Top RV Living with Kids Tips for Happy Travels

RV living with kids is a unique and exciting way to travel and create lasting memories as a family. However, it also comes with its challenges. In this article, we will provide you with the top RV living with kids tips to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience on the open road. Whether you’re a seasoned RVer or new to the lifestyle, these tips will help make your family’s RV adventure a success.

Key Takeaways:

• Choose an RV layout that offers separate bedrooms or a bunk room for privacy and personal space.
• Pack space-saving and versatile toys to keep your kids entertained without cluttering the RV.
• Stay organized by using stackable storage bins and regularly decluttering your living space.
• Teach your children water and electricity conservation techniques to save resources while on the road.
• Create a flexible travel schedule and take the time to settle in at each destination for a more relaxed experience.

Choose the Right RV Layout for Your Family

When selecting an RV for your family, it is important to consider the layout and floor plan that will best suit your needs. The RV layout plays a crucial role in providing comfort, convenience, and privacy for everyone on board. Here are some key factors to consider when choosing the right RV layout for your family:

Separate Bedrooms or Bunk Room

Look for RVs with separate bedrooms or a dedicated bunk room. This allows for privacy and personal space, especially when traveling with kids. Having separate sleeping quarters ensures a peaceful night’s sleep for both parents and children. An RV with a bunk room that has a door is particularly beneficial, as it allows for late nights and early mornings without disturbing the entire family.

Ample Storage Space

Another essential aspect to consider is the amount of storage space available in the RV. Family-friendly RVing requires sufficient storage to keep your kid’s belongings organized and easily accessible. Look for RVs with spacious cabinets, closets, and under-bed storage options. This will help you keep the RV tidy and clutter-free, minimizing any potential stress caused by limited space.

Choosing an RV layout that provides separate bedrooms or a bunk room, along with ample storage space, will contribute to a comfortable and family-friendly RVing experience. It ensures that everyone has their own personal space while allowing for organization and easy access to essential items.

Continue reading to learn about packing space-saving and versatile toys for RV living with kids.

Pack Space-Saving and Versatile Toys

When living in an RV with kids, it is important to choose toys that take up minimal space but provide hours of entertainment. Select items such as Legos, Magnatiles, puzzles, books, art supplies, Hot Wheels, and Barbies that can be easily packed and stored on travel days.

Consider storing some toys in the “basement” of your RV and periodically switch them out to keep things interesting. Utilize stackable storage bins to keep toys and games organized and easily accessible.

By packing RV-friendly toys that are space-saving and easily stored, you can ensure there is plenty of room for your family to move around and enjoy their time on the road. Creating an organized and clutter-free environment allows for a more comfortable and stress-free RV living experience.

Stay Organized in Your Limited Space

Living in an RV requires efficient use of limited space. To ensure a clutter-free and organized living environment, it’s important to implement smart storage solutions and declutter regularly. By staying organized, you can maximize your living space and create a comfortable and stress-free environment for your family.

Utilize Stackable Storage Bins

One of the most effective storage solutions for RV living is stackable storage bins. These durable and travel-friendly bins allow you to easily store and organize your kid’s belongings. With stackable bins, you can make the most of vertical space and keep everything neatly organized. Consider using clear bins to quickly identify the contents without having to rummage through multiple containers.

Keep Toys and Games Within Reach

To keep your kids entertained and independent, store toys and games low so that they can reach them without assistance. Utilize storage solutions like hanging organizers or over-the-door pockets to keep items easily accessible. By creating designated spaces for toys and games, you can minimize clutter and ensure everything has its place.

Regularly Purge Unnecessary Items

Living in an RV requires being intentional about the items you keep. Regularly take the time to declutter and purge unnecessary belongings. Assess your kid’s toys, clothes, and other items periodically to determine what is essential and what can be donated or stored elsewhere. This will help prevent your living space from becoming overwhelmed with unnecessary clutter.

