It’s important to take some time every November to reflect on everyone and everything that we’re thankful for. As RVers, it can be so easy to focus on the things that go wrong along the way (like tire blowouts) that we forget about everything else on our journeys that have gone right.
So, before digging into the turkey and mashed potatoes this Thanksgiving, we’d like to give thanks to the more underrated highlights from living in a home-on-wheels.
1. The freedom of the open road
Driving Highway 128 in Colorado. Photo: Serolynne on Flickr
Having a home-on-wheels gives us the ultimate freedom. We can go where we want, when we want, an independence that most 9-5 workers who live in a sticks-and-bricks home don’t get to experience.
2. Free and cheap places to camp
RV among massive rocks at City of Rocks State Park, New Mexico. Sites only cost $4-14 a night. Photo: Duncan Rawlinson on Flickr
Affordable sites make full-time RVing possible. It wouldn’t be the same without friends and family who lend their driveway, Walmart parking lots, or public land like wildlife refuges that have sites for less than $20 a night.
3. A safe, working rig
Driving through Yellowstone. Photo: David Berndt on Vimeo
Of course there will always be something broken in the RV. One day it’s going to be the A/C and the next it’s going to be the fridge. Despite whatever’s not working at the moment, we’re still grateful for our ride as long as it gets us where we want to go safely.
4. Smooth, paved roads
Highway 82 in Lubbock County, Texas. Photo: Leaflet on Wikipedia
Wide open roads with no potholes or narrow turns—these are what really make for the best drives. Especially when they’re off the interstate.
5. When sites are nicely spaced and level
Photo: Nellis Air Force Base
Everyone appreciates a little space between their neighbors. Who wants to be parked within earshot of another camper with no privacy at all?
6. RV parks with laundry facilities, clean showers, and good free WiFi
Harborview Inn & RV Park in Garibaldi, Oregon. Photo: Yelp
These are the real heroes. A lot of RVs don’t come with a washer/dryer, and some don’t have their own bathroom, so many full-timers have to rely on RV park facilities (and finding laundromats) to shower and keep their clothes clean.
7. Quiet, courteous campground neighbors
Camping in Glacier National Park. Photo: Chiot’s Run on Flickr
Thank you, RVers who don’t stay up late playing music loudly, and pet owners who pick up after their dog and make sure that it’s not running through everyone’s campsites barking. We can’t express our gratitude enough for RVers with campground etiquette.
8. Everyone you meet along the way
Sitting around the campfire with friends. Photo: RV With Tito, Flickr
We’re especially grateful for everyone we’ve met on our travels. Meeting new people is all part of the adventure and often times it can turn into a life-long friendship. Thankfully, keeping in touch is also easier than ever with Facebook, online forums like iRV2, and other social media.
What else are you thankful for? Let us know in the comments below.
