Could life be simpler? 11 years in an RV and 5 years car-free

Most stories about RV living focus on the miles covered and the next horizon. This is a different story. It is a chronicle of what I’ve learned by choosing to stay—to trade the chaos of constant travel for the clarity of a long-term anchor in a local RV park.

A Sustainable Chapter: Work and Retirement

Now in my 60s and semi-retired, I’ve found that a smaller footprint provides a steady balance for this stage of life. My days are defined by a manageable rhythm that allows me to stay productive on my own terms.

The dining room table is my work area

​I continue to maintain the website for my employer directly from my RV. While the park provides free Wi-Fi, I made the choice to get my own private service to ensure my connection is always ready for work. This setup allows me to stay engaged professionally while enjoying the quiet of my own space.

A Foundation of Convenience

Stationary living offers a full range of amenities that simplify daily life. The well-maintained grounds provide a beautiful backdrop for a lifestyle that feels more like a resort than a traditional neighborhood.

• ​Full Hook-ups: The park provides reliable, full hook-ups, which means all the utility logistics of daily life are taken care of.
  
• Wellness and Recreation: Access to a swimming pool, hot tub, exercise room, and rec-room right on-site makes it easy to prioritize health and connection without leaving the park.
• Streamlined Logistics: The park handles the small details that can otherwise become chores. There is propane for sale on-site, and garbage pickup is as simple as setting it in front of my space for the crew to collect.
• Daily Ease: Laundry facilities and showers are just a short walk away. These amenities allow me to enjoy a minimalist living area while having the benefits of a much larger facility just outside my door.

Swimming Pool and Hot Tub

Dog Park and Chidren Play Area

The Journey to a Reliable Home

Finding the right foundation for this life took time. My journey began with used equipment—starting with a Class C, moving to a travel trailer, and eventually being gifted a 5th wheel from a generous neighbor.

First RV - Class C Motorhome

Second RV - Small old travel trailer

Third RV - 5th Wheel, Gifted by a neighbor

A Note on Experience: For anyone considering a used RV, I highly recommend a professional inspection. Knowing the condition of the systems before you buy can save years of frustration and unexpected repairs.

Jayco Jay Flight 24 feet, no slides and Aventon Level 2 E-Bike

Current RV:
2024 Jayco Jay Flight
24 feet, no slides and my e-bike (more about that below)

​In November 2024, I finally transitioned into my first new RV: a 24-foot travel trailer with no slides. Having a fresh start in a new space has removed the headaches I experienced with used models.

The Heart of the Park: A Community of Assistance

Living here for 11 years has proven that simplicity is better shared. This park is a community of incredible people—neighbors who have been here for years and travelers passing through. There is a constant, eager willingness to lend a hand, proving that living small doesn't mean living alone.

​This community support was never more evident than in 2017, when I set out to ride my bicycle solo across America. Because of the simple lifestyle I had built, I had the freedom to take on such a massive journey. During my time on the road, my neighbors and the park staff kept a close eye on my home. The park even became a sponsor for my ride, showing that when you find the right place to stay, you find a team that supports your biggest adventures.

Bike Ride Start - Florence, Oregon

Bike Ride Finish - Atlantic Ocean

Everything Within Reach
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My home, paired with a small shed, is designed for efficiency. There is a profound sense of peace that comes from knowing exactly where every possession is and having it within easy reach. My living area is dedicated to rest and creativity, while the shed provides the space needed for the gear that supports my car-free lifestyle.

Shed

Five Years on Two Wheels: A Practical Narrative

In 2021, I stepped away from the car economy entirely. For nearly five years, my bicycle and my e-bike have been my primary connection to the world.

• Biking with Intent: My e-bike turns daily errands into sensory experiences, allowing me to engage with the landscape rather than just pass through it.
• Safety and Scale: I’ve learned that simplicity is about using the right tool for the job. When the weather makes the roads unsafe or when I need to move items that won't fit on a bike, I utilize delivery services for the heavy lifting.
• A Network of Support: Living car-free has also highlighted the kindness of those around me. On occasion, friends and neighbors have even offered the use of their vehicles when a specific need arises. This community-based approach allows me to live without the overhead of car ownership while maintaining the safety and flexibility I need for the long haul.

Aventon Level 2 E-Bike Grocery Run

E-Bike Ride along The Boise River Greenbelt

Finding Meaning in the Journey
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This lifestyle isn't about "doing without." It is about making room for what matters. By reducing the physical and financial overhead of housing and transportation, I’ve found the space to pursue The Weekly Spark and share original photography that captures the beauty of a slower pace.

​If this journey resonates with you, I invite you to join The Weekly Spark for a Monday morning reflection or learn more about my Value-for-Value model.