So, you’ve decided to downsize your RV. Reasons aside, don’t overlook these important points.
Floor plan limitations
While a floor plan is perhaps a starting point when downsizing, nothing beats an actual walk-through of the RV you’re considering. Why? Because every potential RV buyer should “practice” how they really live in their RV. It’s the only way to ensure the rig you buy is right for you.
“Squish points”
My biggest concern in downsizing is what I call “squish points.” (Not the scientific name.) I realize that a 24-foot RV won’t ever feel as spacious as our 42-foot fifth wheel. However, when searching for a smaller RV, you don’t want too many “squish points”—places where you feel cramped or overly inconvenienced. Whatever downsized rig you get should still keep you excited about traveling.
Ceiling height
If you enter a downsized RV for the first time and immediately feel claustrophobic, move on. Really. Don’t waste your time wondering if there are workarounds to the low ceiling. There aren’t. Move on to the next potential RV.
Walk space
Remember “squish points”? Look for them as you move around the downsized RV. If you travel with a buddy, have them walk in the space with you. Can you both fit in the kitchen at the same time, or are there “squish points”? Do you think you might get frustrated with each other if you’re constantly having to move out of the way?
Pretend that one of you is washing dishes in the sink while the other camper dries and puts away the plates and cups. Can this job be done without bumping into one another? Can you gather veggies from the fridge at the same time your travel buddy is seasoning the meat for grilling? Act it out to confirm.
Have your travel buddy sit down and extend the recliner. Is there still space for you to easily move past, or will the seat need to be retracted before you can maneuver around it? Imagine you’re watching a movie and you want to pop some corn. Will your buddy need to relocate to allow this simple task?
If you act out specific tasks without confronting more than a couple of “squish points,” that RV might be a viable contender, especially if there are ways to work around the inconvenience.
Traveling with pets? Can you move around the downsized RV without having to step over the dog bed? Is there a convenient, out-of-the-way space for the pet’s food and water bowls?
Bathroom
Continue your search for “squish points” in the bathroom. Can you stand in the shower without hitting your head on the shower ceiling or bumping your elbows on the shower surround walls? Is there a workaround? Can your travel companion see the bath mirror easily, or will shaving require sitting on the toilet?
Speaking of the toilet, try sitting on the commode. Does this require a contortionist’s skill?
Bedroom
Many downsized RVs feature small bedrooms. That’s okay for the most part, because sleeping is the primary activity here, whereas the kitchen and living areas are multi-use areas. Still, keep looking for “squish points.”
Is there access from both sides of the bed? (This is important if you don’t care for someone crawling over you in the middle of the night.) Can you easily access storage cabinets and drawers? Is there space to get dressed?
Get into the bed. Think about your nightly routine. Is there room for your CPAP machine and an outlet to power it?
If you like to read in bed, can you sit up, or do you bump your head? This may not be a deal breaker, but you need to be aware.
The right one
Remember! Two things are true when downsizing to a smaller RV:
- You are unique, and so are your “squish points.” (What bothers you may be acceptable for another person.)
- There is no such thing as a perfect RV.
What about you?
Have you thought about downsizing your RV? Can you add to the potential “squish points” mentioned? Share your thoughts using the comments below.
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RVT1245
Squish points are a starting point. Downsizing does not mean easier; if you are used to the DP that setup is plugin and push a leveling button you may find the smaller rig requires much more these things need to be considered.
The best thing we did was rent a couple rigs the same size we were looking at. We got to experience camping in them and were able to find out what we liked and didn’t like. We’re very happy with the one we got!
Great tip! So happy you found an RV you love. Safe travels!
+++ on this article Gail! We have 2 RVs. One is a stationary winter residence; the 2nd is a much smaller single-axle SUV towable TT. You call it ‘squish points’ we say we have to learn the proper dance steps. Same thing in the end. When we do the semi-annual migration, we have our golden retriever and 2 cats with us. They too have to learn the dance steps. It all works for up to a couple weeks and chances to get outside every day.
The one downside is I am an early riser and my wife is not. I had to learn how to do quiet things in low light levels. If this fits you dear readers, add it to your role play.
Love the “dance steps” analogy, Jim. Safe and happy travels to you!
I do not think one can downsize more than me. I do not need to step over the dog because he sleeps on the bed. Dogs rule. It sure is easy to park.