I'm in the beginning stages of considering this and thought I'd throw it out there to see if it's even feasible.
I am thinking about a job about 2.5-3 hours away from home. How feasible would it be to stay in a motorhome there during the week and come home on weekends? I'd rather be paying for a motorhome than rent on a cheap apartment. Moving permanently isn't a great option at this point.
We're in Virginia, so winters do get chilly, but not bitter cold most of the time.
What are some things I should consider as I investigate?
'98 Suburban
'97 Flagstaff Cobra Classic 623
"You have to write the book that wants to be written. And if the book will be too difficult for grown-ups, then you write it for children."
~~Madeleine L’Engle
I have been doing contract consulting for the last 10 years and its always worked great for me. Sure beats staying in hotels and apartments any where from 1 week to 6 months and you can take all your "stuff" with you, just like home.
You do what you gotta do. Certainly is something that is not totally unusual and has been done before by many of us. I flew Austin-Denver and worked for 4 days, then flew back for 3 days...did that every week for 2 yrs...survival mode..monthly RV rate I would surmise would be much cheaper than an apt, plus if Class C, form of transportation while working...as much as I flew, wasnt unusual to see RV in airport parking, something to also think about and maybe a tad more secure than leaving it in RV park..many variables...
I have been using my RV for work for many years, rather than staying in motels, etc. I am in it usually for 61/2 - 7 months from April thru Oct. I love having my own house with me. Macktee
If you can find a good place to park that doesn't cost too much is the main thing. Will you have other transportation available?? What type of MH are you considering?? You would probably need full hookups, power water and sewer, although you could make 5 or 6 days without water or sewer if you are very conserative.
Noel and Betty Johnson 2005 GulfStream Ultra Supreme, 1 wife, 1 Poodle
I've been in sales/sales management for more years than I can remember. Typical mileage was about 35-40k per yr. Motels and restaurants totaling in the neighborhood of 10-12k annually were the standard fare until 04 when I bought a camper.
All of a sudden, extended travel got easier. Reservations weren't needed. When I got tired I just pulled over and rested, campground or not. I ate healthier... slept better. Did you know that the ambiance of a C.O.E. or State park is so much better than a Motel 6 or Comfort Inn? Cheaper too! Sure, mpg dropped by 1/2, but that was just part of the equation. Not only was I spending less on travel, but the camper was a write-off and I had something to show for the expense other than receipts.
Still, there was just one problem... Commuting! Full timing solved that 2+ years ago. Still have 1 year to go until full retirement. Have no desire for sticks and bricks at that time. Planning to revisit some places I've been and spend some quality time in those areas. Plus, there is much to see in the rest of the country.
While situations differ, there's enough commonality to say a camper could be the better route. I'd suggest two things. Check with your CPA regarding write-offs and make sure there is a near-by, year-round, open campground with a monthly rate, offering services. Short of that, generator use and propane will be outrageous during the winter and summer months. I'd be looking at least for a "snowbird" rated RV for winters in VA. Good luck in your decision.
I could have other transportation. I don't imagine that I'd want to drive a motorhome back and forth every weekend, so I expect I'd take my car. For this purpose a travel trailer or fifth wheel would probably be more practical, but I hate towing and want a motorhome anyway.
I'd be looking at a used Class A, more than likely, though I'd consider a C as well. Money is definitely an issue, so I wouldn't be able to pick and choose too much.
I do tow when I have to. But, for my normal travel, I'd prefer a motorhome. I'd tow the car up, park the motorhome, use my car for everyday travel and to come home on weekends, then tow the car back home during the summers when I wouldn't be working, and would be using the motorhome for travel.
When we started fulltiming, there was a very old Cls C parked next to us in Tallahassee. Periodically, the owner would arrive and stay awhile, but leave every morning in a suit and tie.
Found out one day, that he was a member of the state legislature and would use the RV instead of a motel to save money. Monthly rates are always better than nightly or even weekly.
The biggest issue is finding a reasonably priced campground to park in.
2009 DRV Mobile Suite 38TKSB3 (38RSSB3)....our custom home w/2011 upgrades
2010 Ford F450 KR CC 4x4......his office
Working Fulltimers since 3/2005
"Shoot for the Moon! Even if you miss it, you will land among the Stars."