Provisions are your lifeline for the full time RV lifestyle. Food, water, fuel, and other general merchandise is always very important. However, it's also necessary to consider several factors when budgeting for your provisions, because it's a bit different from the comforts of a traditional house or apartment.
One of the obvious budget factors is cost. However, this one's a little different because you may not be too familiar with where you're heading. You may end up in a small town with a grocery store that has high prices, if there's even a grocery store nearby at all, which can happen in more rural areas. When figuring out a budget for groceries, also factor in the fuel it takes to get there. Obviously you'll be light with your tow vehicle, but how much are you saving if you have to drive 50 miles each way to a national discount chain, compared to the overpriced grocery store down the road? Some call it spending dollars to save nickels. It may be worth it if you budget correctly, though. Figure out what works best for you.
Budgeting your provisions isn't all about the Benjamins. You're in smaller quarters with your RV when compared to a house or apartment. Bulk warehouses may be nice when you're stationary, but are you going to have room for everything if you get large quantities? Depending on what it is, you may or may not be able to store it. The propane savings are certainly enticing if you have transportable canisters, as well as the lower gas prices, but how much else are you saving, and can you cover the annual fee? This isn't limited to the warehouses, either. If you're going to "stock up" on one of the longer trips to the discount store, how much of that will you be able to store? Are you going to need ice for your cooler to bring it home?
One other big thing to think out, when budgeting those provisions, is time. Mobility is a great strength for the full-time RVer, but it can also be a hindrance. Are you going to be able to use up all your perishables before you hit the road? Can some of them come with you in your towing truck? Meats are going to be a concern if you eat those. Have you prepared and frozen all of them prior to leaving? Maybe you have your pantry well stocked. Is that going to shift around, even if you have stabilizing rods? Are you thinking about using a well-stocked pantry to prevent shifting? You may be able to run your refrigerator off propane while driving, which could help with some quick lunches along the drive, but other things may be too complex.
Wherever you are and whatever you're doing while following your internal compass, it's important to be prepared. Have a plan going in, make the most of what you get, and enjoy life on the road.
Copyright 2021-24 Freedom Rolling.
Logo Image Courtesy Clipartmax.com
United States Image Courtesy Simple Maps