RV Cost Calculator The Reality of RV Living: What You Can Actually Live Without
Real insights from experienced full-time RVers who've made the transition from traditional housing. Learn what you actually need versus what you think you need, with practical advice from those who've been there.
Making the transition from traditional housing to RV living involves one fundamental question that experienced RVers know well: "What can I actually live without?" This isn't about deprivation—it's about discovering what truly matters for your comfort and well-being on the road.
We've gathered insights from dozens of full-time RVers who've made this transition successfully, from those downsizing from 3,000 square foot homes to others moving from apartments. Their real-world experiences reveal surprising truths about RV living that challenge common assumptions about sacrifice and compromise.
Key Insight from the RV Community
"You don't really have to live without ice or a coffee maker. I have ice in my freezer all the time and I have a Ninja barista coffee machine. We are 2 adults, I grocery shop once a week. Honestly we have been living full time 7 years now and aren't going without anything."
— Becky Gribben, 7-year full-timer with complete kitchen setup
The Mindset Shift: From "What If" to "What Do I Actually Need?"
The "What If" Game Trap
Susannah L Poole, an experienced full-timer, describes the common mistake: "We played the 'what if' game. What if someone stops by, we need more chairs. What if we have guests for dinner, we need plates, cups, wine glasses. Finally realized we were carrying 'stuff' for the what if game."
Her solution? "Now we carry for two people. Wanna visit us, bring your chairs, cocktails & we now serve guests on paper plates!"
Old Thinking (House Mindset)
- • "What if 6 people visit for dinner?"
- • "What if I need this someday?"
- • "But I paid good money for this"
- • "What if the power goes out?"
- • "I need backup for my backup"
New Thinking (RV Mindset)
- • "What do I use daily/weekly?"
- • "Can this serve multiple purposes?"
- • "Is this worth the space it takes?"
- • "Can I buy this when needed?"
- • "Does this add value to my life?"
Addressing Your Biggest Concerns
Based on real discussions from RV communities, here are the most common worries about downsizing—and the reality from those who've done it:
Can I live without ice in my drinks?
The Reality:
You don't have to! Countertop ice makers are popular and effective.
Practical Solutions:
- • Small countertop ice maker ($100-200)
- • Ice cube trays with storage containers
- • Buy ice bags weekly if needed
- • Many RVs have residential fridges with built-in ice makers
Community Feedback
90% of full-timers have ice available - it's not a sacrifice you need to make.
Shopping every 4-5 days instead of weekly
The Reality:
Most RVers actually prefer more frequent, smaller shopping trips.
Practical Solutions:
- • Fresher produce and dairy
- • Less food waste
- • Better meal variety
- • Opportunity to explore local markets
Community Feedback
Many RVers shop every 2-3 days and love the freshness and variety.
Limited fridge space
The Reality:
Proper organization makes small fridges surprisingly adequate.
Practical Solutions:
- • Store condiments at room temperature (ketchup, mustard, soy sauce)
- • Use collapsible containers
- • Buy smaller quantities more frequently
- • Add a small secondary fridge if needed
Community Feedback
Even families of 4 manage with RV fridges with smart shopping.
Giving up my coffee routine
The Reality:
You can keep your preferred coffee method in most RVs.
Practical Solutions:
- • Regular drip coffee makers fit in most RVs
- • French press for off-grid camping
- • Stovetop percolators work anywhere
- • Keurig if you prefer convenience
Community Feedback
Coffee is non-negotiable for most RVers - there are always solutions.
What You Actually Need: Essential Items by Category
Kitchen
Ice maker or ice trays
HighDiabetic needs, drink temperature preference
Small coffee maker or Keurig
HighDaily routine, cost savings vs buying out
One set dishes for 2 people
MediumPaper plates work for guests
Basic cookware set
HighMeal preparation, health control
Storage & Organization
Compact freezer
MediumWeekly shopping, meal prep
Collapsible containers
HighSpace efficiency, multiple uses
Under-bed storage
HighClothes, seasonal items
Magnetic organizers
MediumWall space utilization
Comfort & Entertainment
Compact work surface
HighWriting, music, hobbies
Comfortable seating
HighDaily comfort, health
Weather protection gear
MediumIndoor activities during storms
Multi-purpose furniture
HighSpace optimization
Proven Downsizing Strategies
Play the 'What If' Game Strategically
Question every 'what if someone visits' scenario. Experienced RVers serve guests on paper plates and ask visitors to bring their own chairs.
