Tag: snowbird considerations

Starter Snowbirds: Analysis of Two Pre-Emerging Snowbird Couples

Stinky’s Fish Camp, Santa Rosa Beach, Florida Starter Snowbirds An Analysis of Two Pre-Emerging Snowbird Couples While sitting around a firepit at our neighbor’s end of summer social gathering, the topic of retirement and possibly becoming a snowbird were of interest to two couples who 

Where to Shop to Furnish Your Vacation Rental

Where to Shop Where to shop to furnish your vacation rental or second home Personally, I’m not a shopper. I’d rather do almost anything else than run to the store for something. Professionally, I’ve become adept at finding everything needed to furnish our vacation rental 

Flying Snowbirds

Cosmo is an international flying snowdog who lives in Germany and has made seven round trips to NW Florida since he was a pup
Cosmo is an international flying snowdog who lives in Germany and has made seven round trips to NW Florida since he was a pup

Flying Snowbirds

Are you a good candidate to fly to your warm weather destination?


Flying snowbirds are a bit of an enigma because they are much smaller in numbers around our snowbird community. However, small in numbers or not, there are basic considerations for future flying snowbirds. In many ways it seems like a great idea, but it's not without drawbacks too, which is probably why flying snowbirds are not the majority in my warm weather community. Snowbirds in the Hawaiian islands are a unique situation because everybody must fly there.

Below I will share the personal story of a special lady I met on the beach. She is inspiring for her independence as a solo snowbird who annually flies to her destination despite her health and financial challenges. Patti's story is both heartbreaking and heartwarming, which is why I feel compelled to share it. If you have personal experience as a flying snowbird, please reach out. I want to hear from you.


Are you a good candidate to fly to your warm weather destination?

Be completely honest and answer these questions for yourself and any travel companion/s, spouse, partner and pet.

  1. Are you healthy enough to fly? If you require special assistance due to health issues, mobility and more, it's important to address it before going further with your plans.
  2. Do you have recent experience with air travel? Not from five or ten+ years ago, things have changed a lot in the last few years.
  3. Can you successfully navigate through the airport terminal/s and make any necessary connections for each leg of your journey?
  4. Do you have enough physical stamina to fly? It's a very long process, is usually exhausting and that's if all goes to plan with no delays.
  5. Can you comfortably fit into the seat? Seats are much smaller and tighter than in the past unless upgrading if it's available.
  6. Are you able to adequately move from the front of the cabin to the back of the plane where the lavatory is located?
  7. Do you have a pet that will be flying with you? Large pets must fly in cargo and all pets must pay fees and provide health certificates.
  8. Can your pet realistically endure the duration of the trip mentally and physically? Be fair and know it's hard on them due to separation and added stress.
  9. Are you able to pare down your necessary possessions to travel by air for an extended time away?
  10. Does the price of the airfare fit into your budget? Check current airfare rates and prepare for sticker shock.
  11. Do you have an effective plan to get to/from the airport in each of your communities? No one wants to park their vehicle at the airport for weeks or months at a time.
  12. How will you get to your final destination? Is someone or a service available to pick you up?
  13. What mode of transportation will you use for the duration of your stay in your snowbird community? Walk? Rent a vehicle or bike?
  14. Do you have a contingency plan in the event of unforeseen travel delays? Weather, mechanical, work strikes and other unanticipated events may cause delays or cancelled flights.
  15. If you are flying internationally, do you have all of the proper paperwork, current passport/s and other documentation?
  16. Are you OK with less flexibility for changing flights? Some airlines only fly on certain days of the week and/or sell out their flights during peak dates.

Logistics, Logistics, Logistics

Snowbirds by nature must be very organized and savvy about what to pack or not. Flying snowbirds take it to the next level. There's three options for snowbirds who do not own a place in their warm weather climate: pare it all down to a couple of suitcases; ship boxes to/from your destination or store it locally when not there.

Renting space in a self-storage unit can work for repeat flying snowbirds. The keyword here is repeat. It is a challenge to make sure you can come back each year and get your things out of storage if you no longer plan or are able to return. Many snowbirds want to return only to endure unexpected health, financial, family or other problems. If a flying snowbird must become a road trip snowbird to retrieve their possessions, it can be an expensive financial and/or personal challenge.

Beware of accumulating too much stuff in your storage unit as well as the expense of a monthly unit. It is not by any means "cheap." Think it over before you decide if it's that important to you. If your annual cost of a storage unit is $1,000, are your stored items worth it?

Snowbirds who have their own place can certainly leave things behind and not have to bring it back and forth. When I say "leave things behind" that could also include a vehicle. However, if the vehicle will be parked outside, it can become damaged from weather or other trauma. Any vehicle that isn't driven for weeks or months at a time is very likely to require maintenance when you return.

I know of two couples in their early sixties who selected Hawaii as their desired winter home. They have no other choice than to fly there from the Midwest. After a few years, one couple stopped going due to the expense plus distance and bought a condo in the Punta Gorda area of South Florida. The other couple stays in Maui with her daughter and grandchildren for four or five months at a time. They bought a vehicle to use while there and leave it behind the rest of the year.

