2023 jay flight 331bts: dinette inside the bunk room, 2023 puma 32mbds mid-bunk travel trailer for families.

• 2-Bathroom Travel Trailer: 2023 Jayco White Hawk 32BH
• Jay Flight Bungalow 40DLFT: 3 Twin Beds-Loft Above King Master Bedroom
• Cherokee Timberwolf 39CA Loft Travel Trailer Opposite the Master Bedroom

Let’s see the list of the Best Travel Trailers for Full-Time Living that we recommend to you and why we choose them.

Best Small Travel Trailers for Full-Time Living for a Single Person or Couples

• Terra Rover Travel Trailer by inTech: Best Small Camper to Live in 4-Season
• Alta LE 1600MRB: Small Travel Trailer by East and West RV

Terra Rover 4-Season Travel Trailer for Full-Time Living

inTech Terra Rover Travel Trailer, available in the USA and Canada, is a lightweight fantastic trailer for single people and couples pursuing full-time camper living during the 4-seasons.

The main difference between Terra Rover and the rest of the travel trailers suggested in this article is the structure, materials, exquisite interior design, and how well-prepared this travel trailer is for a 4-season full-time living.

Buying a four-season-ready RV for full-time living offers numerous advantages, such as making it possible (and easy) to live safely and comfortably during severe weather. Foremost, it reduces energy consumption and provides cost-effective insulation. Also, it offers flexible living arrangements and the freedom to move and explore different places; because one may live off-grid and reduce dependency on outside resources, it fosters a sense of self-sufficiency and self-reliance. Last but not least, it provides a distinctive and exciting living experience, with chances to explore nature and lead a more eco-friendly and sustainable existence. Definitely, Terra Rover Tby inTech is one of the best campers to live in cold weather .

Even though this travel trailer is meant for 4 people, I would recommend the inTech Rover as one of the best travel trailers for single people or couples for full-time living and establishing their workstation in the front 93″ x 48″ dinette.

Unlike most RVs, the Terra Rover features a bathroom and shower in separate cubicles with its own ventilation. With no slides-out, it’s spacious enough for 1 or 2 people and even the company of your four-legged friend. And at the same time, the dinette can easily be converted into a guest room. With an indoor and outdoor kitchen, it allows you to enjoy your meals and cook in comfort.

Good materials and furniture finishes. Excellent quality and customer service. Lightweight (GVWR 7,500 lbs.) and durable due to the structure and high-quality materials used.  

The capacity of the tanks is adequate for the number of people proposed in this review (fresh water tank of 44 gallons, gray water tank of 39 gallons, black water tank of 39 gallons).

Another advantage that allows full-time living independent of external temperature is that it has a furnace, air-conditioning, water heater, heated underbelly, etc. You get into a Terra Rover and never get out again! Here are some details of the specifications, furnace of 25K BTU, A/C of 15K BTU ducted, water heater of 6 gallons (electric or gas), insulation bubble foil in walls and ceiling, tank insulation heated underbelly, 12v line heaters, tank heat pads, etc.

As if that wasn’t enough, you enjoy a genuine 60″ x 80″ queen size bed in the bedroom, with storage space.

If all this hasn’t convinced you or if this RV brand is new to you, I recommend you watch this video to learn more about the Rover Terra travel trailer by inTech and its possibilities as a 4-season trailer for full-time living.

The only disadvantage I will mention, but I must clarify that it is not necessarily a disadvantage for all RVers who plan to live full time in a camper, is that it is unprepared for a washer and dryer. You will hardly find available space on the floor plan for its installation.

Alta 1600MRB Small Camper to Live In for Singles and Couples

Alta LE 1600MRB by East to West RV is one of the best campers to live in . It is an excellent option for a full-time living travel trailer for a single person or couples looking to work remotely, as the booth dinette offers a great working space area for 2 people with laptops.

As you can see in the floor plan below, this Alta LE 1600MRB Travel Trailer has the propane low-pressure quick connection available for your outside grill to prepare your meals outside under a 14 ft powered awning with LED lights. The exterior also has massive pass-thru storage compartments, a ladder in the back to access the trailer roof, and a shower with hot and cold water.

At the left of the entry door, you will find a large booth dinette with space to store under the seats and prepared for an optional 32” Smart LED TV. Across from there is a fully kitchen-equipped area with a 3-burner top stove, a large kitchen sink, a microwave oven, a refrigerator, and drawers and cabinets. 

The rear full dry bath is opposite the front Queen-size Murphy bed and sofa. The full bath is dry and includes a hand basin, a foot flushable toilet, skylights and vent, a linen closet, and a shower with skylight.

Between wardrobes, cabinets, the exterior storage compartment, and the large dinette, this travel trailer, only 23 feet in length and under 6,000 pounds, offers plenty of space and is perfect for full-time living for a single person or couples.

• Small Camper to live in
• UVW: 3,960 lbs.
• GVWR: 5,632 lbs.
• CCC: 1,672 lbs.
• Exterior Length: 22 feet, 8 inches.
• Fresh Water: 46 gallons.
• Gray Water: 30 gallons.
• Black Water: 30 gallons.
• No washer and dryer connections

No Boundaries NB19.1: A Toy Hauler for Full-Time Living

Is it possible to live full-time in a toy hauler? Of course you can! This particular lightweight toy hauler, under 25 feet, may be the perfect choice for a single person or couples looking for a small travel trailer for full-time living at the same time that provides the space for your outdoor gear and favorite toys.

Let’s see the 2023 No Boundaries NB19.1 Toy Hauler by Forest River RV.

2023 NB19.1 is a lightweight toy hauler under 5000 pounds (UVW) with a cargo capacity of almost 3000 lbs. and 10 ½ feet of front-to-back garage area.

As you can see in the floor plan below, the No Boundaries NB19.1 Toy Hauler trailer has an outside kitchen under a 16 feet-length powered awning.

At the right of the entry door, you will find a mounted TV and a fully kitchen-equipped area. The kitchen is equipped with a 2-burner glass recessed cooktop, a stainless-steel sink, and a refrigerator. The pantry is located across from there.

The full dry bath is located in front of the kitchen area. Consists of a small dry bath with a medicine cabinet, a mirror, a hand basin, a toilet, shower with skylights, a fan, and vents.

The queen-sized bed is in a private front bedroom opposite the huge 10 ½ feet garage area. This toy hauler has a 13.5 BTU low profile air conditioning and a roof-mounted solar prep, which make this RV a perfect option for singles and couples pursuing adventure while living full-time in a travel trailer.

More options to consider when looking for campers for full-time living:

• 2023 Pop Up Campers with Bathroom
• Treehouse pop-top by Snap Outfitters
• Kimbo Camper
• Best Travel Trailers for Couples to Live Full-time

Best Travel Trailer for Full Time Living with a Family

Let’s see some of the Best Travel Trailers for families living full-time, prepared for a washer and dryer combo, on the current market.

• Reflection 312BHTS : 2-Bedroom Luxury 4-Season Travel Trailer with Bunks
• Rockwood Signature 8336BH : 4 Slides Out Best Camper to Live In

Reflection 312BHTS 2-Bedroom Luxury 4-Season Travel Trailer with Bunks

Grand Design RV comes to mind when we talk about high-quality travel trailers that are built for last. Unquestionably synonymous with luxury, it solely sells premium travel trailers and luxury fifth wheels, perfect options for full time living with a family in a comfortable environment .

Luxury travel trailers are often more expensive than comparable models, but they are well worth the extra cost. Even if it costs more, you receive a lot of fantastic features. There are several beautiful layouts in the Grand Design Reflection series, but the 312BHTS is one of the most excellent luxury travel trailers for full-time living .

We began this article by stating that we will place particular emphasis on specific features that will make our full-time living travel trailer more comfortable , such as the kitchen location, ventilation while cooking, space for cooking, washer and dryer prep, pantry space, over the head cabinets and exterior storage, residential-sized appliances, king-sized bed, easy winterization or four-season features, and so on.

If the budget is not an obstacle, families thinking of moving permanently into an RV to live full-time should consider these mentioned points, and Reflection 312BHTS is a 2-Bedroom travel trailer by Grand Design RV that covers all these desirable features in one of the best luxury travel trailers for full time living with a family.

The 2-Bedroom travel trailer Reflection 312BHTS is completely equipped with everything you need and want for long-term RV life, as seen in the layout below.

To enjoy the outside, there is a large awning (21′) and a deluxe outdoor kitchen equipped with a griddle, sink, mini refrigerator, and low-pressure quick hookups. A large pass-through exterior storage compartment will help you keep the inside of your trailer tidy. Also, it is equipped with a functional outside shower.

Moreover, the Reflection series is prepared for full-time living during the 4-season. Some of the features in the winterization package of this 4-season travel trailer include the heated and enclosed dump valves and the underbelly with recirculating heat, both of them recommended to face extreme temperatures. Additionally, the insulated walls and slide-out floors, the thermo-foil insulation under holding tanks, and the EZ winterization valve will help you to preserve the RV energy expended in heating the trailer. Furthermore, the furnace and the fireplace are good features. Exactly what a family needs to live full-time.

As soon as you cross the entry door, you will find the fantastic full-dry bathroom of this trailer . The bathroom includes a large medicine cabinet with a mirror, a large vanity top with a deep hand sink, a porcelain foot-flushable toilet, and a spacious 30” x 36” shower with a sliding glass door and expansive view skylight over the shower, and a vent fan.

The front queen master bedroom is located to the right of the main door and features a dresser, over-the-head cabinets, drawers, and a wardrobe closet prepared with washing and dryer combo connections. The queen mattress is 60” x 80” with a residential bedspread and includes oversized bed base storage. This room is set up to accommodate a TV on the wall-mounted TV provided.

As you go through this RV, it is easy to understand why we propose the Reflection 312BHTS as one of the best travel trailers for full-time living.

Using only beds and bunks, the sleeping capacity of this trailer is up to 4 people. Depending on your options, you may fold down sofas and the dinette, increasing the sleeping space up to 7-8 people when receiving visitors.

At the left of the entry door, you will find the first of the 3 slides out and one of the biggest living rooms with a fireplace and kitchen you may find in a travel trailer. Atypical for a travel trailer, this floor plan seems like a fifth-wheel trailer from the inside.

The slide-out closer to the entry door proposes locating a booth dinette and a theatre seating. An optional free-standing dinette and a tri-fold sofa could replace the section.

The nice island kitchen improves the space to prep gourmet meals and serves to connect a fully equipped slide-out kitchen with residential appliances, moving you around the entertainment center.

Finally, at the rear of this family bunk travel trailer is located in the private second bedroom. The rear bunk room for 4 people with two bunk beds, a tri-fold sofa, an entertainment center, drawers, and a wardrobe closet is perfect for families pursuing full-time camper living.

The Reflection 312BHTS is perfect for families looking for a 2-bedroom (queen and rear bunk) travel trailer. It is a massive trailer under 40 feet, 3 slides out, an island kitchen with washer and dryer hookups, 2 entertainment centers, a fireplace, and a deluxe outdoor kitchen. Definitely, the best travel trailer for full-time living with a family.

Let’s see some brief specifications of the Reflection 312BHTS 2-Bedroom Travel Trailer for Full-Time Living:

• Exterior Length 37 feet, 4 inches.
• UVW     9,432 lbs.
• GVWR   11,295 lbs.
• Fresh Water Capacity     54 gallons.
• Grey Water Capacity      86 gallons.
• Waste Water Capacity   43 gallons.

Enjoy the 360-Tour of One of the Best Travel Trailers for Full Time Living with a Family  

Our next floor plan is a desirable upgrade for many RVers: a King size bed.

Why is this camper one of the best travel trailers for full time living? It is easy to find everything you need for a full-time living in the Solaire 320TSBH. Let’s see a few details of this floor plan.

The front section of this travel trailer has the main king bedroom. This contains a real king-size bed 70” x 80”, nightstands, a dresser, a large closet with space and connections for a washer and a dryer, and a spacious storage compartment inside the room.

The center section has the combined kitchen and living room. There is a slide-out that contains a booth dinette (42” x 72”) and a 68” sofa sleeper. The kitchen has all the essential appliances and enough space to prepare your meals. The entertainment center completes this space.

At the rear is located the magnificent bunk room of this travel trailer and the full bathroom. The bunkhouse offers two bunk beds, a sofa sleeper with an ottoman, and drawers to organize the room.

The exterior of the Solaire 320TSBH comes with a 21-foot awning, a large storage compartment, and an outdoor kitchen. This travel trailer has 3 slides out.

Rockwood Signature 8336BH: 4 Slides Out Best Camper To Live In

What’s better than having a lot of space, right? You’re going to love our next recommended best camper to live in. With a floor plan similar to the previous two featured, the Rockwood Signature 8336BH is one of our recommended travel trailers from our list containing the Best Travel Trailers for Full-time Living .

It features 2 bedrooms, sleeping capacity for families of 4 to 6 members, a master bedroom that can be queen or king of your choice, large closets with space and connections to fit a washer and dryer RV combo easily, 4 slides out (instead of 3 like the previous floor plans mentioned), an island kitchen in a kitchen and living room area, a fireplace, and entertainment centers, plus the possibility of having a TV mounted in every room of this great RV.

In the exterior of this luxury trailer, you will find a ladder in the back to access the trailer roof, an outdoor kitchen with a grill, a mini refrigerator and a pair of burners, a 10-foot-powered awning, and two exterior storage compartments.

Let’s see some brief specifications of the 2023 Rockwood Signature 8336BH Travel Trailer for Full-Time Living:

• Best camper to live in with family of 4 to 6 people
• Exterior Length 36 feet, 8 inches.
• UVW     9,669 lbs.
• GVWR   11,320 lbs.
• Grey Water Capacity      130 gallons.
• Waste Water Capacity   50 gallons.

Video Tour Rockwood Signature 8336BH Travel Trailer

Rockwood Signature  8336BH Travel Trailer has a floor plan similar to the Salem Hemisphere 314BUD floor plan, another option to consider for full-time living.

Excellent Floor Plans for Families but Not Prep for Washer and Dryer

In our search and review of old and new floor plans, we created this list with our recommended travel trailers with excellent floor plans for families but without laundry connections or dedicated space.

• Imagine 3210BH: Quad Rear Bunk Travel Trailer
• 2023 Puma 32MBDS: Mid-Bunk Travel Trailer for Families

If you like the Reflection 312BHTS we reviewed in the previous paragraphs, but you are looking for a rear quad bunk travel trailer, 2023 Imagine 3210BH by Grand Design RV could be your best choice.

One of the differences between this floor plan and the previously reviewed, Reflection 312BHTS, is the Imagine 3210BH does not include washer and dryer hookups. However, both floor plans are one of the best campers to live in cold weather .

One of the things we loved in the new Jay Flight 331BTS travel trailer is the dinette inside the private bunkhouse room.

With 2 entertainment centers, a luxury outside kitchen, 2 bedrooms (a front queen master bedroom and the rear bunk), 3 slides out, an island kitchen, and 2 dinettes, this is one of the best options to consider when looking for a travel trailer for full-time living.

The 2023 Puma 32MBDS Travel Trailer by Palomino RV offers a private mid-bunkhouse room next to a full dry bath, a master front queen bedroom, and a rear kitchen fully equipped with a vast living room area.

The U-shaped booth dinette is the perfect size for a full-time family living in this luxury travel trailer . A fireplace and an outside kitchen are optional features.

In the exterior of this unit, you will find a powered 15-foot awning shadowing the area next to the optional outside kitchen and a large pass-thru storage compartment.

Let’s see some brief specifications of the 2023 Puma 32MBDS Mid-Bunk Travel Trailer for Full-Time Living:

• Exterior Length 38 feet, 9 inches.
• UVW     8,833 lbs.
• GVWR   10,553 lbs.
• Fresh Water Capacity     43 gallons.
• Grey Water Capacity      35 gallons.
• Waste Water Capacity   35 gallons.

2-Bathroom Travel Trailer for Full-Time Living: 2023 Jayco White Hawk 32BH

The 2023 White Hawk 32BH is a slide-out bunk travel trailer with a master king bedroom and one and a half bathrooms, a feature not very easy to find in a travel trailer floorplan.

Destination Travel Trailers for Full-Time Living

Jay flight bungalow 40dlft: 3 twin beds-loft above king master bedroom.

The 2023 Jay Flight Bungalow 40DLFT is one of our recommended destination travel trailers for full-time living .

It offers a 3-twin-bed loft above a king master bedroom, a fully equipped central kitchen in a large living room, and a full dry bathroom.

If, on the contrary, you are looking for the loft location opposite the master bedroom, our next trailer is your best choice.

Cherokee Timberwolf 39CA Destination Travel Trailer

The Cherokee Timberwolf 39CA is a destination travel trailer with a loft opposite the master bedroom, and it is the final option in this review with the best travel trailers for full-time living on the current market.

This destination travel trailer has two full bathrooms , which is an excellent feature for full-time living. The loft only has two twin mats (instead of a 3-twin bed as mentioned for the Jay Flight Bungalow 40DLFT loft trailer), and the queen-size bed in the master bedroom is standard with no optional king-size mattress to change.

This trailer with two full baths and two private bedrooms in an RV is truly a home away from home and perfect for full-time living. The Cherokee Timberwolf 39CA offers a master suite closet and its own bathroom.

This destination travel trailer offers 3 entry doors. The second full bathroom may be separated from the main living spaces throughout the day with an outdoor entrance. Families can utilize the loft bedroom equipped with 2 twin mats, a closet, and space for an entertainment center.

Video Tour Cherokee Timberwolf 39CA Destination Travel Trailer with Loft for Full-Time Living

Check out the Video Tour Cherokee Timberwolf 39CA Destination Travel Trailer with Loft for Full-Time Living.

What Travel Trailers to Avoid for Full-Time Living and Why

Here are the campers to avoid for live in full-time.

