Living Full-Time in an RV in Australia: Setup, Budget & Legal Tips

For many Australians and travellers alike, the idea of living full-time in an RV isn’t just a dream—it’s becoming a lifestyle revolution. Whether it’s the freedom of waking up to a new view every week, the affordability compared to rising house prices, or the appeal of a minimalist, nature-connected life, more people than ever are hitting the road long-term. In fact, full-time RV living in Australia has grown rapidly in recent years, with retirees, digital nomads, remote workers, and even young families trading bricks and mortar for wheels and wilderness.

Australia’s landscape is tailor-made for the RV lifestyle. From the turquoise beaches of Western Australia to the red dirt roads of the Outback, there’s an endless variety of terrain to explore. Add to that a solid network of caravan parks, free campsites, roadside facilities, and RV-friendly towns—and you’ve got one of the best countries in the world for full-time van life. But transitioning from occasional road trips to permanent life on the road comes with big decisions, legal nuances, and a brand-new way of budgeting and setting up your space.

This comprehensive guide is designed for anyone seriously considering life on four wheels in Australia. Whether you’re a grey nomad eyeing retirement with more adventure, a work-from-anywhere digital native, or a family chasing freedom, this article breaks down everything you need to know:

• How to choose and set up the right RV for full-time living

• What your monthly and annual costs may look like (with real Aussie examples)

• The legal side of full-time RV life—residency, mail, parking, and more

• Staying connected, staying healthy, and staying sane on the road

• Tips for managing daily routines, building community, and thriving long-term

Living full-time in an RV isn’t just a way to travel—it’s a lifestyle decision that offers flexibility, simplicity, and an unparalleled connection to Australia’s land and people. But it’s not without its challenges, and being prepared is key to loving the journey.

Let’s dive in and explore exactly how to make full-time RV life in Australia a legal, comfortable, and fulfilling reality.

Is Full-Time RV Living Right for You?

Living full-time in an RV in Australia isn’t just a travel decision—it’s a complete lifestyle shift. While it offers unmatched freedom and the thrill of discovering new places at your own pace, it also requires adaptability, discipline, and a taste for adventure. Before you sell your house or give notice on your lease, it’s worth asking yourself: is this truly the life for me?

The Pros of Full-Time RV Living

• Unmatched Freedom: You choose your backyard—whether it’s the Coral Coast, a mountain forest, or a coastal caravan park. You can chase the sun in winter or camp out by a river during the summer. No commute, no rent contracts, and no fixed schedule.

• Lower Living Costs: Many full-time RVers report significant savings on rent or mortgages. When planned well, your ongoing monthly expenses—fuel, food, campground fees, insurance—can be much lower than living in a city.

• Minimalist, Simple Living: With limited space, you learn to live with only what you need. This decluttered lifestyle often brings mental clarity, lower stress, and a more intentional approach to life.

• Connection with Nature: Every day is an invitation to step outside, breathe fresh air, and explore Australia’s diverse ecosystems—from lush rainforests to arid outback deserts.

• Community on the Road: From grey nomads and vanlifers to travelling families and solo adventurers, Australia has a strong RV community. Many find deep friendships and support networks on the road, both online and in-person.

The Cons & Challenges to Consider

• Space Limitations: Living in a small vehicle means downsizing in every way—clothes, kitchen, bathroom, even privacy. For couples or families, this can become emotionally demanding if not well managed.

• Logistical Hurdles: You’ll need to manage water storage, power levels, internet connection, dump points, and mechanical maintenance. These tasks become part of your weekly (and sometimes daily) routine.

• Weather & Environment: Storms, heatwaves, bushfires, and cold snaps can all disrupt your plans—and living in a metal box means you’ll feel it more than in a house.

• Legal Grey Areas: Navigating where you can stay, how to receive mail, and keeping your license or insurance up to date when constantly moving can be tricky (we’ll go into detail later).

• Social Isolation: While you’ll meet plenty of people, long-term solitude or constantly changing environments can lead to loneliness. This is especially relevant for solo travellers or those used to large social circles.

Who Thrives in This Lifestyle?

