Moving around to new campsites and tips to make it less stressful

How often do full-time RVers typically move from one location to another?

Moving around very often isn’t for everyone. For me, it has always been a chore. It was a 12×6 converted cargo trailer with two dogs and all my stuff.

Everything outside gets dirty, and sometimes you’re not moving in optimal conditions. Stuff gets wet and dirty, and then you have to bring said stuff inside.

The first thing you do when you make it to a new campsite is make camp. Immediately after, you clean, and if you don’t like being dirty, you will be constantly cleaning. However, you can read more about the dirtiness here.

Many federal agencies only allow two weeks in a 30-day period. I did not stay at State parks because they were so expensive.

After the winter of 2020, I started staying off-grid. Again, moving around every two weeks can become a chore. It’s still a chore, even though my RV is a bit bigger now, it’s still somewhat of a chore. And sometimes, your stays will be shorter for various reasons: other people, the weather, travel plans, not liking the area, etc.

But I lucked into some places that I could stay for a while. Other places not so much. However, in the winter, there are places like Quartzsite or Yuma where you can stay for the winter. If you’re able to stay off-grid, consider staying in areas with multiple land agencies such as state trust lands, BLM, and Forest Service. This gives you more options and can help keep you from having to travel so much.

However, it also depends on what your goal is. Some “boondockers” or adventure-seekers may move every few days to explore new areas, while others, like snowbirds or those staying in RV parks, might stay for a month or even a season (3-6 months) to save on costs or enjoy a favorite spot. Workampers tied to jobs may stay for several months.

Here are some tips to help you make it more enjoyable and less stressful.

Plan flexibly for less stress

Full-time RVing becomes more enjoyable and less stressful with a flexible approach to planning. Instead of rigid schedules, map out key destinations while leaving room for spontaneity, as overplanning can lead to frustration when reservations or weather don’t cooperate. Have multiple possible stops planned.

So, say you’re planning to go eight hours. Plan a before and after stop as well that is within a couple of hours of your intended destination. This way, if you need to stop early or if you think you can keep going, you can without having to do extra planning or worry about internet service.

Apps like Campendium can help locate campgrounds and boondocking spots, but booking popular sites, such as Yellowstone National Park, 6-12 months in advance, is wise. Always have backup options, like BLM land or Forest Service lands, for busy seasons. This balance of preparation and adaptability keeps the journey more relaxed.

Master your RV to avoid surprises

Knowing your RV’s systems—water, electrical, propane, and sewer—before hitting the road reduces stress during setups and breakdowns. Practice at home or watch YouTube tutorials.

Carry a toolkit, spare parts like fuses and hoses, and a multimeter for troubleshooting. Confidence in handling your RV’s mechanics ensures smoother travels and fewer unexpected hiccups.

Budget smartly to ease financial worries

Financial stress can dampen RVing joy very quickly, so keep track of those expenses. As a full-timer, you can easily spend a few hundred to thousands monthly, depending on what kind of lifestyle you choose. Save by boondocking, joining discount clubs like Passport America, or workamping for free campsite stays. Building an emergency fund for repairs, like a fridge replacement or vehicle problems, provides peace of mind.

Smart budgeting lets you focus on the adventure rather than costs. I’m perfectly fine with just hiking and being outside. Others need more or less. But in the end, it’s not exactly fun being broke and in the middle of nowhere.

Simplify and organize for easy moves

Minimalism and organization make RV life less chaotic. Use multi-purpose items, like collapsible kitchenware, and storage solutions, such as under-bed bins, to reduce clutter. Create a checklist for setup and breakdown—securing cabinets, retracting awnings—to streamline moves and prevent oversights. Less stuff and a clear routine make transitions between locations quicker and more enjoyable. Only use and keep what you need.

Build a routine for smoother travel days

Keep moving days stress-free by driving short distances (3-6 hours) to avoid fatigue, starting early to secure campsites and set up in daylight. Alternate travel and rest days to recharge and prep meals or snacks ahead to skip stops. A consistent, low-pressure travel routine makes moving days feel like part of the adventure rather than a chore.

Connect with the RV community for support

The RV community is a lifeline for enjoyment and stress relief. Even if you don’t like people, you need people. Put you behind and help you be the best you can be. I’m not a fan of people or crowds, but we need people. You also never know when you’ll be broken down in the middle of nowhere and have to have some help.

Slow down to savor the journey

Slow travel—staying 2-4 weeks in favorite spots—reduces the stress of frequent moves and deepens your experience. I remember at the beginning of an Appalachian Trail hike, we failed to savor the moment and nature. It doesn’t have to be about the miles or the number of states, National Parks, or otherwise. Enjoy yourself by slowing down.

Prepare for weather and safety

Check weather forecasts and avoid driving in storms or high winds. Secure heavy items and awnings to prevent damage. Carry a first-aid kit, fire extinguisher, and carbon monoxide detector, and use safe towing practices, like weight distribution hitches with anti-sway bars, to ease road anxiety. Preparedness for weather and safety keeps you confident and calm.

Prioritize mental and physical health

RVing can feel isolating, so schedule video calls with family or join in on some local activities. Take breaks from the road when and if you can. I have friends who rent cabins or hotels for a change of pace—to avoid burnout. For more information on what to do when feeling lonely, read this post about dealing with loneliness on the road.

Don’t forget the physical health! Exercise through hiking, biking, or walking. Also, be sure to stock healthy, easy foods to maintain energy and good health. You don’t want to break down deep in the forest to only have five packs of cookies. Also, don’t forget to carry plenty of water, even if you’re on your way to another spot. Always, always have plenty of water.

In the end, you have to balance cost, comfort, and exploration.