For many people, the idea of traveling the country in an RV holds irresistible appeal. Whether it’s waking up to new scenery, meeting interesting people, or exploring national parks, RVing represents freedom.
But when is the right time to start RVing?
The answer isn’t the same for everyone. It depends on your stage of life, financial situation, health, and personal goals. Yet one theme comes up again and again from experienced RVers: they wish they had started sooner.
Life Stage Matters
Your stage of life often determines how realistic RVing is for you.
- Young families sometimes choose RVing to bond as a family, roadschool children, and enjoy affordable vacations.
- Parents of teens may find extended travel harder with sports, school, and social commitments.
- Empty nesters in their 50s and 60s often find this the ideal time to hit the road. With fewer obligations and retirement income, they want to make the most of their remaining years.
- Late 60s and 70s: Many still start then, but energy and mobility can become limiting factors. They may have better financial security and more time, but less energy for hiking, kayaking or long travel days.
Finances Play a Big Role
Your finances are probably the biggest factor to consider when jumping into the RV lifestyle. RVing can be less expensive than owning a home, but it does require an upfront investment. Buying an RV, outfitting it with gear, insuring it and keeping it maintained all come at a cost.
Some people fund their travels by selling a home and downsizing their possessions. Others live on Social Security, pensions or retirement accounts. Increasingly, people are working from the road, either remotely or through seasonal jobs – all of which is known as Workamping.
Being financially ready is less about hitting a magic number and more about ensuring you can cover expenses without constant stress. You want to be free to enjoy the lifestyle, but not spend every mile worrying about whether you can afford the gas.
One thing most full-time RVers agree on, entering the lifestyle with little or no debt makes it far more enjoyable.
Health and Mobility Make a Difference
RVing requires some physical ability. Even small rigs need to be set up and maintained. Larger RVs may involve climbing ladders, handling bulky hoses and maneuvering in tight spaces.
That is why starting sooner often makes sense. Waiting until health issues slow you down may mean you have the money, but not the energy to explore. Many RVers recommend starting while you are still active, even if it means beginning with shorter trips or smaller rigs.
The fact of the matter is that people should not wait for the “perfect time.” If you are healthy enough to do it now, then start now. You can always make adjustments later. Waiting often brings regret.
Clarify Your Goal
It also helps to ask why you want to RV in the first place. Some people dream of visiting every national park. Others want to chase warm weather, or stay close to grandchildren scattered across the country. Still others want a simpler, less complicated life.
Your goals will shape the kind of RV you need, the pace of travel you choose and even the budget you set. Someone who wants to move every week will have different needs than someone who wants to stay in one park for an entire season.
I know from personal experience that moving frequently increases costs. You generally see more, but you don’t get to immerse yourself in the local culture.
Start Small Before Going All In
One mistake many newcomers make is jumping in to the RV lifestyle way too fast. Buying a large RV and committing to full-time travel can be overwhelming. Experienced RVers recommend testing the waters first.
Rent an RV for a week. Take extended weekend trips. Try staying in campgrounds and boondocking spots. Each experience will teach you something new about what you like and what you don’t.
Think of it like dating. You don’t marry the first RV you see because it looks nice and offers adventure. Spend some time figuring out what works for you before making a big purchase.
Seasonal Timing
There is also a question of when to start during the year. For new RVers, spring and fall are often ideal. The weather is milder, campgrounds are less crowded and there is less pressure when trying to figure things out on your own.
Starting in summer may be tempting, especially for families with children, but it also means battling bigger crowds at popular destinations. Starting in winter can be challenging for those still learning, since cold weather adds extra complications.
If you are Workamping to finance the RV lifestyle, then starting in the shoulder seasons of April and May or September and October often allows you to ease into the experience.
The Emotional Side of RVing
Beyond logistics, RVing is about mindset. Flexibility and curiosity are essential. Weather changes, breakdowns, and noisy neighbors will happen. Successful RVers view these as part of the adventure.
Common Regrets
When asked what they regret, most RVers say the same thing: they wish they had started sooner.
Too many wait for the “perfect” time – after retirement, after selling the house, after saving more money. But by then, health or energy may be in decline.
The truth is, the best time to start RVing is usually right now. If you have the health, financial stability, and desire to travel, don’t wait. You’ll rarely say, “I wish I had waited longer to start RVing,” but you will likely wish you had started years earlier.
Quick Checklist: Is Now the Right Time to Start RVing?
- Clarify your “why” – travel, work, family, or lifestyle change?
- Assess finances – income, savings, RV costs, daily living expenses.
- Evaluate health – are you physically able to handle driving and setup?
- Test the lifestyle – rent or borrow an RV, take short trips.
- Decide full-time or part-time – seasonal trips vs. selling your home.
- Choose your RV type – motorhome, fifth wheel, or travel trailer.
- Pick a starting season – spring/fall are best for beginners.
- Downsize and prepare – declutter if going full-time.
- Stay flexible – budget extra for repairs and detours.
- Take the leap – the open road will teach you the rest.
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