Hey there, it’s your boy Matthew Taylor here. Now I know what you’re thinking, “Matt, why on earth would anyone want to live in a toy hauler year round?” Well, let me tell you a little story.
It was about a year ago, and my buddy and I were at the RV dealership looking for a new camper.
We had been camping in a tent for years, and at our age (ahem, mid-30s) we figured it was time to upgrade.
As we were browsing through the options, I spotted this shiny, brand new toy hauler. “Dude, check this out,” I said to my buddy.
“We could totally fit our dirt bikes in here and go on some epic off-road adventures.”
Long story short, we ended up buying the toy hauler and have been having a blast with it ever since. But as the weather started to get colder and colder, we found ourselves spending more and more time inside the camper.
And that’s when it hit us: why not just live in this thing full-time?
So, that’s exactly what we did. We sold our houses and hit the road, living in our toy hauler year round. And let me tell you, it’s been one hell of a ride.
Table of Contents
Can You Actually Live in a Toy Hauler Year Round?
The short answer is: yes, you can definitely live in a toy hauler year round. But it’s not for everyone.
Toy haulers are designed to be multi-functional, with a garage area in the back for hauling ATVs, dirt bikes, or other “toys.” But they also have living quarters in the front, complete with a kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping area.
So in theory, you could totally live in one full-time.
But here’s the thing: toy haulers are typically smaller than traditional RVs. They don’t have as much living space, and they’re not as insulated as other types of RVs.
That means that if you’re planning on living in a toy hauler year round, you’ll need to be prepared for some serious downsizing.
You’ll also need to be prepared for some chilly temperatures, especially if you’re planning on staying in cold weather climates.
That being said, if you’re willing to make the necessary adjustments and you’re up for the challenge, living in a toy hauler can be a fun and unique experience.
You’ll have the freedom to hit the road and travel wherever you want, and you’ll have all your toys with you at all times. Plus, it’s a great way to save money on rent or a mortgage.
What Do You Need to Consider Before Living in a Toy Hauler Year Round?
If you’re considering living in a toy hauler year round, there are a few things you’ll need to keep in mind:
- Size: As mentioned earlier, toy haulers are smaller than traditional RVs. Make sure you’re comfortable with the size and layout before making the switch.
- Insulation: Toy haulers aren’t as well insulated as other types of RVs, so you’ll
need to be prepared for some temperature fluctuations. Investing in some additional insulation or heating/cooling systems might be necessary if you plan on living in a toy hauler year round. - Storage: Since toy haulers have a garage area in the back, you might have less storage space in the living quarters. Consider this when deciding what to bring with you on your full-time toy hauler journey.
- Utilities: Make sure your toy hauler is equipped with the necessary utilities, such as a water hookup and sewage system, to sustain full-time living. You’ll also need to consider your power source, whether that be a generator or hooking up to a campsite’s electrical supply.
- Legalities: Depending on where you plan on living in your toy hauler, you may need to look into any local laws or regulations regarding full-time RV living. You’ll also want to make sure your insurance covers full-time living in a toy hauler.
The Pros of Living in a Toy Hauler Year Round
There are definitely some perks to living in a toy hauler full-time. For one, you got your toys with you all the time, which is pretty rad.
If you’re into off-roading, camping, or any other outdoor activity, it’s a great way to have all your gear in one place.
Another perk is the ability to travel. You can hit the road and see the country without having to worry about finding a place to stay.
Plus, it’s a pretty unique lifestyle that not many people can say they’ve experienced.
The Cons of Living in a Toy Hauler Year Round
But as my story illustrates, there are also some major downsides to living in a toy hauler full-time. For one, it can get pretty cramped in there. If you’re not used to small spaces, it can be a real challenge.
Another downside is the lack of insulation. Toy haulers aren’t designed for year-round living, so if you’re in a colder climate, you’re gonna have to shell out some cash to make it livable.
And let’s not forget about the smell.
Living in close quarters with a bunch of people can get pretty ripe, especially if you’re not able to take regular showers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is living in a toy hauler cheaper than renting or buying a house?
It can be, depending on your situation. Since toy haulers are smaller than traditional homes, you’ll likely have lower monthly expenses such as utility bills and property taxes.
However, you’ll need to consider the costs of maintaining and repairing your toy hauler, as well as any campsite fees if you’re not stationary.
It’s a good idea to do a cost comparison to see if living in a toy hauler would be more affordable for you in the long run.
Can I bring my pets with me while living in a toy hauler?
Yes, you can bring your pets with you while living in a toy hauler.
Just make sure you have enough space for them and that they’re allowed at any campsites or RV parks you’ll be staying at.
What about showers and toilets?
Most toy haulers come equipped with a small bathroom, including a shower and toilet.
However, you may need to use public facilities or campsite amenities if you’re on the road and not stationary.
Can I work while living in a toy hauler?
Yes, it is possible to work while living in a toy hauler. Many people who live in RVs full-time find remote work or start their own businesses, which allows them to live and work from anywhere.
Just make sure you have a reliable internet connection and a comfortable workspace.
What’s the best type of toy hauler for full-time living?
It really depends on your needs and preferences. If you’re planning on living in a colder climate, you’ll want to look for a toy hauler with better insulation.
And if you’re looking for more space, you may want to consider a fifth wheel toy hauler, as they tend to have more square footage than a traditional toy hauler.
Can you park a toy hauler in an RV park?
Yeah, you can park a toy hauler in an RV park, but keep in mind that some RV parks may have restrictions on the type of vehicles they allow.
So it’s best to check with the park before you roll in.
Conclusion
In conclusion, living in a toy hauler year round can be a unique and exciting experience.
While it may require some adjustments and planning, it can also provide the freedom to travel and explore new places.
Just be sure to do your research and be prepared for the challenges that come with it. Happy travels!