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Why Single Full-Time RVers Need Not Feel Alone. How To Find Companionship When Traveling By Yourself.

This post was updated on March 15th, 2024

There are some people who enjoy the solitude of RVing alone.

I say, “More power to them.”

If you’re looking for your own private little piece of the desert, where no one is going to invade your space, I’m sure you’ll have no trouble finding it.

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More often than not though, we want to be around other people.

Still, it’s possible to feel isolated and alone even when you’re surrounded by others.

My Story

I’ve experienced periods of unwanted loneliness during the past 6 months that I’ve been living full-time in my RV.

Sometimes, the feelings of loneliness didn’t bother me much, so I didn’t put effort into fixing the situation.

Now that I’m parked for the winter in Quartzsite, Arizona, it’s time to ‘put myself out there’ and create a social circle that is satisfying and fulfilling.

See also: Go RVing By Yourself ? Consider These 7 Tips for Solo RVing

It’s easy to read about other peoples’ stories of the many friends and acquaintances they have made over years of travel – and feel sort of left behind.

Singles Buffet in Quartzsite, Arizona
Single’s Buffet in Quartzsite, Arizona

Where do you start if you’re the new person?

Creating your own social circle is even more difficult if you’re the least bit introverted. For introverts, finding and making new friends can be intimidating and uncomfortable.

Making new friends can also be difficult if you’re newly single.

The death of a spouse and divorce can be especially hard.

Just because you live alone in your RV, you don’t have to spend your days alone.

Ways For Single RVers to Connect

The Internet has become a powerful tool in connecting people who often live far away from one another. It also allows us to meet more people with similar interests than we could before.

Use Facebook Groups to Your Advantage

Facebook has become the go-to social networking site. On average, over 50% Internet users between ages 50-64, and over 35% of Internet users ages 65+ have a Facebook account.

Besides having your own personal profile, you can also join Facebook Groups and Pages.

Facebook Pages are designed for public figures, businesses, and organizations. Some examples include,

  • Escapees – a full support network of services for all RVers
  • DoItYourselfRV – our own Facebook page for this website
  • Airstream – the official page for Airstream friends and fans

Facebook Groups, on the other hand,

…are the place for small group communication and for people to share their common interests and express their opinion. Groups allow people to come together around a common cause, issue or activity to organize, express objectives, discuss issues, post photos and share related content.

See also: Guide to RV Forums and Message Boards

It’s these groups that will let you connect with others with whom you might share similar interests. Some popular Facebook Groups include,

Other Websites for Single RVers

Facebook is a great place to start your search for companionship, but it doesn’t have to be the only place you look at online.

Some websites will help you get in touch with other RV-loving singles including,

Senior Centers

If you’re over the age of 55, you’ll have a few more options to connect with other single RVers.

Almost any town of size will have a senior center, and many allow drop-in visitors.

These senior centers usually have halls, meeting spaces, and sometimes recreational facilities.

Single's Cookout in Quartzsite, Arizona
Single’s Cookout in Quartzsite, Arizona

In most areas of the country, these organizations offer everything from craft sessions and various group outings, to regular mid-day meals provided at a very reasonable cost.

Most cities allow visiting seniors to participate as well. You may have to pay a slight premium for not being a resident, but it’s usually just a small additional fee.

Some of the centers I’ve visited include,

By Googling the words ‘Senior Center’ followed by the name of the city you’re in, you’ll quickly locate the senior center nearest you.

Retirement Communities

Some regions of the country have a large proportion of older folks. These areas often have top-of-the-line services for seniors, including well-coordinated social programs and better-equipped recreational facilities.

Quartzsite, Arizona, for example, has a community center called QIA (Quartzsite Improvement Association).

At QIA, social events are held year-round to bring RVing seniors – as well as younger RVers – together.

Dances, suppers, and a wide variety of adult classes ranging from crafts to ballroom dancing happen frequently.

See also: 9 Reasons Why Living in an RV is Better Than Living in a House

Within this particular organization, there’s a senior singles group that meets weekly.

They have a short meeting, then head off to some interesting sight within a reasonable distance and put on a potluck cookout. Often the location has historical significance, making the outing not only entertaining, but educational as well.

Churches

There’s an old saying that the two best places to meet people are at the grocery store and church.

Personally, I would opt for any local church as a good place to start your effort to become part of your new or temporary community.

Religion is based on fellowship.

It makes no difference if your specific religion isn’t available, now is always a good time to learn about the cultures and beliefs of others.

The purpose of the greeters placed at the front door of most every church on Sunday morning is to welcome regular members and guests alike.

Introduce yourself, and enjoy the hospitality of those attending service. There will usually be a social gathering after services where many will love to hear about your mobile lifestyle.

Conclusion

If your life is empty, and you feel there is something missing, it’s likely because you’re lacking in meaningful human contact.

We are social creatures who need to interact with others for health and happiness.

You can meet people just about anywhere. You just need to take a deep breath and step outside of your comfort zone a little.

Internet-based social networks like Facebook work great, but don’t forget about off-line, brick and mortar community centers.

See also: Boondockers Welcome Helps You Find Free RV Parking Safely and Easily

In no time you’ll find yourself hanging out with the locals and partying up a storm.

It’s only hard to get up the courage to step out on that dance floor the first time. And there is only one first time!




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