Alpha Wolf Floor plans are not recommended for full-time living but are great for traveling.

Although the Cherokee Alpha Wolf line offers excellent value for the price, they are spacious, well-finished, and often our recommended floor plans. In this case, we believe they are not the Forest River floor plans we would recommend for families with children who choose to live full-time in a travel trailer. 

Certain features are recommended for full-time living in a travel trailer; an entertainment center in the bunkhouse is essential and gives parents significant advantages in separating activities and privacy. Also, we mentioned earlier how important it is for the booth dinette to provide the right size for the number of people in the RV.

For example, the 2023 Cherokee Alpha Wolf 30RDB-L has two bunk beds in a bunk room. However, no entertainment center is located inside the bunk room. The Alpha Wolf 30DBH-L has the same issue. So, you will need to jump to the floor plan of Alpha Wolf 33BH-L, which includes the entertainment center appreciated when living full-time in a travel trailer with kids. However, in this model, the dinette is short-sized for only four people.

Don’t get me wrong. Alpha Wolf travel trailers are great for vacation. They are a good choice in other circumstances but not recommended for full-time living.

According to owners, Winnebago Travel Trailers are not recommended for full-time living.

It is expensive, common, and without any of the features necessary for comfortable RV living. Many RVers may have decided on this camper to establish their full-time lifestyle. But if you have the budget, go for other models and floor plans that offer what will be a priority for camper living.

Airstream Travel Trailers: Lack of Comfort for Families

Users after RV renting manifest Airstream Travel Trailers are too expensive without any comfort for a family. You pay for excellent design (if you like something super retro) and the publicity Airstream spends to appear in Hollywood in every movie they can. But you don’t pay for comfort, versatility, and high quality of life. It makes sense because they are not designed for full-time living.

We recently had our chance to rent an Airstream Classic 33FB for a week, a very long 33+ feet and a heavy 10,000 pounds.  Even for a couple like us, with no grandchildren to accompany us on this occasion, both of us working sporadically on our laptops, the cramped interior was tedious. It is impossible to prepare anything other than a simple meal because the lack of space is appalling. The absence of slides-out worsens the circulation, and we are lucky to be slim. Otherwise, using the shower or even sharing the circulation in a corridor is complicated.

How expensive? For 2023, the Airstream Classic 33FB has a starting price of $206,500, and the International 30RB is $137,400, Flying Cloud® 30FB Bunk, suitable for a family with kids, has a starting price of $124,500.

Possible RV Brands to Avoid for Not a Great Customer Service

Chinook RV and Gulf Stream’s top the list of worst customer services in RVers’ forum surveys.

However, any company can change and improve in this area. A couple of years ago, Keystone RV did not offer good customer service. However, they changed radically, and today are one of the best companies with plenty of floor plans to recommend.

We hope you find this article reviewing the 12 Best Travel Trailers for Full-Time Living handy to learn more about the critical decision you are about to take.

Don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments:

• Which of these 12 travel trailers is your favorite for full-time living?
• What kind of RV is the best for full-timers?

🫶We’d love to hear from you!

Kindly share this post with the best campers to live in if you think this may be valuable for more RVers. See you in our next post!

About John Smith

For more than 30 years I worked in the exciting world of RV manufacturing. I liked knowing that I could improve the campers with customer feedback and see the improvements and upgrades on floor plans, delivering the best designs and the best quality RVs, year after year. After traveling with my family in RVs and small rented campers across the USA, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and even North Africa, I feel that I must share personal experiences, guidance, concerns, tips, and news. At Camper Outdoor, we share our biggest passion, weekend getaways in a camper, RV vacations, extended stays in RV parks, the quiet life of senior couples who choose to spend more time enjoying their RV, and boondocking experiences (which as in the beginning was unsuccessful, we have good tips to avoid the same thing happening to you!). Enjoy this website created just for you!

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Best Travel Trailers For Full Time Living

What is the best travel trailer for full time living? A dream of many is to live life on the road. Whether you're retired, a digital nomad, or just want to live life away from the hustle and bustle living full time in a camper is an amazing life experience.

It gives you the freedom of living in pretty much any location you want, you can take your work along with you, and you can even follow the work. The options are endless when you choose to live life on the road.

Of course, this is an option for many people, but which rig to choose? There are many travel trailers for full time living and the choices can get confusing.

Fear not, we've compiled a short list of what we believe to be the best travel trailers for full time living. Yes, we could have chosen the most luxurious campers and be done, but not everyone can afford the largest and most luxurious travel trailers , so we've included, different sizes and budgets.

As well as reviewing the best models to suit full time living, we've also included a guide on what general things you should look for. And we've included a Pros and Cons section of living life on the road, just to remind you of the good and bad.

And if you're still left with some unanswered questions, we have an FAQ section dedicated to all things travel trailers for full time living to round things up. So, with that said, let's get into it...

Can Any Travel Trailer Be Used for Full-Time Living?

Technically you can live full time in any travel trailer, but we wouldn't advise it. Most full-timers prefer to live in travel trailers , fifth wheels , or motorhomes , because they're spacious enough, boast all the amenities you need, and have enough capacity in the water tanks and stuff so you don't have to do all the dirty work every single day.

With travel trailers, it's also a good idea to choose a lightweight travel trailer for full-time living, because they can be more awkward to tow than 5th wheels .

What Makes a Travel Trailer Great For Full-Time Living

Travel trailers can be great for full time living, because they possess many features you need.

Appropriate Layout

Designers and manufacturers of travel trailers are more focused on the right layout rather than making it more spacious by increasing in size. Optimizing the space keeps it light and ensures a trailer is easier to tow.

• Impeccable LED lighting
• Easily affordable by most people
• Fully furnished sink and cabinets
• Adequate space to install seating arrangement
• Enough place for microwave oven, refrigerator and washing machine
• Sleeps: 2-6
• Number of Floorplans: 4
• Length: 24 ft
• Weight: 8,620 lbs

Fireplace, fridge, TV, sink, sofa, master bedroom, everything is present in this budget Evoke Model A travel trailer – you name it! It is perfectly equipped with optimal fresh water tank, gray water tank, and a wastewater tank. 

The Model A is the smallest of the Evoke railers, but the floorplan makes the most of the space. The kitchen is spacious enough to cook a delicious meal thanks to the corner units. When dinner is ready, you can dine with the family on the spacious dinette, which also converts into a large double bed.

At night, you can turn off all the lights and switch on LEDs that are installed behind the cabinet and create a beautiful view. Plus, the master bedroom boasts a good sized window, so you can wake up to those amazing panoramics you go chasing.

All these features make this lightweight travel trailer a perfect compact box to hang out and live full-time with family. In addition to all of these stellar features, the best thing about it is that it is easily affordable.

Jayco Jay Flight Bungalow

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Jeffsetter Travel

Travel Consultants and Travel Tips

9 Best Travel Trailers to Live In Full Time

January 14, 2022 by Charlotte Phillips

Last updated on August 24th, 2023 at 09:29 am

All of our reviews are based on exhaustive research, industry experience and whenever possible, hands-on testing. When you make a purchase using one of our chosen links we’ll receive a small percentage of the proceeds. This supports the site and keeps Jeffsetter running. You can read more here .

If you’re looking for some of the best travel trailers for full-time living, you’re in the right place. Take it from me, a full-timer living in a 19-foot vintage travel trailer with my partner and dog!

While you may not want to live in a travel trailer as small as mine , there’s no reason why you can’t live full-time in an RV. Life on the road is becoming increasingly popular among many different individuals. Many people do it, whether you’re a young freelancer, retired camping enthusiast, or want to get involved in your local parks system.

Let’s learn about everything you need to know about full-time RV living before we dive into some of the best rigs out there for your lifestyle change. But if you want to skip ahead and just see which travel trailers make the list, you can use the table of contents below or check out this video:

9 Best Travel Trailers To Live In Full Time

Ready to check out the 9 best travel trailers to live in full-time? Here are my top picks for rigs to suit a range of traveling lifestyles.

Best Overall: Jayco Eagle

With so many Jayco models on the market, there’s no struggle in finding the right rig for full-time life on the road, and the Jayco Eagle is a fantastic option. The Eagle stands out for its luxurious touches, large living areas, and dedication to quality hardware, consistent across all five floorplans. While the Eagle only has five available floor plans, the smallest measures 34′ 10″ in length, and the largest 38′ 9″.

These are pretty mighty lengths, especially for RVing newbies, so it may be worth purchasing a smaller trailer to get comfortable towing rather than dive straight into the deep end with the Jayco Eagle! Substantial length, width, and height in a travel trailer can transform the RV living experience so if you’re a pro-tower, don’t shy away!

I like the variety between the floorplans, some have optional theatre seating, half bathrooms, washer-dryer prep, and even large kitchen islands. Speaking of the kitchen, the Eagle has a lot to offer. With the option of a 21 cubic inch residential fridge, a full range and oven combo, and a kitchen island with a double sink, I’m confident I can whip up any meal in this rig and have the correct equipment and ample preparation space. 

Jayco campers are known for their interiors as well as their quality construction, and the Eagle follows suit with modern, clean finishings. The option of upgrading to a king bed is possible, and I love that even after this upgrade, there’s still plenty of room to sleep guests elsewhere in the travel trailer. AC transforms comfort on the road and living full-time in a home on wheels, it’s essential to think about the struggles each season throughout the year may bring.

Therefore, I find the two ducted AC units to be a very worthwhile addition to the Eagle, allowing me and even more importantly, my dog to stay cool no matter the temperatures of peak summer. This travel trailer is also built to withstand a vast array of weather scenarios, including lightning!

The Jayco Eagle is perfect for solo RVers wanting lots of space, couples hitting the open road together, or even families, thanks to the sheer volume of storage and numerous sleeping arrangements. Jayco rigs are known for being long-lasting, with Amish-built wooden cabinetry, heavy-duty steel framing, and moisture-resistant walls and insulation, I trust Jayco campers to withstand RVing travels from year to year. 

Best For Boondocking: Northwood Arctic Fox North Fork

RVing for me is all about spending as much time in the great outdoors as possible, so having a rig with boondocking capabilities is a must! Northwood’s Arctic Fox North Fork travel trailer. Built for all seasons including cold weather, and various terrain, this travel trailer is ready to go far and wide!  With seven floorplans ranging from 22 feet to 35 feet, it’s easy to find an Arctic Fox to suit the needs of any RVer.

I love having several floorplan options, especially since some layouts offer incredibly spacious kitchen countertops, large walkaround beds, and more for ultimate comfort and functionality. Boondocking ability is high on my list of priorities in any RV I look at, and t his rig was built with off-grid adventuring in mind. Rated for four-season use means no more packing up in winter and waiting for spring to arrive!

Matched with all-terrain tires, a fresh water tank of over 50 gallons, and standard solar power, the Northwood Artic Fox is an off-grid machine! There are additional options available, though these will increase the cost substantially, and since this isn’t the cheapest travel trailer on the market, it’s worth giving any upgrades plenty of thought.

Depending on the layout, it’s potential to add a second AC unit along with more solar panels for enhanced comfort in the height of summer, and more sun-powered electricity generated. There are so many possible upgrades, that it’s hard to keep track and not blow the budget! Other upgrades include an outdoor BBQ grill, a backup camera, holding tank heaters, and even a router.  

The kitchen is where this rig really comes to life. Whether boondocking or not, this kitchen is built for full-time living with solid kitchen countertops throughout, a lovely double sink, a full range and oven combo, and an optional residential fridge.

While not too many boondocking features come standard, I like the ability to truly make this rig exactly what you want, at any size you want . It has a lot to offer, including a comprehensive warranty program for all new travel trailers. Check this one out if you are planning on unplugging while on the road!

Best For Senior Couples: Jayco White Hawk

Boasted as a travel trailer made to bring enriched comfort and connection while on the road, the Jayco White Hawk is an awesome choice for the recently retired or senior-age couple looking to live life in an RV.  There are ten floorplans to discover with the White Hawk, the smallest measuring just over 30′ in length and the largest a substantial 38′. Many floor plans offer an abundance of comfortable seating arrangements and personal touches, such as theatre seating and pull-out sofas or bunk beds for the grandkids.

Jayco rigs are built solid, with Azdel walls and a lightweight sturdy frame. Capable of handling all four seasons, the White Hawk is fit to go with additional fiberglass insulation and underbelly heating for sub-zero winter days. There’s an optional second air conditioner able to be installed to further enhance the weather-ready capability of this trailer, and certain layouts even boast an electric fireplace and entertainment system for family entertainment.

For the more adventurous older couple, there’s an outdoor shower and the option to go off-grid with solar mounting capabilities. The interior offers an abundance of comfort, with adjustable dinette seating as well as accommodating walk-around queen beds so I don’t have to worry about waking my partner when I need the toilet during the night!

I would like to see this Jayco rig with a washer and dryer option to make full-time life on the road a little easier, but since it’s possible to purchase a White Hawk with a 50 amp service, maybe one can be installed post-purchase! This rig has a luxurious kitchen area, complete with multiple prep spaces, a full range, and even a kitchen island although this is floorplan-specific.

For accessibility and ease, this travel trailer can be built out with a self-leveling system and stabilizers which takes any stress away from trying to get this trailer level at the campground. You can also expect the White Hawk to come backed with Jayco’s comprehensive and industry-leading warranty just in case any issues arise while adventuring out in the wilderness with your other half!

Best For Young Couples: Winnebago Voyage

Winner of the 2022 Best Travel Trailer of the Year from RV News, the Winnebago Voyage is perfect for the full-time and adventurous young couple. For starters, this rig is affordable, which is no surprise as Winnebago are renowned for manufacturing rigs that don’t break the bank! There’s no sacrificing on features with the Voyage, and with six floorplans to choose from, ranging from 27′ 11″ to 38′ 11″ finding the best-suited layout is a breeze.

Some of the floor plans include bunkhouse sleeping arrangements capable of sleeping 8 people, which is a game-changer for larger families, or young couples who want to purchase a bigger rig initially to cater for a family in the future. Winnebago packs a lot of RV onto a lightweight frame, with no layouts exceeding a GVWR of 10,000 lbs, making the Voyage a great choice for a range of tow vehicles.

The volume of potential options is a big draw for me, with some including theatre seating, washer and dryer prep, queen walk-around beds with the option to upgrade to a king, and ample storage, both inside and out. All of these features scream full-time living to me, and the spacious kitchen is the cherry on top!

Depending on the floorplan, some layouts have a kitchen island, a large range oven combination, and even the option to upgrade to a residential-sized fridge which is something I’d definitely consider! Having great kitchen appliances and a stunning space to cook really helps with inspiration to cook healthy, vibrant meals to keep energized on the road.

The Voyage also has a lot to offer in terms of small touches. It has outdoor speakers perfect for entertaining, a roof ladder for maintenance, fireplaces, and optional RV stabilizing technology . Figuring out RVing for the first time can be daunting, but comforting touches like these not only bring a bit of luxury but help keep the camping experience as smooth as possible. 

The Voyage allows the young freelancing couple internet access as well, with a rooftop antenna and WiFi prep. I love being able to stay connected, yet also head off-grid in the Winnebago Voyage thanks to the standard solar setup on the roof. Although upgrading some features is arguably one of the best ways to get the most out of the Voyage, this trailer promises not to disappoint the full-time RV-dweller!

Best Off-Grid: Living Vehicle

Let me be the first one to tell you that a Living Vehicle brand travel trailer doesn’t come cheap . In fact, it may end up costing you the same amount as a small single-family home! However, a lot comes at a high price, and I doubt I’d ever go back to traditional living after exploring one of these innovative, forward-thinking rigs. 

All models of Living Vehicle are totally modular, self-sufficient, and technologically advanced. Honestly, I’ve not seen any other rigs like these, and if I had the funds, I’d definitely be investing in one since they have such a low environmental impact and ultimate style. Built for off-grid tech couples or full-time RVers working from their home on wheels, Living Vehicle seem to have thought of everything with their rigs. There’s so much to drool over with this aluminum beauty.

Living Vehicle boasts they built this travel trailer to feel like home, and I think they’ve definitely accomplished this. The four trim choices allow a bit of personalization and the interior features continue to inspire. The spa-style bathroom, fold-down patio space, residential kitchen, and comfortable sleeping areas, all models of Living Vehicle promise to bring tranquility and high-end to the RVing world.

Designed to work off-grid, it’s possible to run the air conditioning all day and night using real-time solar energy thanks to the solar panels on the rig. Living Vehicle don’t just simply manufacture RVs, they create works of art with their campers, and with electric vehicle charging available too, I love that my impact on the natural world can be minimized. 

Living Vehicle boasts multiple modular rooms, including bedrooms able to transform into a mobile office or laundry room, an extendable kitchen deck with a movable kitchen island allowing for outdoor cooking, and much, much more. These rigs are designed for off-roading, four-season living, and keeping connected, regardless of location thanks to Bluetooth and WiFi accessories.  Everything comes standard with this rig, and it should, considering the price!

Best Kitchen: Grand Design Reflection

I see Grand Design rigs often while I camp host, and the Reflection has to be a favorite of many campers. I’m a food lover, and nothing inspires me more than preparing dishes in a stunning kitchen like the one inside the Grand Designs Reflection. There are five floorplans to choose from, and each is well-equipped with all the full-time RV amenities needed for a successful time on the road. 

All of the travel trailer floor plans feature stunning kitchens, outfitted in a modern black and gray finish, which isn’t something I’ve seen much of in many travel trailers. Most of the kitchens include islands, and any floorplans that don’t, still have ample counter space so I don’t feel like I’m missing out on a residential kitchen.

The stunning interior features don’t end with the kitchen, and I expect them to continue since these trailers have a substantial price tag. However, I do love the theatre seating, sofas, electric fireplace inserts, kitchen pantry storage, living room hutch storage, and washer-dryer prep in the master bedroom as they all bring comfort, functionality, and convenience. 

