One of the effects of full-time RVing is, unlike living in a house or apartment, we don't stay in one place for very long. Sometimes it's a few months, other times just a week, or even a couple nights. One of our social media viewers asked a few questions about what we have to do when it comes time for moving day.
First and foremost, recognize how much time you have. Some campgrounds have a relatively early checkout, and if you're not exactly one to enjoy a nice sunrise, you're probably going to want the night before leaving to pack at least some of your belongings. Try to get an idea of how long it takes to pack each "section" of your rig, such as the dining/living area, the kitchen, the bed and bathroom, your patio, and everything else you may have. Figure out what you need for the evening and the morning, and maybe everything else can get packed.
For us, moving around quite a bit in our first month of full-timing made our packing down to a science. Closets and cupboards are well stocked with both our non-breakable pantry and our knife set the night before leaving. Breakable and sensitive items, such as our electronics, office needs, and potent potables, are packed the night before and moved in the cab of the truck in the morning with us. Not only are they less susceptible to movement there, but can remain somewhat climate controlled. Our patio gets packed up at night, including the grill once cooking time is over. Some of our loose odds and ends that don't fit in the cupboards go into our tub and sinks for the ride in the morning. Once morning hits, after getting a shower, just move things into the truck, hook up, and be on our way.
Once we're on the road, it's important to remember, even if you drive your rig like a limousine, your things are going to move around a bit. Lock the refrigerator and freezer doors if, like us, you're lucky enough to have that. Bunks are good places to store heavier items, though you'll want to make sure it's somewhat secured with bungee cords or baby gates. Newer RVs will have good cabinet latches, so those should be fine on the trip. Just make sure they're closed. Some will go so far as to use bungee cords on their cabinets; it's up to you if you want to do that. Most importantly, before you pull out of your site, make sure that everything is as secure as you want it. Check, double check, and triple check if you want. The one time you miss something may result in disaster.
So the next time you're ready to move, have a plan. Don't be afraid to adapt and make changes if things don't seem to work out. Just make sure, as you follow your internal compass, you're able to bring everything safely with you.
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