Are you ready to hit the road and explore the USA in an RV? If you’ve been dreaming about a life of adventure, you’re in the right place. This is how we, a couple with minimal camping experience, decided to sell our home, buy an RV, and set off on an adventure around the country. We’ll share our experiences, tips, and lessons learned from our first RV purchase, Wherever I May Roll, to help you determine if this lifestyle could be right for you.
The Decision to Go Nomadic
It all started with a booming Florida housing market. We decided to sell a rental property I had owned for ten years. With the profit from the sale, I planned to buy a small, drivable RV to take my granddaughter to National Parks.
Little did I know that within weeks, my husband Eddie and I would decide to sell our primary residence and fully commit to living on the road.
From Dream to Reality
The idea of selling our home and living in an RV took minimal time to materialize. The rising value of our primary residence made it a lucrative decision. Once we calculated our monthly expenses, we realized that we could live anywhere for around $2000 a month.
With no mortgage and the flexibility of our careers, it was the perfect time to pursue this dream.
Initial Hesitations and Excitement
Eddie, who loves his personal space and routines, surprisingly embraced the idea. Although we are not seasoned campers, the thrill of the unknown and the promise of new experiences outweighed our initial doubts.
With that, we began the process of downsizing and preparing for our new lifestyle.
Learn more about our downsizing in our PODS video.
The Search for Our Perfect RV
Our adventure began with visits to several RV dealers. At our first stop, Giant Outdoor World in Palm Bay, we quickly realized that drivable RVs were out of our budget. We shifted our focus to travel trailers and 5th wheels.
Our second stop at La Mesa RV in Sanford gave us more insights into what we wanted in our new home.
Finding “The One” – Forest River Cedar Creek 291RW
The final stop was Giant Outdoor World in Daytona Beach, where we found our perfect match—the Forest River Cedar Creek 291RW. This 33-foot 5th wheel had everything we needed, including 7-foot ceilings, full-size kitchen appliances, a king-sized bed, and ample storage.
It felt like home the moment we stepped inside.
Preparing for the Journey
Naming our RV Harlow in memory of our beloved cat, we eagerly awaited its delivery. With the sale of our rental house finalized and our primary residence nearing closing, we began searching for a truck to tow our new home.
Despite our lack of experience in driving such a large vehicle, we were determined to make it work.
Embarking on Our Adventure
In early August, we left Vero Beach with our 11-year-old King Charles, Priscilla, and started our journey north. Our first big stops were in Johnson City, Sevierville, and Clarksville, Tennessee.
From there, we planned to explore a new state every month, adjusting our itinerary based on our mood and discoveries.
Here is a video showing our brand new baby (RV), Harlow.
Our Travel Plan
- September – Tennessee
- October – Mississippi
- November – Arkansas
- December – Texas
Sharing Our Journey
We invite you to follow our adventures on our YouTube channel, “Wherever I May Roll.” We will share our experiences as RV newbies, from setting up our campsite to cooking on the road.
You’ll also get a glimpse into our life together, the places we visit, and the people we meet.
Downsizing and Simplifying
Downsizing was a significant part of our preparation. We sold, donated, or stored items that wouldn’t fit our new lifestyle. Living in a smaller space requires thoughtful organization and prioritizing what truly matters.
Learning the Ropes
Transitioning from a house to an RV has been an educational experience. We’ve learned about RV maintenance, campground etiquette, and the dos and don’ts of life on the road.
Each lesson brings us closer to mastering this new way of living.
Building a Sense of Community
One of the unexpected joys of RV life is the sense of community among fellow travelers. We’ve made new friends at campgrounds, shared stories around campfires, and learned from the experiences of others.
Cooking on the Road
Cooking in an RV requires some adjustments, but it’s a rewarding experience. We’ve experimented with new recipes, adapted old favorites, and enjoyed meals with stunning views outside our door.
Tips for Aspiring RVers
- Research Thoroughly – Understand your needs and budget before making a purchase.
- Plan Flexibly – Be open to changes in your travel plans.
- Stay Organized – Keep your RV tidy and efficient.
- Build a Network – Connect with fellow RVers for support and advice.
Join Us on Our Journey
We hope our story inspires you to consider the possibilities of RV life. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a long-term adventure, the road is full of opportunities for exploration and growth.
Follow our travels and learn more about RV living on our social media channels. Watch for the #whereverimayroll hashtag on our posts (thanks to my son-in-law Blake for this genius idea) and join the conversation.
Conclusion
Living on the road in an RV has been a life-changing experience. It’s a chance to explore, learn, and grow in ways we never imagined. We encourage you to dream big, take risks, and make the most of every moment. Safe travels and happy adventures!
By intertwining personal anecdotes with practical advice, we hope this blog post provides a comprehensive and engaging guide to embarking on your RV adventure.
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or just starting to explore the idea, there’s something for everyone in the world of RV living.
Thank you for reading and being a part of our journey!