I like the opportunity to add an optional king bed, a second awning, and even dual pane windows to help get the trailer prepared for four-season camping. The additional options don’t stop there, though. The four-season package is something I’d opt for since each year, both winter and summer seem to be getting harsher!

For the price, it would be nice for solar to come standard, but the optional solar package is still a sensible investment for full-timers wanting to off-grid camp from time to time and power appliances.   If you’re looking for a rig to fit guests, there’s a bunkhouse floorplan able to sleep a whole family. You can expect a comprehensive warranty through Grand Design, as they value their customers greatly and are there whenever there’s a bump in the road!

Best With Laundry: Forest River Rockwood Signature

Forest River is a star in the RV world, with a wide variety of popular RV models under their name brand. The Rockwood Signature is no exception, with six floorplans and countless features available, both standard and optional.  The six-floor plans range in length from 29′ 11″ to 36′ 8″ making this Forest River one of the smaller trailers on our list. Having a more compact RV with laundry available is a rare find, and it’s a must for me, living full-time on the road in my travel trailer with a partner and pup! 

All the layouts of the Rockwood signature are fairly unique, with king beds as options and multiple seating and sleeping arrangements possible so the whole family can enjoy this home on wheels. The open floorplans bring such an airy feel to this amper, and the deluxe chef kitchens across all of the various layouts make cooking on the road an absolute dream.

Some models include electric fireplaces and master bedroom televisions, while others boast kitchens with ample countertops and innovative storage solutions. The exterior and interior storage available on these rigs is fantastic for full-timing and brings the kind of organizing needed to live smoothly on the open road.

I like the range of optional features such as the second AC unit and extendable outdoor storage deck as these features would both be fantastic for keeping me and my dog cool during the summer season. A few of the additional features are worth investing in for those looking for a boondocking adventure trailer, but this does bump up the overall cost substantially. However, the complete solar installation on the roof is a great start for remaining powered off the grid.

This rig also has an outdoor kitchen ready to be used and WiFi prep so I can play video games seamlessly in the Rockwood Signature no matter where I’m parked for the next few days. With wardrobe space and optional pantry storage, there’s space for just about everything and then some!

Forest River build durable and long-lasting rigs with fair warranty plans to give customers the peace of mind needed when living in a travel trailer full-time. This RV brand also has a wonderful owner’s club and helpful customer service that are just a call away from offering expert knowledge and advice. 

Most Storage: Airstream Flying Cloud

While the Flying Cloud isn’t Airstream’s largest model, it does boast considerable storage solutions that I wouldn’t first expect from this aluminum rig! From the nose to the rear bumper, that’s a special feeling that comes with towing an Airstream, and the Flying Cloud is a popular choice, favored by many avid RVers. 

The Flying Cloud comes in eight floorplans, ranging from 23 feet to 30 feet, so it’s an awesome option for newbies or those preferring to tow smaller trailers. This rig might not be the biggest for full-time living, but its class and internal features are well worth the investment. Airstream does everything in style, with light wood cabinetry and stainless steel finishes to match the exterior of the rig. There’s storage hidden everywhere, and this is something that makes an enormous difference when living on the road full-time!

There’s a kitchen pantry, under-bed storage, and even exterior storage compartments on top of the various storage areas already throughout the trailer. The convenience doesn’t stop there, however, as the Flying Cloud has a few select floor plans with an innovative exterior hatch opening allowing interior living space to extend outside. This is a huge perk for full-time living as it creates the opportunity to experience the great outdoors from the comfort of the trailer.

The kitchen is well-appointed with a full range and oven combination, along with stainless steel sink and a kitchen island in select floor plans, great for serving up weekend family brunch. Speaking of family, everyone can come along for an adventure in the Flying Cloyd as it’s easy to sleep multiple individuals thanks to convertible furniture and even a twin bed sleeping option.  

One floor plan even leaves space for a dedicated office environment so providing the ideal work-from-home setting for digital nomads. Airstream aren’t recognized for being a budget-friendly brand, and I’ll admit, the Flying Clooud isn’t the cheapest trailer option out there. But equipped with a backup camera, standard solar prep, and more, this trailer has great potential as a full-time RV. 

While the price may be a bit high and the size may be a bit small for pro-RVers or those requiring a bit more space, Airstream has a lot to offer in terms of the longevity of their rigs and the owner perks that come along with warranties and member clubs. 

Best Off-Road: OPUS Camper OP15

Traveling from one place to another can sometimes feel tedious, especially when living full-time on the road. However, there’s a dynamic travel trailer perfect for life on the road, and it’s called the OPUS Camper OP15. I’m a big fan of OPUS, as I believe they are one of the most forward-thinking RV manufacturers out there, especially since the OP15 is a fully off-road, hybrid rig!

Getting to the best park ups isn’t always easy. There have been countless occasions when I’ve found a great-looking park up on my phone, but upon arrival, there’s no trailer-safe access. The OP15 is an off-grid beast, and for wild camping and hunting about the best, remote spots, there’s no better trailer. The price is on the expensive side, but I believe an investment in the OP15 won’t lead to disappointment, and there are many reasons why.

This rig has a dry weight of jump of 5,000lbs, making it a dream for those not wanting a heavy trailer, and already own a rig capable of handling this pretty lightweight number. This is a futuristic rig, and its style matches the aesthetic of all OPUS camper rigs, but these trailers aren’t just good-looking. The di-bond aluminum composite panel exterior with aluminum sub-structure and fully hot-dip galvanized chassis draw-bar reassure me of the durability of the OP15.

I love that this rig is off-grid ready with 300W of solar power on the roof, however, it’s wise to upgrade to some of the off-grid options for those looking to full-time in the sticks! Having features such h as DC to DC charging on board will help keep electrics finely tuned and powered up, while the optional addition of three lithium batteries is also a surefire way of staying powered up without relying on a campground hookup.

Impressively, although only measuring just over 23′ in length when set up, the OP15 can comfortably accommodate sleeping four people. I find the ingenuity of this OPUS camper truly outstanding. Some exterior RV kitchens aren’t too well-equipped, yet this rig boats an outdoor kitchen fit for a feast! With a 4-burner stovetop, storage and pantry access, a dish rack, a chopping board, LED lights, and even a 12V fridge/freezer, this is a rig I want to show off.

Why Live In A Travel Trailer Full Time?

There may be many reasons why you might want to live full-time in a travel trailer. Some of those may include:

• Lower cost of living overall
• You want to experience some freedom and travel
• Tiny home living interests you
• You’re an outdoor enthusiast
• You want to volunteer or dedicate a portion of your life to nature
• Retirement means you are ready for a change
• Meet new people while on the road

I changed my life when I decided to live full-time in a travel trailer. My partner and I fixed up a vintage rig and we decided to travel the nation as state park hosts. Volunteering brings me joy, and it may bring you a similar positive feeling!

No matter your reasons, living full-time in a travel trailer means weighing up the pros and cons and considering as much as possible to choose the right rig for you.

What To Consider For Full Time Travel Trailer Living?

From adequate storage space to the ability to do your own laundry, here are some of the top things for you to consider when planning on living in a travel trailer full-time.

Storage Space 

No matter how long you spend in your RV, storage space is always at a premium. If you plan on full-timing, storage space will likely be a top priority. This is usually because you’ll be bringing clothes, items, and food along with you on your journey.  Some full-timers enjoy finding RVs with wardrobes and large closets as it means plenty of interior storage.

Some RVs or travel trailers may even have pantries in the kitchen, leading to ample food storage, ideal for full-time needs.  RVs always have a decent amount of exterior storage, though this is most useful for outdoor gear or things that aren’t needed every day. The location of storage space is key to living peacefully in an RV full-time, and knowing where everything is!

Length Of Travel Trailer

The overall length of a camper matters for a number of reasons, the longer the rig, the more space there is! The size of a travel trailer is also an important consideration as your tow vehicle will only be able to handle a certain amount of weight, and this has to be respected. However, the longer the rig, the less likely you are to fit into every single campground or RV park you come across.

Some travel trailers, especially fifth wheels, can reach nearly 50 feet in length, which may be too long for many locales.  Choosing a shorter travel trailer may mean less interior living, but it could maximize your outdoor adventures. However, if you don’t plan on traveling very much or are comfortable camping in very specific locations, then having more space may feel right for you.

WiFi Capabilities

If you’re hitting the road as a full-time RVer because you’re a freelancer working from home, WiFi capabilities are worth giving a lot of thought to! Digital nomads and freelancers working from their homes on wheels is becoming more common, and WiFi is now typically a standard option across most types of RVs. It’s still worth checking internet is an option with any travel trailers you’re interested in, though, just to be sure!

You may not be very concerned about internet access if you don’t work from home or don’t plan on using the internet beyond checking the occasional email. However, it may be beneficial to have WiFi onboard while you travel for streaming and internet entertainment.

Keep in mind your WiFi may not work in every single place you camp; often, cell signals, and remoteness play a huge part in this. Having a router will only do so much if there’s no internet access to be found in the middle of nowhere. But then again, I think it’s quite nice to switch off from time to time! Since there are studies linking increased screen time with lower mental health , having no signal provides the ideal opportunity for some healing time in nature with loved ones.

Kitchen Amenities

While cooking on your outdoor RV grill is an option during warmer months, it’s wise to pay particular attention to your travel trailer’s kitchen when considering life on the road full-time. Your RV’s kitchen will no doubt become a central part of your life, but you’ll still need to function with reduced space and appliances when compared to a traditional home. This is especially true when living in an RV with only 30 amps of electricity.

Many common household appliances need more amps than you might think, and counter space will be at a premium. You should pay special attention to what can fit in your travel trailer kitchen, and how many amps your favorite appliance needs in order to operate. Travel trailers may also not have a full stove and oven to cook with.

I went in search of an RV kitchen with a full range and oven combination, along with a kitchen sink with two compartments. Trust me when I say this was a necessity for me!  Fridge space should also be something to consider. You may keep an eye out for RVs with residential-sized fridges as opposed to a more compact fridge size. 

Bathroom Amenities

Your RV bathroom is almost as important as your RV kitchen. You’ll need to decide if you want a wet bath or a dry bath – most full-timers want the option of a dry bath so the toilet can still be accessed while someone is showering. Most travel trailer bathrooms are pretty cut and dry. Some may have ample room to have two guests walking around in it; most will not. The main thing for you to consider in an RV bathroom? How large your hot water tank is.

Hot water will be at a premium in your RV unless you have a tankless water heater installed . You will not likely have enough hot water for a very long shower, and you won’t be able to shower and do dishes at the same time with a tank water heater. You may also be on the lookout for a travel trailer with a bathtub, or maybe even a travel trailer with two bathrooms for your large family or for guests. No matter your needs, there’s a rig out there for you- it just may take some customizing to achieve the goal RV! 

Additional Bedrooms

Speaking of guests, you may want to find an RV with another bedroom or multiple sleeping areas so you can comfortably invite guests to stay over. Travel trailers are built with large groups in mind, so friends and relatives can join in the camping fun without any hassle.

Many of these sleeping options involve convertible furniture of some kind, especially when looking at toy haulers . I’ve found having a master bedroom is key to comfort and keeps my partner and me a happy couple! However, a pull-out sofa is also a great shout for when the grandkids want to travel around for a couple of weeks over summer break.

Living Space

Given you’ll be living full-time in your travel trailer, the main living area should be something to give a substantial amount of thought to. It’s wise to write down a list of wants and needs so you can figure out exactly what you’re expecting a travel trailer to offer you. Would you like theatre seating in your slide-out? How about an electric fireplace or Bluetooth soundbar? 

The options are truly endless when it comes to customizing your main living room or living space. However, only you know what you want and the kind of rigs that are within budget. Many prime living area customizations are add-ons or non-standard features, so be prepared for these to increase overall costs.

It may be helpful for you to tour your desired RV make and model before deciding on your final purchase. Getting a feel for the living space and layout is important before diving right into full-time living.

Travel Trailer Weight 

Travel trailers need to be weighed often , mainly to take care of your tow vehicle. You never want to tow more than your tow vehicle can handle, but this is easier said than done for many full-timers packing their rigs to the brim.

This is why knowing the weight of your rig and how much weight your tow vehicle can safely transport down the road is crucial. While you may want to bring everything with you when you hit the road, keep in mind that sometimes, less is more, and nothing is worth towing an overweight travel trailer.

Holding Tank Sizes

Tanks are commonplace with RVs, and generally, on any camper, there is a fresh water, black water, and gray water tank. All of these tanks matter even more when you are a full-timer. If you plan on being disconnected from water and sewer lines, you’ll likely want a much larger tank than your average weekend warrior.

This is a good thing to keep an eye out for, as no full-timer wants to be constantly refilling their fresh water tank or emptying their waste tanks as it’s totally inconvenient! Saving a trip to the dump station can be a big deal if you are already emptying your tank weekly as a full-timer!

While living in a travel trailer can be a much lower investment than living in a traditional home, your budget should still be a consideration when shopping for an RV. Between the cost of your tow vehicle, rig, and any additional extras, you may end up spending more than you initially thought.

However, given an RV may be your full-time home for many years, it’s wise to invest and be prepared for just about any opportunity. Some potentially wise investments include a second air conditioner, tank heaters for cold seasons , and a backup camera.

Appliance Options And Laundry

Finally, a huge consideration for many full-timers is their appliance access and options for laundry services on board their rig. Many travel trailers and fifth wheels offer stackable washer-dryer units , making full-time RV living so much easier.

However, you’ll need to make sure your desired travel trailer layout supports these sorts of appliances. You may also want to ensure that your rig has an oven, microwave, or other appliance that may make like a bit more convenient.

Good Brands Of Travel Trailers To Live In

Curious about what some of the best travel trailer brands have to offer for full-time RV living? While all travel trailer brands have something to show, you may be looking for something special. Learn more about some of my top RV manufacturers now! You can also take a closer look at even more amazing travel trailer brands here . 

Grand Design

Grand Design is a popular RV choice for many full-timers, as their fifth wheels offer ample space for full-time living. They also furnish their rigs with many comforts of home, including cozy seating, a variety of appliance options, and fireplaces to maximize comfort and practicality. 

One of the most popular RV brands on the market today, Jayco, has many different models and layouts beneficial for full-time living. They also build their rigs to last, leading to more peace of mind for just about any RVer.

Nothing beats the classic look of aluminum Airstream travel trailers , and I know many full-timers who swear by them. While they may be on the higher end of some budgets, Airstream travel trailers offer full-timers considerable storage solutions and comfortability not found in many other brands.

Forest River

Forest River offers a wide variety of well-appointed travel trailers, many of them smaller than the average rig. However, they all have ample storage solutions, innovative layouts, and sleeping arrangements for the entire family.

Living Vehicle

If budget is no issue and you’re looking to live full-time in your travel trailer for the foreseeable future, I encourage you to check out Living Vehicle. They offer literal homes on wheels, with convertible office space and total off-grid capabilities. It’s the perfect freelancing rig!

Final Thoughts

Living in a travel trailer full-time was once a no-go. However, with the advances in RV technology and the many upgrades found in some of the trailer brands I’ve mentioned, you can expect to enjoy living in a travel trailer for years to come!

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8 Best Travel Trailers For Full-Time Living

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Susan and I considered selling our Class C RV and living full-time in a travel trailer. Our plan was to buy a trailer we could tow with my 2015 Toyota Tacoma. We ended up purchasing a Class A motorhome, but we were close to pulling the trigger on a new travel trailer.

Susan owned a Trail Lite travel trailer for about ten years, so she had some great insights that helped us decide. We will share her experience throughout the article.

Living in a travel trailer full-time probably seems like an interesting and attractive concept for those new to the RV lifestyle. However, it does come with some caveats and unique advantages that are often overlooked.

One thing is for sure: a full-time lifestyle on the road is more difficult than it looks on paper. It seems like the least expensive option compared to living at a traditional, residential address. It also looks so simple. After all, how hard is it to haul up stakes and move around the country any time you wish?

For those who lack the experience, it’s easy to overlook the advantages of portable power, and the disadvantages of fuel consumption or campground costs. In short, much more goes into living in a travel trailer full-time, and your best ally will always be knowledge and the wisdom that comes with hitting the road.

Can You Live Full-Time In a Travel Trailer?

You can live in a travel trailer full-time. After all, people do it in campervans, often turning their entire experience into a video content creation gig. If you ever sit down and watch some of these life-on-the-road stories, there are some concessions that these RVers have to make.

There is also a degree of freedom you simply can’t find anywhere else. If people can make it work in campervans, surely they can do the same in travel trailers. Right? Well, there are some parallels and differences worth noting, but the point remains the same: you can live full-time in a travel trailer as long as you’re ready for a more significant lifestyle change than you might imagine.

Unlike a traditional home, a travel trailer generally requires more routine maintenance, a break-in period, and the occasional major repair. Individually, these issues are not as expensive as a major A/C repair at a residential home.

However, they add up. In a nutshell, there are hundreds of small gains and losses that come with living in a travel trailer full-time. The good news is, that there are several travel trailers out there that are exceptional and tailor-made for life on the road, mitigating those disadvantages while bolstering the advantages.

If you’re planning on extensive boondocking or living off-grid, the dynamics change to a large degree. You’ll be far more dependent on the portable power capabilities of your RV, such as solar panels, propane, generators, inverters, etc. But it can be done, with the proper setup and some trial and error.

Some are large and some are smaller, but these travel trailer floorplans are designed to maximize comfort and accommodate a mobile, traveling lifestyle for families large and small.