Find Creative Storage Solutions

Make the most of every nook and cranny in your RV by finding creative storage solutions. Utilize under-bed storage containers, wall-mounted organizers, and collapsible furniture to maximize available space. Consider using multi-purpose furniture pieces like ottomans with hidden storage or built-in storage compartments. By thinking outside the box, you can find unique ways to store your belongings and optimize your limited space.

To summarize, staying organized in your limited space is key to maintaining a comfortable and stress-free living environment in your RV. Utilize stackable storage bins, keep toys and games within reach, regularly purge unnecessary items, and find creative storage solutions. By implementing these strategies, you can make the most of your RV living experience and enjoy organized living on the road.

Teach Water and Electricity Conservation

RV living often involves being conscious of water and electricity usage, especially when camping without hookups (boondocking).

“By involving your kids in these conservation efforts, you can instill eco-friendly habits and save resources while on the road.”

Teaching your children about water and electricity conservation is not only beneficial for the environment, but it also helps to ensure a more sustainable RV lifestyle. Here are some tips to teach your kids about conserving water and electricity during your RV adventures:

1. Be Mindful of Water Usage

Encourage your children to turn off the tap while brushing their teeth and washing their hands. This simple habit can save a significant amount of water over time. Show them how to do dishes without running water continuously by using a dishpan or filling up the sink partially with water for rinsing. Teach them the importance of taking shorter showers and only running the water when necessary.

2. Embrace Rechargeable Lighting

Instead of using excessive nightlights that consume electricity, consider using rechargeable lights or lanterns. These can provide sufficient lighting during the evening hours while minimizing electricity usage. Involve your kids in choosing and using rechargeable lighting options, making it a fun and educational experience.

3. Practice Energy-Friendly Habits

Show your children how to be mindful of electricity usage by turning off lights and electronic devices when they are not in use. Teach them about the importance of conserving energy and reducing their carbon footprint. Encourage them to unplug chargers and other devices when they are fully charged or not in use to eliminate unnecessary standby power consumption.

Remember, teaching your children about water and electricity conservation not only contributes to a greener RV lifestyle, but it also instills important values of environmental responsibility. By involving your kids in these conservation efforts, you are empowering them to make a positive impact on the world while enjoying the adventures of RV living.

Plan for Mealtime Success

Feeding a family while living in an RV can present challenges due to limited pantry, fridge, and freezer space. However, with proper meal planning and organization, you can ensure a successful dining experience on the open road. Here are some RV cooking tips and strategies to make mealtime in your RV enjoyable and efficient.

1. Meal Planning

Meal planning is essential when living in an RV. By planning your meals ahead of time, you can minimize food waste and avoid unnecessary trips to the store. Consider using meal planning apps or create a weekly menu to streamline your grocery shopping. Plan meals that use common ingredients to maximize the use of limited pantry space and ensure variety.

2. RV Kitchen Space Optimization

Make the most of your RV kitchen space by investing in space-saving kitchen tools and appliances. Opt for collapsible storage containers, nesting pots and pans, and foldable utensils. These compact items are easy to store and take up minimal space in your RV kitchen cabinets and drawers. Utilize vertical storage solutions, such as hanging racks or magnetic strips, to free up valuable counter space.

3. Efficient Use of RV Refrigerator

The RV refrigerator is crucial for preserving perishable food items. To optimize its use, organize your fridge strategically. Keep items that need to stay cold, like dairy products and leftovers, towards the back of the fridge where it’s colder. Use clear, stackable containers to store fruits and vegetables, making it easier to see and access them. Consider using refrigerator organizers to maximize space and prevent food from getting lost or forgotten.

4. Quick and Easy RV Recipes

When cooking in an RV, it’s helpful to have a repertoire of quick and easy recipes. Look for recipes that require minimal preparation and use ingredients that are easy to store. One-pot meals, sheet pan dinners, and slow cooker recipes are excellent options for RV cooking. Also, consider prepping ingredients in advance, like chopping vegetables or marinating meats, to save time and effort during meal preparation.