• Retirees & Grey Nomads: With time, savings, and flexibility, many Aussies over 60 hit the road full-time. They often take advantage of pension discounts, travel in cooler months, and form strong road communities.

• Remote Workers & Digital Nomads: Thanks to mobile data and satellite internet, many professionals now work remotely from their vans. Writers, consultants, designers, and even teachers can build full-time careers from the road.

• Adventurous Couples & Families: More young couples and families are embracing long-term road schooling, bonding experiences, and freedom-focused parenting. It’s challenging but deeply rewarding with the right planning.

• Minimalists & Nature-Lovers: If you crave simple living, dislike clutter, and feel recharged by wide open spaces, this lifestyle will feel like a natural fit.

Setting Up Your RV for Full-Time Life

Getting your RV setup right is one of the most important steps in transitioning to full-time life on the road. It’s not just about choosing a vehicle—it’s about designing a small, mobile home that meets your needs for comfort, function, and independence over the long term. From power to plumbing, layout to internet, every detail matters when you’re living in it 24/7.

Choosing the Right RV for Full-Time Living

Australia offers a wide range of RV options, and the best one for you depends on your travel style, comfort needs, and mechanical confidence.

Motorhome

These are fully integrated RVs with a driver’s cabin and living area in one unit. They usually come with all the essentials: bed, kitchen, bathroom, storage, and appliances. Great for comfort and ease of setup.

• Pros: All-in-one design, no need for towing, better insulation

• Cons: More expensive, more difficult to repair, limited off-road use

Campervan

Typically smaller than motorhomes, campervans are great for solo travellers or couples who prefer flexibility over luxury. Some high-roof models can include a shower/toilet setup.

• Pros: Compact, easier to park, lower fuel use

• Cons: Limited storage, may not be ideal for long-term comfort

Caravan

A towed trailer with living space. You can leave it parked and use your tow vehicle separately, which is great for exploring or shopping without breaking camp.

• Pros: Best space for the cost, ideal for families, many layout options

• Cons: Requires a suitable towing vehicle, less convenient for frequent moves

Bus Conversion (Skoolie)

Some full-time RVers convert old school buses or minibuses into fully self-contained homes.

• Pros: Customisable, spacious, unique

• Cons: Registration complexity, heavy on fuel, time-intensive build

5th Wheel & Slide-On Campers

Less common but offer more living space or modularity.

Must-Have Equipment for Full-Time Setup

Once you’ve selected your vehicle, the next step is kitting it out for self-sufficiency and comfort. Think in terms of energy, water, connectivity, and daily life.

1. Power Systems

• Solar Panels: Aim for 300W–600W+ for full-time use.

• Battery Bank: Lithium batteries offer the best weight-to-power ratio.

• Inverter: Needed to run 240V appliances.

• DC-DC Charger: Charges your house battery while driving.

• Monitoring System: Tools like Victron or Redarc let you track energy usage.

2. Water & Waste

• Fresh Water Tanks: Minimum 100L for off-grid comfort.

• Grey Water Tanks: Needed for self-contained freedom camping.

• Composting Toilet: Eco-friendly and long-term solution.

• Water Pump & Filter: Crucial for hygiene and safe drinking.

3. Connectivity & Safety

• Wi-Fi Setup: Telstra/Boost SIM + Netgear Nighthawk router + antenna.

• GPS Tracker: For theft prevention and location tracking.

• Dash Cam & Reverse Cam: Helpful for driving and safety.

• Locks & Security Screens: Deter break-ins at remote locations.

4. Comfort & Daily Use

• Gas or Induction Cooking: Portable gas cooktops or dual-burner stoves.

• Diesel Heater or 12V Fan: Temperature control for all seasons.

• Fridge/Freezer: Compressor fridges save more power than 3-way models.

• Shower System: Built-in wet bath, portable pressure system, or solar shower.

Organising Space & Storage

One of the keys to long-term success in RV living is space management. A cluttered van leads to stress and inconvenience. Smart storage solutions help you stay organised, clean, and comfortable.