1. Jayco Eagle 312BHOK

Our Pros and Cons

✅ Perfect for kids or guests because of its private, secondary (guest) room

⛔ Entertainment center is located where the open door or kitchen activity will block

• Length:  38′ 9″
• UVW:  9,870 lbs
• GVWR:  11,400 lbs
• CCC:  1,630 lbs
• Hitch Weight:  1,350 lbs
• Sleeps:  10

Living in this travel trailer full-time would be a breeze. The Jayco Eagle 312BHOK is known for being an incredibly spacious option. It has more of a 5th-wheel feel to it than some 5th-wheels. One of the best parts is the private bedroom in the back, which includes a bunk bed and another bunk over a tri-fold sofa.

The kitchen is enormous, though the only true counter space is on the island. A second tri-fold sofa sits across from a sizeable entertainment center and fireplace. The bathroom is large enough to accommodate most and the queen bed leaves plenty of walk-around space, along with dual wardrobes and a washer/dryer prep area.

2. Heartland Mallard 335

✅ Very large hidden storage area behind the TV, plus extra storage everywhere

⛔ Carpeted slides

• Length:  39.7′
• UVW: 8,840 lbs
• GVWR:  9,900 lbs
• CCC:  1,028 lbs
• Hitch Weight:  780 lbs
• Sleeps:  4

The Heartland Mallard 335 is a mid-tier travel trailer that is more than capable of being a full-time RV, depending on where you are. As a three-season RV, you don’t want to winter in north Minnesota. The glass-top, three-burner stove is surrounded by a sizeable kitchen and an island with a large sink.

If you happen to be in a cold area, the 5200 BTU fireplace will help knock the chill out of the room. There aren’t many sleeping options here, but the sofa is a sleeper option for guests. The free-standing dinette with a fold-up leaf option helps with that as well.

3. Airstream Flying Cloud 30FB Office

✅ The star of the show: large corner office area with all the amenities needed for remote work

⛔ TV is in an awkward position

• Length:  31′ 2″
• UVW:  6,804 lbs
• GVWR:  8,800 lbs
• CCC:  1,996 lbs
• Hitch Weight:  814 lbs
• Sleeps:  6

Out of all the travel trailers for full-time living on our list, the Airstream Flying Cloud 30FB Office is the purest. Thanks to a full-fledged office in the back, this travel trailer offers life and work on the road, simplifying an aspect we all have to deal with—making a paycheck. The office isn’t just an afterthought add-on either. It’s well-made, spacious, and comfy.

As an added bonus, it’s a classic Airstream, with all of the gleaming, interior brilliance you expect from an all-aluminum travel trailer. The large interior has enough sleeping real estate to accommodate 6 people, so it’s more than enough for a mid-size family or hosting family members and guests.

4. Grand Design Reflection 312BHTS

✅ Large, private room with TV prep, wardrobe, bunks, and a tri-fold sofa

⛔ Leaf spring suspension system

• Length:  37′ 4″
• UVW:  9,291 lbs
• GVWR:  11,295 lbs
• CCC:  2,004 lbs
• Hitch Weight:  995 lbs

The second travel trailer on the list that has a massive sleep capacity is the Grand Design Reflection 312BHTS . With enough room to sleep 10, this travel trailer is perfect for a full-time, on-the-go lifestyle with family members, guests, or friends in tow. The theater seating is an optional toss-up between it and a tri-fold sofa, depending on your personal preference.

The private rear bedroom has opposing bunks with TV prep. It’s also easy enough to convert into a remote working space. If you decide to do that, you’ll have an enormous workspace for a travel trailer. For pet lovers, the 312BHTS is ideal, as it includes an exterior leash hitch for the times you need to stay in a campground.

5. Living Vehicle HD30

✅ Massive off-grid setup that heavily caters to luxury off-grid or boondocking lifestyles

⛔ You get a full-fledged, residential-style home…for a price

• Length:  30′
• UVW:  14,000 to 16,000 lbs
• GVWR:  18,000 to 20,000 lbs
• CCC:  4,000 lbs
• Hitch Weight:  1,400 to 1,600 lbs
• Sleeps:  4 to 8

The Living Vehicle HD30 welds together the RV, on-the-road lifestyle with residential home living, while also offering one of the most robust power packages on the planet. This is a travel trailer for full-time living at a steep price. It makes sense when you see what this beast has to offer, which is just about everything you can imagine in a traditional home.

You get enough solar to produce 6kW of power, along with a 72kWh lithium battery and a backup generator. There’s enough portable, green energy flowing into the Living Vehicle to charge every device you’ve ever owned in your life, including an EV. That’s a lot of juice, so boondocking and extensive off-grid living are in the cards for anyone willing to pick one of these up.

6. Forest River Alpha Wolf 23LDE-L

✅ Massive awning over a dual-entry setup offers a ton of shade for outdoor activities

⛔ Toilet is at an awkward angle, leaving little in the way of leg space (watch your knees!)

• Length:  28.8′
• UVW:  5,608 lbs
• GVWR:  7,770 lbs
• CCC:  2,162 lbs
• Hitch Weight:  770 lbs

To flip the script a little bit, it’s important to include some of the smaller travel trailers too. Remember, people live on the road in campervans, so even a smaller travel trailer, like the Forest River Alpha Wolf 23LDE-L , has a surprising amount of potential. With over a ton of CCC, this travel trailer offers a lot of storage in the form of drawers, cabinets, and hidden storage.

The rear kitchen is an excellent design decision since it removes obstacles in the center of the RV and allows for more counter space in the back. The pass-through bathroom may be split, but it expands the spacious feel even more. You can also take advantage of a large pantry, theater seating, and a huge dinette with its own set of extra drawers.

7. Black Series HQ21 Balcony

✅ x4 AGM 100Ah batteries, x2 flexible solar panels, and a 2k-watt pure sine wave inverter are standard

⛔ The Black Series HQ21 has a low sleeping capacity—best for couples, rather than families

• Length:  27′
• UVW:  6,733 lbs
• GVWR:  10,000 lbs
• CCC:  3,277 lbs
• Hitch Weight:  1,000 lbs
• Sleeps:  3

Comparable to the Living House, in terms of raw, green energy potential, the Black Series HQ21 Balcony is more than capable of taking you off the grid when and where you want. You can also stay off-grid. The HQ21 is the kind of travel trailer that makes full-time living so much easier, thanks to its robust power infrastructure and design features.

It’s built tough, with diamond plating, a premium suspension system, 16″ off-road wheels, and a 360° jockey wheel hitch. You also get four 100Ah AGMs, a 2k-watt pure sine inverter, an Anderson plug, and two large, flexible solar panels. The HQ21, along with the other Black Series options, are state-of-the-art, and tailor-made for disappearing into the wild unknown.

8. Keystone Bullet 330BHS

✅ Includes a bath and a half with one being a part of the private bedroom in the back

• Length:  37′ 7″
• UVW:  7,278 lbs
• GVWR:  8,600 lbs
• CCC:  1,322 lbs
• Hitch Weight:  800 lbs

Yet another 10-sleeper, the Keystone Bullet 330BHS travel trailer is a full-time champion for life on the road. It includes a very large, private bunkhouse with double-over-double bunks, TV prep, and multiple wardrobes. On the other side of the wall is an exterior kitchen with a two-burner stove, fridge, cabinets, and drawers.

The base model comes with a tri-fold sofa, but if you enjoy family movie nights, you can opt for the luxury cinema recliners, which are fantastic and comfortable to boot. Another major and very welcome feature is the bath and a half. The kids or guests have their own bathroom while you have yours.

9. East to West Alta 3100KXT

✅ Nifty washer/dryer prep behind TV and next to double-over-double bunks

⛔ Lone bathroom is in the back

• Length:  35′ 6″
• UVW:  8,830 lbs
• GVWR:  11,605 lbs
• CCC:  2,775 lbs
• Hitch Weight:  1,205 lbs
• Sleeps:  8

The last travel trailer for full-time living is the East to West Alta 3100KXT . The interior aesthetic on this one is maybe one of the best of the bunch, with the possible exception of the Living Vehicle. The long cabinets with dark glass contrast well with the cream and tan interior.

Capable of sleeping 8, there’s plenty of room for families or guests throughout, with double-over-double bunks in the back and a somewhat sizeable corner bathroom. With plenty of space and a king bed up front, it’s hard to argue with the seriously attractive qualities of this large travel trailer .

Is Full-Time RV Living Doable in 2024?

The answer to living in a travel trailer, full-time, in 2024, is mostly a matter of personal wants and preferences. Just like anything else in life, there are ways to save or blow money while living in an RV. There are a lot of things you have to consider.

• Where do you plan on going and staying?
• Accumulation of costs, such as campgrounds, fuel, food, accommodations, and activities
• Maintenance and potential repair costs
• You’re remote working status and capability
• General living expenses
• The unknowns

The unknowns are general things that people rarely account for—the sudden, surprise expenses that almost always seem to catch us off-guard. While full-time RV living is certainly doable in 2024, you should make out a list, carefully tailor it to your needs and potential setbacks, and match it with your income.

Are Travel Trailers Easier To Tow Than 5th-Wheels?

Travel trailers are mostly more difficult to tow than 5th wheels. For the most part, 5th-wheels are larger and heavier. However, due to the hitch connecting in the bed of your truck, maneuverability and turn radius are much improved over the travel trailer.

Travel trailers also experience more sway again, thanks to the hitch style. This is especially true when handling some of the larger travel trailers, some of which are on this list. Smaller travel trailers, like the Black Series HQ21, are easier to handle but still won’t trump a 5th-wheel of similar size or larger.

The only area where a travel trailer might have an edge on a 5th-wheel, in terms of driveability or maneuverability, is when you’re reversing. Otherwise, the center of mass when towing a 5th wheel, is closer to the driver, making a 5th-wheel the easier towing option in most scenarios.

The only thing you might miss out on is less space in your truck bed. However, most 5th wheels have a very solid cargo-carrying capacity, so you can make up for it that way.

Are Travel Trailers 4-Season?

Some travel trailers are four season, and if you want one with full-time living capability in a northern climate, you’ll be glad of it. For instance, the Oliver is a smaller travel trailer built for all climates, with plumbing lines between the inner and outer shells, double-hull fiberglass insulation, ducted furnaces, and dual-propane tanks.

If you’re looking for a larger option, the massive, unique-looking KZ Sportsmen Destination is an option. Ice Castle Fish Houses are wholly unique and easily four-season capable. In the meantime, Heartland, Lance, Jayco, and Keystone all make four-season travel trailers.

If you’re on the lookout for a four-season travel trailer, you should keep a keen eye out for the above-mentioned features, as well as enclosed and heated underbellies, premium insulation infrastructure, room for extra propane, and heated, enclosed tanks.

Final Thoughts About Travel Trailers For Full-Time Living

Living in a travel trailer full-time is its own kind of sacrifice. However, that just makes it identical to everything else in life. The difference is, if it’s the lifestyle you want, it’s certainly doable, making the sacrifices worth it, while the gains are exceptional.

The travel trailers on our list are more than capable of accommodating your or your family’s desire to hit the road and see the country, with little regard towards setting down roots and remaining stationary. If you want to live the experience of a lifetime, make one of these travel trailers your own, and ride out into the sunset.

Related Reading:

– 10 Largest and Longest Travel Trailers for 2024 – 14 Best Travel Trailers With Murphy Beds – Are Fiberglass Campers Better Than Aluminum? – 12 Best Camper Trailers Under 25 Feet: 2024 Models

About the Author:

Thomas Godwin is a full-time freelance writer with a BFA in Creative Writing, a U.S. Marine, and an avid outdoorsman.

When he’s not writing, he’s raising chickens and Appleyard ducks. Thomas also constructs teardrop campers (attempting to anyway) and kayaks the Blackwater River with his wife, two daughters, and his Dobermans.

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Top 5 Best Travel Trailers For Full Time Living

By Raza Vakil

Travel trailers offer the ability to be on the go anywhere, and have tons of brands for a variety of use case scenarios. One of those scenarios are people who want to live in an RV full time. Fulfilling your dream of discovering various parts of the world has without losing your comfort of a soft bed, a living area and some extras has never been easier. Check out our top 5 best travel trailers for full time living to learn more!

What puts an RV on the list: Living in an RV full-time would mean there are a lot of things to be aware of. Firstly, since you’ll probably be on the move a lot, we’ve made sure to include travel trailers with floorplans under 27 feet to make them parkable in any campground. We’ve taken a look at the reviews, and also selected ones with at least 2 slideouts to make sure you also get that extra space which is quite crucial when selecting any travel trailer.

The Top 5 Best Travel Trailers For Full Time Living :

• Coachmen Apex Ultra-Lite Travel Trailer
• Forest River Flagstaff Super-Lite Travel Trailer
• Coachmen Freedom Express Travel Trailer
• Lance Lance Travel Trailer
• Forest River Rockwood Mini Lite Travel Trailer

#1. Coachmen Apex Ultra-Lite Travel Trailer

Sets a new standard for light trailers.

View All Coachmen  Apex Ultra-Lite Travel Trailer Floorplans!

Why we recommend the Coachmen Apex Ultra-Lite travel trailer: As the name suggests, the Coachmen Apex Ultra Lite keeps it light, with the Apex Ultra Lite 212RB floorplans and Apex Ultra Lite 215RBK being just over 4,000 lbs dry weight. If you’re aiming on staying at one park. If you’re fine with one slideout, the choices are even better and overall, this travel trailer has plenty of other floorplans with varying specs, making it one of the most versatile campers in the market.

Check out the specs that they offer and you’ll also find that they definitely belong in our list of travel trailers for full time living. From the basics such as outside speakers, solar prep and an LED TV to exterior cable connection and convenience centre, you have it all. A few of these items can also be upgraded, plus there are several standalone upgrades as well!

Key Features:

• 29 different floor plans available
• Evergreen Sleep Mattress,
• Outside Speakers w/LED Lights
• Power Awning w/LED lights
• LED Motion Sensor Light in Exterior Storage Area
• Aluma-cage Construction

Virtual Tour:

#2. Forest River Flagstaff Super-Lite Travel Trailer

Small yet spacious.

View All Forest River  Flagstaff Super Lite Floorplans!

Why we recommend Forest River Flagstaff Super Lite travel trailer: With a U-shaped dinette, a murphy bed and amenities one would look for in travel trailers for full time living, the forest river Flagstaff Super-Lite 23FBDS is our favorite pick also because the aforementioned floorplan can managed to keep it spacious with 2 slideouts, parkable since its 25 feet long and can also hold roughly 2000 pounds of cargo!

That’s only the start, though. Take a physical tour of the camper and you’ll also see the amount of thought behind making this a travel trailer for both full time Living and a super memorable weekend trip. Wi-Fi booster to keep you connected when away, outside grill and speakers, recessed 3 burner cooktop, you get the gist. And if that wasn’t enough, they’ve also managed to provide over 15 different upgrades/additions for those who want more out of their Flagstaff Super-Lite!

• 16 different floor plans available!
• Aluminum bed and dinette base
• Maxxair® ventilation fan and vent Cover
• Solid surface kitchen countertops
• Spare tire carrier and cover
• Driftwood interior

Video Overview:

#3. Coachmen Freedom Express Travel Trailer

Durable camping for the entire family.

View All Coachmen  Freedom Express Travel Trailer Floorplans!

Why we recommend the Coachmen Freedom Express travel trailer: Coachmen Freedom Express 233RBS has offered what one can consider as a ‘Family of 4’ floorplan. It’s got a sleeping capacity of 4, can handle upto 2200 lbs of cargo, and has 2 slideouts to offer more room! Of course, that’s just one of its many other floorplans that have varying specs as well!

Just a quick look at the features of this travel trailer and you’ll realize it’s an overwhelming list. In a gist, the Freedom Express has both the basics and the extras covered, whether its a jackknife sofa or the optional 50 AMP service with second A/C prep. That, and its relatively affordable price tag definitely makes it our choice for those in the market for travel trailers for full time living.

• 26 different floor plans available
• Two full-length mirrored closets in master, and over-bed cabinets
• Exhaust vent with fan in bathroom
• Smoke and carbon dioxide detector
• Exterior GFI outlet near awning
• Power awning

#4. Lance Lance Travel Trailer

America’s trusted truck camper – in travel trailer form.

View All Lance  Lance Travel Trailer Floorplans!

Why we recommend the Lance Lance travel trailer: We’ve covered the Lance Lance in the past, which is the sole Brand of the manufacturer. However, it’s definitely an impressive one, as it has quite a few floorplans, our obvious choice being the Lance 1475 as its super compact at 1900 feet, can hold 2 people and has 2 slideouts. Of course, if you’re willing to look for floorplans beyond 27 feet, there are lots of other options available too!

In terms of features, the Lance has a lot of bells and whistles to boast about. Everything you could ever need from a full-time travel trailer is already here: furnace, air conditioner, a dinette, double door refrigerator among options to expand it such as an upgraded 13.5/15K BTU air conditioner, electric awning, spare time and many, many more! Check out the RV page on the top for their full list of available upgrades.

• 11 different floor plans available
• Roof vent in living and bed areas
• Hardwood framed flat panel cabinet doors
• Medicine cabinet with mirror door
• Dual-pane skylight
• Storage compartment lighting

#5. Forest River Rockwood Mini Lite Travel Trailer

The getaway travel trailer.

View All Forest River  Rockwood Mini Lite Travel Trailer Floorplans!

Why we recommend Forest River Rockwood Mini Lite travel trailer: Some of the lighter variants from the Lineup of Forest River Rockwood Series are the Mini Lite brand which feature floorplans even under 5,000 pounds GVWR and two of them also fulfill our physical criteria of a full time travel trailer: the Rockwood Mini Lite 2511S and the Rockwood Mini Lite 2512S .

Whether you’re camping down South where it’s sunny or someplace like Minnesota where insulation’s a boon, Rockwood Mini Lite provides comfort either way, having a ducted furnace and a 13,500 BTU A/C. For those who’ll venture away from campground, the added Wi-Fi boosters proprietary for most Forest River models is present. Combine that with the available options that change both the look (American maple interior) or add convenience (Tongue mount bike rack), and it’s clear that this unit is definitely designed with full-time living in mind!