Flying international snowbirds come to the US for various reasons. One neighborhood couple is based in Germany with their dog, Cosmo, who flies to NW Florida in the cargo section of the plane. They met and married during his military career and now they spend extended time in Florida and Texas to visit his American family every season. Heidi said Cosmo does OK with cargo travel, he has made seven round trips since they adopted him as a puppy, but it's a major consideration for dog owners who fly.


Check Travel Rates and Dates

One huge disadvantage of being a flying snowbird is the loss of flexibility. The cost of airfare, fees and availability are at the discretion of the airlines. The best of carefully made plans can be upended in a matter of hours due to weather delays and cancellations. Direct flights are the best option for many travelers, but during the winter, many airlines reduce their direct flights because they aren't as popular as peak vacation season. If your departure city is not a major hub, you may have one or two connecting flights and layovers. This adds to stress, especially if there are delays.

Other airlines only offer flights on certain days of the week, which can create a domino effect for snowbirds who don't have flexibility to check in early or check out later than their booked dates.

Airfare rates during the holidays are always higher and snowbirds who return home during Spring Break can expect to pay more and that's if there's any seats available.

Air travel has become quite expensive. If you haven't priced tickets lately, take a look, the fees may surprise you.


Future Flying Snowbirds

My in-laws purchased a place in South Florida about two years ago. They have a medium sized older dog and are able to drive to/from NW Ohio. However, they realize at some point they will become flying snowbirds because of the distance from their primary home. When the time comes, if they have another dog it will need to be small enough to travel in the cabin with them. They'll also need to work out all of the logistical concerns of being flying snowbirds because "traveling light" is not exactly their current motto.

One of the biggest factors when choosing a snowbird community is how much it will cost and how will you get there. South Florida generally has warmer weather than Northern Florida, but the trade off is that comes at a higher expense as well as additional travel time. [Location, Location, Location: Peak Vs Off Peak]

Road trip snowbirds who become flying snowbirds will have adjustments and trade-offs to make. Our former Northern neighbors discovered exactly what this means when they transitioned. They fly direct on a budget airline to the Sanford, Florida airport near Orlando. However, they still have to make transportation arrangements to get themselves and their luggage to their park model home that's located about an hour's drive south of the airport. Let's face it, one of the main reasons my former neighbors became flying snowbirds is due to their age. Now they are relying on their snowbird community neighbors to be able to navigate Orlando traffic. It is an imposition on whoever the designated driver is and Dave and Diana have to organize their flights to work with their own schedule as well as the driver. At some point, a professional driver may be the best choice for their needs.


Patti's Heartwarming and Heartbreaking Story

One evening I was walking solo on the beach, taking photos of the sunset. Another nearby woman was also doing the same thing and we ended up walking and talking together. During the conversation we realized we were both staying at the same condo complex. The lady told me her name is "P - a - t - t - i -- Patty with an i." Right away I noticed she was different due to her speech, her physical features and she had an unusual gait. She walked with a laborious slant to one side and her brimmed bucket-style fishing hat was pulled kind of low. It partially hid her muscle disfigurements of her face and eyes.

Patti told me she is 67 years old, lives in Minneapolis and has been a solo snowbird for six years. She said she never married and has several great nephews and two cats at home. Patti explained she "walks all day" because she stopped driving 21 years ago. Patti had a stroke at the age of 45 and was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis at that time, also known as MS. She said she's probably had MS since her teen years and didn't realize it until the stroke.

Patti loves her snowbird lifestyle so much that she said "saves all of her money" from her $1,500 a month retirement and disability income so she can travel to the beach. Because Patti comes from Minnesota, she always buys trip insurance from the airline. One season her flights and accommodations became out of sync and she ended up departing Florida five days after she had to check out of her rental, so she stayed at an Extended Stay hotel. The change fee from her trip insurance covered the cost of one of the hotel nights. Patti's taxi fee from the airport to the beach is around $75 each way and if she needs to go anywhere during her time away, she pays for an Uber driver. She relies on deliveries as much as possible.

Patti confided she has a social phobia, but in her adopted southern community, "Everyone is so nice to her" and it eases her phobia. The beach truly does bring people together. As we said goodbye, we agreed we hoped we would see each other again. I went upstairs to write down Patti's story and reflect on how blessed I am. Thinking about Patti makes me teary, her story is heartbreaking. I can't imagine what she has to deal with every day just to get her essentials for daily living and yet she makes it work. I felt the 20 minutes I spent with Patti were especially inspirational and heartwarming because of her bravery to make a dream happen every year: to be a snowbird who just happens to fly.


 

"Life is a journey, enjoy the flight.”

-- Unknown


DISCLAIMER

The information contained in this website is for general information purposes only. We make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the website for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.

In no event will we be liable for any loss or damage including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising from or in connection with, the use of this website.

Through this website you are able to link to other websites which are not under the control of Midlife Snowbird. We have no control over the nature, content and availability of those sites. The inclusion of any links or advertisements does not necessarily imply a recommendation or endorse the views expressed within them.