Clever Storage Tips

• Use vertical space: install shelves and hanging nets

• Vacuum bags for off-season clothes

• Stackable containers for pantry, tools, and gear

• Magnetic strips for knives, tools, and keys

Essential Zones to Optimise

• Kitchen: Compact appliances, collapsible cookware

• Bedroom: Under-bed storage or lifting bed frames

• Bathroom: Hanging caddies, multi-use compartments

• Work Zone: Foldaway desk or dinette with power access

Decluttering Before You Start

• Sell or donate non-essentials before moving in

• Digitise important documents

• Build an essentials-only packing list

A well-equipped and thoughtfully arranged RV becomes more than a vehicle—it becomes your mobile sanctuary. In the next section, we’ll explore the real-world costs of living full-time in an RV in Australia, including setup, monthly budgets, and tips for saving money on the road.

Full-Time RV Living Costs in Australia

One of the biggest motivations for many Aussies choosing RV life is the potential to lower living costs. But the reality is this: full-time RV living can be as frugal or as indulgent as you make it. While it’s possible to live well under $2,000/month, others spend $4,000+ depending on travel pace, campsite preferences, and lifestyle. Understanding the financial side is critical before making the leap.

One-Time Setup Costs

Starting your full-time RV journey involves a significant upfront investment, especially if you’re building out a self-sufficient rig. Here’s what to consider:

1. RV Purchase

• Used campervans can start from $15,000–$40,000

• New caravans or motorhomes range from $60,000–$150,000+

• DIY bus conversions might cost $20,000–$60,000 depending on fitout

2. Fitout & Equipment

• Solar panels, battery bank, inverter: $3,000–$8,000

• Water system (tanks, filters, plumbing): $1,000–$3,000

• Fridge, stove, bed, storage: $2,000–$6,000

• Internet setup, safety gear, awnings, and accessories: $1,000–$3,000

Total Setup Cost Range:
Low-budget DIY: ~$25,000
Mid-range full setup: $50,000–$70,000
High-end motorhome: $100,000+

Ongoing Monthly Costs

Living in an RV full-time in Australia allows you to control your spending more than traditional living, but you’ll still have regular costs to manage. Here’s a breakdown of what most full-time RVers in Australia can expect each month.

Fuel

This is often one of the biggest ongoing costs, especially if you’re travelling frequently or towing a heavy rig. On average, expect to spend between $300 and $1,000 per month depending on your travel pace, fuel type, and vehicle efficiency. Slower travel means big savings.

Campgrounds

If you rely heavily on free campsites, you might spend next to nothing on accommodation. However, if you prefer the convenience of powered sites or caravan parks with facilities, costs can add up quickly. Most RVers spend anywhere from $0 to $1,000 a month, depending on how often they choose to stay in paid campgrounds.

Food and Groceries

Cooking onboard saves a lot compared to eating out, but grocery bills still add up. Most travellers report spending around $400 to $1,000 per month on food, with the upper end reflecting more premium diets or a mix of dining out and self-catering.

Internet and Phone

To stay connected while on the road, you’ll need a reliable data plan. SIM cards from Telstra or Boost Mobile with hotspot functionality are common. Expect to pay $60 to $200 per month depending on your provider and data usage, especially if you work remotely or stream regularly.

Maintenance and Repairs

You should set aside a portion of your budget for vehicle upkeep. Even with a newer RV, wear and tear is inevitable. Monthly averages range between $100 and $400, including oil changes, tyres, filters, and general servicing.

Insurance and Registration

While this is typically an annual cost, it helps to break it down monthly for budgeting. Registration and comprehensive insurance together can range from $100 to $400 per month, depending on the value of your RV, how it’s classified, and your location.

Entertainment and Activities

Entry fees for national parks, museums, local tours, or even the occasional cinema trip fall under this category. Most full-time RVers spend about $100 to $200 monthly on leisure, though this varies with personal preference.

Miscellaneous Expenses

From laundry and gas bottle refills to toiletries and occasional gear upgrades, general expenses can creep in. Budget at least $100 to $250 per month for odds and ends.