• 18 different floor plans available
• 13,500 BTU roof AC
• Slatewood interior
• Power awning with adjustable rain dump and LED lighting
• Outside grill prep

Check out these similar RV reviews!

Top 5 Best Ultra Light Travel Trailers Under 1800 lbs

Top 5 Best Travel Trailers Under 3,000 Pounds

– – – – –

Living full time in a travel trailer is calls for important decisions to make when purhcasing your unit. Hopefully, our top 5, at the very least, will give you an idea on what to look for!

BEFORE  you head to a dealer to see these trailers,   download your  FREE RV Buyers Worksheet  for help keeping track of:

• The feature must-haves that are important to you and your family
• Which brands or manufacturers you like
• Budgeting tools including a payment calculator resource
• Multiple well spaced pages with room for lots of your notes
• BONUS Resources: Trade-in values, tow vehicle ratings, and finance options

Share with us your favorite travel trailers for full time living in the comments below!

The 10 Best Small Travel Trailers for Full-Time Living

There are many things to love about small travel trailers, including their compact size, easy towability, and more affordable price.

But one of the biggest drawbacks of small trailers is they don’t always make great RVs for full-time living.

As small campers often lack interior space, features, and amenities that make full-time RVing not only doable but actually enjoyable.  

The good news, however, is there are actually quite a few small trailers on the road today that make ideal full-time RVs.

So to help you find all the best small travel trailers for full-time living , we’ve highlighted 10 of the most popular choices among full-time RVers.

By providing a quick overview of each camper, including its specs, floorplan, and why it’s great for full-time living.

Plus, we also include a video tour of each trailer from actual full-timers, to show you how they live in the RV full-time .

Popular Small Travel Trailers for Full-Time Living (Smallest to Largest)

1. scamp 13 standard trailer, quick specs.

• Average Cost : $17,000
• Length : 13 Feet
• Dry Weight : 1,200 – 1,500 Pounds
• Sleeping Capacity : 4
• Bathroom : N/A
• Slide-Outs – None

Even though the Scamp 13 Standard Trailer won’t be for 99% of RVers looking for a small travel trailer to full-time in, due to its tiny size.

We still chose to include the 13-foot Scamp on this list.

As this ultra-compact lightweight camper from Scamp provides an important reminder that you can really live in any small camper, no matter its size or features.

And that’s exactly what Elsa Rhae and Barron from the above video prove, as they’ve lived in a 13-foot Scamp trailer for years.

Scamp 13 Standard Layout 1

Living in such a small space that’s technically only 10 feet of actual living space does require some pretty major sacrifices though.

As their Scamp floorplan, the Standard Layout 1 only offers a rear convertible dinette booth, a front bench that converts into tiny bunk beds, a little kitchenette, and a small amount of storage space. 

This means that this little stand-up camper has no bathroom, which can be a real issue if you’re trying to live in the trailer.

There is, however, a 13-foot Scamp floorplan, the Standard Layout 2 that does offer a small wet bath though instead of the front bench.

But adding this bathroom reduces the sleeping capacity of the trailer by two and makes the trailer feel even more cramped inside.

Regardless of floorplan though, the Scamp 13 is only suited to full-time RVers looking for the smallest and lightest camper possible that don’t mind sacrificing convenience and comfort to do so.

Why It’s Great for Full-Time Living

• Offers Versatile Convertible Dinette Booth
• Includes a Front Bench that Converts to Bunk Beds for Extra Sleeping Capacity
• Provides a Small Kitchenette for Cooking Meals
• Lots of Windows Helps the Trailer Feel Bigger Than It Is

For more information on the Scamp 13 Standard Trailer and to find out how to order one, check out Scamp’s website by clicking here .  

2. Scamp 16 Deluxe Trailer

• Average Cost : $29,000
• Length : 16 Feet
• Dry Weight : 2,200 – 2,600 Pounds
• Sleeping Capacity : 3
• Bathroom : 3-Piece Wet Bath

If you like the idea of the above 13-foot Scamp trailer but feel like it’s just too small for full-time living, you might want to check out the Scamp 16 Deluxe Trailer.

As the 16-foot Scamp offers not only an extra three feet of living space but also offers a wet bath on most of its floorplans, including the one featured here.

Because of this, the Scamp 16 Deluxe Trailer is what’s considered a self-contained camper, as it has everything you need to be self-sufficient.

Including a place to sleep, a place to cook and eat meals, and a place to use the restroom, all without leaving the trailer.

Scamp 16 Deluxe Trailer Layout B

Because of the 16-foot Scamp’s smaller size though, this camper is really only suited for singles or couples like the ones in the above video, which upgraded from a tiny Toyota motorhome .

It’s amazing what you can do with such a small trailer that’s only 16 feet in length and 13 feet of living space though.

As this couple has everything they need to not just survive but thrive inside their ultra-compact lightweight camper.

And the best part is because this Scamp trailer is so small and lightweight, it can go places other RVs can’t and be pulled by smaller tow vehicles, like SUVs and small trucks .

Why It’s Great for Full-Time Living

• Fully Self-Contained Travel Trailer
• Offers a 3-Piece Wet Bath
• Wood Cabinetry Provides a Homey Feel Inside

To learn more about the Scamp 16 Deluxe Trailer and see its other floorplans, check out Scamp’s website by clicking here . 

3. Airstream Bambi 16RB

• Average Cost : $55,000
• Length : 16 Feet 1 Inch
• Dry Weight : 3,000 Pounds
• Bathroom : 2-Piece Wet Bath

Another great small travel trailer perfect for full-time singles or couples is the Airstream Bambi 16RB, which has a length of just over 16 feet and an unloaded vehicle weight of 3,000 pounds.

Putting the 16RB squarely in the ultra-lightweight compact travel trailer category.

Despite the camper’s smaller size though, the 16RB still has everything you’d need to full-time in the RV, including a fixed rear east-to-west full-size bed, a front convertible dinette booth, a little kitchenette, and a compact two-piece wet bath.

Airstream Bambi 16RB Floorplan

To be fair though, because of the camper’s tiny size, it’s not going to be for everyone looking to full-time in a small travel trailer.

As the Bambi 16RB has a very tiny wet bath, which might be fine for short camping trips but can get annoying long term.

As the bathroom is not only very cramped to use but everything is constantly wet inside, including the toilet seat.

Plus, the bathroom is only a two-piece wet bath and lacks a sink, forcing you to use the kitchen sink, as both the kitchen and bathroom sink.

In addition, because this camper is an Airstream, like all other Airstream models , the Bambi offers no slide-out, which can make the trailer feel cramped inside.

Also, it’s worth pointing out that while this Bambi trailer can sleep four, thanks to its front convertible dinette booth, for everyone’s sanity, it’s best not to use this camper for full-time family living, as it’s just too small for families.

• Provides a 2-Piece Wet Bath
• High-End Finishes Offer a Very Premium Feel Inside
• Has a Fixed East-to-West Bed Providing a Permanent Place to Sleep
• Offers a Versatile Convertible Dinette Booth
• Includes a Small Kitchenette for Cooking Meals

For more info on the Airstream Bambi 16RB, check out Airstream’s website by clicking here .

4. Forest River Viking 17SBH

• Average Cost : $21,000
• Length : 20 Feet 5 Inches
• Dry Weight : 2,896 Pounds
• Sleeping Capacity : 5
• Bathroom : 2-Piece Dry Bath

If at this point you’re thinking that only solo RVers or couples can full-time in a small travel trailer, the family of four in the above video should show you otherwise.

As this young family, with two little ones is living their best life in a 20-foot camper .

Specifically the Forest River Viking 17SBH, a bunkhouse camper capable of sleeping five, thanks to its front full-size bed, mid-convertible dinette booth, and rear single bunk beds. 

Forest River Viking 17SBH Floorplan

Popular with families or anyone needing to sleep a lot of people, bunkhouse travel trailers make the perfect small camper for full-time living.

As bunkhouse models offer sleeping capacity not possible in other RV trim levels and floorplans.

The Viking 17SBH offers more than just a large sleeping capacity though, as the trailer also offers a nice-size kitchenette for all your cooking needs and the first dry bathroom on this list.

As the 17SBH has a dry bath with a separate shower and toilet, which is always preferable to a wet bath in an RV, especially when you’re full-timing in one.

The bathroom in the Forest River Viking 17SBH is missing one component though to make it a true full bathroom, which is a bathroom sink and vanity.

Because of this, like the above Bambi 16RB, the Viking 17SBH requires you to use the kitchen sink as a bathroom sink as well, which is less than ideal when full-time RVing.

Overall, though this bunkhouse trailer is a great option for families wanting to full-time RV in a small travel trailer.

• Large Sleeping Capacity Ideal for Full-Time RV Families
• Bunkhouse Design Provides a Separate Private Space for Kids
• Offers a 2-Piece Dry Bath
• 12-Foot Awning Provides Extra Outdoor Living Space
• Fixed East-to-West Bed Provides a Permanent Place to Sleep
• Includes a Nice Size Kitchenette for Cooking Meals
• Ample Interior and Exterior Storage Space

To learn more about the Forest River Viking 17SBH, check out Forest River’s website by clicking here . 

5. Dutchmen Coleman 17B

• Average Cost : $20,000
• Length : 21 Feet 5 Inches
• Dry Weight : 2,985 Pounds

Another great bunkhouse camper great for full-time family living is the Dutchmen Coleman 17B, which has a very similar floorplan to the above Forest River Viking 17SBH.

In fact, these two compact travel trailers have pretty much the exact same layout, with a front east-to-west bed, a mid-kitchen, and a rear dry bath.

As well as rear single bunk beds, which is always great for kids.

As bunk beds provide a personal space in the RV kids can call their own, acting like their bedroom.

Dutchmen Coleman 17B Floorplan

As similar as these two trailers are though, there are a few differences between the two.

Starting with the front fixed bed, as this camper offers a short RV queen bed , while the above Viking 17SBH only offers a full-size bed.

In addition, this model features a side-mount air conditioner, while the Viking 17SBH offers a roof-mount air conditioner.

Overall, though both bunkhouse campers are great, and so similar that if you’re trying to decide between the two it really comes down to personal tastes more than anything else.

As both small bunkhouse trailers make a great home for full-time RVing with kids.

• Has a Large Fixed East-to-West RV Queen Bed 
• Includes a Nice Size Kitchenette with Lots of Cabinet Space

For more information on the Dutchmen Coleman 17B, check out Dutchmen’s website by clicking here .

6. Airstream Bambi 22FB

• Average Cost : $65,000
• Length : 21 Feet 11 Inches
• Dry Weight : 3,900 Pounds
• Bathroom : 3-Piece Dry Bath

There’s nothing cheap about Airstreams, as this Airstream Bambi and the above Bambi (#3 on the list) prove.

As Airstreams are some of the most expensive travel trailers you can buy.

As the old saying goes though, “ You get what you pay for ”, and this is just as true about RVs as anything else.

Because while the Airstream Bambi, which is the smallest “Silver Bullet” trailer Airstream makes is expensive, it also offers features, finishes, and benefits you won’t find on any other camper.

Including an all-aluminum hand-riveted interior and exterior shell, high-quality modern finishes and components, excellent value retention, superb build quality and longevity, and an iconic timeless brand.

Airstream Bambi 22FB Floorplan

And while these things might not be as important to weekend warriors on a budget, for full-time RVers, spending a little more on the camper might make sense.

Because let’s face it, you’ll be spending far more time in the RV than your typical RVer that might only spend a few weeks a year in the trailer.

Speaking specifically about the Bambi 22FB though, this premium small camper from Airstream continues to be a top pick for full-time RVers and Airstream Owners , thanks to its well laid out floorplan and top-notch amenities.

As the Bambi 22FB offers a private front bedroom with panoramic windows, a large fixed east-to-west bed, and a privacy curtain.

As well as a large U-shaped convertible dinette booth and a well-equipped kitchen, with everything you need for meal prep and cooking.

Plus, the 22FB is also the first trailer on this list to offer a true three-piece dry bath, with a separate shower, toilet, and bathroom sink.

Why It’s Great For Full-Time Living

• More Premium Finishes and Appliances
• Has a Private Front Bedroom with a Divider Curtain
• Offers a Full 3-Piece Dry Bath
• Has a Large Convertible U-Shaped Dinette Booth for Lounging and Eating
• Includes a Larger Well-Equipped Kitchen
• Ample Interior Storage Space

To learn more about the Airstream Bambi 22FB and why it makes a great camper for full-time living, check out Airstream’s website by clicking here .

7. Grand Design Imagine XLS 17MKE 

• Average Cost : $33,500
• Dry Weight : 4,674 Pounds
• Slide-Outs – 1

There are many things that make the Grand Design Imagine XLS 17MKE the perfect small couple’s travel trailer for full-time living.

However, there are four main ones that really stand out.

Starting first with its Murphy bed, as the Imagine XLS 17MKE features a front queen Murphy bed that folds away to reveal a large couch underneath.

Allowing the front of the trailer to serve as both a living room and a bedroom, which is ideal for a camper that’s only 22 feet in length.

As the Murphy bed layout allows you to maximize the space inside the trailer.

Grand Design Imagine XLS 17MKE Floorplan

Another noteworthy feature of this Grand Design Imagine that makes it ideal for full-timers is its mid-slide-out.

As the trailer’s slide helps to open up the interior and gives it a much more spacious feel, which makes living in the trailer much more comfortable as well as enjoyable.

The large rear corner dry bath is also a nice touch on this trailer.

As Grand Design managed to fit a surprisingly spacious and well-equipped bathroom with an extra large countertop in this compact camper.

The best and last feature that makes the trailer perfect for full-time RV living though has to be its large L-shaped kitchen.

As the RV kitchen in the Imagine XLS 17MKE is second to none for a travel trailer its size.

As the 17MKE has tons of cabinet and counter space, an 8 cubic foot double door refrigerator, a three-burner gas stove with an oven, a microwave, and a deep stainless steel sink with a residential-style faucet.

Making this trailer perfect for amateur chefs or for anyone that just loves to cook.

• Murphy Bed Layout Maximizes Interior Space
• Slide-Out Provides a More Open and Spacious Interior
• Has a Massive Upgraded L-Shaped Kitchen
• 14-Foot Awning Provides Extra Outdoor Living Space

For more info on the Grand Design Imagine XLS 17MKE and to see a virtual tour of the interior, check out Grand Design’s website by clicking here .

8. Forest River R-Pod RP-192

• Average Cost : $25,500
• Length : 22 Feet 2 Inches
• Dry Weight : 4,059 Pounds

The Forest River R-Pod is one of the most popular small campers on the road today.

But what many people don’t know is that they also make great full-time RVs.

As all R-Pod trim levels, except for the smallest teardrop (RP-107) are fully self-contained campers with a wet or dry bath .

There’s more to this Forest River R-Pod RP-192 than just its bathroom though.

As the camper is also packed with other amenities that allow it to function as a home.

Including a queen Murphy bed with a comfy sofa underneath, a well-equipped kitchenette with a large double-door refrigerator, a convertible dinette booth for two, and plenty of interior and exterior storage space.

Forest River R-Pod RP-192 Floorplan

Just because the RP-192 has everything it needs to function as a home though, doesn’t necessarily make it one, as it’s often the interior and its decor that really help the camper feel like a home.

The good news though is that this is where the R-Pod RP-192 really shines.

As the trailer has a spacious interior despite its curved teardrop shape, residential-style shaker cabinetry, designer carefree flooring, decorative window treatments, accent lighting, and mini blinds in the kitchen.

• Has a Well-Equipped Kitchenette
• Upgraded Interior Decor Help it Feel Like a Home
• 11-Foot Power Awning Provides Extra Outdoor Living Space

For more info on the Forest River R-Pod RP-192 and to see a 3D tour of the interior, check out Forest River’s website by clicking here .

9. Forest River Rockwood Mini Lite 2104S

• Average Cost : $33,000
• Length : 22 Feet 4 Inches
• Dry Weight : 4,977 Pounds

Another popular small couples trailer that makes a great RV for full-time living is the Forest River Rockwood Mini Lite 2104S.

As this Rockwood Mini Lite, which the above couple calls home is loaded with comfort and convenience features.

Beginning with the trailer’s Murphy bed layout, which allows you to use the front of the camper as both a bedroom and a living room, thanks to the trailer’s fold-up RV queen and sofa underneath.

A nice feature the 2104S has though that not all Murphy bed floorplans have is a privacy curtain separating the front of the camper from the rest of the living space.

Forest River Rockwood Mini Lite 2104S Floorplan

Which makes the RV particularly ideal for full-timers.

As the privacy curtain helps to provide some separation and a semi-private front bedroom, allowing one person to stay up without disturbing the other.

Beyond the trailer’s Murphy bed layout though, the couch under the bed isn’t the only place to sit in this camper, as the Mini Lite 2104S also features a large comfy U-shaped dinette booth as well.

Which not only provides a place to share a meal but also makes a great place to just hang out and relax.

And because the U-shaped dinette booth is built on a slide-out, it also helps to open up the interior of this tiny camper.

Giving the RV a much more open and spacious feel than you might expect from a travel trailer that’s only 22 feet long. 

The amenities don’t stop there though on the 2104S, as the camper also offers a full three-piece dry bath as well.

Plus, an upgraded small L-shaped kitchen with a battery-saving 12-volt fridge, a three-burner gas cooktop, a 21-inch gas oven, a microwave, a pantry, and solid surface countertops.

• Has an Upgraded L-Shaped Kitchen
• Oversized 15-Foot Awning Provides Extra Outdoor Living Space

For more information on the Forest River Rockwood Mini Lite 2104S and to see a 3D interior tour, check out Forest River’s website by clicking here .

