Are you considering solo RVing as a female traveler but are unsure where to start? Is your fear of trying solo female RV living holding you back from living your dream life? If you answered yes to either of those questions, you’ve come to the right place.
In this Solo Girl’s Guide guest post about singles RVing and solo female RV living, Kayla shares her experience traveling in an RV alone. Not only does Kayla highlight some of the fears she faced while solo RVing, but she also offers safety tips and explains why everyone should solo RV travel at least once.
Solo RVing: What is Full-Time Solo Female RV Living Like?
While I’ve had a lot of experience traveling in an RV with my partner, Bill, I’ve also gone single RVing many times as well. When I first started solo RVing, I was really paranoid and had to face many rational (and irrational) fears. For instance, what if someone breaks into my camper while I’m sleeping? What if I forget to turn the stove off, and the RV goes up in flames?
I could go on and on, but I think you get the point. The truth is we all have personal fears we have to face in different situations, and solo RVing (especially as a family) can definitely bring them to the surface.
Conquering Your Fears About Single RVing
The number one piece of advice I have for female travelers eager to try solo RVing is to travel with something that makes you feel safe or not alone. For me, that was our cat, Luna. He offered a great deal of comfort when I was feeling scared, and, believe it or not, just petting him calmed my mind.
I also felt safe trying solo female RV living with a Garmin satellite communication device, which lets me send my location to loved ones through a text message. Telling someone you trust where you’ll be at all times is also one of my top safety tips for solo RVing.
For an extra sense of security, I kept mace on me at all times and always triple-checked that the doors were locked and burners turned off before going to sleep. Sometimes, traveling alone helps you overcome your fears! I love that solo RV travel gives me the opportunity to challenge myself and step outside my comfort zone.
With that being said, only you know what makes you feel safe. My methods may not work for you, but I hope they inspire you to try singles RVing.
Why You Should Try Solo RV Travel Once in Your Life
I’m a firm believer that you learn a lot about yourself when alone in nature, and solo RVing is the perfect way to find your true, authentic self. Not only will you overcome challenges, but you’ll also learn how to be more self-sufficient, and (oftentimes) how to better treat your body, mind, and soul.
While I love traveling with my partner, I got to do some serious soul-searching about things like what makes me happy, what I love doing, and what I want to do for the rest of my life. In my opinion, the opportunity to be introspective is one of the best benefits of solo RV travel.
How to Try Solo Female RV Living Without Purchasing an RV
One of the best things about solo RVing is you don’t have to purchase an RV to experience the lifestyle. Some camper rental companies rent RVs out for an extended period of time, letting you try solo RV travel before spending thousands to purchase one. I don’t recommend jumping into singles RVing full-time without trying it for a shorter period of time first.
Solo Female RV Living Inspiration
There are many stereotypes about RV owners being middle-aged men, but there are also many women out there living the solo RV travel life. For example, Becky Schade from Interstellar Orchard, decided she didn’t want to follow the masses and work a 9-5 job until retirement. There are also people like Kate Mullen from The Road to Adventure, who share guides for road trips and national parks while solo RVing.
Travel Guide Planning
🎫 Where can I buy tickets for museums, attractions, and tours?
I recommend either Viator or GetYour Guide. They have a lot of options!
👩⚕️ What is the best insurance to have while traveling?
I recommend using Heymondo for a great value policy. The app also offers you 24/7 Dr Chat. For Digital Nomads check out SafetyWing digital nomad insurance.
I have also written a blog post covering all my recommended travel insurance here
✈️ Any flight recommendations?
WayAWay offers you cheap flights with cashback. You can use this code CLAIRE22 to get 10% off. Otherwise Skyscanner or Expedia are my go-to flight searching platforms.
📱What do you use for internet connection while traveling?
I’m a big fan of personal WiFi devices and they have saved my ass so many times when traveling. I wrote a full review of the top travel WiFi devices you can read here. I personally use GlocalMe as I can either pop in a physical sim card or use their local carrier.
With regards to my phone connection, I use e-sims while traveling, so rather than having to swap out my regular sim card I can download the app and buy a virtual sim card. I recommend using eitherAirhub or Alosim. Both have great coverage of multiple countries and are very easy to use.
🛏️ What is the best platform to use for booking accommodation?
The 3 best platforms that I normally use are Booking.com, Hotels.com, and Expedia They offer great deals and multiple options. I always check all three to be sure of the best deals.
🛅 Do you have any luggage recommendations for traveling?
I do have a complete list of the best packing and luggage products that I recommend, you can check the list here. I’m currently traveling with this suitcase and this backpack.
Solo RVing: Know Before You Go
Before you pack your bags and dive headfirst into the life of single RVing, do plenty of research on where you want to go and how long you want to be gone. Make an itinerary, let your family know ahead of time where you plan on going, and stay safe. Resources like this guide to feeling safe as a solo female traveler can help.
As long as you prepare and know what to expect in advance, you’ll have an amazing solo RV travel experience.