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Want to try RV life without going all-in? Here’s how to test the lifestyle with rentals, weekend getaways, and smart gear, no need to sell your house.
Part-Time RV Life: How to Dip Your Toes Without Diving In
House of Highways
Not ready to go full road nomad just yet? Good. You don’t have to.
The truth is, full-time RV life isn’t a requirement to enjoy the freedom, fresh air, and campfire burritos. Whether you’re working 9–5, wrangling kids, or just figuring it all out, part-time RVing lets you taste the good life without selling your house or quitting your job.
This guide is for those who are "on the fence" about the RV lifestyle. You’ve probably seen Instagram reels, read blog posts (including ours), and may have even rented an RV for a long weekend. If you're looking for ways to embrace the road life without sacrificing everything else, you’re in the right place.
Why Part-Time RVing Is Having a Moment
Let’s be real: full-time RV living isn’t for everyone, but that’s part of the magic. It’s a cozy, ever-moving lifestyle with unexpected turns, constant views, and the kind of freedom you can’t find in a traditional home.
But part-time RVing? It’s the cheat code. You still get the open roads, epic views, and outdoor cookouts, without sacrificing stability or reliable plumbing.
Here’s what makes it great:
Zero pressure. You come and go as you please.
Affordable. No need to invest in a rig right away.
Flexible. Perfect for weekends, holidays, or longer remote work stints.
Smart stepping stone. Try before you buy—or commit.
Start with a Rental: RVshare Has You Covered
Want to try a Class B van one weekend and a luxury fifth wheel the next? You can. That’s the magic of rentals.
We’ve partnered with RVshare, the go-to platform for every type of rig, from stealthy camper vans to decked-out motorhomes. Pick what works for you now, and test it out before investing big.
Where to Go: Beginner-Friendly Campgrounds
Short trips don’t mean boring ones. Use the HoH Campground Directory to scout the best locations with solid amenities, pull-through spots, and campfire vibes. Some part-time-friendly picks include:
Topsail Hill Preserve, FL – Beach bliss with hookups.
Ridgway State Park, CO – Mountain lakes & killer views.
Nomad View, SD – Free boondocking with big sky energy.
Campspotor our platform to find reservations (yes, even last minute).
Gear Without Going Broke
Don’t outfit yourself like a doomsday prepper. For part-timers, starter gear is where it’s at:
Portable grill instead of full outdoor kitchen.
Collapsible cookware (space-saving FTW).
Compact solar power for weekends off-grid.
National Park Pass if you’re park hopping.
A Few Pro Tips from the Road
You’re learning, experimenting, and building comfort, and that’s the goal. Here are a few tried-and-true pointers:
Book popular sites early. Especially for summer or weekends.
Choose shoulder seasons. Fewer crowds, more beauty.
Always check rig size limits. Not all parks love big Class A rigs.
Download your maps before you go. Trust us.
Final Thoughts: It’s Okay to Be in Between
Not everyone needs to go full-time to feel the freedom. Part-time RVing gives you the best of both worlds, life on the road, and life at home.
You can be the type who hits the road once a month, every summer, or even just for fall foliage. And guess what? You’re still doing it.
So load up the s’mores kit, gas up the rental, and get out there. RV life doesn’t require all or nothing—just a little curiosity and a good playlist.
Coming soon in HoH+: Our new Trip Planner, Ask Junie (your AI co-pilot), and a GPS built for RVers who hate white-knuckle turns. Stay tuned! Sign up here for 50% off as a Founding Member.
Looking for more part-time inspiration? Follow along @houseofhighways and join our email list for more ideas on how to travel light, travel smart, and roam free.
House of Highways
At House of Highways, we’re more than just RV enthusiasts—we’re Colan and Cristy Lee McGeehan, two full-time nomads living the American road dream. After trading in the four walls of our home for four wheels, we quickly realized there was something missing: a one-stop platform for RVers and nomads like us. We saw the need to "Googlify" the nomadic lifestyle, making it easier for fellow road warriors to find the best places, perks, and experiences across the country.
Want to try RV life without going all-in? Here’s how to test the lifestyle with rentals, weekend getaways, and smart gear, no need to sell your house.
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20 States, 20K Miles, 11 National Parks – and Counting!
Join full-time nomads Cristy Lee and Colan McGeehan, featured on Magnolia Network, WSJ, and NYT.
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✨ Roam free, and we hope to see you out there!