5. Outdoor Cooking

Take advantage of the great outdoors by incorporating outdoor cooking into your mealtime routine. BBQ grills, portable electric griddles, and camping stoves are excellent additions to your RV kitchen arsenal. Cooking outside not only gives you more space to work with but also provides a chance to enjoy the fresh air and beautiful surroundings.

6. Engage the Whole Family

Make mealtime a family affair by getting everyone involved. Assign age-appropriate tasks to your kids, such as setting the table, mixing ingredients, or washing dishes. Engaging your children in the cooking process not only helps lighten the workload but also teaches them valuable cooking skills and promotes quality family time.

7. Storage and Organization Solutions

Effective storage and organization are crucial in an RV kitchen. Utilize stackable storage containers for dry goods and spices to save space and keep everything organized. Use drawer dividers or small bins to categorize and separate kitchen utensils and tools. Consider investing in compact storage solutions like over-the-door racks or hanging baskets that maximize vertical space while keeping items easily accessible.

With proper planning, organization, and some creative cooking techniques, mealtime in your RV can be a stress-free and enjoyable experience. Implement these meal planning and RV cooking tips to ensure your family’s mealtimes are a highlight of your RV adventure.

Find and Connect with other RVing Families

While RVing with your family, it is beneficial for both kids and adults to connect with other RVing families. Being part of the RV community allows you to share experiences, learn from others, and create lasting friendships. Here are some tips on how to find and connect with other RVing families:

1. Introduce yourselves at RV parks and campgrounds: When you arrive at a new location, take the time to introduce your family to other RVers. Strike up a conversation while walking your dog, enjoying a picnic, or spending time at common areas like the playground or pool. RV parks and campgrounds are great places to meet like-minded families who share your love for RVing.
2. Participate in RV park social activities: Many RV parks organize social activities and events for their guests. Check the park’s bulletin board or website for upcoming activities such as potluck dinners, game nights, or group hikes. Participating in these activities gives you the opportunity to meet and socialize with other RVing families in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.
3. Join online RVing communities: The internet provides a vast network for RVers to connect and share information. Platforms like Fulltime Families offer online forums, social media groups, and meetups where you can connect with other RVing families before arriving at your destination. These platforms also provide valuable resources and advice from experienced RVers.

Building relationships with other RVing families enhances the overall RV experience for both children and parents. It allows kids to make new friends and creates a sense of community on the road. Connecting with other RVing families opens up opportunities for shared experiences, traveling together, and creating lifelong memories.

Remember, the RV community is welcoming and open to new friendships. So, don’t be afraid to reach out, engage, and connect with other RVing families along your journey.

Maintain Connections with Traveling Friends

The RV community is often smaller than you think, and it is common to cross paths with the same people during your travels. When you and your kids make friends while RVing, make an effort to stay in touch with them. Social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram can help you maintain connections with fellow RVing families. Encourage your children to use age-appropriate messaging apps to keep in touch with their friends. These connections can lead to future meetups and create lasting friendships for your family.

“We met some incredible families during our RV adventures, and staying in touch has made our travels even more memorable,” says Lisa Johnson, an avid RVer. “Social media allows us to share our experiences, exchange tips, and plan meetups with our RV travel buddies.”

Keeping in touch with traveling friends not only adds excitement to your journey but also provides valuable support and companionship along the way. Whether it’s organizing a joint camping trip or simply sharing stories and photos, staying connected helps cultivate a sense of community within the RV lifestyle.

Benefits of Staying in Touch with RV Buddies

• Share travel recommendations: Your RV travel buddies can provide firsthand recommendations for campgrounds, attractions, and hidden gems you may not have discovered otherwise.
• Exchange tips and advice: By staying in touch, you can share RVing tips and advice, helping each other troubleshoot common challenges and learn from one another’s experiences.
• Arrange reunions: Keeping connections allows you to plan future meetups and reunions, either at favorite RV destinations or somewhere new and exciting.
• Build lifelong friendships: The bonds formed through RV friendships can lead to lasting relationships and create a sense of belonging within the RV community.