10. Lance 2285

• Length : 27 Feet 6 Inches
• Dry Weight : 5,775 Pounds
• Bathroom : 3-Piece Split Dry Bath

The last trailer on this list of small campers for full-time living certainly isn’t the least.

In fact, the Lance 2285 is the largest trailer on this list with an exterior length of 27 feet 6 inches and an interior length of 22 feet 6 inches.

Comparatively speaking though, the 2285 is still a pretty small travel trailer, as there are many campers that are 30 feet long and some that are over 40 feet long !

With that extra length and size though, the Lance 2285 is able to offer interior space and amenities smaller campers never could.

Making the 2285 model a great option for those wanting a smaller full-time trailer, but don’t want to go too small.

As they still want some of the comfort and luxury that only a larger travel trailer can offer.

And the Lance 2285 trailer does a great job of accomplishing this.

Lance 2285 Floorplan

As this semi-small camper is on the shorter and lighter side while offering features a 24-foot camper and even a 26-foot camper never could.

As this condensed trailer offers over 22 feet of floor space, both a large U-shaped dinette booth and a couch, dual entrances, a larger kitchen, and a private front bedroom with a fixed north-to-south bed.

And because this trailer is a Lance , it offers true 4-season capability for year-round living in the trailer.

Thanks to numerous cold-weather features, like high-density block foam insulation, an enclosed underbelly, insulated and heated holding tanks, and Thermopane windows.

Making the trailer ideal for RVers that want to full-time in colder weather, and don’t always want to head South when the temperature starts to drop outside.

Why It’s Great for Full-Time Living  

• Four Season Capability
• Has a Private Front Bedroom with a Separate Entrance
• Offers a Split 3-Piece Dry Bath
• Lots of Seating
• Includes a Larger Well-Equipped Rear Kitchen

To learn more about the Lance 2285, check out Lance’s website by clicking here .

Finding the perfect small travel trailer for full-time RV living is no small feat. 

As every RVer is going to have different needs and wants for their full-time rig, whether that be a spacious living room with a slide-out, a well-equipped kitchen, a large sleeping capacity, a full bathroom, or lots of extra storage space.

However, with a little research and some careful consideration, finding that perfect small camper is definitely achievable.

So to help you get started, we explored 10 of the most popular options for full-time small RV living , each offering unique features and benefits that cater to different RV lifestyles.

From the ultra-compact and lightweight Scamp 13 Standard Trailer to the spacious and luxurious Lance 2285.

Regardless of which trailer you choose though, we hope this list has helped narrow down your search or at least shown what’s possible in a small camper.

So you can embrace the minimalist lifestyle, enjoy the beauty of nature, and have the freedom to immerse yourself in diverse experiences only found on the open road.

To see some of the top RV Parks for full-time living, check out our blog post “ Best RV Parks for Full-Time Living: By State” .

Jason is an avid lover of RVs and the RV lifestyle. He is both a writer and editor for RV Owner HQ and has been RVing and camping for over 20 years.

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Last updated on: July 26, 2022

Top 8 Best RVs for Full Time Living and Travel

by Chris Coleman

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Living in a recreational vehicle (RV) gives you the luxury of enjoying the comforts of home away from home. Many people choose RV lifestyle because of the freedom of leading a nomadic life. But to live outside full-time, you will need a motorhome that offers not only the facilities but also the feel of living in a traditional house. What is the best RV to live in full time ?

Most people buy motorhomes for a weekend beachside trip or a month-long road trip. But the criteria and necessities change when you are looking for a vehicle for living full-time , not just spending a vacation. A full-time RV endeavor is fun and offers the opportunity to explore the hidden gems of your country.

1# Coachmen Apex Ultra Lite Travel Trailer

• 2# Forest River Flagstaff SuperLite Travel Trailer

3# Airstream Classic

4# keystone montana.

• 5# Winnebago Revel
• 6# Thor Motor CoachChateau

7# Northwood Arctic Fox

8# lance lance travel trailer, best rv to live in full time.

Campers and travel trailers give you the freedom to go anywhere anytime. There are tons of brands offering a wide range of best full time RV units. These vehicles are great for enjoying the comfort of your home on the road.

Plenty of factors come to the fore when you want an RV to become a home away from home. The floor plan, facilities, features, and a few other things demand extra importance.

Here is a list of best RV to live in year round with the detailed reviews. Find out if these units will fit your requirements.

What are the best best RVs to live in full time :

• Coachmen Apex Ultra Lite Travel Trailer
• Forest River Flagstaff SuperLite Travel Trailer
• Airstream Classic
• Keystone Montana
• Winnebago Revel
• Thor Motor CoachChateau
• Northwood Arctic Fox
• Lance Lance T r avel Trailer

You can call it the best RV to live in full time. The travel trailer keeps it light with a generous size. It is one of the most versatile campers in the market due to offering twenty-nine different floor plans and several specs choices.

Wrapped under Aluma-cage construction and laminated AzdeFiberglass sidewalls, the trailer provides all amenities required for full-time living. It comes with evergreen sleep mattress, overhead bedroom cabinets, pewter maple cabinetry, Congoleum diamond flooring, furnace, and ducted air conditioner. The bathroom has a full flush toilet and separate shower area.

Entertainment facilities include outside speakers and an LED TV. Additional features include solar prep, power awning, frameless windows, and more.

This could be the best choice if you have no problem with one slideout and plans to stay on the same campsite for months.

2# Forest River Flagstaff Super Lite Travel Trailer

With 13 different floor plans, the Flagstaff Super Lite is one of the most favorite choices as the best travel trailer for full time living . You can choose the 25-feet long 23FBDS version for its spacious interior, two slideouts, and capacity to haul around 2,000 pounds of cargo.

The build of the trailer is highly durable due to having a 6-sided aluminum construction, vacuum laminated roof and walls, and automotive windshield. A Murphy bed saves space and Serta memory foam mattress ensures a good sleep at night.

There are also a U-shaped dinette, power awning, ducted roof A/C, microwave oven , solar panel prep, and other amenities necessary for full time living. Outside speakers, multi-zone stereo, and LED TV will keep you entertained while the RV Wi-Fi booster will keep you connected to others all the time.

The American icon is one of the few options for the best RV to live in full time. Designed for longer road trips, the trailer is equipped with advanced features. It can transform a tiresome journey into a true getaway.

Airstream RVs stand out from the rest with their bare aluminum outer shell and smooth lines. The Classic is another classic Airstream trailer that catches attention with contemporary design and attention to details.

Ranging from 30 to 33 feet, this is the largest of Airstream’s travel trailers. Available in four different floor plans, the 33FB is the largest featuring a bedroom with a queen-size memory foam mattress . There are dedicated zones for dining, lounging, cooking, and bathroom.

The vehicle is loaded with practical and entertainment facilities. It has the Polk brand stereo with Bluetooth feature and satellite radio and a large TV. Other features include a residential-style kitchen equipped with all standard kitchen accessories, luxury bathroom features, ultra-leather seating, and power controls. People who like to keep their gadgets at hand will like several USB charging outlets.

A unique feature that keeps it ahead of most other travel trailers is the Smart Control Technology . Through a smartphone app, you can control the rig’s key functions including lighting, heat pump, AC, awning, and more.

Why the Montana from Keystone could be a good choice for full-time RVing? Because of its all-weather design, several floor plans, and spacious interior.

Featuring a Four Season Living Package, the fifth-wheeler gives you the freedom to stay on the road even when the weather turns hostile. It includes AC and furnace units, insulated heating ductwork and in-floor water lines, dump valves, heated holding tanks, and extra insulation.

Among the twenty-three floor plans, the 3921FB seems to be perfect for a full-time living for a family. The 41-feet living space accommodates a big bedroom with a king-size bed and a hide-a-bed sofa. In addition, you will have three slideouts to spread out.

The kitchen has a residential size refrigerator. The master bathroom feels luxurious with shower, soaking bathtub, and double sinks on the vanity. The entertainment arrangement feels complete with two HD TVs, power theater seating, and a cozy fireplace .

5# Winnebago  Revel

This is obviously the best RV to live in full time for solo travelers or a couple. With 19.5 inches of length, the Class B motorhome is the smallest RV on this list. However, two people can comfortably live in this unit because of the efficient and practical interior design.

The unit has a power lift bed that transforms into a 140-cubic foot gear garage. The dinette in the living space has a pull-up table and you can convert it into an extra sleeping zone for a guest. Food prep and cooking are no more a hassle because the galley-style kitchen has a compressor refrigerator. The bathroom cum gear closet has a cassette-style toilet. So, there is no need to install a separate black water holding tank. There is also a diesel-powered heating and a 230-watt solar power system.

Due to the smaller size, some people think that the Revel does not have enough comfort features for a full-time living. But it actually has everything that two people may need on the road.

The motorhome is specially designed for outdoor enthusiasts. You can explore the nooks and crannies of remote places as the rig packs some serious off-road power with a 4×4 Mercedes-Benz chassis.

6# Thor Motor Coach Chateau

The Chateau comes with 13 floor plans ranging from 24 to 31 inches in length. It means you have enough options to choose a layout depending on your requirements and budget.

Some units with a larger floor plan are equipped with living space roomy enough for a small family, dry bathrooms, and a full-sized kitchen equipped with an oven, gas burner, and refrigerator .

Running on either a Ford E-Series or Chevrolet Chassis, the rig boasts of superior construction. It has welded tubular aluminum roof, sidewall cage structure, welded tubular steel floor, and slick fiberglass exterior. In addition, the interior has vinyl flooring and ceiling, high-sheen cabinetry, leatherette theater seating and sofa, a leatherette dinette , TVs, sound system, and more.

The rig is ideal for a large group and family on the road.

Arctic Fox is another best RV to live in full time due to its high-end facilities, advanced features, and all-weather capabilities.

You can cruise through all types of roads with this rig as it is constructed on an off-road chassis with shocks built on all four wheels. You can plow it to any rugged tracks due to the BackRoad Armor coating on the one-piece front cap. The rig is suitable for every weather type because it features an all-season insulation.

It comes with several floor plans but the 25Y seems to be the most suitable for a family due to having separate private access to the master bedroom and dual entryways.

The spacious kitchen has all the necessary accessories , including a large refrigerator and a built-in microwave and a skylight for enough natural light. This is the perfect place for prepping and enjoying delicious home-cooked meals.

The bathroom has both a shower and a garden tub, which means it gets you covered whether you take a quick shower or want a relaxing soak.

The Lance Lance is another travel trailer that deserves a place in this list of the  best RV to live in full time . It has several floor plans, suitable for both solo travelers and group of RVers.

The compact 1,900-feet compact 1475 floor plan with two slideouts is the best choice if you are looking for a rig for two. There are also a couple of options if you want something bigger than 27 feet.

Whatever you need for full-time living, the rig has it. You will have the comfort of an RV air conditioner , furnace, double-door refrigerator, a dinette, and many other accessories. In addition, the dual-pane skylight and roof vent in living and bed areas keeps those places well-lighted and aerated.

Share with us your favorite best RVs for full-time living in the comments below!

About Chris Coleman

Chris Coleman is an interesting travel blogger and outdoor photographer with a great sense of humor. He owns an RV Accessories shop in New York City so he has the knowledge necessary to provide thorough reviews and give advice on how to choose the right products for RV travel. He puts all that RV knowledge and experience to good use in his sharing posts. Besides product buying guides/reviews, Chris also writes informative articles, how-to articles and RV camping guides in his own interesting viewpoint. Chris’s blog is one of the most reliable information sources for RV campers no matter if you're an expert or a determined beginner.

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Lazy Daze class C best coach to live in period!!!

In all weather conditions?

My first full time travel trailer Lance 1475 no slide is perfect fit for myself and my 65 lb dog. All the creature comforts I need. I’ve upgraded the plastic toilet to a ceramic taller unit. The shower is ok for me I’m 6 ft and 250 lbs it’s not the biggest shower but I like it. I do wish the fresh water capacity was about 40 gal versus the 27 gals . The AC is somewhat loud however it doesn’t take very long to cool this RV down. The retractable awning is awesome, if it’s to windy it will automatically roll-up., been saved by this a few times during T-storms when I wasn’t home. I have two solar panels from factory and upgraded battery to lithium. Very happy with my unit after about 1 year of full time living.

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How to Live in a Travel Trailer Full-Time

More and more people are deciding to give up their big homes and high mortgages to live in travel trailers. Small-space living is nothing new, though with the tough economy and many couples and families facing foreclosure, it makes sense to downsize. The cost of trailer living is much lower than the upkeep of a traditional home, and with some forethought and preparation you can live a comfortable life in a travel trailer year-round. Although your trailer doesn't need all of the amenities listed, they will make life easier and more comfortable.

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Purchase a travel trailer that will be big enough to live in. Ideally, you would want a trailer that's at least 21 feet long, especially if there will be two or more people in the trailer. The trailer can be new or used, but be sure to have it thoroughly inspected.

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Search for land to purchase and park the trailer on if you plan to keep the trailer stationary. If you intend to travel with your trailer check out campgrounds where you can park for a night or up to a week or more.

Cook meals on a propane stove as this is the cheapest, easiest and most portable way of cooking in a travel trailer. A propane stove can have up to four burners and doesn't take up much room. A two-burner is probably all you will need.

Store perishable foods in a propane refrigerator. This will keep your food from spoiling and can provide cold drinks and ice as well. Nonperishable foods can be stored in cupboards or plastic storage bins. An added benefit of keeping foods like flour, rice, beans, and pasta in storage bins is that it will stay fresher longer and bugs won't get into it.

Using the restroom will be easier if you have a toilet with holding tank in the trailer. Alternately, you can build an outhouse, though this isn't nearly as comfortable, especially during the winter and in the middle of the night. Campgrounds usually have public restrooms.

Taking a shower in the trailer is most comfortable, so try to get a trailer that has one installed. Campgrounds usually provide public showers if your trailer doesn't have one, though if you plan to live in your trailer full time, especially on your own property, you'll want a trailer with a shower.

Wash dishes and hand wash clothes in the sink of your trailer if it has a water system with storage tank. If your trailer is lacking in water, you may want to buy disposable plates, cups and silverware, and wash clothes at a laundromat.

Store items not in use to avoid clutter and keep the trailer as neat as possible. It's easy to feel claustrophobic if items are left out or you accumulate too many things. Out-of-season clothes can be stored in plastic storage bins and placed in a closet or up on a shelf. The storage bin will keep clothes from getting dirty or mildewed.

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Journey With Confidence

What No One Tells You About Living In An RV Full Time

What I Wish I Knew Before Full-Time RVing

Traveling in an RV full time is a lifelong dream for thousands of people, and it is a decision that can change your life and your perspective, but it’s not just one long vacation.

There are issues that can make this experience more fun or less enjoyable, so I want to share what no one tells you about living in an RV full time before you start on this journey.

Size matters

One of the most important decisions you’ll need to make when becoming full time RVers is what type and size of RV will meet your needs, and bigger is not always better. 

In the five years that we have been full time RVers, and in the 20+ years as active weekend warriors before that, we’ve met dozens of full time RVers who regretted their RV choice, and that decision impacted every aspect of their full time RV adventure. 

RVs that were too big

Some of these folks went to RV shows where massive fifth wheel toy hauler trailers were all set up with their dropdown back and side patios, open kitchen with a freestanding island, and lots of extra play space for the kids and pets in the back. These models were all on display, beckoning the would-be full timer to imagine how much fun they could have in these huge RVs.  

We met a couple who got sucked into this illusion, but they had never even camped in an RV before they bought a 45-foot fifth wheel trailer. They quickly learned the stress of towing it, backing it, and setting it up in a campground. They remembered how tall it was, and that had already resulted in two accidents that damaged their new RV.  

This couple was a nervous wreck. They had sold their house and everything in it to begin this new adventure, and they were absolutely miserable. They deeply regretted their decision and were not coping with the stress of their new lifestyle. Perhaps they might have been happier with an RV that was smaller and more manageable. After all, did a couple with no kids or pets really need an RV that large?  

Another couple’s trailer was so large they refused to tow it themselves, so they hired a towing company to move it from one campground to another. They loved all the extra space, but it was extremely limiting to the spontaneity and adventure of being full time RVers.  

Additionally, we met a couple with three children who bought the largest RV they could afford to give their children plenty of space for schoolwork and activities, but they quickly learned they didn’t need that much space, and their large RV was difficult to fit into many state parks and even some private campgrounds. 

RVs that were too small

On the flip side of the size issue is an RV that is too small to meet your needs. Again, we have encountered many people who thought a small RV would be the perfect fit for their full time adventure, only to realize after buying one that the sink was too small to even wash the dog bowl, there wasn’t enough storage space for their gear, the space in the refrigerator was very limiting, the holding tanks were so small they could only boondock for a day or so, and not having an onboard shower required some creative outdoor gear and adaptations.  

Certainly, smaller RVs are lightweight and nimble and can go almost anywhere a car or truck can go. They fit into almost any campsite, which makes them a very attractive option. Most of the smaller RVs provide a great base camp for an outdoor camping lifestyle, which is great until you discover that the weather conditions in many parts of the country are not conducive to an outdoor lifestyle.

Be prepared for winter weather

As full time RVers, you’re going to be living in your RV year-round, which will include all the winter months. We full-timed in Oregon for several winters and met numerous other full time RVers struggling to find shelter from Oregon’s constant winter rain.

One Canadian couple was full-timing in a teardrop trailer; another single man was using a pop-up Alpine trailer; a single woman and her dog were in a brand new van conversion; and another couple and their two dogs were in a very small Class B+ motorhome. 

Oregon winters are not compatible with an outdoor lifestyle, and the people who were camping in these very small RVs had little to no room to move around, cook, recreate, or even shower without walking a few hundred yards through the rain to the public restrooms. 