In total, most full-time RVers in Australia spend between $1,500 and $3,500+ per month, depending on how frugal or luxurious their lifestyle is. Travelling slowly, choosing free campsites, and cooking your own meals can help keep costs on the lower end of the spectrum.

Now let’s move on to a critical aspect of long-term travel—the legalities of living full-time in an RV across Australia.

Saving Money on the Road

You don’t have to spend big to enjoy full-time RV living. These real-world money-saving strategies make a huge difference:

1. Use Free Campsites & Low-Cost Campgrounds

• Apps like WikiCamps and CamperMate list thousands of free or donation-based sites

• Council-run campgrounds are often $5–$15/night

• Look for national park campgrounds with annual passes

2. Fuel Discounts

• Use 7-Eleven MyFuel App, PetrolSpy, or MotorMouth to find the cheapest fuel nearby

• Join RACV, NRMA, or other auto clubs with fuel perks

• Travel slower to reduce consumption

3. Cook Your Own Meals

• A one-time investment in a good stove and fridge can save $1,000s per year

• Stock up in regional hubs to avoid small-town price markups

• Use long-life basics: oats, rice, legumes, and fresh seasonal veggies

4. Internet Bundles & Prepaid Savings

• Prepaid Boost (Telstra network) or Aldi Mobile are cost-effective with wide coverage

• Annual SIM-only plans save 20%–30% vs monthly payments

5. Maintenance = Prevention

• Do basic monthly checks yourself (fluids, tyres, leaks)

• Learn basic DIY repairs—YouTube and forums are goldmines

• Join CMCA for access to mechanical services and safety networks

Living full-time in an RV in Australia can absolutely be a budget-friendly alternative to traditional living—but only when you plan and adjust your habits. With the right vehicle, smart spending, and a bit of flexibility, you can live richly without spending a fortune.

Legal Considerations of Full-Time RV Living in Australia

One of the most common questions among aspiring full-time RVers is: “Is it legal to live in an RV full-time in Australia?” The short answer is: yes—but with conditions. While there’s no national law that bans full-time RV living, several legal and bureaucratic challenges come with living on the road full-time. These include managing your address, mail, registration, and understanding local camping regulations.

Can You Legally Live Full-Time in an RV in Australia?

There is no specific law in Australia that says you can’t live in your RV full-time. Thousands of Australians do it legally and safely every year. However, the legal grey area lies in where you live and how you manage your affairs.

For example, living permanently in an RV parked on private property (such as a driveway or rural block) may require council approval or zoning compliance. Similarly, if you attempt to stay long-term at a free camping area or a public park, you may be moved on or fined, depending on local council laws.

The trick is this: full-time RV living is legal as long as you keep moving regularly, follow time limits at campgrounds or public areas, and comply with state-specific parking and residency rules.

Residency, Address & Mail Solutions

Because you’re constantly on the move, you technically won’t have a permanent residential address—something that’s essential for things like your driver’s license, voting, banking, and accessing Medicare.

Here are your options:

• Use a Family Member or Friend’s Address: Many full-timers nominate a trusted relative’s home as their official address. You can receive mail there and keep your documents up to date. Make sure they’re comfortable forwarding any important letters.

• PO Boxes & Mail Forwarding Services: Australia Post offers PO boxes in most towns, and private services like Landbase Australia or Mail Redirection can forward mail to wherever you’re travelling next. This works well for RVers doing constant laps of the country.

• Virtual Mailboxes: Though less common in Australia, a few startups offer scanned mail services that let you view your letters online.

The key is consistency—whichever option you use, ensure that your Medicare, ATO, and driver’s license information is always tied to a reliable contact point.

Driver’s License, Registration & Insurance

If you’re crossing state lines often, your registration and license must remain valid in your nominated home state. Each state in Australia allows you to keep your registration and driver’s license as long as your primary place of residence is in that state—even if you’re rarely home.

Tips:

• Keep your vehicle registered in your home state, and renew it online.

• Don’t let your license lapse. You’ll need a fixed address for renewal notices.

