Home On Wheels

Guest Blog Post by:

PREPARE Magazine Distinguished Author – Ken Youngquist, of Survivaltek

There is a saying that “less is more”. This has many applications: Less parts to a device means that there are less chances of failure; less estate and physical assets means less effort and funds required to maintain them. This often translates to “more” time and money for other interests or needs.

I have often reflected on the early days of raising a family. My wife and I were blessed with  two sons. When they were old enough we enrolled them in our “home school”. As part of our desire to enrich their education and life experiences we purchased a “class C” motorhome. We were able to take many weekend trips to various locations that enabled us to enjoy the great outdoors while camping.

 

On one such occasion we went to a county park where it rained almost all weekend. It was prudent to take cover inside the RV where we stayed warm and dry. We played many board games, ate meals, watched a little TV, and did some reading. When there were breaks in the weather we would go outside to explore the surrounding area. When we returned to our residence I was struck with the contrast in square footage of our two habitations. The house seemed huge in comparison to our motorhome (or RV) that had provided all the essentials for simple living that weekend.

As a matter of definition, recreational vehicles (RVs), (sometimes called a “motorhome” or “camper”) refers to a motor vehicle or trailer that is equipped with living space and amenities found in a home. Most RVs are self-contained providing a warm, dry, shelter with plenty of light, a galley for cooking, water storage, sleeping quarters, and often a toilet and shower. The RV experience is not limited to just indoor living space but also includes outdoor living with features like awnings to protect you from the sun and rain, and storage space for folding camping chairs, portable grills, and other camping equipment. It’s a delight to sit by a campfire and enjoy the wonderful views.

There are expenses to RV ownership like financing for purchase, insurance, propane, gasoline, storage and camping fees, but with careful planning they can be minimal compared to residential expenses. For us, our RV provided recreational and educational benefits but it also provided a shelter in the event of power outages or potential structural house damage in the event of unforeseen natural disasters.

 

——————————

 

Ken Youngquist is the creator of Survivaltek, a website dedicated to teaching the ways and means to survive. Ken shares his experiences of performing both primitive and modern day skills. It is his desire to pass on the mantle of preparedness to others. He is also the author of the recently released e-book “Fifty ways to make survival tools from trash and household items”. You can visit his website and learn more at: http://survivaltek.com/

 

Popular Questions

How can adopting a less is more approach enhance life in a home on wheels?

Embracing a less is more philosophy in a home on wheels allows for a more streamlined lifestyle. By minimizing possessions, you can focus on experiences rather than material items, which is especially beneficial during travels. This approach not only reduces clutter but also makes it easier to maintain your RV, allowing for more time spent enjoying nature and family activities.

What are the benefits of living simply in a home on wheels?

Living simply in a home on wheels can lead to significant financial savings and reduced stress. With fewer items to manage, you can allocate resources towards experiences like camping trips or educational outings. This simplicity fosters a deeper connection with nature and your family, enhancing the overall quality of life.

How does a home on wheels support a less is more lifestyle?

A home on wheels naturally encourages a less is more lifestyle by providing only essential amenities for comfortable living. This compact space requires you to prioritize what truly matters, leading to thoughtful choices about what to bring along. The RV experience promotes outdoor living and adventure, reinforcing the idea that happiness often comes from experiences rather than possessions.

What should I consider when downsizing for a home on wheels?

When downsizing for a home on wheels, it's important to evaluate your needs and eliminate non-essential items. Focus on multi-functional gear and durable essentials that enhance your travel experience. This process not only simplifies your living space but also aligns with the less is more philosophy, making your RV life more enjoyable and manageable.