If you'd like to join the many families who are traveling the country full-time in their RV, you probably want to know how you can do so on a budget. Naturally, you want your RV to feel like your home, especially if you're in it most of the year. Use these tips to furnish your RV on a budget and make it into a space you love.
Purchasing some items used can save you hundreds of dollars. You can find seat cushions, small appliances, decor, and a wide variety of other items for cheap on Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and other sales apps. The only thing to be wary of is people who advertise a used mattress for sale. Due to the intimate nature of the item, it's a good idea to buy a new one.
It might seem like a silly way to furnish your RV, but you'd be surprised how far a few throw pillows will go. Chances are your vehicle came with basic furniture already installed, but those drab brown or gray colors hardly look homey. Adding throw pillows to the chairs, couches, dining seats, and beds is an excellent way to add your family's style to the living area. Even better, throw pillows are super affordable at only a few bucks each at thrift stores.
These days, floors in RVs no longer have old-fashioned tile or linoleum. Mock hardwood and gorgeous, unique tiles are more common. Those beautiful floors are cold on bare feet in the morning, though. Treat your living space to a bit of personality by adding a rug that fits your style. A mat on the kitchen floor and one in the bathroom will add style and prevent water from seeping into the floor. Don't forget a welcome mat at the door to keep everyone from tracking mud in. Again, thrift stores or discount department stores are excellent places to find rugs.
Art is often an affordable way to furnish your RV and make it feel more like home when you're on the road. If you're traveling with kids, hang some of their creations around the RV. Maybe you're an artist yourself. Even if you're not, you can find stock art for sale in most department stores or online for budget prices. You may even be able to commission unique pieces from artists for affordable prices.
Plants are an excellent way to add decor to your RV without spending a ton of money. A few strategically placed plants add color to your space and may even improve your air quality. If you're traveling with pets, remember to research first to ensure you don't buy anything that could harm them. If you don't have a green thumb, try succulents or cacti for low-maintenance greenery.
The most significant way to save money and space in your RV is to create multi-purpose areas. Rather than taking up space in your bedroom with a computer desk, use the dining table for the kids to work on school or for you to check in with your clients. Create a pull-out bed in the dining area rather than cram all of your kids into one loft space. Cover your sink with removable countertops when you aren't using it to create more kitchen space. These investments now will mean bigger savings in the long run.
Remember, switching to RV life and furnishing it will initially cost some money. However, if you take the time to do some bargain shopping and don't mind getting creative with how you style your RV, you're sure to create a space on a budget that you and your family will love.
Happy RVing.