Nothing Bad Ever Happens at the Beach

Our first year as snowbirds, we witnessed a raging fire that broke out at AJ’s where we had just departed just seconds earlier Nothing Bad Ever Happens at the Beach  Why Snowbirds and Tourists Should Know and Set Individual Limits For nine years and counting, 

Snowbird Destination Trends

The Covid-19 pandemic has forced a re-evaluation of metro vs. smaller populations for snowbirds and Zoombirds [Natchez Street, Seaside Florida] Snowbird Destination Trends Considerations for Snowbirds and Zoombirds What are the latest snowbird destination trends? I was recently interviewed for an article, “Boca Raton, Florida, 

Snowbird Travel Precautions During A Pandemic

Travel Precautions Midlife Snowbird
Prior to unloading anything, take extra precautions to sanitize the air and surfaces of your hotel room while in transit to your destination

Snowbird Travel Precautions During A Pandemic

Guidelines to Consider Prior to Your Road Trip

Many snowbirds depart for their southern homes after the December holidays at the start of the new year, including my husband and I. However, 2020's historical Covid-19 pandemic has created even more reasons than ever to be smarter about when, where and if travel is necessary at this time. By now, there's been plenty of travel warnings and advisories issued from renowned health care experts, world governments and global health organizations.

First and foremost, above all else, anyone who is ill should stay home until fully recovered. Those at higher risk with health problems or who have other underlying conditions should weigh all options and consult with their own personal medical team. Snowbirds who have made the decision to travel should consider the advice of the experts and take the highest precautions to avoid becoming sick. Masks, social distancing and diligent sanitizing remain the top criteria for reducing risks of exposure; however, there is much more, especially when travelling.

Below are common sense guidelines for travelers driving to their destination with a hotel stay along the way based on my long-time personal experience. I have always been super cautious about germs, so it wasn't that much of an adjustment to step up to even higher levels of caution. During this past summer, my husband, dog and I went on two mini overnight getaways within an hour of our home and it helped us prep for the long haul to our warm weather home. We learned a few things that helped us improve our systems. Because of our short summer travel, we gained increased confidence that it can be done with proper precautions.  

Taking meticulous measures and constantly being alert and pro-active are traits I have employed long before there was a global pandemic. It is well worth the effort if it can improve the chances of getting to your destination safely and without becoming sick after arriving. These guidelines are in no way intended to be construed as anything other than general information. Do your own research, follow all local and state mandates, as well as other government agencies.

    


Checklist of General Travel Considerations

Many snowbirds have pre-paid for their non-refundable rental residences and may have other commitments and obligations in their southern communities. Of course, the reasons for migrating to warmer climates is to get out of the frigid temperatures, rejuvenate one's outlook and be able to spend time outdoors. Thus, cancelling the trip is not anyone's first choice if they can help it.

breakfast buffet
If your hotel has a breakfast buffet, choose individually wrapped items and fruits that can be peeled. Take your food to eat in your room instead of a public dining area.

Finding ways to reduce risk and improve precautions is a smart way to prepare for the journey. There is no way possible to eliminate all risk, so travel at your own discretion.

Check in advance with your hotel regarding specific procedures they follow regarding extra cleaning and sanitation precautions. Ask if contactless check-in is available. You may want to also inquire about whether "free breakfast" and/or onsite restaurant services will be reduced or unavailable as well as amenities such as swimming pools, fitness centers, business centers and so forth.

I never thought I'd say this, but hotel rooms with (typically noisy) in-room heating and air conditioning units are preferred compared to hotel rooms with central HVAC systems. Our highway hotel fills this need, along with windows that can be opened for additional outside air. Motels with rooms that can be individually accessed via a private exterior door are also better options during a pandemic.

If travelling with anyone outside of your immediate household, do not share a hotel room or ride in the same vehicle if at all possible. If there's no other options, each household should try to self-isolate for 14 days prior to travelling together.

I've separated the travel considerations below into pre-planning/prep, in-transit and hotel guidelines. Upon arrival at your destination, follow the same procedures as when checking into your hotel. Always, always (pandemic or not) run every single utensil, plate, glass, dish and pan through the dishwasher with soap to sterilize them prior to first use. Never assume the dishes are sterile just because they look "clean," they may have only been rinsed or worse, just placed in the cupboard as the previous guest vacated the property.

 


PRE-PLANNING/PREP

1. Take inventory and Purchase All Necessary Sanitation Products, Including the Following:

--Masks or facial coverings for each person, plus several back-ups

--Hand sanitizer: bottle with cap or pump style

--Hand sanitizer: packets

--Hand sanitizer: travel size for purse or bag

--Towelette style sanitizers in a plastic container with lid

--Rubber gloves, disposable

--Spray sanitizers such as Lysol® Disinfectant Spray

--Paper towels

***Read the labels before using to ensure you don't damage any hard surfaces with your sanitation products***

2. Organize your sanitation supplies

Place pump-style hand sanitizer within easy reach in the drink holder of your vehicle along with packets of alcohol wipes

--Place hand sanitizer in your vehicle's drink holders, glove box and anywhere else that is within easy reach of both driver and passenger/s.

--Put travel-sized bottles of sanitizer in your purse, bag, brief case, etc.

--Keep a clean mask, plus extras in your purse, pocket, bag, brief case, glove box, luggage, etc.

--Transport full supplies of additional sanitizer products in an easily-identified tote bag within quick reach when arriving at your hotel and eventual destination.

--The tote bag of supplies should be one of the first items unloaded from your vehicle so you have it handy immediately upon checking into your hotel room.

3. Bring Your Own Everything (BYOE)

--Bring bottles of water and beverages; individually portioned snacks; candy; cigarettes/lighters; prescription and over the counter meds; toiletries; phone chargers, sunglasses, books, magazines, cash and anything else that will eliminate or reduce the need to go into a store during your road trip.

