The 10 Biggest RV Myths

We’re here to debunk the biggest RV myths and prove that you too can enjoy life on the road.
RV life isn’t all fun and games. There are a million things to worry about, from big expenses to constant maintenance and limited parking. It can’t be worth all the hassle, right? Wrong. There are tons of negative myths that steer people away from the adventure-filled world of RVing. The reality is that traveling in an RV is not only fun, but it’s also more accessible than ever.

1. You Need a Commercial License to Drive

Let’s face it: driving can be a pain. We’ve all fought our way through traffic jams and endured road trips with restless kids. So it makes sense that driving an RV is intimidating. That’s especially true when you consider that you need a commercial license to drive, right?

You can actually drive most RVs with nothing more than a standard driver’s license. Some states do require a class B or commercial driver’s license, but that’s only for RVs over 26,000 pounds. Thankfully, most RVs weigh far less. In fact, there are many lightweight RVs and travel trailers available. Driving RVs is also easier than you might think, and most people get the hang of it after only a few practice runs.

2. You Can’t Live Full Time in an RV

Okay, an RV sounds like a fun idea for a road trip. But there’s no way people can live in one full time. You can’t just pack up your bags and go off the grid.

Many people choose to live inside their RVs, and it’s actually pretty easy to take the plunge. RVers can travel full-time as long as they have a legal address for residency. That means you have to declare a state of residency, register your RV in that state, and get a valid state issued driver’s license. You can either set up a domicile (or a new home address) or use a friend or family member’s home address. After that, you’re free to explore at your own leisure. Just make sure you don’t forget to file come tax season.

Related Read: RV Full-Timing Tips: Setting up Residency when you have no Fixed Address

3. You Can’t Take RVs to Cities

Between crowded roads and limited parking, it’s pretty much impossible to take my RV to a city, right?

Yes, RVing in a big city isn’t the easiest thing to do. But there are plenty of ways to visit popular metropolises in your home on wheels. Cities frequently offer RV camping with full hookups. If you can’t find a place to stay, try a local Walmart. Seriously. The home of discount savings and black Friday mobs also allows free overnight parking at most locations. Online communities like Boondockers Welcome also allow RVers to stay at private properties in cities for free. It’s like a free Airbnb service exclusively for RVs. What’s not to like?

4. RVing is Expensive

You might have considered buying an RV. That is, until you checked the price tag for a new model. That’s not even mentioning the costs of expensive maintenance, gas, and parking.

It’s true that RVs can be expensive, but there are ways to limit your costs. For one, there are plenty of affordable RV models that give you a big bang for your buck. Plus, think about all the money you’ll save on airfare, rental cars, and hotels on trips. Did you know that the average cost of RV camping is just $29 per night? RVs may be a big investment, but the savings can be even bigger in the long run. It’s worth it purely to avoid staying at that seedy Motel 6.

5. RV Maintenance is a Pain

What about all that maintenance? I don’t have the time or money to deal with constant repairs.

RV maintenance requires similar amounts of effort as any other car. Sure, you’ll have to change your oil every now and then. But despite their many features, RV’s don’t require a ton of additional maintenance. The main thing to pay attention to are your generators and water tank. While they do require regular attention, the cost of maintaining your RV is still surprisingly low.

6. RVs are for Old People

We’re all familiar with the stereotypical RVer. These “snowbirds” are more likely to hold an AARP card than a youthful thirst for adventure.

There’s no denying that you’ll run into your fair share of retirees at an RV park. But RV sales are actually being boosted in large part due to millenials. The younger generation is choosing to ditch the expensive mortgage in favor of a more nomadic lifestyle. You’ll find a diverse mix of people in RV communities, from 20-somethings to families to seniors. So don’t worry about setting your clock for 4pm dinner and reruns of Matlock.

6. RVing is Lonely

Let’s be honest: life on the road is intimidating. In addition to the numerous hazards, you have to deal with isolation and endless hours alone.

While you might have some long solo drives, there are plenty of support systems for full time RVers. The RV Bunch on Facebook has over 33,000 Members and even hosts meetups for RVers all over the country. Groups like Good Sam RV Club provide trip planning, camping discounts, and emergency assistance. There are also numerous meetups to connect with fellow travelers and make new friends. Plus, the freedom of traveling is that you can live life on your own schedule. You can visit your friends and family across the country without crashing on yet another pull-out sofa bed.

7. You Can’t RV with Pets

What’s life without man’s best friend?

Whether you’re a dog or cat person, living out of an RV poses a new challenge for pet owners. Space may be limited in the confines of your RV, but that doesn’t mean you have to ditch your beloved pet. RV life leaves endless opportunity for walks, hikes, and exploration with pets. Just think about all the new adventures awaiting your pet at your next campground. Plus, RV parks are super pet friendly.

Related Read: Bring Along Your BFF-Best Furry Friend

8. You Can’t Work While RVing

Do you have a job where you work remote? You don’t have to worry about losing your cell signal or enduring spotty campground wi-fi.

Working remotely has never been easier. Hotspots are available for available for cheap through most wireless carriers so you can access the internet from the most remote of locations. Most coffee shops also offer free wi-fi so you can knock out some work and get caffeinated for the long journey ahead.

Related Read: Top Jobs Options for RVers on the Road

9. You Have to Stay at an RV Park

Nothing says living in luxury like camping at an RV park. Okay, RV parks aren’t necessarily five star hotels. But they do offer cheap lodging and electrical hookups.

You don’t have to limit your travels to RV parks. There are plenty of national and state parks that allow RVs to stay overnight. From Yosemite to the Grand Canyon, these campgrounds offer a close up view of some of the most beautiful locations in the U.S. Parks have limited spaces and size restrictions, however, so be sure to plan your trip well in advance.

10. RVs are Roughing It

Swarms of insects, smelly toilets, cold showers. There are a lot of negative connotations that come with camping.

Here’s the thing: you don’t have to rough it inside an RV. Nowadays, RVs are more equipped with comfortable amenities than ever before. You can enjoy full scale kitchens, bathrooms, and master bedrooms in luxury RV models. RVs offer a blend of both comfort and camping and a perfect way to enjoy the great outdoors. You may have to get your hands dirty (extra toilet cleaner, anyone?) once in a while, but it’s a small price to pay for endless adventures on the road.

Adi Hed is a writer and traveling enthusiast. He’s also the co-founder of Tadibrothers, which specializes in Backup Camera Systems and safety equipment for RVs and other vehicles. When he’s not traveling or in the office, he can be found writing on The Tadibrothers blog at https://www.tadibrothers.com/blog/