• Ensure your insurance policy covers “full-time use” or “travel throughout Australia”—some policies only allow short-term or holiday use.

If your RV is also your home, it’s wise to get comprehensive coverage and consider contents insurance for your valuables like laptops, solar gear, or tools.

Voting, Taxes & Government Records

You are legally required to vote in Australia, and this includes RV travellers. You can register a postal vote tied to your nominated address. The AEC (Australian Electoral Commission) makes it easy to update your details online.

For tax and Centrelink purposes, be sure your residential address matches your declared home base. In many cases, you can continue managing everything online, but keep your contact details current to avoid disruptions to services.

Camping Rules & Long-Term Parking

Not all camping locations allow long-term stays, especially free camps. Most council-run areas impose a 24 to 72-hour limit, enforced through rangers or signage. Overstaying can result in fines.

• Free Camping: Look for designated free camping areas that allow stays of 24–72 hours. Check the rules on arrival.

• Private Campgrounds & Holiday Parks: These are best for extended stays. Many offer weekly or monthly rates for long-term guests.

• Council-Run RV Areas: Increasingly common across Australia, these offer dump points, water, and parking for self-contained vehicles at low cost.

• Backyard Camping: Parking in a friend’s or family member’s yard? Check their local council’s zoning laws—some require special permits for long-term living.

What Happens if You Break the Rules?

Most issues come from overstaying in restricted areas or failing to keep your address and documentation current. Potential consequences include:

• Fines for illegal camping

• Insurance claim denials (if you’re not properly registered)

• Losing access to government benefits if your identity verification fails

That said, thousands of Australians live full-time on the road successfully by staying informed, being courteous, and planning ahead.

Legal compliance might not sound exciting, but it’s what makes your freedom sustainable. Now that you understand the rules, let’s explore how to stay connected on the road—a must for work, safety, and social life.

Staying Connected on the Road

Whether you’re working remotely, keeping in touch with family, or just navigating your way across Australia, staying connected while living full-time in an RV is absolutely essential. Thankfully, Australia has improved its mobile coverage significantly in recent years—but there are still black spots in remote areas. Planning your connectivity setup is just as important as planning your route.

Mobile Data Is King

For most RVers, mobile data is the primary way to access the internet. Telstra has the most extensive regional coverage across Australia, followed by Optus and Vodafone. If you plan to travel extensively in rural or remote areas, Telstra or a Telstra network reseller like Boost Mobile is your best bet.

Prepaid plans are often more flexible for travellers, but long-term RVers might benefit from postpaid plans with larger data allowances.

Choosing the Right SIM & Plan

Here are some tips for selecting a reliable mobile internet plan:

• Boost Mobile: Uses the full Telstra 4G network and is one of the best value options for RVers. Prepaid, affordable, and excellent coverage.

• Telstra Postpaid Plans: Offer higher priority on congested towers and generous data, but cost more.

• Optus and Vodafone: Great in cities and major regional centres but weaker in remote regions.

If you use a lot of data for streaming, Zoom calls, or uploading content, look for plans with at least 100GB/month.

Hotspot Devices & Routers

Instead of tethering your phone all the time, consider using a dedicated mobile Wi-Fi router like the Netgear Nighthawk M6 or Teltonika RUT240. These allow you to share one SIM card across multiple devices and offer better stability and range.

Many routers also have an external antenna port, which is a game-changer for boosting signal in poor coverage areas.

Boosting Your Signal

When you’re camping off-grid or travelling through the Outback, even Telstra can struggle. Here’s how to maximise your signal:

• External Antennas: Mount on your roof and plug into your router for a noticeable signal gain.

• Telescopic Poles: Raise your antenna higher for better reception.

• Signal Boosters: Legal mobile repeaters like Cel-Fi GO can amplify weak signals but are expensive.

Pro tip: Always park facing the nearest tower with the shortest line-of-sight possible. Apps like Aus Phone Towers help identify the closest cell tower location.