--Do the same for your pet/s that are also travelling with you: bowls, jugs of water, food, treats, leashes, meds, etc. should be self-contained. Don't forget to bring plenty of plastic bags for disposing pet waste.

--Bring several of your own travel mugs and plastic cups per person.

--Consider bringing your own linens such as pillows, pillow cases, blankets, towels, etc.

--Don't forget your digital thermometer and supply of vitamins and supplements.

4. Set up your e-pass toll accounts

--If you aren't already familiar with the tolls along your route, research it in well in advance of your travel dates

--Set up accounts with each one so you have an e-pass.

--Allow enough time for your paperwork to be processed and your pre-payment to be loaded

--Look in the mail for the arrival of your electronic monitoring device and decal/s, then install them in your vehicle

 


IN-TRANSIT

1. Make minimal pit stops

--Wear a mask at all times when indoors, socially distance, don't touch surfaces, minimize time indoors, wash your hands, then apply hand sanitizer upon re-entry into vehicle.

--Stop only as necessary to refuel and/or utilize restrooms. Wash your hands extra thoroughly.

--If you must go indoors for a restroom, be swift and skip browsing around the gift shop, magazine racks, beverage coolers and so forth.

--Pre-pay for fuel at the pump to avoid going indoors.

--Don't directly touch surfaces such as door handles, payment transaction key pads, pens, ATM cash machines or other high contact surfaces. Use hand sanitizer immediately upon completion of your task.

--Wear disposable gloves if possible while fueling and/or touching high contact surfaces.

--Keep your leashed pet away from other pets and people.

--Avoid handling cash. If unavoidable, sanitize your hands immediately.

2. Continually Sanitize

--Sanitize your hands, cell phone/s and high-touch surfaces frequently.

--Keep your pet bowls and supplies extra clean.

--Don't use the same travel coffee mug the entire trip. Bring clean travel mugs to switch out every 6-8 hours or less.

3. Utilize Drive-Through Restaurants

--Drive-through restaurants are typically plentiful en route, fairly quick and eliminate the need to dine indoors.

--Sanitize your hands immediately before and after eating.

4. Utilize E-Pass Toll Booths

--Avoid using the toll booths with attendants to minimize contact.

--If paying an attendant with a credit card, sanitize it immediately upon return to you. Their gloves protect them, not your card or you.

5. Dump Your Trash Frequently

--Get rid of your empty disposable cups, food bags and trash with every pit stop.

 


HOTEL STAYS

1. Minimize Contact at Check In

--Only one person should go into the hotel lobby and make an effort to check-in with minimal contact. If contactless check-in is available, use it.

--Wear a mask, practice social distance and/or wait in your vehicle until no one else is at the counter to check in.

--Use your own pen to sign paperwork.

--Avoid touching keypads or common touch points unless immediately using hand sanitizer afterwards.

--Leave your luggage and pets in the car with your travel companion/s if not travelling solo.

2. Wipe the handles of the luggage cart

--Wear disposable gloves and/or wipe the high touch surfaces of the luggage cart prior to loading or moving it. Wash or sanitize your hands immediately upon returning it to the lobby.

--Upon check-out, repeat the sanitizing procedures.

3. Sanitize Your Room

--Only one person, wearing a mask of course, should enter the room prior to sanitizing it.

--Bring your tote bag of sanitizer supplies to clean all surfaces in your room prior to bringing in your pets, bags and luggage.

--Open the exterior doors and window/s if possible.

--Spray the air with an aerosol can of disinfectant, such as Lysol® Disinfectant Spray.

--Spray all high contact hard surfaces such as door handles, light switches, sinks and handles, toilet handles, towel racks, shower handles and nozzles, tv remote control, un-upholstered chair arm rests, table tops, desk surface, microwave and mini fridge handles and so forth with a disinfectant. Allow the disinfectant to stay on the surface according to the package directions, then wipe dry.

--Bring only the most essential luggage and items into your hotel room and leave everything else in your locked vehicle.

--Wash your hands and sanitize them frequently and as needed.

--Don't touch or use the in-room phone unless you sanitize it first, then sanitize your hands upon completion of use.

4. Protect Yourself and Your Pet/s in Your Hotel Room

--Never, ever put ice in the bucket unless it has a clean, new plastic liner baggie.

--Drink out of your own cups if plastic wrapped items are not available.

--Don't allow anyone other than your travel companion/s in your room while you are in there. If housekeeping or maintenance needs to enter, then arrange to exit the room.

--Wear shoes, flip flops or at least socks when walking around your hotel room.

--Use your own pillow/s if you bring them.

--Avoid pulling the bedspread or duvet cover anywhere near your face.

--Stand on a clean towel upon entering/exiting the shower and while standing at the sink with bare feet.

--Don't touch the phone, microwave handle and mini fridge handles unless immediately washing or sanitizing your hands.

--Never allow your pet to eat anything that falls on the floor.

Travel precautions snowbirds
Take the stairs if no rooms are available on the first floor and never ride the elevator with anyone outside your household.

5. Avoid Public Spaces, Spend time outdoors, weather-permitting

--Wear a mask at all times when indoors in public and common areas, socially distance and wash your hands frequently.

