Supply: RV LIFESetting Up a Everlasting Base vs. Continuous Journey for Snowbirds
In accordance with a 2023 KOA report, RV possession has soared by over 62% within the final twenty years, with virtually 12 million RV-owning households counted in 2022. Because the leaves start to fall and the temperatures drop, many of those RV lovers will not be able to park their homes-on-wheels in storage simply but. As an alternative, they’re seeking to chase the heat of the solar as snowbirds.
However with the RV packed, a query lingers: Is it wiser to nestle into one cozy space for the winter, or is the season finest loved by migrating from one sunny locale to a different? This text explores the advantages and nuances of each staying put and staying cell throughout the snowbird season.
Why arrange a everlasting base?
Prior to now, once I heard the time period “snowbird,” it evoked pictures of people from snowy northern and northeastern states migrating to Florida for the winter. My thoughts didn’t particularly ponder in the event that they traveled in an RV or had a number of houses. Now, as I consider my very own RV standing, I can affiliate that time period with RVers who persistently search the identical heat local weather yearly.
A number of years in the past, we established a everlasting base within the Phoenix space, touring and work tenting in the summertime to flee the warmth. Many associates have their everlasting bases in locations like Wisconsin, Michigan, and even Canada, and so they be a part of our 55-plus group to relish the luxurious winter climate.
Execs of a house base
Feeling of a everlasting group
One of many joys of getting a everlasting group is the sense of belonging. As full-time RVers and work campers, assembly new folks and spending high quality time with them is pleasant. Nonetheless, the looming realization that we’d by no means cross paths with many of those people once more does forged a shadow. Having a house base as a snowbird ensures that, even if you happen to half methods for a season, reunions are at all times on the horizon.
Storage
A everlasting residence base gives storage alternatives that an RV can’t match, releasing you from the claustrophobic realization that your complete life is encapsulated in that aluminum shell.
An handle
Many RVers lean on companies like GoodSam or Escapees to safe a everlasting handle and handle their mail. We opted for Escapees, anchoring our handle in Livingston, Texas. A house base simplifies mail processes, and our resort even gives mail forwarding throughout our summer season absence.
Cons of a house base
Expense
Monetary duties related to a house base, similar to mortgages, taxes, and upkeep, may deter some. Even our modest park mannequin has had restore payments that felt overwhelming. Potential HOA charges or website rental prices may be elements, regardless of year-round residence.
Safety throughout absences
Guaranteeing your property stays protected throughout travels is essential. We profit from a gated group and a weekly verify by a trusted particular person. Nonetheless, residential areas may necessitate extra intricate preparations.
Well being care
Navigating well being care is a standard conundrum for RVers. Does your insurance coverage solely cowl remedies in your house state? We’re sure to Arizona for medical companies, and out-of-state remedies would incur larger bills.
Prescriptions
Fetching prescription refills throughout travels is usually a hurdle. Whereas chains like Walmart or Walgreens supply nationwide companies, meticulous planning is important. Our insurer, for example, solely mails prescriptions to our everlasting handle.
Automobile registration
For perpetual vacationers, car registration requires forethought. Some states mandate annual security inspections, whereas others are extra lenient. Moreover, on-line registration could be helpful, however timing is essential to keep away from expired tags.
Ought to I stick to full-time RVing or develop into a snowbird?
Life typically has a manner of answering our questions earlier than we articulate them. We hadn’t deliberate on a house base, and we weren’t weary of the highway. However that’s the attract of RVing: the liberty to decide on. Whether or not you’re captivated by the open highway or respect the comforts of a group, there’s no fallacious alternative.
Ultimate ideas
Each full-time RVing and sustaining a house base current their professionals and cons. RVing champions simplicity, whereas a house base, though accompanied by extra bills, gives a group to return to. No matter your alternative, plan thoughtfully, cherish your RV adventures, and at all times prioritize dwelling life in your phrases.
Be part of the RV LIFE Neighborhood
One of many joys of the RV way of life is the colourful group that comes with it. iRV2 boards gives a platform for RVers to attach nearly and trade views on all issues RV-related from gear to getaways.
Terri and her husband, Todd, are full time RVers and work campers. They’ve been dwelling full time of their RV for practically three years with their Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Newton, and their Mini Aussie pet Remi. They’re at the moment wintering in Arizona with plans to proceed their travels subsequent summer season. Writing is Terri’s ardour however she additionally loves climbing, kayaking and something she will do outdoors.