Finding Free Wi-Fi on the Road

Even with mobile internet, free Wi-Fi is a useful backup. You can often find it at:

• Libraries and council buildings

• McDonald’s, KFC, or other fast food chains

• Bunnings and major supermarkets

• Caravan parks and visitor centres

Keep in mind, public Wi-Fi is often slower and less secure, so avoid online banking or confidential work without a VPN.

Internet for Remote Workers

If you’re living in your RV and working full-time online, prioritise your internet setup. Use a dual-SIM router with failover, always carry a backup SIM from a different network, and scout your next location for tower strength before settling in. A week of work lost to poor signal can quickly ruin your rhythm—or cost you income.

Staying Connected Without the Internet

Even in the most remote corners of Australia, safety still matters. A few extra tools go a long way:

• UHF Radio: Good for short-range vehicle-to-vehicle communication, especially in convoy travel.

• Satellite Messenger (e.g., Garmin inReach): Allows text and SOS communication via satellite—perfect for solo or remote travellers.

• Offline Maps: Download Google Maps, Hema Maps, or Maps.me for offline navigation.

Staying connected is about more than uploading photos to Instagram. It’s your link to work, community, safety, and convenience. Once you’ve got your tech setup sorted, it’s time to focus on another key aspect of full-time RV life: healthcare and safety on the road.

Healthcare & Safety While Living in an RV

When you’re living full-time in an RV, staying healthy and safe becomes part of your daily lifestyle, not something to handle only in emergencies. From minor injuries to access to GPs and managing extreme weather, you’ll need a plan for both preventative care and urgent situations. The good news? With Australia’s strong healthcare system and a bit of preparation, you can feel confident on the road.

Accessing Medicare and GP Services

Medicare is fully accessible to Australian residents, no matter where you are in the country. You don’t need to be tied to a single GP or clinic—just show your Medicare card at any bulk-billing clinic or hospital.

Tips for managing healthcare while travelling:

• Use HotDoc or Healthengine to book GP appointments in different towns.

• Always carry your Medicare card and a digital backup (e.g., in your phone’s wallet).

• Keep a small folder of important health documents (vaccination record, prescriptions, health conditions) in your RV.

If you’re on any long-term medications, speak with your doctor about getting longer repeat prescriptions that can be filled at pharmacies across the country.

Emergency Services in Remote Areas

Living on the road means you may find yourself far from the nearest hospital or ambulance. That’s why you must prepare for self-reliance in the first hour of any emergency.

• Dial 000 in an emergency. Mobile phones will connect to any available network.

• Download the Emergency+ app, which provides your exact GPS coordinates to emergency responders.

• If you’re planning to travel in remote areas like the Outback, consider investing in a personal locator beacon (PLB) or satellite communicator like the Garmin inReach.

In truly remote regions, Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) coverage is available—but response time depends on your location and weather conditions.

First Aid & Medical Kits

A well-stocked first aid kit is a non-negotiable part of full-time RV life. Build or buy one that includes:

• Bandages, gauze, antiseptic, gloves

• Snake bite kit (essential in rural areas)

• Electrolyte tablets for heat and dehydration

• Pain relief, antihistamines, and antacids

• Tweezers, scissors, and a thermometer

Update your kit every 6 months, and keep it somewhere visible and accessible.

Managing Hot Weather & Cold Snaps

Australia’s weather can be extreme—blistering hot in summer and bitter cold in alpine regions. Your RV should be prepared for both:

• In summer: Park in the shade, use reflective window screens, and ventilate with fans or roof vents. Stay hydrated and avoid travel during the hottest parts of the day.

• In winter: Use a diesel heater or insulated blankets. Rugs and thermal curtains help reduce heat loss in colder climates like Tasmania or the Snowy Mountains.

Staying Healthy on the Road

Routine matters. Even though you’re travelling, try to maintain habits that support long-term health:

• Hydration: Always carry clean drinking water, especially when off-grid. Use water filters for unfamiliar sources.

• Exercise: Walk, hike, or do bodyweight workouts outside your van.

• Nutrition: Cook meals instead of relying on roadhouse food. Stock fresh fruit, veggies, legumes, and long-life pantry staples.

• Sleep: Park in quiet areas and create a dark, well-ventilated sleep space.

