Hello from Sacramento, CA area -- in research mode currently

[pedalinjoy]

Hi!  I'm doing hours and hours of research on whether I dare to sell my condo (I've loved this little condo for almost 20 years) to fly the coop and take to the road, now that I'm retired.  I live on a modest fixed income now--occasionally supplemented by freelance proofreading and editing work, words on the page being my professional background. From all I'm reading, I can afford this kind of lifestyle if resourceful.  I'm focusing mostly on Class B vans that are stealth-friendly.  :>)

If I decide to transform my life into that of a gypsy for the foreseeable future, I plan to take my cello, guitar, folding Bike Friday, and my watercolor supplies, mainly, in addition to necessities, of course, to meander America's national parks, state parks, etc.  Years ago, I enjoyed a 10-year stint of sporadic touring around the country with my guitar and original songs (on the folk music circuit).  I have such memories to treasure from that amazing experience!  I believe that there are many new adventures awaiting me if I find my way through "letting go to let in" and end up with a RELIABLE, charming van of some sort to set out! 

Thanks in advance for any advice I receive from so many more savvy folks here! 

 

[Tom]

Welcome to The RV Forum. I like your username. Where near Sacramento are you?

 

[pedalinjoy]

I live in Sacramento proper. :>)

 

[Tom]

We're an hour and some Southwest of you, out on the Delta. Let us know if we can answer any questions.

 

[Arch Hoagland]

Have you ever used an RV? 

I'd suggest you rent the smallest class C you can find, or a van if they rent those, and load all the stuff you want to carry when full timing. Then spend a week in it. During that week you can go down highway 99 to L.A. and back stopping at all the RV dealers along the way. 

 

[Back2PA]

I'd suggest you rent the smallest class C you can find, or a van if they rent those,

Cruise America doesn't rent vans but they do have what they call a "compact RV", a narrow what looks to be 18 footish Class C

 

[johnaye]

Have you ever used an RV? 

I'd suggest you rent the smallest class C you can find, or a van if they rent those, and load all the stuff you want to carry when full timing. Then spend a week in it. During that week you can go down highway 99 to L.A. and back stopping at all the RV dealers along the way.

I agree.  With all you are planning on taking with you, it will be cramped at best in aB.  Think about a C or a small A with a toad.  Try to rent something and see if you can really do what you want to do

 

[Gretaeva]

Hey! We r in Truckee pretty much in the same space.  We just put our house on the market. Been here for 30 yrs. We currently have a 1991 21 ft class c.  Getting rid of our " stuff"  my hobbies are cooking, pottery and a little photography. The husband pretty much is in charge of all the music. . Trying to figure it out.  Have fun ,

 

[Stephen S.1]

Quick Google for RV vans gets this article.

Easy way to see if vans are big enough for you.

 

[pedalinjoy]

I hope I'm replying to all of you who were so helpful giving input on my question.  A friend is going to lend me her Class B Leisure Travel van for a few weeks, if I want to test the waters...good advice from all of you, and much appreciated!  Pedalinjoy/Sacramento (aka Paula Joy)

 

[Gizmo100]

I hope I'm replying to all of you who were so helpful giving input on my question.  A friend is going to lend me her Class B Leisure Travel van for a few weeks, if I want to test the waters...good advice from all of you, and much appreciated!  Pedalinjoy/Sacramento (aka Paula Joy)

What a lucky break...A chance to get a idea if it would work for you.

 

[Arch Hoagland]

"A friend is going to lend me her Class B Leisure Travel van.."


Outstanding. That will answer all your questions. 

You are a pretty lucky person to have a friend like that.