Try renting an RV first

Therefore, for new full time RVers, the first and most important consideration is to fully understand what size and style of RV will really meet your needs. The best way to do that is to rent a few different types of RVs and then go camping in them to see how they fit.

Don’t be in a rush to buy the biggest or smallest RV before you consider the pros and cons of each option. Take your time to explore all the features, benefits, and limitations of each type and size of RV. Know where you think you want to travel and what your objectives are, then spend time talking to current RVers to learn from their experiences.   

Do you just want to live in an RV to save some money, or do you want to be continuous travelers on an extended adventure of discovery? How do you want to use your RV, who will be using it, where do you want to travel, how long will you be full-timing, and what is your exit plan? These are all important upfront considerations that will help you find the right RV for your full time RV lifestyle.

Uncertainty can be stressful

Another thing people don’t think about when they’re considering a full time RV adventure is that uncertainty can cause a lot of stress. When you’re in a daily routine, you follow familiar patterns. You shop in the same places, take the same route to and from work, know your neighbors, have favorite restaurants, and basically do the same things without really thinking about it. This routine may become monotonous, but at least it’s familiar.

But when you’re a full-time RV, everything is new and uncertain. This may be one of the allures of becoming a full-time RVer, but most people don’t appreciate just how pervasive this uncertainty can be. You have to think about everything and plan ahead, like where and when you will be traveling , how are you going to get there, and what weather or climate issues will you encounter.  

Even after doing all this planning, you still have no idea what you may encounter when you arrive at a new destination. Even stopping for gas or diesel can be a stressful and frustrating experience.  

Plan your travel days ahead of time

We often try to drive ahead in our tow car to our next destination to make sure the road is suitable for our 38-foot motorhome. We scout the road, gas stations, campgrounds, overpasses, tunnels, and any other travel hazards so we can reduce the stress of the uncertainty.

On several of these scouting trips, we have discovered roads that simply were too narrow or too long to justify the trip, or we discovered that the internet description of the campground where we had made reservations was completely false, and the campground was just not a good fit for us or our RV. 

Another stressful uncertainty of full time RVing is the weather. Many full time RVers report this as their biggest concern. Snow, ice, hail, wind, lightning, hurricanes, and tornadoes are all potential dangers if you live in an RV.  

You might think that being in a house on wheels would allow you to avoid dangerous weather conditions, but in many of these devastating storms, you do not have time to get away from the hazard, nor do you know which way to go to avoid it.  

Lightning can cause a forest fire to surround you, and there’s no way to predict where a tornado will touch down. In one case, we had less than 15 minutes warning that we were in the direct path of a damaging hailstorm. Fortunately, it slipped past us just beyond the campground, but even with the biggest hail missing the RVs, it sounded like we were in a war zone, as thousands of smaller hail stones slammed into the windows and roof. 

Disconnected from community, friends, and family 

Many new RV adventurers underestimate how they will be affected by being disconnected from their communities. We are, after all, social beings, and we rely on family, friends, churches, clubs, organizations, teams, and loose affiliations to help us feel grounded and mentally well. 

When you start a full-time adventure, you trade the familiar in for the unfamiliar, and many full time RVers express frustration with the superficial interactions between RVers that are common in this lifestyle. You may actually get to know some other RVers, and you may even choose to travel with a group, but sooner or later the rally will break up, and either you or they will be onto another destination. 

Of course, you can keep in touch with family and friends via social media and technology, but it’s not the same as bowling with your team or playing gin with your usual group of friends. Holidays, family events, birthdays, big occasions, and celebrations, plus all the small routine visits from the kids and grandkids are no longer part of your routine. Being home sick may be a much bigger problem than you ever anticipate when you start on your full time RV adventure.

Full time RVing can be surprisingly expensive

Lastly, what no one tells you about living in an RV full time is that it may be more expensive than you originally thought. This may not be true for everyone, but our personal experience is that it is significantly more expensive. 

You try to anticipate your costs, RV insurance , car/truck payments, fuel expenses, park fees, groceries, pet food and supplies, supplies for the RV, maintenance costs, emergency costs, etc. But for some reason, all these things may cost more than you anticipated.

Then there’s the admission fees to parks, museums, attractions, dining experiences, and sightseeing opportunities. It all adds up. 

When we first started our full time adventure, we met a couple who had already been full timing for about three years, and we discussed the issue of the budget. They told us that their goal was to stay as close to $100 per day as possible with a monthly budget of $3000. At the time, we thought that was a little extreme because our budget indicated monthly expenses less than that.  

We were wrong! Now after having spent over five years on the road as full time travelers, we have discovered that their goal of a $100 a day would be a huge victory for us because our average monthly expenses are closer to $5,000. Every month, we record all of our expenses, and we analyze these costs to see if we can economize anywhere, but we’re never able to shave much off the bottom line.  

Be prepared to budget

We spend more on technology than most people, but we work from our RV and need reliable connectivity. We started our journey with several dogs (now we’re down to two), and we refuse to economize on their food and supplies, so we continue to economize and dream of getting down to $100 a day.

To be completely transparent, it’s worth mentioning that we do not have a car payment, motorhome payment, or an extended warranty. We have had a couple of significant RV maintenance bills, and two expensive dog health procedures that impacted our budget, but those are the types of emergencies you have to plan for when you are thinking of becoming full-time RVers. 

Another relevant fact is that we do not like to boondock or camp in rustic campgrounds without electricity, sewer, and water. Our RV is set up for boondocking, but we just prefer full service campgrounds.

When you add up the fees for camping for 365 days a year, it will have a significant impact on your budget. We know many campers and full-timer RVers who only use full service campgrounds, for a few days a month, and I believe they might be able to hit the $100 daily goal more easily. Some other campers, only use membership campgrounds like Thousand Trails , and that will also lower your monthly costs. These are all personal decisions and only you know what will work for you.

Get tips from other full time RVers

One of the best parts about RVing is engaging with the community of traveling enthusiasts. iRV2 forums allow folks to chat with other RVers online, and get other perspectives on everything RVing, including products, destinations, RV mods, and more.

Related articles:

• The Dirty Truth Of Full Time RVing
• 10 Common Myths About Full-Time RVing

Pure Living for Life

Off Grid Homesteading Blog

The Ultimate Guide to Living in a Travel Trailer

We are a young couple on a journey to start an off grid homestead 100% from scratch. As we want to do this with as little money as possible, we are living in a travel trailer while we work on building our home.

As we’ve been living fulltime in a travel trailer for months now, we’ve come up with a huge list of tips for living in a travel trailer and thought we’d share them!

We hope this list gives you some ideas to implement to make travel trailer living as easy and fun as possible!

To use this guide, feel free to navigate by the table of contents below. Simply click on the area you are interested in… otherwise, just keep scrolling and read them all!

Quick Navigation

Trailer & RV Layout Considerations Protecting your Travel Trailer Setting Up a Comfortable Outside Area Meeting Your Power Needs (Solar Power?) Dealing With Septic Dealing With Greywater Meeting Your Freshwater Needs Cooking in a Travel Trailer Tips for Dishwear & Doing the Dishes How to Store Enough Food Keeping Your Travel Trailer Organized Organizing Clothing & Closets in a Travel Trailer Getting Quality Sleep in a Travel Trailer Keeping Toasty in Cooler Weather Keeping the Travel Trailer Clean Recommended Books, Blogs & Other Resources

Trailer / RV Layout

When you go to buy your travel trailer, one of the things you want to think about is the layout of the RV.

If you will be living in your camper fulltime, then you want to be sure to find an RV that suits your lifestyle and your spacial needs.

Here are some things we found you can look for to make your trailer feel most like a home.

• Size doesn’t matter, layout matters more: We found that bigger was not necessarily better! Bigger did NOT mean that the travel trailer felt automatically bigger, because it was! We looked at travel trailers all the way up to 25’ in length and they just didn’t seem to do the trick for us. We never thought we’d find a 19’ trailer that would feel spacious but after looking around enough, we found a Fun Finder which are known for great layouts. Because everything is laid out as well as possible, we feel like we have all the space we need and everything is fairly ergonomic.
• Pull outs: One think you can look for is a trailer with a pull out. These are typically designed so that they enlarge the living room, but they are pushed in during travel. We didn’t find any of these that we liked or that were within our price range, but they are out there, especially if you have a higher budget.
• Think about your “must haves” and your “can do withouts”: There were some things we knew we would need in our RV and other things we could live without. We didn’t really NEED an oven. We didn’t need to be able to walk on both sides of our bed. We didn’t really want a bathroom that was RIGHT by the bed. I can’t think of anything else at the top of my head, but you catch my drift. Decide what you absolutely need and what you can live without.
• Decide whether you want a 5th wheel or a simple tow-behind trailer: One thing you need to keep in mind is what type of vehicle you will be towing with. When we were trailer shopping, we didn’t yet have a vehicle to pull the trailer so we were open-minded. We ultimately decided that we didn’t want to deal with a 5th wheel camper trailer, nor did we find any that felt great spatially, so that all worked out well.

RV Protection

If you are planning on living in your camper trailer long-term, then it could be a great idea to give it a little bit of protection.

Ours already has some dry rot in the front, and it’s also prone to leakage, so here is what we’re doing to protect our RV (or things you can do):

This is much more sturdy than your average carport. Ours is 10×20′ which is just perfect for our travel trailer.

To give it a little extra height, we built a platform for the RV carport to give it an extra 12″ or so.

Outside Your Travel Trailer

If you’re living in your travel trailer long-term, it may be a good idea to give some thought to the outside of your RV.

In our case, it seemed that nature was just TOO CLOSE to our trailer, and we wanted to do some things to keep tidy and give us some outdoor living space!

• Have a quality doormat: When we first arrived on our land, we had an old, carpeted door mat that didn’t do a very good job collecting dirt off of our shoes! We’ve since discovered this doormat that does a much better job keeping the dirt outdoors!
• Have a couple of camping chairs: We didn’t really think about this before starting our journey, but we quickly realized that we needed a place to sit outdoors, especially so that if guests were to come by, we could sit and chat for a while! We recommend these camping chairs because they aren’t “sinky” like others. They’re easier to get in and out of, and more enjoyable to sit in.
• Have a place to store propane, water, and other outdoor stuff: If you are boon docking in an RV as we are doing, then you will likely want a place to store some of your “outdoor stuff”. We have a couple extra propane tanks, eight 6-gallon water jugs , and things of that nature. Having a portable RV garage really helps with that because we can contain our stuff within some walls rather than just having it all sit piled outside of our RV!

Meeting Your Power Needs

If you are living in a travel trailer that is tied into the grid, great! You have endless electricity! If you are boon docking like us, then you will need to come up with some sort of power solution like a portable generator or solar power of some kind. Here is what we have found works for our off grid power needs.

• Buy a quality generator: We did a lot of homework and bought a 3000 watt generator for our power needs. While this is more power than needed to simply power an RV, we also have a lot of power tools we use simultaneously, so having a powerful generator really gives us the freedom to work as much as we can. We use our generator a couple hours a day to charge our RV battery. The exact generator we have is the Honda EU3000i Handi … read the review of the generator here . We love this generator because it is lightweight and has a built-in wheel kit that allows for easy transportation of the generator. Check out our best portable generator reviews .
• Buy a battery charger: Many trailers like ours have a trickle charger, which means that you can only charge the battery so fast. It was taking us 8+ hours a day of running the generator to charge our battery, and if we were in the trailer using the lights, we were draining the battery faster than we could charge it! By using this battery charger , we’re able to charge to the battery directly and it helps the battery charge quickly and as efficient as possible.
• Buy LED lights: If you’re travel trailer is not already equipped with LED lighting, that can be a great way to reduce your power consumption! We wasted an entire year of time on cheap LED lights but once we upgraded to these ones , they got much brighter and lasted longer! Worth the extra cost.
• Get portable solar panels: After living in our trailer for about nine months, we invested in some portable solar panels , more specifically this one , and in the summer we’re able to NOT run our generator to keep our trailer battery topped off, saving us around $90/month in generator fuel! These will pay for themselves quickly. Setting them up is easy peasy.

Black Water / Septic

This is probably our largest pain point when it comes to living in a camper trailer.

As you may know, black water is anything that comes down from the toilet.

Right now, we are having to dump our black water maybe every 5-7 days.

• For men (or even women who aren’t picky), try peeing outside during the daylight hours: This will save you a lot of space in your black water tank. Save the peeing indoors for nighttime when you really would rather not go outside.
• Be mindful of the amount of toilet paper you use: I’m sure I’m not the only one that has a tendency to grab a huge wad of toilet paper when I really don’t need it! Try using less to reduce the risk of having a clog develop at the valve. Or, try throwing some of the toilet paper in the garbage. Or, try using this Rapid Dissolve Bath Tissue which is designed for RV us.
• Use the restroom when you are away: When you’re out and about there are many opportunities to use a public restroom. While I’m not encouraging “holding it” per se, if you can, using a public restroom will prevent your black water tank from filling up quickly.
• Be sure that your black water tank is actually emptying when you dump it: One time, we heard the tank empty so even though the sensor said full, we believed it was empty. It turns out that just days later our black water tank was completely full and we couldn’t flush the toilet! This was a careful drive to the septic dump. Check and double check that it is indeed, empty.
• Fill the tank up completely before dumping it: Once we had our septic system in, we left the portal open which created quite the stink… don’t do this! It’s actually better to just dump it when it’s full that way there is no stink and that also helps your tank stay clean.
• Be aware that the sensor may get blocked: Our sensor frequently doesn’t work. This is probably because solid waste is built up on it (eww, I know). Even if it says empty, the first time we use the toilet the sensor will say the tank is full which is not accurate. We try to use common sense.
• Flush out the black water tank and toilet at the dump station: To keep things clean and sanitary, we frequently run a lot of water through the toilet at the dump station. We also sometimes pour a small amount of bleach down the toilet to sanitize things.

As you probably know, grey water includes anything from the shower, bathroom sink or kitchen sink.

When you’re camping this probably isn’t a huge deal if the weather is warm and you’re showering and / or cooking outside.

When you live in your trailer fulltime and the weather is chilly, this is a bigger issue.

If you aren’t careful, your grey water will fill up much more quickly than your black water.

Here are our tips for keeping your grey water tank as empty as possible.

• Use a bin in the kitchen sink to catch your water: We use the sink on our RV… A LOT. The first month of having our RV we didn’t even have the BBQ hooked up so we did all of our cooking indoors. For breakfast we make coffee and some sort of breakfast skillet. We cook our dinner too. We also make our own cat food so we have storage containers to wash out frequently. It is critical that we use a bin to catch the water that would normally go down the kitchen sink. We then toss this outside when it’s full.
• Use hot water to wash your dishes: Whether you use cold water or hot water, it doesn’t make a difference in your fresh water tank level, so use hot for cleaning. We cook a lot of meat so hot water helps to dissolve the fat quickly. We use less water for cleaning when the temperature is hot, so a few drops of detergent and a little water goes a long way.
• Take quick showers (like really quick): Sorry to be a party pooper, but say goodbye to really long showers if you have nowhere for the water to go AND are on strict water rations! We turn on our hot water heater a bit before showering. We use enough water to get wet, lather up, and then use just enough water to rinse it off. I don’t use shampoo daily as this takes a while to get out of my hair. We also use Dr. Bronner’s Fair Trade & Organic Castile Liquid Soap as it’s extremely “clean” and seems to wash off with a little bit of water, unlike other soap that sticks around forever. If we don’t do any heavy work and aren’t particularly dirty then we will skip showering for a day.
• Get your shower fix at a truck stop: We are fortunate enough to have a truck stop just a ways up the road from us that offers $5.00 showers. Not all are this cheap. We both get unlimited, hot showers for this price combined. I’d say we do this on a weekly basis… sometimes more if we’re really filthy at the end of the day. Once we have our septic system installed and a cistern we won’t be so picky about short showers but right now it’s still something we have to be mindful of.
• Use as little water as possible when you don’t have a bin to catch it: We don’t have a bin in the bathroom sink because the sink is so tiny. We barely use any water when we brush our teeth, and I try to use as little as possible when I wash my face before bed.

Using these tips, our grey water has never been full when we dump it. Our black water tank always fills up first and there’s only so much we can do about that.

Fresh Water

Needless to say, but fresh water tanks vary in size from RV to RV.

Our 19’ travel trailer has a 25 gallon fresh water tank.

As we love water for showering, staying hydrated, making coffee, cooking and doing dishes, we seem to go through this quickly.

We’ve blown through this in 3 days before and at max, if we don’t supplement, it will last 5 days or so.

If you have a well you can hook into then great, but if not, here are our tips for conserving water.

• Clean dishes with hot water: As stated previously, clean your dishes with hot water from the hot water heater or the stove. Hot water will loosen residue and fat better than cold water. You will simply use less water when you’re doing dishes.
• Use an easy-to-remote soap for showering: As stated previously, I love Dr. Bronner’s Castile Soap because it’s easy to remove. It washes off almost instantly where other soaps I have seem to never come off. This helps me to reduce shower time.
• Skip the daily or bi-daily shower: I hate to say it if you love showers, but try increasing the length between your showers if you’re not getting that dirty. We spend many days running errands and don’t break a sweat, so showers aren’t always necessary especially when they are a luxury.
• Buy 6 gallon tanks to fill for backup: We can fill up on fresh water at the septic dump, but moving the trailer is a pain in the butt so we’d rather not do it when we simply need more water. We shopped all over and finally found these 6 gallon tanks to restock our supply with. Any heavier and you may risk hurting yourself lifting it to dump… and for us, we have to pour them in slowly. We also have maybe (5) 1-gallon water jugs. When we dump our septic, we fill up the trailer, (2) 5-gallon tanks, and multiple 1-gallon jugs. Once we discovered this, we never again made a special trip to fill up the trailer with water.

For us, cooking our own food is critical.

During our first few weeks after moving to our land we at out a lot, and our bellies were unhappy.