Start with Storage, Then Decide
Put uncertain items in storage for a month trial run. You'll quickly learn what you actually need versus what you think you need.
Focus on Multi-Purpose Items
Choose items that serve multiple functions. A folding table becomes desk, dining surface, and craft area.
Seasonal Clothing Strategy
You don't need 30 t-shirts and 10 pairs of jeans. Most RVers rotate seasonal clothes and use laundromats weekly.
Budget Planning for Your RV Transition
Essential Appliances
Budget Option
$200-500
- • Ice trays
- • Basic coffee maker
- • Small fans
Mid-Range Option
$500-1,200
- • Countertop ice maker
- • Keurig
- • Air fryer
Premium Option
$1,200-3,000
- • Residential fridge upgrade
- • Washer/dryer combo
- • Dishwasher
Storage Solutions
Budget Option
$50-150
- • Plastic bins
- • Over-door organizers
- • Magnetic hooks
Mid-Range Option
$150-400
- • Custom shelving
- • Under-bed drawers
- • Closet organizers
Premium Option
$400-800
- • Built-in storage renovation
- • External storage boxes
- • Slide-out pantry
Comfort Upgrades
Budget Option
$100-300
- • Folding furniture
- • Reading lights
- • Window coverings
Mid-Range Option
$300-800
- • Comfortable mattress
- • Ergonomic seating
- • Work surface
Premium Option
$800-2,000
- • Recliner upgrade
- • Murphy bed
- • Custom workspace
Real Success Stories from the RV Community
Keith Ray Haney
4BR/2BA house + 11 acres → 78 sq ft RV
Experience: 2+ years full-time
Key Insights:
- • No ice for 2+ years - not missed
- • 95% of meals cooked in RV
- • Shop weekly with careful planning
- • Aeropress for coffee - no electricity needed
Advice for New RVers:
"Plan simple meals and embrace the minimalist lifestyle."
Denise McConachie
Traditional home → 23' motorhome
Experience: 5 years full-time
Key Insights:
- • Added ice machine, Nespresso, small dishwasher after trial period
- • Heavy items stored in shower while traveling
- • French press backup for no-power situations
- • On-demand water heater limitations led to dishwasher choice
Advice for New RVers:
"Try minimalist first, then add back what you truly need."
Dawn Lovell
3,000 sq ft house → 36' fifth wheel
Experience: Full-time
Key Insights:
- • Countertop ice maker essential
- • Brews coffee pot every 3-4 days for iced coffee
- • Small air fryer gets heavy use
- • Cleaning 'day' is super quick and easy
Advice for New RVers:
"Don't sacrifice the things that bring you daily joy."
Health & Special Considerations for RV Living
RV living can work well for people with various health conditions and mobility needs with proper planning and preparation.
Diabetes Management
Key Challenges:
- • Consistent meal timing
- • Fresh food storage
- • Medication refrigeration
Proven Solutions:
- • Reliable refrigeration is non-negotiable
- • Plan meals in advance
- • Keep backup cooling for medications
- • Stock shelf-stable backup foods
Community Support
Multiple diabetic full-timers report successful management with proper planning.
Limited Mobility
Key Challenges:
- • Compact spaces
- • Storage accessibility
- • Bathroom facilities
Proven Solutions:
- • Choose RV layout carefully
- • Install grab bars and accessibility features
- • Organize frequently-used items at waist level
- • Consider larger bathroom models
Community Support
Many RVers with mobility challenges thrive with proper RV selection.
Key Takeaways for Your RV Transition
What You Don't Need to Sacrifice:
- • Ice in your drinks (countertop makers work great)
- • Your preferred coffee method
- • Cooking most meals at home
- • Weekly grocery shopping routine
- • Basic comfort appliances
- • Daily routines that bring joy
What Actually Changes:
- • Shopping in smaller quantities more often
- • Serving guests on paper plates
- • Choosing multi-purpose items
- • Focusing on what you use daily
- • Embracing minimalism gradually
- • Planning for your actual needs, not "what ifs"
Your Next Steps: Getting Started
Start with a Trial Run
Put questionable items in storage for 30 days. Track what you actually miss versus what you thought you'd need.
Plan Your Budget
Use the budget breakdowns above to plan for essential appliances, storage solutions, and comfort upgrades.
Connect with the Community
Join RV forums and Facebook groups to get real-world advice from people who've made the transition successfully.
Ready to Plan Your RV Life?
Use our comprehensive RV cost calculator to budget for your transition and ongoing expenses.