The Pros And Cons Of Solo RVing
Solo RVing is a dream experience for many. However, hitting the road solo with no conflicting schedule isn’t for everyone. Before you leave it all behind for a solo adventure, here are some things to consider.
Traveling solo versus traveling with a partner or group has both benefits and disadvantages. It has become commonplace to hear of families of four or five RVing full-time and RV groups traveling the country together. While this is the perfect scenario for many, there are those who prefer to enjoy the open road solo.
Having a rig to yourself with only your schedule and plans to commit to adds even more freedom to the RV dream. Some solo RVers do so because they want to challenge themselves, while others are in a situation where solo RVing is the only choice they have to experience the RV life.
Young or old, experienced or newbie, solo RVing might just be the adventure you’re looking for! Here are a few questions you should ponder before hitting the road.
Is solo RVing safe?
Safety is the first thing that comes to mind for most people when the topic of solo RVing comes up. Safety should always be a priority, and for solo RVers, there are some serious considerations to make.
Fear of safety is likely the reason many people avoid solo RVing. While it is a very valid concern, RVing is statistically very safe. Missing out on such a great experience due to fear of the unknown could be something you regret for years. Facing the fear of being alone and having to move outside your comfort range is also a great personal challenge that you will grow from.
If you are someone who will always be nervous, paranoid, and on edge, then solo RVing may not be very enjoyable. There are dark nights, strange sounds, and the possibility of being temporarily stranded somewhere to contend with. I think for most people worried about safety, it’s a matter of conquering that fear and taking precautions to stay safe.
Solo RVing doesn’t mean you have to be alone all the time. If you are using campgrounds and popular BLM land, there will always be other RVers close by. Solo RVing just means there isn’t another person in your rig with you; nobody said anything about animals! Having a pet, especially a dog, can ease your fears and make the experience even more fun.
Are you resourceful and confident?
Solo RVing will come with challenges, there is no doubt. Many of these challenges will revolve around your rig and having to fix things. You don’t have to be a licensed mechanic to solo RV, but having some know-how of how things work in your RV will definitely help.
In many cases, repairs only have to be temporary until you can get to a repair shop, so being resourceful goes a long way. There is so much content on RVing in the RV community that even those with basic skills can handle most issues that arise. Being confident in yourself will get you through most situations, and as you continue to RV, that confidence will grow!
What are your travel plans?
One of the main reasons people choose solo RVing is that they want to roam free of any commitments. Having to combine schedules and accommodate others can be a burden to some. If you are looking to head out without a plan or have a very loose schedule, solo RVing will probably be a good fit.
Flying solo allows you the freedom to come and go as you please. This means you can spend as little or as much time somewhere as you like. Mealtime, sleep hours, work hours–it’s all up to you! You are in charge, which is great; however, this does come with the responsibility to keep some structure in your life.
When there is no one directing you or keeping you accountable, it can be easy to spiral out of control. Living a free solo RVing life, you still need some purpose and goals. For people who don’t have self-control, being solo long-term can be a challenge. If you are planning on going solo, have some goals and meaning to your travel.
You’re never really alone
In today’s world, it’s almost impossible to actually be alone. With Wi-Fi, cell phones, satellite GPS, and internet, we can always make contact with someone.
Solo RVing doesn’t mean being alone, and for the most part, you will always be surrounded by or close to other like-minded souls. Connecting online with friends and family is almost always going to be an option. This can be a great pick-me-up for anyone who gets lonely.
We mentioned earlier in the safety section about having a dog or other pet with you. This can be a game changer for many. Having an animal to talk to and cozy up to at night can really make your RV home.
Solo RVing will change you
The beauty about solo RVing is it can be for a weekend or full-time. There is also nothing keeping you from stopping the journey and pairing up with someone.
Hitting the road yourself will challenge you and help you grow as a person. It may end up not being for you, but it won’t be wasted time. You will gain confidence, have time to find yourself, and be better prepared for the next journey you take in life.
Connect with the RV LIFE Community
One of the best parts about RVing is engaging with the community of traveling enthusiasts. iRV2 forums allow folks to chat with other RVers online, and get other perspectives on everything RVing, including products, destinations, RV mods, and more.
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