New guy from Florida

[Rick68]

Hi, I am new to being a member but have been lurking on this site and others for information for a while. I haven’t bought a RV yet but I am actively looking. I am retired military, kids are grown (well they think they are) and no DW to tell me what to do. I want to go see America, spend time in the places I have flown over or drove by without the time to enjoy it.



My plan is to buy a used older DP MH(‘92-‘96) or what fits into my budget. I plan to tow my older ‘90 Toyota 4x4 (2700 pounds) with about a 325 pound super jet (old school jet ski) in the bed incase the places I stop are friendly to that sort of thing. If this adventure goes for 6 months or 5 years I am sure it will be worth it.


I have budgeted each month 500 for fuel, 400 for food, 450 for camp fees, 500 for the maintenance fund, 600 for odds and ends (ins, phone, satellite, tags, and such) and having other money left over for spending as I see fit. I will be debt free when I depart here except possibly my newer truck or if I go with a newer MH and have to get a loan to assist with it. I can sell my newer truck any time and make a few grand off it if need be. It’s just not in my budget to have a truck and motorhome payment.


I would plan to boondock half the time and stay at CGs or other parks the other half. I would also invest in a solar power system to help with the batteries. My plan as it is now would be to get the MH and do any maintenance and renovations needed. Then to learn the systems I will park it for a month or so at the base FamCamp and alternate living there and the house I currently live at. Once all bugs are worked out and I know the MH inside and out I will wait until March to finish downsizing my belongings and then quit my job (if I am not laid off before then) and hit the road.
My first year I plan on hitting the Midwest to see my kiddos, then from there head up to New England to visit friends and families, then back to see the kids before heading back here to florida or the south west for the winter. Then as soon as possible in the spring head up to see the kids again and then slowly make my way to Alaska and visiting the northern states and attractions along the way. I will need probably 4 times the fuel money once my Alaska trek begins and that should be doable. Otherwise I will be SOL. After Alaska it’s all up in the air.


I think my plan will work the real issue comes down to the MH, whether I should get a DP or go with a gas unit. But I am heavily leaning towards the DP. If you see any flaws in my plan please let me know.

Rick

[seejay]

Here's hoping your budget outweighs your expenses. Sounds like a great plan.

[syensam]

Your plans are very precise and clear Rick. Great to read about them.

[Tallyrver]

There will always be bugs ,you have a house going over bad roads at 60 mph..stuff happens . have fun.

Wayne

[Steve N Sal]

Welcome to the forum, glad you decided to join us. I'm sure someone will give you some advice on your plans. Hope all works out be safe and Happy Motoring!!

[MSHappyCampers]

Hi Rick! Welcome to IRV2! Good luck on your adventure!

[Rick68]

I am sure my budget will out weigh my expenses, especially when I get the hang of it. Either way I will come out on top. I am planning on checking out 3 MHs this weekend I hope one will fit my needs or help in the search for the one I want at the price I want.

Rick

[seejay]

Any luck on a purchase?

[SkiPat]

Welcome Rick! Sounds like you have put lots of thought into your plan. Good luck with your new adventure.

Pat

[John H...]

Welcome to the froum...

[Rick68]

No luck on finding one yet. There are alot of people that exaggerate the condition of their coach. I plan on taking a ride to Alabama this week to take a look at another one. But I have time to browse still. I would like to find one in the next 6 weeks or so.

[Roger D]

what part of Alabama?

[Rick68]

The MH is over in Gulf Shores, about an hour and a half drive for me. I just hate driving over there after work.

Rick