We have been fulltime RVers for about 1-1/2 years now. During that time we have learned a great deal about this lifestyle.
When we were planning our “escape”, we did a lot of research. Of course, one of our concerns was financing. We read a lot of information in blogs and forums and were very appreciative of the honest financial information shared by other fulltimers.
Since we began our journey, we’ve kept a detailed record of our expenses. Before we started, we estimated we’d spend about $2,000 a month. We’ve discovered that we are actually spending about $2,500 a month, some months are higher, some lower. But, that’s our overall average.
We always planned to do some workamping, but these expenses are just confirming that we will work for at least a few years until some of our retirement monies kick in. We have savings, but we are trying to earn enough to cover our expenses so we don’t have to dip into those savings. It just makes us feel better to leave that nest egg alone. Probably our conservative Midwest upbringing.
We know there are fulltimers out there spending much less than that, and those spending more. Could we spend less? Absolutely, but we don’t want to cut anything. We are pretty conservative, but do enjoy certain things. We’re not willing to give up our satellite TV, internet, cell phones, golf, sightseeing, etc.
Another discovery we’ve made is you get what you pay for with regards to campgrounds. We enjoy the county park we camphost at in the summer. It’s a quiet, natural setting. We don’t mind staying at inexpensive Passport American campgrounds while we travel in between destinations. But, I think we’ll be choosing a little more upscale places to stay for the winter. I think paying a little more will be worth it for nicer resort-type places. It’s nice to have a variety throughout the year.
The weather continues to be fantastic with highs in the 70s and sun, sun, sun. We’ve been walking every day. There are a lot of interesting plants in this part of the desert. This cactus looks soft and fuzzy, but don’t touch it!
Here’s our site. As you can see, sites are tight and gravel. The people here seem nice. We’re planning on participating in some of the activities soon.
Tomorrow I plan to pull out my sewing machine and start a new quilting project. I have several projects I’m looking forward to working on.
Next week the two couples we will cruise to Hawaii with are arriving in Tucson. So, we’re holding off on sightseeing until they get here. Two weeks from today we’ll be cruising. Can’t wait!
Don’t wish upon a star – Reach for one!
