Community Forums

THTRMGR · 10-29-2016, 03:49 PM

Hi All:

I'm just now in the planning/shopping stages, so I don't yet have a rig. I'll be going solo (with pets) and I will be almost a full-timer for about three years or so. But my site choices will be determined by my job, so there's no question I'll be in some super frigid places (and eventually super hot ones) for extended periods of time.

So far, my research says I'll need heated tanks (or tank storage heating?) so they don't freeze.

I'd love to find something with superior insulation so the coach will stay warmer overall in the winter and cooler overall in the summer, but I have no clue how I'd even go about looking for something like that (so any advice or suggestions on that would be super welcome too). And here's a dumb question: is snow load a thing for RVs?

Anyway, long story short, what else should I be considering for full-time living with pets left behind during the day while living in the RV full time in places like Boston, Minneapolis and Chicago in the winter and the deep south in the summer? What do I need to add to my "wish list" for my rig?

Many thanks!

Michelle

whaap · 10-29-2016, 04:44 PM

Few chairs and folding table for setting outside under (hopefully) an awning. Fake rug to keep that area clean. Water filter to put between your hook up and water tank. If you don't have leveling jacks make or buy a couple short ramps for getting your rig close to level when parking. If you have duellies on the back have valve extenders added to your inside tire. Have a small air compressor and tire gauge. Your tool kit wants to be able to service you various components just as in a house and also the vehicle.

jacwjames · 10-29-2016, 05:25 PM

Make sure you have automatic generator start that monitors temp in the RV. Even if you are hooked to shore power there is a chance that the power will kick. I installed one on my rig as my wife travels with dogs and goes to dog shows.

They also make monitoring systems that notify you via text message if the temp is high. Don't have this, wish I did, my wife is always concerned about the dogs.

B D HOWie · 10-30-2016, 08:57 PM

Double pane windows are an option on some units. Helps summer and winter. There are other ways to cover windows, but typically reduces fresh air convenience.
Paul

MSHappyCampers · 10-31-2016, 09:35 AM

We're not fulltimers, YET, but would like to make a couple of suggestions.

Try to find a rig with 15K air conditioners, WITH heat pump feature. The 13.5 units have a hard time keeping up in really hot weather!

Double-pane windows would be a MUST!

Tinting on the windows would be great, the darker the better to keep out that southern heat! Of course you can add this to any rig.

Awnings over the windows help.

Good luck, happy trails, and God bless!

Patti Brown · 10-31-2016, 09:55 AM

Surge protector, Tire Pressure Monitoring System, water pressure regulator to put between pedestal faucet and your hose, voltage tester to verify voltage at pedestal. All 4 of these are peace of mind essentials for us that can help prevent very expensive repairs.

Know what your ACTUAL available (net) cargo carrying capacity is (as opposed to what the brochure tells you). There is a yellow sticker near the bottom of the wall to the left of the driver's seat that will tell you how much total cargo weight (passengers, water, and personal cargo) you can safely carry. You may be surprised--installed options can eat up most or all of CCC!

UTTransplant · 10-31-2016, 10:14 AM

For hot or cold weather you need a good insulation package. Lots of manufacturers have them, but check around for the details. There is a wide variation in R values. You definitely need heated tanks, but that generally comes with the cold weather package.

There have been a number of threads about cold weather camping. A search could provide you with lots of information.