We simply feel our best when we cook our own meals so even though we live in an RV, we do what it takes to nourish our bodies properly.

Here are our tips to making cooking and food preparation a breeze.

• Keep meals simple: In the past, I’ve sent a lot of energy trying to cook new and creative meals. This resulted in a lot of random, leftover ingredients in the fridge which simply took up a lot of space. We now keep our meals really simple, and cook the same meals again and again because we love them and rarely have waste accumulate in the fridge. We also pick meals with relatively few ingredients.
• Cook in bulk (within reason): Since we’re busy, and preparing food isn’t always the easiest in a crowded travel trailer, we cook many things “in bulk”. For us, that means cooking the entire 1-pound package of meat rather than half of it. Breakfast always consists of sausage or beef, potatoes and eggs. We will cook the meat and potatoes in bulk, that way, the next morning half of the work is already done and we can just heat the food + toss in a few eggs. We will also cook a large pot of chili (2-pounds of meat + veggies) which stores well in the fridge and provides dinner for at least three nights.
• Prep veggies in bulk: We don’t like doing dishes so when we get them dirty, we’ll get as many miles out of them as we can. I also hate cutting onions because they burn my eyes like nobody’s business, so I simply cut a lot and put them in plastic containers in the fridge. Veggies store quite a while so they rarely go to waste. When they’re nearing the end of their life, we can simply toss them in a soup or salad and call it a day.
• Use a BBQ: If you use a BBQ then there is usually less (or no!) cleanup. We’ve been using this a bit lately now that it’s working. If you’re unsure what to cook on the BBQ, head on over to Pinterest and get loads of ideas! If you make something like kabobs you may not even have dishes to do after dinner.
• Use an outdoor cooking stove: In addition to having a BBQ, we also have an outdoor 3-burner propane stove . We do ALL of our cooking on this in summer as it keeps the heat out of the trailer.
• Use a solar stove or oven: We recently had the opportunity to try out a GoSun Stove . Many solar stoves such as this can cook food using strictly sun alone. This means that you don’t even need to worry about propane or even firewood for cooking. These may be the way of the future, who knows?
• Use a french press for coffee: We are coffee addicts. We had a hard time putting our espresso machine in storage for a while (it’s kinda silly to fire up the generator every morning for a cup of coffee) but are trying to adjust to our french press . This works great when you get a coarsely-ground coffee. No electricity required and tastes just as great.

If you love cooking and spending time in the kitchen like I do, then it may be hard to live without your favorite appliances and dish selection for a while.

Because we like to keep our RV tidy and have as little in it as possible, we said goodbye to the majority of our kitchen.

Here is what we do to ensure we have what we need while having realistic expectations.

• Have one set of dishes for each person: In our old home we had at least six of everything. We rarely had guests, but we still had six of everything including big plates, small plates, bowls, wine glasses, mugs, silverware and more. We decided that since we always do the dishes after each meal that we really only needed one of everything if that. We have two plates, two bowls, two cups, two travel mugs, two spoons and two forks. It seems to be working so far.
• Only include the things you use daily / weekly in the RV: Be honest… you probably use 1/5 of everything you have in your kitchen frequently! In our RV we have our Vitamix , meat grinder , french press, glass bowls for mixing and salads, ice cream scoop, can opener, measuring cups, measuring spoons and a few other items. We use all of those things on a frequent basis. After the one month mark in our trailer, we got rid of stuff we didn’t use including a colander, wine glasses, and a few other items.
• Think twice before including dedicates: Even in the largest RVs, you will be tight on space. Even if you’re are small, fit and agile, you will bump into things, things will move around on the road, and things will fall out of place. We already said goodbye to one glass that was displaced on the way to the septic dump. If you have something delicate that you care about, maybe you should put it in storage for a while.
• Don’t be lazy and toss your silverware into the dishwater bin: I did this one or two times before learning my lesson. Our dishwater bin is never clean (except the 3 minutes after we thoroughly clean it). Once a spoon or something dives into the dishwater bin, it’s always annoying to clean because you have to fish it out and clean the handle in addition to the part that touched your mouth or food. It’s a small thing, but it’s the small things that really matter when boondocking in your RV.

Food Storage

When living off grid (or even NOT living off grid) it’s a great idea to have some sort of food storage.

In the RV, it’s really hard to do this at all as the space is so minimal.

Regardless, we’ll share our tips to storing food, staying organized, and even thinking more long-term in case some situation happens where you can’t run out to the grocery store to restock.

• Keep everything organized in bins: You will quickly learn on this blog that we love bins! We’re highly organized people and the availability of bins just feeds our obsession. We have a couple different spots for food bins in our trailer. We have a couple styles of bins and organize them by spices, cans, things we use daily, snack storage and more. We picked bins that are aesthetically pleasing so that it feels like we have more of a home than a travel trailer. Our bins also do a great job at hiding whatever is in them. We’d rather look at a pretty, white, basket-woven bin than hot chocolate packets and chips.
• Save your storage space for food rather than things like clothing: We have a decent amount of unused storage space in our RV so we are trying to fill it up with non-perishable food. As we cook a lot of soup, we have stocked up on boxed broth, canned veggies and canned tomatoes. We also have a lot of no-bake cookie supplies like oats, peanut butter and sugar. Basically, if you prepare something often, have a lot of those ingredients on hand in storage. Even if you only have 1-2 weeks of food stored in your RV, this is better than 3-5 days.
• Canning is your friend: We just started canning and love it because we don’t need freezer or fridge space to store our food! How much more perfect can it get? Look into canning – it’s worth it, especially if you have access to free or low-cost produce.
• Buy things you use frequently in bulk when on sale: There are some things we cook with frequently including broths, canned tomatoes, salad dressing, and microbrew root beer! When our favorite items are on sale, we stock up and do what we can to store it! As said above, we save most of our storage for food so that we can go many days or weeks if necessary without stopping by a grocery store.

Organization / Keeping Tidy

Jesse and I are both neat-freaks… we like everything to have a place so that we can quickly find what we need.

It took some trial and error to find places for everything, but here are our organization tips.

• Try to put things in an intuitive place: Think about the flow of your lifestyle throughout the trailer. Make sure items you use daily are easily accessible, and in a convenient location. Put kitchen-related items right by the kitchen. Put things you use outside right by the door. Don’t be afraid to change the location of things a couple of times… it will take some effort to find spots that work!
• Shop for organization tools after analyzing the trailer: Rather than buying a bunch of bins and knick knacks before organizing your trailer, organize first and then go buy what you need to finish the job. We measured various cubbies and cupboards in our RV, thought about what we want to put where, and then bought bins designed for those spots.
• Bins are your friend, use them often: As stated a lot on this homesteading blog, we love bins! Almost every cupboard in our RV has a bin in it. This is extremely helpful for taller cupboards when you can’t reach the back of them! We have all of our food in bins which makes it easy to find what we need. We even have a bin for our electronics, chargers, and cameras! They work so wonderfully, you can never have enough!
• Clean up as you go: One thing that is extremely important when living in small spaces is to clean up as you go! If we neglect cleaning up just one activity, we always regret it later. We clean up dishes immediately after eating. We make the bed after getting up. We put away clothes that we take off so that they aren’t laying around. When we’re done with our laptops, we put the laptops and chargers away so that they don’t add clutter. We do a lot in our trailer so if we don’t clean up after each activity, it will look like a bomb went off, and that’s not good for anyone’s energy!
• Don’t be afraid to hold out for exactly what you need: After several trips to Lowes and Walmart, we did look online in hopes we would find the organization tools we really needed. One thing we have is an office organizer that fits in the TV cubbie hole (we took out the TV) that allows us to easily organize pens, paper, receipts, small tools and more. We really wanted this one because it is white and fits in with the rest of our trailer. It was worth it to buy exactly what we needed and wanted rather than to save a few bucks and settle for something that would just “get us by”.
• Look online for organization stuff: One of our favorite websites is The Container Store… they have oodles of organization stuff! Just looking through their website may give you some ideas on how to organize your RV.

Clothing & Closet Space

When you live in a small space, you really need to pick over your wardrobe with a fine-toothed come.

If you’re accustomed to having your own 200 sq ft closet, you have a lot of work to do!

Jesse and I don’t have much storage for clothing; we only have a tiny closet and some space above the bed. Gotta be creative!

• Be honest with yourself and think about what you actually wear any given week: If you’re like most people, you only wear about 10% of your clothing in any given week, month or year. Try as hard as you can to only pack that 10% and put the rest in storage, or even donate it to Goodwill.
• Don’t plan on going to dinner with the queen: We all have those few outfits that we have JUST IN CASE the queen invites us to dinner, and we need a REALLY nice outfit! If you aren’t living that kind of lifestyle, put those types of clothing in storage unless yo actually wear them on a monthly basis. If you really need to go get your nice clothing, you can go get it.
• Pack according to the season: Since we have limited space, I only have in the trailer what is appropriate for the current season. If it’s winter, I don’t have any tank tops, shorts, dresses, or anything of that sort. If you have the space or are living in your trailer solo, you may be able to pack your seasonal clothing into bins under your bed. Basically, if you don’t wear it, don’t make it accessible!
• Have warm clothing: Here’s an article I wrote on how I dress warm in winter . I only have a handful of items, but those items are quality and critical to my wardrobe.
• Have a laundry bag that is easily accessible: Unless you have a way of doing laundry in the trailer, plan on going to the laundromat often! We have a laundry bag that is easily accessible so that we are encouraged to pick up as we go! Also, when laundry day arrives, all we need to do is grab our laundry bag and we’re set!
• Keep laundry supplies in the car: One thing we do is keep our laundry detergent and quarters in the car. On a good day, we’re thankful to simply remember the fact that we need to do laundry and we’re lucky if we grab the laundry day! As we always have a million errands to do when we are in town, we try to keep some stuff in the car because otherwise, we would forget it at the trailer.
• Redefine your definition of clean: Some people wear a shirt once and then toss it into the laundry bin. Unless you are getting filthy on a daily basis from head to toe, see if you can’t get away with wearing the same clothes at least a couple days in a row. If we’re simply doing light work around our property, or just working in town all day, we can wear the same jeans and sweater for many days!

Sleeping Well in a Travel Trailer

I don’t care who you are… sleep is important.

When you’re living in a travel trailer, things can get tense at times due to the lack of space and frequency of bumping your head on things, so sleep is extra critical to keep grumpiness to a minimum!

• Buy a quality mattress: We were lucky enough that our RV came equipped with a memory foam mattress! We love the thing, and feel that having a quality mattress helps us to get good sleep at night! However, check the mattress dimensions in your trailer… some trailers have shorter mattresses that need to be special ordered to fit.
• Have some ear plugs on hand: When you sleep in a travel trailer, it seems that the slightest movement makes a lot of noise! If you are not sleeping alone, then your chances of getting poor sleep go up because if one of you wakes up in the middle of the night, chances are both of you will! While ear plugs don’t reduce movement, they can mask some of the sound.
• Turn the heater down at night: One thing that wakes Jesse up a lot is the sound of the heater kicking on. We try to keep the heater as low as possible at night without turning it off completely so that our pipes don’t freeze in winter!
• Have dark sheets: If you’re living out in the wilderness and/or not taking showers daily, one thing that can help is having dark sheets. This isn’t an excuse to never wash your bedding, but it can help hide some of the grit and grime!
• Make your bed daily: Now I’m not your mom, but you’d be amazed at how having the bed made makes the trailer feel cleaner! On days we don’t make the bed, the entire trailer just feels messy, which can wear on our mood.
• Run a fan at night: After we got our portable solar panels , running a fan at night for both cool are and white noise was an option, and our sleep quality increased as well. This was because we could afford to run the battery down at night as it would begin charging again by about 7am.

Keeping Warm in a Trailer

We are boon docking in a colder climate, and having snow on the ground all winter long is not uncommon!

Weeks with below freezing temperatures aren’t uncommon, either!

There are some things you can do to winterize your travel trailer while you’re living in it.

• Use heat tape: If you’re fortunate enough to have access to electricity, you can try wrapping your hoses with heat tape which should prevent them from freezing.
• Insulate your carport: One of the things we’re trying is insulating our RV carport with fiberglass and high density foam! It’s not sexy but it helps keep some of the cold out. We also built a 3-sided cabin onto the end of our carport which we heat with a wood stove, so overall we’re able to keep the inside of the carport 20-30 degrees warmer than the outside.
• Keep your heater at 50 degrees minimum: During winter, we never turn the heat completely off. We set it at the minimum temperature possible which helps keep things from freezing. Freezing is bad! For the most part, it doesn’t come on during the day but it does come on at night.
• Keep cupboards open: When it’s really cold outside, keep cupboards open that would normally hide things like plumbing and water tanks. You need all the heat you can get so be sure to leave all appropriate cupboards open so that the heat can infiltrate the area.
• Insulate windows and air vents: This isn’t something we do because we have a fully-insulated carport, but others suggest insulating the windows and putting some insulation in your air vents.
• Remember to air out your trailer: One of the byproducts of propane is moisture, so if you’re running your heater but have everything sealed up, you will have a lot of moisture accumulation. We always leave the top air vents open a little when the heater is on, but other days we would open them fully and crank the heat up high! Heat can dry your trailer out a bit but you also need proper air circulation for this to work.
• Dress warm: While you do need to keep your trailer a little bit warm to prevent freezing, one simple solution is to dress warm, then the inside temperature of your trailer isn’t so critical! Here’s how to dress warm in winter .

Keeping the Trailer Clean

Somehow, when you’re living in a travel trailer, things get dirty quickly!

I’m not sure if this is because travel trailers are typically in wilderness-type settings or because you notice every detail when your home is small, but either way it’s great to be clean!

• Sweep daily with a compact broom: We sweep out our trailer daily with this compact broom . It folds up nicely so that we can store it in the closet. Even if the trailer doesn’t look dirty, we always get a decent amount of dirt off of the floor!
• Wipe down all surfaces with a microfiber towel: We frequently wipe down the floors and all surfaces in the travel trailer with these microfiber towels . A general rule of thumb is to try to clean dry, otherwise you just make mud!
• Have a lot of rags on hand for cleaning: What we can’t clean dry, we clean up using a simple wet rag. We use these to clean up after dinner, and to wipe off random marks off the trailer walls and doors.
• Have a wet vac on board: Since accidents are bound to happen (even just sipping spaghetti sauce on your kitchen table seats!), it’s a great idea to have a wet vac in your trailer or car! We try to keep our trailer extra clean and not accumulate stains, so as soon as we spill something on upholstery we clean it up ASAP. We also have a couple of Bengal cats that have been known to place hairballs on our bed, so the wet vac works great for that too. However, you will need electricity for this or at least a generator to plug it into.
• Leave your shoes at the door: As a general rule of thumb, we try to avoid wearing shoes in our trailer when we can. This isn’t always possible as sometimes it’s too cumbersome to remove our shoes, but this will really help to reduce the dirt in your trailer.
• Have a dirt-collecting doormat: Another thing we do is have a dirt-collecting doormat at the entrance to our trailer or RV deck. IF you’re going to wear your shoes in the trailer, at least knock the dust off of them first! Or, if you have some sort of RV deck, place it at the beginning of the deck so that you track less dirt right outside the trailer door! A great way to clean is not to get something dirty in the first place.

Books, Blogs & Other Resources

Trailersteading: how to find, buy, retrofit and live large in a mobile home, travel-trailer homesteading for under $5,000, electronics.

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Radiators fail once more: Moscow suburbs residents appeal to Putin

R esidents across the Moscow suburbs are besieged by a heating problem, for which they plead direct intervention from President Vladimir Putin. These individuals have yet to experience any semblance of home heating since winter started due to a dwindling supply of heating oil. The issue, one largely avoided by local authority communication, has left residents desperate to the point of directly appealing to the president.

While plots have been uncovered to disrupt Ukraine's infrastructure for a second consecutive winter, thus depriving civilians of heating, it seems Russians are now mired in their crisis. Irony drips from the fact that those under Putin's leadership are looking to cause turmoil in Ukraine, yet at home, they face a similar predicament.

Many dwellings within the Moscow agglomeration are presently without heat. The capital's residents are desperate, directly appealing to President Putin due to a perceived lack of alternate avenues for assistance. The absence of suitable heating functionality since winter commenced pushes them towards desperation with no relief in sight.

This seems improbable, but in Russia, it appears that anything can happen.

It remains uncertain if Vladimir Putin is actively addressing the heating crisis. Some experts suggest that Russia's heating oil reserves are depleting, which negatively affects residents' quality of life. Plagued by cold radiators and plummeting winter temperatures, these citizens have directly addressed their pleas to their head of state.

This heating crisis is happening in Elektrostal, a town approximately 71 miles from Moscow.

Ironically, Russia has constantly aimed to destroy the Ukrainian infrastructure since war broke out, deliberately trying to leave Ukrainians without heating during the harsh winters, aiming to break their strong will. It's an irony they now struggle with a domestic heating crisis, particularly near Moscow, their largest and most pivotal city.

Desperate individuals are reaching out to Vladimir Putin. They question his knowledge of the heating infrastructure conditions in the Moscow suburbs and the dire situations residents face there. Sundown brings no relief from the harsh Russian winter and without heating, their houses turn cold. With elections nearing, more and more residents find themselves reaching out directly to their president.

"Since winter's start, we've been without heating. This has been a yearly occurrence for the past three years. Despite paying for heating, we don't have enough. We implore you, help us!" - these are the desperate pleas from the heavily dressed populace dealing with the Russian winter conditions.

Experts attribute the heating oil shortage to international sanctions and surging demands for diesel fuel, pivotal to military operations. Russia now grapples with a dearth of raw materials essential for boiler and heating plant operation. As supplies dwindle, houses grow cold with little hope of any immediate corrective intervention.

It would be adequate if the war ceased, residents were prioritized, and attention accorded to their welfare.

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