--Avoid or minimize your time in public areas such as the lobby, hallway, common areas, elevators and so forth.

--Ask for a room on the first floor to avoid elevators and stairs.

--Take the stairs instead of the elevator when possible.

--Don't get into an elevator with anyone other than your own travel companion/s

--Don't touch the elevator buttons, ice machine knobs or vending machines unless you immediately use hand sanitizer afterwards.

--Don't congregate at the lobby bar, restaurant or in any area where the general public is mingling.

--If you can get to an exterior door with a shorter distance within the hotel, do it, even if it means walking all the way around the building to get to your vehicle or the pet area green space.

--If you can safely spend time outdoors at your hotel, weather permitting, do it as much as possible.

6. Food/Beverage Safety Precautions

--Order contactless takeout to be delivered to your room or go to a nearby drive-through restaurant.

--Add the tip at the time you place the order to reduce the need to give cash to your delivery person.

--Don't drink or eat from any plastic cups, glasses or utensils that haven't been pre-sealed in plastic wrap.

--Avoid any food, such as hospitality cookies that aren't individually wrapped or beverages that are available in a common coffee pot or pitcher.

--If a breakfast buffet is part of your hotel's amenities, don't touch high contact surfaces, handles or items if possible. Choose items that are individually wrapped. Take your food to eat in your room to minimize your time in the serving or dining room areas.

7. Contactless Check Out

--Call the front desk to let them know you are departing. Ask for an emailed copy of your receipt.

--Leave your hotel keys on the table or desk in your room.

--Don't forget to leave a generous tip for housekeeping, it's a lot more work for them, too.

--Sanitize your hands immediately once in your vehicle prior to departing the parking lot.


 

"Do what you can, with what you have, where you are.

-- Theodore Roosevelt, 26th President of the United States


DISCLAIMER

The information contained in this website is for general information purposes only. We make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the website for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.

In no event will we be liable for any loss or damage including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising from or in connection with, the use of this website.

Through this website you are able to link to other websites which are not under the control of Midlife Snowbird. We have no control over the nature, content and availability of those sites. The inclusion of any links or advertisements does not necessarily imply a recommendation or endorse the views expressed within them.

Pros, Cons of Owning Two Homes

One consideration of buying a second home is whether to retain or down size one’s Northern home [Covington Lake, Northeast Indiana] Pros and Cons of Owning Two Homes 15 Point Checklist Before Buying a Second Property Many snowbirds think about owning a vacation home or 

Cost of Snowbird Rentals: Beach, Desert, City/Metro

Leeward Key in the Destin area features stunning views of sugary white sandy beach of the Emerald Coast Cost of Snowbird Rentals: Beach, Desert, City/Metro Comparison of rental rates for houses, casitas and condos in three different areas Many snowbirds rent housing in a warm 

21 Considerations of RV Snowbirds

RV Life Midlife Snowbird blog
Before becoming an RV snowbird, there's many considerations including expenses and type of recreational vehicle [Miramar Beach, Florida]

RV Snowbirds

21 Considerations Before You Buy a Recreational Vehicle


Travel in recreational vehicles, known as "RV's," has always been a big thing, but with the 2020 global pandemic, it has grown in popularity even more. You don't even have to be a snowbird to envision life in a recreational vehicle. Families of all ages are exploring America in RV's for old-fashioned, adventurous road trip vacations the way it used to be. 

The obvious reasons for the camping surge include being self-contained in one's own housing unit to avoid the spread and risks of contracting Covid-19. However, there are numerous other examples of why RV's and snowbirds go together like sunshine and southern states. Recreational vehicles allow flexibility in travel plans, ownership vs. renting a place and control over one's environment. No one but you need come and go from your RV or decide when and where you want to be. However, there are serious considerations before making a purchase and hitting the open road. There's a huge difference between a week in an RV compared to an entire winter. 

RV's can be very expensive to own and operate; therefore, a realistic budget is essential. However, there's much more to mull over before jumping into the RV lifestyle. I've segmented into categories to make it easier to weigh the pros and cons.


RV Dreams vs. RV Reality

Many people envision how they think their life in an RV would be, but actual extended time living in an RV are two entirely different realities. The best cautionary advice I can offer is try it out first before making any sort of commitment.

A neighbor once told me she and her husband planned to sell their 3,500 square foot home, get rid of their possessions and buy a recreational vehicle so they can travel the country like they've always dreamed. Warning bells went off when I learned they had zero experience with the RV lifestyle. They did sell their home, but a drastic lifestyle change to this level is never a good idea without trying it out first.

RV dreams and perceptions: Life on the open road exploring the country, meeting new people, enjoying a variety of beautiful scenery, uncrowded, spacious private campsites with quality amenities and freedom!

RV reality: Compact interior space, lack of storage, tiny galley and bathroom, limited miniature appliances, laundromats, emptying the sewage sludge, and the sights and sounds of neighbors with not much space in-between rigs.

Life on the Open Road

Gulf Islands National Seashore Midlife Snowbird
National parks with campgrounds may have RV length restrictions, limited availability or ayonly allow tents. Check in advance to know what the restrictions are

When I was a teen, my family traveled the country in several different styles of campers. We spent summer vacations on the road anywhere from one to three weeks at a time and visited almost all of the major national landmarks. It was fun and exciting, yet it cured me of ever wanting to adapt the lifestyle. I know an RV is not a good fit for me, so I'm sharing my extended family's

experiences. Everyone has different objectives, needs and skills and must prioritize their own wishes.