Health Insurance and Travel Coverage

If you’re under Medicare, you’re covered for most medical needs. However, some RVers choose to add private health insurance for extras like dental, physio, or hospital cover. Others prefer travel insurance that includes coverage for vehicle-related issues, trip disruptions, or personal belongings.

Compare providers carefully. Look for policies that accommodate long-term domestic travel, not just overseas holidays.

When you’re prepared, staying healthy and safe on the road becomes second nature. And with every challenge overcome—whether a flat tyre or a flu—you’ll build the confidence that full-time RV life is not just doable, but empowering.

Building a Social Life & Community on the Road

One of the biggest misconceptions about full-time RV life is that it’s lonely. While you’re physically on the move, emotionally and socially, you can be more connected than ever—if you make the effort. Australia’s road-tripping community is vast, diverse, and welcoming, with grey nomads, solo travellers, remote workers, and families all sharing the road and stories.

Meeting Other RVers

Australia’s RV community is incredibly active. Whether you’re pulling into a caravan park or parking at a beachside free camp, you’ll often find like-minded people eager for a chat, a drink, or even a shared campfire.

• Caravan Parks: Great for casual conversations and making local friends, especially during extended stays.

• Free Campsites: Offer relaxed, communal vibes where people often gather for meals, music, or storytelling.

• CMCA Camps: The Campervan & Motorhome Club of Australia offers exclusive access to member-only campsites, events, and social gatherings.

Pro tip: Say hello when you arrive, offer help if someone’s struggling with setup, and don’t hesitate to ask about their rig—RV people love to talk shop.

Online Communities for Aussie RVers

Digital platforms are where many full-timers find their tribe. These are especially valuable if you’re travelling solo or looking for tips, inspiration, or emergency help.

• Facebook Groups: Popular ones include “Full Time RV Living Australia”, “Grey Nomads Australia”, and “Solo Female Vanlife Australia”.

• Forums & Websites: Platforms like Caravaners Forum, The Grey Nomads, and CMCA’s member forum are packed with Q&As and travel diaries.

• Instagram & YouTube: Follow Aussie RVers sharing real-time experiences, gear reviews, and route ideas. Some even arrange meetups or vanlife festivals.

Events & Meetups

If you want to build friendships beyond a night’s stay, attend RV rallies, caravan expos, and regional festivals:

• CMCA Rallies: Huge gatherings of travellers with activities, workshops, and entertainment.

• Caravan & Camping Shows: Held across major cities and regions—great for meeting people and discovering new gear.

• Local Events: Farmers markets, footy games, or town fairs can connect you with locals and fellow travellers.

Some full-timers also plan group travel with “convoys”—coordinated trips where a few vans travel together for safety and companionship.

Mental Health & Emotional Wellness on the Road

While RV life offers freedom and peace, it also comes with moments of isolation, especially in quiet or remote areas. Here’s how to stay mentally well:

• Stay in touch with friends and family through video calls or voice notes

• Keep a routine that includes social interaction, even virtually

• Take breaks from the road to rest in one place and reset

• Reach out to online communities or visit local libraries, cafes, or churches for connection

If you experience extended loneliness or mental health concerns, don’t hesitate to contact services like Beyond Blue (1300 22 4636) or Lifeline (13 11 14).

Community doesn’t stop when you leave a city behind. It just shifts shape—and in many ways, it becomes more intentional and heartfelt on the road. With the right mindset and openness, you’ll never really travel alone.

Next up: let’s dive into the daily routines, habits, and tips that make full-time RV life not only sustainable—but enjoyable.

Practical Tips for Daily Full-Time RV Life

Life on the road isn’t one long holiday—it’s real living, with routines, responsibilities, and rhythms that help keep things smooth. From managing water and waste to handling groceries and keeping things clean, here’s how experienced RVers make full-time life functional and enjoyable.

Water, Power, and Waste Management

When you’re off-grid or travelling between towns, managing your utilities becomes a daily habit.

Water

• Always fill up when the opportunity arises. Use apps like WikiCamps to locate potable water sources.