Staying connected with RV travel buddies not only enhances your RV experience but also provides a network of support and friendship. Embrace the opportunities technology offers to keep those connections alive and nurture the friendships you’ve made on the road.

Take Time to Settle in at Each Destination

Moving from one destination to another frequently can be tiring and overwhelming for both adults and kids. Instead of rushing, take the opportunity to slow down and fully immerse yourself in each place you visit. By staying at destinations for longer periods, you can embrace the slow travel mindset and explore at a relaxed pace.

Aim for stays of 2-4 weeks at each location, allowing you to fully unpack, settle in, and get to know the area. This extended timeframe provides a sense of familiarity and allows you to establish a routine, making your temporary home feel more like a comfortable and welcoming space.

During your longer stays, take advantage of slower days where you can relax and appreciate your surroundings. Instead of feeling compelled to constantly explore, allow yourself the freedom to leisurely enjoy the local scenery, connect with the community, and engage in activities at a pace that feels comfortable to you and your family.

When you give yourself the time to settle in at each destination, you create the opportunity to truly experience the place you’re in. You can discover hidden gems, uncover local secrets, and develop a deeper connection to the culture and environment. Slow travel allows for meaningful interactions and memorable experiences that may have otherwise been missed in a rushed itinerary.

Create a Flexible Travel Schedule

One of the advantages of RV living is the flexibility to create your own travel schedule. When planning your RV trips, it’s important to consider a few key factors to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey for the whole family.

First and foremost, try to keep travel days to a minimum. Long hours on the road can lead to fatigue and take away from the overall experience. Instead, consider breaking up long hauls into multiple days, allowing for rest and exploration along the way. This will not only prevent burnout but also give you and your family more time to appreciate the beauty of each destination.

Another tip is to choose destinations that are relatively close to each other. This will reduce travel time and allow you to spend more time at each location, fully immersing yourselves in the experience. When mapping out your itinerary, consider the proximity of attractions, natural wonders, and family-friendly activities to make the most of your time spent in each area.

“Traveling is not about the destination, but the journey.”

Rest areas and parking lots can also serve as convenient stop-over spots during long travel days. Take breaks, stretch your legs, and enjoy a picnic or a quick game of catch with the kids. This will not only break up the monotony of the road but also provide opportunities for family bonding and relaxation in between destinations.

By creating a flexible travel schedule, you’ll have the freedom to adapt and make the most of your RV adventure. Embrace the spontaneity of the open road while ensuring comfort and enjoyment for the whole family.

Conclusion

RV living with kids is an exciting journey that offers unique challenges and opportunities for families. By implementing the top RV living with kids tips, you can ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for your family as you explore the open road together.

Choosing the right RV layout, with separate bedrooms or a bunk room, provides privacy and personal space for both parents and children, while also allowing for late nights and early mornings without disturbing the entire family.

Staying organized in your limited space is crucial for a stress-free RV lifestyle. Utilize stackable storage bins to keep toys and belongings organized, and regularly declutter to make the most of your living space.

Teaching your children about water and electricity conservation is important for both the environment and your RV lifestyle. Instill habits like turning off the tap and using rechargeable lights to promote eco-friendly practices on the road.

Plan meals ahead of time to maximize limited pantry and fridge space, and take advantage of the RVing community by connecting with other families at RV parks and campgrounds. Building relationships with other RVing families creates a sense of community and enhances the overall RV experience for both children and parents.

Embrace the freedom and flexibility of RV living with kids, and create lasting memories as you embark on family-friendly adventures together. With the right strategies and tips, RV living with kids can be a rewarding and fulfilling lifestyle for the whole family.