Are you looking to downsize and live a simpler lifestyle? If so, you might be thinking about choosing one option between tiny houses vs RVs. Which option would be better for a full-time living?
Tiny houses are small, self-sufficient homes that people have used as full-time living places. However, RVs are versatile, mobile homes that offer many of the same benefits as tiny homes. They’re good for traveling across the country and can handle a lot of abuse.
So, an RV or tiny house? Which is right for you? Let’s take a look.
Tiny Houses vs RVs: The Better Option for Full-time Living
Maybe you’re wondering if there’s a big difference between the two. To clear your doubt, we’ll explore the similarities and differences between tiny houses and RVs. Take into account these critical considerations before making a decision.
1. The Case for Tiny Houses
There are a few significant reasons why people might lean on the former in the debate between a tiny house vs camper.
The unique advantages a tiny living place has are:
Feels like a real home
A tiny home is almost like a natural home but only smaller. This is the most noticeable difference between tiny houses vs RVs.
Built on a permanent structure, it mimics the amenities and aesthetic of a traditional house but fits everything within 300 square feet.
On the other hand, a travel trailer does not give the feeling of a permanent home unless you settle down in a permanent campsite or RV park. RV living feels like an indefinite camping trip.
More affordable
Another significant advantage of tiny homes is that they’re often much more affordable than RVs.
The price of an RV can range between $10,000 and $300,000 based on the size, category, amenities, and other features. If you already have a towing vehicle, it’s possible to get a travel trailer for around $20,000 to $40,000. But if you want a large motorhome, the price will start from $100,000.
Tiny houses are a more affordable option for people who want to live independently but don’t want to break the bank. The average cost of building a small home could be somewhere between $35,000 to $70,000. Of course, the expenses could be less or more depending on different factors.
If the foundation is not already there, your expense could increase by around $4 to $7 per square foot.
More cost-efficient
Tiny houses are much more efficient and affordable than RVs in energy usage and monthly utility expenses. They’re also much easier to maintain, so you won’t have to worry about punctured tires, faulty engines, or fuel in the tank.
Better weatherproofing features
Tiny homes are more weatherproof than RVs because they are built like a house from the ground up. You can choose the insulation, heating, and airflow features according to the local climate.
But most travel trailers are built for stable weather conditions. Some companies these days manufacture some models for extreme wintry conditions. However, you most likely need to customize and add appliances to make them suitable for the weather of your camping area.
Good for customization
Another glaring difference between tiny houses vs RVs is the scope for customization.
You can build a tiny home the way you like—in any shape, size, or design. Take inspiration from any architecture and modern or rustic design cues and implement them in your house.
Contrarily, RVs are available with pre-made designs. Yes, you can do some customization like adding wall insulation, changing the appliances, and other similar changes. Some people purchase the structure and then design and construct the interior alone, but it requires expertise and a reasonable budget.
Downsides of Tiny Homes
The concept of the tiny house movement is living minimally within a small space. It’s suitable for living solo or with a partner but not with children.
Because the space is limited, you have to use multifunctional furniture and small-sized appliances, which could be more expensive.
2. The Case for RVs
RVs are often seen as the ideal solution for people who want to live a traveler’s life without sacrificing the comfort of a traditional home.
RVs are larger than a tiny house unless you live in a small camper. They are ideally the “home on wheels” for the digital nomad lifestyle.
There are a few main reasons why RVs are a good option for full-time living. When considering a tiny house vs travel trailer, you will find that the latter has:
More space
RVs are much larger and more spacious than tiny homes. This means they can comfortably accommodate more people and provide larger storage, making them better suited for long-term living.
Also, the bigger space makes them ideal for larger families or groups of friends.
Mobility
In addition to having twice or more the floor space of a typical tiny home, RVs are easier to move around. You can drive them around like a big vehicle, but some trailers are attached to a towing vehicle.
So, if you like to travel and camp in different places, you should choose a suitable travel trailer.
More versatile
RVs are more versatile. RVs can be used for anything from camping trips to long vacations in remote areas. Tiny homes don’t have this versatility because they’re designed primarily for living in one place rather than traveling around frequently.
Getting insurance
The rules for tiny houses differ from state to state. Since most of them don’t follow the local building codes and regulations, it might be challenging to find insurance for them.
However, this won’t be a problem with RVs since the rules and regulations are pretty straightforward in every state.
The Final Words
The comparison between tiny houses vs RVs gives the impression that there is no clear winner. An RV might be the best choice for travelers looking for a more luxurious lifestyle.
On the other hand, those who are happy with a minimal, simple life will love to live in a tiny house.