Before becoming snowbirds, my in-laws were considering purchasing property vs. the flexibility of being able to move around different areas in an RV. Since then, they have tried out several options including purchasing several 30 foot trailers, a motor coach with slide outs, a fifth wheel with slide outs and most recently, renting a park model in southern Florida. Each has pros and cons.

Before getting too swept up in your RV dreams, determine if you and/or your spouse or partner are comfortable driving the rig of your choice.

Can you drive an RV?

Most people don't have professional driving experience. It certainly is a very helpful skill, yet you may not have thought about the need for a commercial driver's license, which may be required even for non-commercial vehicles. For recreational vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GCWR) over 26,000 pounds including a towed unit with a GVWR over 10,000 pounds, a commercial driver's license (CDL) is required in the United States per federal and state law.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) includes the maximum safe weight for travel which includes:

--The empty vehicle

--Passengers

--Fuel

--Cargo

--Accessories

--Tow trailer

--Tow vehicle if applicable

If you are not comfortable with the thought of safely maneuvering your travel trailer or motor coach through the terrain and weather conditions to arrive at your destination, this is probably not the best choice for you.

Along those same lines of thought, are you mechanical in any way? Having an interest and ability to make accurate technical assessments and small repairs are very helpful skills for RV snowbirds.

Health issues such as impaired vision or back pain make driving an RV even more daunting. No one is aging backwards, so don't forget to think about how many years you will be able or want to drive and set up your rig. Not only that, but can you and your spouse easily get up and down the three to four steps to the door of your trailer or motor coach? Plus several more steps once inside the motor coach? It's enough to get safely in and out without the added burden of lugging groceries, pets, luggage, and laundry.

 


Nine Point Check List Before You Rent or Buy an RV

Budget/Expenses

As with just about anything, budget sets the tone for what you can lease or purchase. If you aren't sure which direction to go with the size and type of RV, rent a unit similar to what you are considering for a shorter term prior to departing for an entire season. Love or hate it, you'll soon know how you feel. A candid conversation with your financial advisor/s is smart before making any permanent decisions. Do not get in over your head because used RV's will more than likely lose value if you try to resell them.

Size/Type of RV

Look at the options from top to bottom: Motor coach? Trailer? Fifth wheel? New? Pre-owned? There's a wide range of prices depending on your criteria. Surprisingly, I found web sites offering used trailer campers for around $5,000 and decent-looking used motor coaches for $75,000. These options are not going to have the amenities you may be dreaming of such as updated decor, modern furniture, slide-outs and an in-unit washer and dryer. If you're looking for a spacious new RV, the prices will be reflected accordingly and this is where you should compare the costs and benefits of owning a recreational vehicle versus owning a condo, park model or second home.

Driver/s

Who will be driving the recreational vehicle? Is the driver comfortable with parking; backing up and maneuvering tight spaces such as small fuel centers in rural towns; mountainous terrain; heavy traffic and foul weather situations? Can the driver pass a CDL test if needed? If there will only be one driver, how many hours is realistic for each day on the road? The larger and heavier the RV, the longer it will take to get to your destination. If there's only one driver and that person doesn't feel well, will you be prepared to shelter-in-place until able to resume again?

Vehicles

A trailer home is typically pulled by an appropriately matched pick-up truck. This is great for being able to leave the trailer at your RV park to run errands as needed. Motor coaches need to tow a small vehicle for snowbird purposes because no one wants to have to tear down their camp site just to run out for groceries in their motor coach. If you don't already own a small towable vehicle or pick-up truck, add that to your budget and don't forget to factor it into the fuel efficiency and GVWR.

Over the Road Travel Costs

Fuel, toll roads, weigh station fees, food, lodging, maintenance and more should be thoroughly accounted for. The more weight and wheels on your RV will add to the cost of the tolls and weigh stations and it can also affect the lot rental rate at your destination. Fuel efficiency isn't typically on my mind when I drive around my city, but it certainly would be if I'm driving a motor coach across the country and back.

Lodging En Route

To the inexperienced RV snowbird, it may not be immediately obvious that when you travel to and from your winter destination, there will likely be a need to stay somewhere en route at least one or two+ nights.

Option A is to stay in your own RV, right? Simple enough. Except you are road weary and campgrounds are not necessarily easily accessible from a major interstate highway. If you book a place or park in a rest area, it will be necessary to either set up your RV or camper, then tear it all down before hitting the road again. Or do without the full hook-up and spend days on the road without access to electricity, water and sewage. Depending on your RV, experience and the type of site, it can take anywhere from 15 to 75 minutes just to set up.

Option B is to stay in a hotel, which adds to your costs, and the parking lot needs to be able to accommodate your recreational vehicle. Make sure the hotel is pet friendly if you have your fur baby with you. Option B is what my husband's family chose to do for their three day trek from Northern Ohio to the southern border of Texas.

Travel Routes

What kind of travel route will you be taking? In theory it sounds great to meander to and from your snowbird destination, taking side trips to see the charming sights. In reality, can your motor coach make it to these side trips? Most people wouldn't even attempt to drive a 30 foot trailer or motor coach too far off the main highway if not entirely confident the road conditions would accommodate it. Some remote areas of the country, particularly in Southwestern states don't have travel plazas every 50 miles. Can your RV rig make it between fuel centers in less populated areas?

