The art of adaptability

After six years of full-time RV living, I’m kind of proud of the way I’ve adapted. I used to be very structured. Things had to be done in a certain order. If a change to that structure was presented, I’d need at least a day to consider it before I could commit to the change. 

Thanks to learning the art of adaptability, I find it much easier to roll with the proverbial punches. I’ve had to learn to be more flexible to survive in this lifestyle. And I’ve found it quite rewarding. 

Considering changing course

Take, for example, our recent journey from Arizona to Texas. After a couple of days of listening to the irritating whistle of our engine seemingly screaming at us, we stayed sane by entertaining a drastic change in plans that would affect a couple of weeks and a couple of stops on our course. 

Planning to replace our fifth wheel in 2028, when it’s 10 years old, we’ve started watching videos about newer models and looking at our options. When we found a barely used model we’re considering for sale in Ohio by a man who clearly cared about his rig as much as we do about ours, we started to think about adjusting our plans. 

The rig was used only three times and garaged the rest of the time. That had a lot of appeal to us. And the price seemed quite reasonable. 

We looked at more videos about that specific model and eventually changed our minds about pursuing that rig because newer models have a third air conditioner to cool the back office, where I’d be working. That’s a pretty important amenity on a fifth wheel that features an office surrounded by windows. 

That and the fact that the rig had been converted from a kingpin to a gooseneck kept us from pursuing it. But I love that we were willing to think about it. We had fun dreaming and talking through the possibilities. The former me wouldn’t have enjoyed that but would have put up a rigid front and fought even the idea.

Contemplating an RV carport

Another example is after arriving at our Texas property, we were presented with an opportunity to purchase a used RV carport for a steal. We thought it would be nice to cover our rig from the elements and protect our driveway. ​

As we hemmed and hawed about it, we talked ourselves out of it. We had envisioned adding an RV carport to our lot after laying a concrete pad, something we haven’t done yet. The clearance on this particular covering wasn’t quite as high as we’d like for our tall rig, although it would have fit. We decided the timing wasn’t quite right, but we seriously considered it. And I willingly engaged in the conversation.

Relocating without reluctance

Yet another change was having to move during a workday so that we could get our screaming truck into a shop near the airport we were flying out of to Cabo San Lucas on a Saturday. I hate moving on workdays, but since the shop was closed on Saturday, I didn’t have much choice. 

I quickly adapted to this situation, knowing it was necessary for our needs. I was actually able to work in the truck the full two hours of the trip, thanks to the joys of modern technology.

We even packed for a couple of extra days in case we had to stay in a hotel after we returned the following Saturday, knowing the shop was only open Monday through Friday. 

Life is better since I’m more adaptable. I’m glad I’ve learned this skill. It’s helpful in many areas of life.

You might also like Confessions of a full-time RVer.