• Carry collapsible jerry cans or a backup water bladder for emergencies.

• Conserve water by turning off taps while brushing teeth and using a trigger-spray nozzle for dishwashing.

Power

• Keep an eye on your solar input and battery charge each day.

• Use high-draw appliances like induction cooktops or kettles during daylight to maximise solar use.

• LED lighting, 12V appliances, and laptop chargers can greatly reduce battery drain.

Waste

• Empty grey and black water tanks only at official dump points (listed in CamperMate and WikiCamps).

• Use biodegradable soaps and cleaners.

• Never empty tanks near rivers, beaches, or in bushland—this is illegal and harms the environment.

Cooking & Grocery Tips

Your RV kitchen might be small, but with good planning, you can eat well every day.

• Shop in bulk at major towns, but support local produce markets along the way.

• Choose versatile ingredients: rice, pasta, oats, tinned beans, frozen veggies, and eggs go a long way.

• Use stackable containers to organise pantry space.

• Stick to simple one-pot or two-pan meals to save time and water.

Pro tip: Keep a week’s worth of “emergency meals” like instant noodles, tuna, and baked beans for when you’re remote or weathered in.

Keeping the RV Clean & Organised

When your entire home is under 20 square metres, clutter builds up fast—and affects your mindset.

• Tidy up daily. Even 10 minutes each morning makes a difference.

• Use vertical storage: hanging organisers, command hooks, and magnetic strips help save space.

• Fold or roll clothes into cube organisers or vacuum-sealed bags.

• Use doormats, boot bins, and an outdoor broom to reduce dirt getting inside.

Minimalism isn’t just about having less—it’s about needing less to feel at home.

Laundry, Showers & Toilets

Laundry and hygiene routines differ depending on where you camp.

• Caravan parks have coin laundries; towns often have public laundromats.

• Portable washing machines or spin buckets work well off-grid with solar power.

• Use public or park showers where available, or set up your own solar/pressure shower if your rig doesn’t have one.

• Keep grey and black water separate and manage dump point etiquette—always rinse and leave clean.

Daily Travel & Camp Setup

• Plan your driving in blocks of 2–4 hours max to avoid fatigue.

• Arrive at campsites before sunset for easy setup.

• Use levelling ramps if needed and check phone signal before settling in.

• Lock your doors and secure outdoor gear every night and before leaving camp.

A small whiteboard or notepad for daily checklists—water fill, battery level, rubbish, next destination—keeps things stress-free.

Routine = Sanity

Many full-time RVers find that creating structure improves their wellbeing. Even a loose daily rhythm of wake-up, movement, meals, driving, and relaxation helps prevent fatigue or “road burnout”.

• Start the day with a walk or stretch

• Set a weekly reset day to clean, restock, and recharge

• Journal or reflect in the evening—it helps create mindfulness on the move

Full-time RV life flows better with habits that respect your space, your body, and the land you travel through. Now, with the day-to-day sorted, it’s time to pull it all together.

Conclusion: Is It Time to Hit the Road Full-Time?

Living full-time in an RV in Australia is about more than travel—it’s a lifestyle shift that invites freedom, self-reliance, and a deeper connection with the world around you. For many, it’s a return to simplicity. For others, it’s a way to break free from the nine-to-five, the rising cost of living, or the need for rooted permanence.

But while the lifestyle offers incredible sunsets, wide-open roads, and a calendar of your own making, it also requires planning, resilience, and adaptability. You’ll trade space for scenery, routine for spontaneity, and perhaps comfort for clarity. And with the right setup, legal knowledge, budgeting, and daily rhythm, you can create a life that’s not just mobile—but meaningful.

Whether you’re a retiree chasing the sun, a remote worker rethinking the office, or a couple dreaming of off-grid freedom, full-time RV living in Australia is more accessible than ever. Start with a short-term test trip. Learn your needs, tweak your setup, and listen to the road. The journey will teach you what no guide can.

The beauty of this lifestyle? There’s no one right way to live it—just your way. And your next chapter may be waiting on a dirt track, a beachside lookout, or a campfire beneath the stars.