Mechanical Issues

Prior to departure, you should have your RV and tow vehicle thoroughly checked out by a qualified technician. However, if you have mechanical problems en route, will you be able to get your rig serviced within a fairly quick timeline? Parts can be tricky to get, but that could be the least of your mechanical problems. Getting a "tow" to a travel plaza, finding a qualified mechanic with proper diagnostic technology and a place that is open on the weekends or late at night may not be readily available. No one ever has flat tires or mechanical problems when it's convenient.

Storage in the Off Season

Do you have a place to store your RV in the off season? If you live in a city or neighborhood with a restrictive homeowner's association (HOA), storage costs will add to the budget. Rural residents have an improved chance to park their unit on their property if they have the acreage or out buildings to accommodate their home on wheels.


The Snowbird RV Lifestyle

RV Communities

What kind of RV community do you envision? Mountains? Desert? Woodland? Open sky? Lake? River? Beach? What about the size of the place? Small and intimate? Large and varied? ADA-accessible sites? There's many options available at several price points.

Truthfully, I thought renting space with any sort of beach or ocean view was a long shot, but an online search shows it is available for a price. In Northwest Florida not far from Destin, there is a large resort community, Camp Gulf, with 16 lots for recreational vehicles to stay right on the sand of the beach. Amazing! This year, they advertise a winter monthly rate of approximately $1,325, which is not cheap, but I didn't even think it was possible to camp on the beach. Of note, beach lots at this resort do not permit dogs due to local health regulations.

Read the online reviews. You can learn a lot from the comments for any given RV community and it's an eye-opener. Everything from comments about the management style to the size of the pool, maintenance noise in the early mornings as well as nearby amenities, it's all out there. If the same complaints keep coming up, look into it further and find out if the recurring problems have since been addressed.

Much of the appeal of RV communities is the network of residents of the community. If you plan to stay awhile and develop friendships, choose your community wisely. If you prefer traveling to many places for shorter visits at each one, you can try out a variety of communities without too much emotional investment.

Rates/Terms/Discounts

With the current global pandemic, reservations are high in demand, so plan accordingly. Many communities offer winter rate discounts if you book multiple months. Read the fine print, it isn't uncommon to require your rig be onsite by January 1st to qualify for monthly rates through the month of May if you plan to stay during the most popular dates.

Rates and cancellation terms are important to be aware of. Read the policies, terms, deposit, add-on fees, tax rates and penalties carefully. Your rate may be charged based on the date of arrival, not the date advertised at the time of your reservation. Don't assume your rate is locked in unless your signed contract specifically says it is. Most places will not offer a refund for departing ahead of your paid date and you may be penalized or unwelcome to come back if you do not depart on time.

This may come as a surprise, but the age of your RV may cause it to be excluded from some communities. There may be restrictions on how many people are allowed per lot (ie, two) without incurring additional fees. Only one additional vehicle is typically allowed per site. Failure to comply with the rules could result in a hefty fine and/or removal from the park without refund. Many communities state on their web sites that they strictly enforce the rules.

Keep in mind, even with winter rates, your lot rent can run as much as $1,500 per month for an RV community such as Geronimo RV Park, in Miramar Beach Florida. Per their web site, their community is affordable and this may be in part because there is no onsite pool, rec room, gym or playground and it is about a 7 to 10 minute two-block walk to the public beach access. Daily rates for September 2020 through January 2021 at Geronimo are shown as $72 for a full hook-up, paved pull-through site.

Military, AAA and other discounts may be available in the off-season, but don't expect discounts during prime season other than possibly a 3% cash discount.

Community Amenities

Many consider the perfect RV camp site to be shaded, spacious, paved, private and level with access to full hook-ups. Generally, quality amenities are preferred vs. quantity.

What amenities are important to you? Onsite laundry? Onsite sundries store? Clean, modern restrooms? Full hook-ups? Cable and high speed wi-fi? Security such as a gated community? A heated pool? Hot tub? Club house? A beautiful, shady, flat lot with landscaping? Community organized social events?

Regarding the greater community, do you want access to golf? Tennis? Biking and hiking trails? Shopping? Restaurants? Entertainment? Grocery stores? Fuel centers? Craft breweries, pubs and wineries? Parks and waterways? Hospitals? Churches? Banks?

Think about the activities of your daily life, how you like to relax and what is most important for the community amenities that will work within your budget.

Pets

Not every camping community allows pets. Or they may restrict pets to the type, breed, number and size/weight. Do your homework before you arrive so there's no surprises. Is there adequate space for your pet? Can the pet easily climb into and out of your rig? Onto your bed and the furniture? Is there space for the pet to stretch out and sleep? If pets are stressed, they won't do well and likely neither will you.

Pets should never be left unattended in an RV for more than a few minutes, there's too much that can go wrong with AC or the power going out and temperatures can quickly increase to unsafe levels.

Small Spaces

Can you live in a 200 square foot space for one, three or six months of the year? This is a big issue not to be taken lightly. Think about it. Perhaps you like to hang out with the neighbors, stay up late, watch TV and sleep in and your travel companion likes to retire early and get up early. This may work fine at home, but in a small space, it's not so easy since it's harder to get away from each other. Sharing one small sink, shower and commode in one tiny bathroom is another huge adjustment.

