Downsizing to an RV or a mobile home can be a smart move for people at all stages of life. Not only does this choice reduce your cost of living and prevent you from wasting time maintaining a larger home, but it also gives you the freedom to travel to RV resorts and campsites across the county. As you approach this big life change, follow some best practices and avoid common mistakes to ensure a smooth transition.

Do:

Consider your goals.

As you begin the process, decide what your goals will be. If you still want to live in the same place year-round but enjoy a lower cost of living, a mobile home might be the best option since it's a larger and more permanent structure. Downsizing to an RV gives you the freedom to travel anywhere and take your belongings with you, whether you're planning a long-term road trip or want to change your location seasonally. 

Rent a storage unit.

This change will require you to significantly reduce the number of belongings you own. Get rid of everything you'll no longer need, such as furniture, home decor, and yard care supplies. However, there will be other items you'll want to keep, such as family heirlooms or seasonal decorations. Secure a storage unit close to your “home base” that can house belongings that will take up too much space in your new home.

When you move into a recreational vehicle, park at an RV resort close to your storage unit for a couple of weeks. During the transition period, you may find that there are items you want to pull out of or put into the unit as you adapt to the lifestyle; being near the facility will make this easy.

Don't:

Wait until the last minute to pack. 

Going through your belongings and deciding what to keep, store, give away, throw away, or sell is time-consuming. Start months before you intend to relocate to an RV resort so you can avoid the stress of needing to rush through this important process.

Let emotion guide your decisions.

As you downsize, you will be getting rid of more belongings than you will be keeping. While giving these items up can be tough, you'll be happier in the long run when you only have what you really need. Think logically about each object rather than emotionally. If you haven't used something in the past year and see no use for it in the foreseeable future, get rid of it.

When you're ready to make this big transition, find your new home at Robert's Mobile Home and RV Resort in St. Petersburg, FL. This family-owned and -operated RV resort offers options for short-term, seasonal, and year-round residents. You will enjoy access to coin-laundry machines, internet, a 24-hour bathhouse, weekly events, and hookups for sewage, electricity, and water. Learn more about this RV park online, and call (727) 577-6820 to inquire about available lots.