The reality of living in an RV while renovating:

The Reality of Renovating an RV--While Living in It!

Renovating an RV while living in it is a journey that tests your patience, creativity, and resourcefulness. It’s a labor of love that can take months—or even years—but the rewards can be incredibly fulfilling.  This is my third-yes THIRD RV reno and I’m still learning new things every day.  One of my biggest issues is I’ll be almost completed with one project and I’ll start another or already have the next thing in mind-my ADHD is WILD y’all.  This leaves me with lots of unfinished projects.  I need to do better!  Here’s a candid look at what it’s really like to tackle this adventure while living and traveling full time in my RV.

The Time Commitment

First and foremost, renovating an RV is a time-consuming endeavor. Depending on the scope of your project, you might find yourself working on it evenings and weekends, or even full-time if you’re particularly ambitious. Some tasks, like painting and updating fixtures, can be completed relatively quickly, while others, such as major structural changes or plumbing work, might drag on for weeks or months.  I’ve been in my current rig for a year and a half and started tearing things out of it almost immediately.  I have at least 3 more projects in the back of my mind for the future, but right now I’m living with an unfinished fireplace AND some partially missing walls!  I’ve completed many projects but still have some waiting to be finished.

Living in the RV during renovations adds another layer of complexity. You’ll have to navigate around your ongoing projects, often squeezing into tight spaces or temporarily relocating items to make room for your work. It’s not uncommon to feel like your RV is in a constant state of flux, which can be challenging for maintaining a sense of home.  Messes happen easily in small spaces.

The Unfinished Projects

One of the most frustrating aspects of RV renovations is the number of tasks that may go undone for extended periods (like my fireplace for instance, it’s been almost a year since I started it). Perhaps you started with grand plans to update the kitchen, only to find that life, work, or other responsibilities took precedence. You might have a beautiful new countertop, but that backsplash you envisioned? It could linger on the to-do list for months.

Living in the space while it’s a work-in-progress means learning to live with some chaos. There may be projects that get sidelined or put off indefinitely, tools laying around, parts waiting to beinstalled-and that’s okay. It’s part of the process. Embracing the unfinished nature of your home allows you to prioritize what truly matters and helps keep the stress levels down.

The Costs Involved

Renovating an RV can also be surprisingly expensive. While it may seem like a budget-friendly option compared to buying a new one, the costs can quickly add up. Quality materials, tools, and supplies are often pricier than anticipated. Even small updates can lead to larger expenses—like when you discover that the subfloor needs replacing before you can lay down that new flooring you had your eye on.  Setting a budget and shopping at restores or consignment shops are great ways to save. 

Additionally, if you’re not handy or lack the time, you might find yourself hiring professionals for certain jobs. This can further inflate your budget, especially if multiple tradespeople are involved in the renovation. It’s crucial to plan your budget carefully and be prepared for the unexpected.

The Rewards

Despite the challenges, the sense of accomplishment that comes from completing an RV renovation is unparalleled. There’s something incredibly satisfying about transforming a space to reflect your personal style and needs. Every time you step into your beautifully revamped RV, you’re reminded of the hard work and dedication you poured into it.

When all is said and done, you’ll have not just a home but a sanctuary that’s uniquely yours. Whether it’s the cozy reading nook you created or the stunning kitchen that finally reflects your culinary dreams, these personal touches make the journey worthwhile.

And let’s not forget the experiences that come with living and traveling in your newly renovated RV. Each adventure becomes a celebration of your hard work and creativity, and every campsite becomes a new chapter in your ongoing story.

Conclusion

Renovating an RV while living in it is undoubtedly a challenging process, filled with ups and downs. But the journey is as rewarding as the destination. With patience, determination, and a bit of creativity, you can transform your mobile home into a haven that inspires adventure and creates lasting memories. So grab your tools, embrace the chaos, and enjoy the ride!  Just make sure you keep an eye on weight distribution, added weight and structural walls or cabinets that may be crucial to your RV’s safety. 

Happy Renovating!!

The STILL unfinished fireplace.