Small spaces can bring couples together, but it can also heighten frustration and tension. If the weather is inclement for a period of days or weeks, will being indoors all the time drive you crazy? On TV, they try to make tiny houses look appealing, yet no one ever says what the success rate of actually living in one is for more than a month.

Parking/Visitors

Most RV communities offer parking for your motor home or trailer plus one vehicle. Guests and guest parking are typically restricted and some places also restrict the number of people permitted to stay on a camp site. For snowbirds, this is less likely of a concern unless you decide to host friends and family from home.

Storage

Boats and RV's require the most creative storage due to necessity. Hooks, pegs, Velcro® and other organizational gadgets help maximize space, as well as multi-use functionality of your cargo. Much thought should be put into how and what should be packed with only the most hard-working items to be included. Items must be able to be secured when in transit for safety and to prevent breakage. Child-proof locks are the norm on cabinet doors. If you are lucky enough to own a unit with a small closet and under-the-bed dresser drawers, there won't be much space for clothes or shoes as in your northern home. If you typically keep shoes, laundry, a pet bed and other things on the floor, you'll probably be tripping over them in your recreational vehicle.

Cooking

Many people eat out a lot and this is a viable option for many RV snowbirds who live in a community with plenty of options. For those who primarily cook their meals, it's a huge consideration. Tight counter space and storage, plus limited compact appliances such as a range and refrigerator make it very difficult to prepare meals the way you would in a traditional home. More frequent trips to get supplies need to be factored in.

Outdoor life is a major part of the RV lifestyle, and that includes cooking over an open campfire or grilling on a camp stove. Picnic tables provide functional dining space that often is in short supply indoors. If your plans primarily include outdoor cooking to free up space and keep the heat out of the interior, inclement weather is not ideal. As mentioned before, are you able and willing to take food, supplies and dishes up and down the steps each time you prepare an outdoor meal?

Do you mind washing dishes by hand? If not, good, but it's another consideration of preparing meals in your recreational vehicle.

Sleep

On what kind and size of bed will you be sleeping? If you and your spouse are accustomed to separate bedrooms because someone snores and/or has a CPAP machine, can you make it work with a shared double or queen-sized bed? It's almost unheard of to find an RV with a king-sized bed unless it has slide-outs. Tall people need to make sure the bed is long enough to accommodate them. The mattress and hopefully box springs need to be reasonably comfortable.

Motor homes with the bed above the cab present challenges such as climbing into or out of it, as well as making the bed or changing the sheets.

If your RV has air conditioning, are you able to sleep with the possibly loud hum of the AC running all night? AC in RV's tends to be difficult to evenly regulate, so you may alternate between being too hot or too chilly. If your RV doesn't have AC, are you able to sleep in a hot, humid or stuffy environment?

One more important aspect to sleeping in your RV, if it isn't completely level, it isn't much fun to feel like you're going to roll onto the floor or into the wall.

Cleaning/Laundry

Brooms, mops, hand-held vacs and disposable paper towels are the norm for recreational vehicles. Laundry is typically accomplished at an onsite or nearby laundromat, but some motor coaches have very compact stacked washers/dryers in them. Everything, including leaves, dirt and mud, tends to track into your RV at a more noticeable rate when the space is small. Do you have a plan of where and how you'll get the ocean salt or dessert sand washed off the exterior of your rig?

Security

What security measures are important to you? Some RV resorts offer gated access, but even with a gate, adequate security isn't a given. Besides obvious methods such as locking all of your doors and windows, keeping cash and valuables at home and/or out of sight and being vigilant, there's other strategies. Consider upgrading your standard locks and adding a camera system designed for RV's. Thoroughly check all state and local laws regarding carrying firearms for each state you plan to traverse.

Privacy

Privacy is another huge consideration, which I've listed last, but is by no means least of the priorities. Are you OK with living within earshot next to multiple neighbors in every direction?

For those who like the social life of RV communities, this is a fantastic benefit. There's a comaraderie that neighbors develop when living in close quarters. People get to know each other much more easily, share meals, experiences, stories and gain a new network of friends who truly care about each other.

However, the flip side is maybe you don't want to wave "hello" or have spontaneous drop-in visitors when sitting in your lawn chair reading a book. Worse, maybe there's a barking dog or a loud neighbor -- or perhaps you are the loud neighbor -- who becomes annoying. If you are having a heated disagreement with your spouse, are you both able to keep it off the radar and not raise your voices?

Seek Additional Input for an Informed Decision

Before jumping into the snowbird RV lifestyle, seek input from others who have experience and read everything you can find online and from other sources. Many RV snowbirds absolutely love the sense of adventure, the freedom and the social connections. They are passionate and willing to take chances. If this is you, consider giving it a try. If it isn't a good fit, you can always make adjustments, such as eventually moving into a park model, traditional mobile home or even a condo or single family home. But you'll never know until you try.


 

"Home sweet motor home."

-- Unknown

Where Do I Belong?

Snowbirds deal with a range of coping challenges no matter where they are. [ Seaside, Florida, South Walton County] Where Do I Belong? Recently I was asked by a reader about coping with the challenges of living in and between two homes and communities. Specifically,