Transition Your Travel Trailer Into a Long-Term Home

People use RVs for a ton of different purposes. Sometimes they’re just a more convenient way to camp. Sometimes they’re the perfect vehicle for summer road trips.

But some people make RVs into their full-time homes! This is why it’s good to know how to set up a travel trailer to live in for extended periods of time.

Because different people need different things from their RVs, there’s no perfect one-size-fits-all setup, but there are some things you can do to transition your travel trailer into a more permanent home.

You’ll need to find ways to maximize storage, create an environment that you feel comfortable with, and decorate based on your own tastes. 

Again, this process is highly individual. But to help you get started, we’ve compiled a few ideas that will help you start brainstorming some ideas for this transition.

Soon you’ll know how to set up a travel trailer that’s ready for you to live in!

Mobile vs. Permanent Setup

The first thing you’ll need to decide is whether you will continue to use the travel trailer as a functional vehicle or if you’re setting up a semi-permanent camp.

There are a lot of RV resorts that allow year-round residents. Your choice will affect your design elements and layout.

For example, if you choose a permanent setup with hookup access, you won’t need to worry about solar panels, extra water storage, etc. 

There are pros and cons to each choice.

You obviously have more freedom to travel and explore if you opt for a mobile travel trailer, but you will be able to live more comfortably in a full-time resort.

The following sections assume that we’re dealing with a mobile setup because most people buy a travel trailer so they can, well, travel!

If you opt for a permanent setup, you just need to focus on making the interior as comfortable as possible.

You also may be able to expand outward and create an outdoor area for your RV.

Add Solar Panels

Electricity is an important element for those who want to set up a travel trailer to live in.

You can sometimes rely on campsite hookups or your batteries, but neither of these is guaranteed. Some campsites (especially in rural areas) won’t offer hookups.

You can also put a strain on your batteries if you drain them too much, too frequently.

Also some places also have restrictions on generator use, so you can’t recharge your batteries easily.

Solar panels are a great solution for these situations. There are several RV-specific models that are easy to install.

They are convenient, low-effort, and great for the environment! They make a great supplemental energy source and are pretty affordable.

The upfront cost can be a bit intimidating, but they can pay for themselves over time. If you plan to use your RV a lot, this is a great investment to consider. 

Set up a Travel Trailer With Maximum Storage Space

To set up a travel trailer to live in, you need to think about all the gear and items you’ll be packing.

Try to make a list of everything you’ll need to travel with, so you have some idea of the amount of space you need.

Most RVs come with a decent amount of storage, but they do have a limited amount of space to work with.

If you don’t have a permanent setup, you also can’t rely on a storage shed or a rental unit for extra items.

This is why you need to focus on maximizing your storage space. Try cutting down on your bulky items as much as possible.

Use vacuum seal bags for items that can be compressed. Stackable/nesting gear is also fantastic for the RV lifestyle.

There are also some areas in your travel trailer that could be converted into extra storage space.

For instance, if you have a model with bunk beds that aren’t used often, you can use these beds for storage. 

Installing command hooks, tension rods, and other items that can hold hanging items is another way to increase the amount of gear you can bring along.

Make sure you have enough room for everything and create more space if you need it.

Just be careful and make sure that you stay within the weight limits of your travel trailer.

Increase Water Capacity for Full-Time Living

If you plan on living in an RV full-time, you’ll need a good water setup.

Even though you’re living on the road, you probably don’t want to sacrifice showers, laundry machines, and washing your hands. All of these things require water.

The average travel trailer can hold a decent amount of fresh water, but it’s a good idea to supplement this if possible. 

See if you can install a larger freshwater tank in your RV. You can also use a refillable water bladder in your storage. This is great for topping off your stores.

A few jugs of fresh drinking water are good to keep on hand as well. You never know when you might need them!

Create a Work/Personal Area

A lot of full-time RVers are retired, but some people still need to earn a living.

With remote work becoming more and more popular, this is now a possibility for mobile RVers.

It’s a good idea to incorporate a dedicated work area into your travel trailer layout. 

A few travel trailers have built-in offices or desks, but this isn’t a given.

If you need to create your own space, it could be something like a converted closet, a nook in the living room, or maybe an unused bunk bed!

If you’re traveling in areas with pleasant weather, you could also use a folding table and create a nice outdoor work area. 

Even if you don’t need to work, it’s nice to have a personal area just for you. Living in close proximity to others 24/7 can be overwhelming.

Try to prioritize a personal space for yourself. Multiple people can use the same one at different times, but privacy is important to keep in mind.

A simple dividing curtain can work wonders! 

Set up Your Travel Trailer With Personal Touches 

If you plan to set up a travel trailer to live in full-time, it needs to feel like home. Decoration and personal touches can help you achieve this.

You don’t have to do anything extravagant, but simple wall decals, plants, decorative pillows, and knickknacks can make a big difference. 

Custom furniture is another great way to add personal touches to a travel trailer.

Sometimes you can transform or repurpose items that have a special significance to you and incorporate them into the living space.

Don’t clutter the RV, but try to make it feel like a welcoming environment.

Wall panels, curtains, decorative backsplash, and fun floor tiles can help the space feel less like a vehicle and more like a home. 

Above all else, you need to think of your own needs when you’re setting up a travel trailer to live in full-time. Don’t do something just because it’s cute or trendy.

Think of the functionality first and foremost so that you can enjoy the space.

Snag a Reliable Trip Planning Tool

Trip planning with RV LIFE Trip Wizard saves time by taking the guesswork out of finding campgrounds and resorts, mapping a safe route, and even sticking with a travel budget.

RV LIFE Trip Wizard lets you customize your route based on your travel trailer specifications, including height and weight.

Avoid low bridges and steep grades, and keep alert on propane restrictions.

RV LIFE Campgrounds is an excellent source for learning more about a campground and also reading customer reviews from campers just like you.

With some 20,000 campgrounds listed, you’ll be sure to find tons of parks just right to set up your travel trailer on your full-time RV journey!

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