How To Use Your RV For A Workcation

Gabe and Rocio Rivero sitting in front of their RV with a starlink by a mountain camping location
Gabe and Rocio Rivero smiling for a portrait in front of their Thor Motor Coach Sequence Class B Camper Van
Gabe and Rocio Rivero smiling for a portrait in front of their Thor Motor Coach Sequence Class B Camper Van

GABRIEL AND ROCIO RIVERO

THOR Ambassadors

Gabe and Rocio spent four years traveling and exploring the country in their RV before they decided to settle in North Carolina. They absolutely love the RV lifestyle (they even named their camper van) and continue to take multiple trips every year with their two dogs, Wilson and Journey. True lovers of the outdoors, Gabe and Rocio hope to see as many national parks and go on as many hikes as possible.

Are you tired of the nine-to-five grind with the same drive and routine every day? Imagine a world where you can combine your daily work with traveling, exploring new places, and waking up to new landscapes every day. This is the beauty of a workcation. Like the name suggests, a workcation is a “working vacation,” where you can combine the benefits of a vacation with remote work. We’ve been working from our RV for over four years, and we’ve learned a few important things to help maximize our workcation time.

Gabe and Rocio Rivero doing work on laptops outside of their Class B Campervan
A workcation is a “working vacation,” where you can combine the benefits of a vacation with remote work.

Regardless if you're a digital nomad, seasonal employee, freelancer, or someone just looking for a change of scenery... Here are 10 essential tips to help you combine RV travel and remote work.

  1. Choose the right RV

    This might seem simple but selecting the right RV is crucial for a comfortable and productive workcation. Consider factors such as size, layout, amenities, and mobility, including your towing capabilities. No one knows your needs and wants better than you, so sit down and create a checklist of must-haves and wants. Once you have a list, figure out your budget and shop for RVs that are within your price range. A great way to test a specific RV model or type is renting before buying. Check out websites like Outdoorsy and RVshare to see if there is an RV rental in your area, or visit a local dealer to step foot in a variety of different RV types. You’ll be able to get a true feel for the space and drivability of a few different RVs to see which one will fit your exact workcation needs.

    Gabe and Rocio Rivero working inside their RV on their computers

  2. Plan your route ahead of time

    Plotting your travel route and destinations in advance will help you stay organized and make the most of your time. Knowing how long and how far destinations are from each other will allow you to schedule your work day more efficiently. If you know you’ll be working a lot, try to look for RV-friendly campsites or RV parks that offer WiFi so you’re not staying in a place with little or no connectivity. Be sure and check the reviews to see what other visitors have to say about the quality of the internet. You can also look for campgrounds that are close to towns with coffee shops, libraries or coworking spaces, as these places typically have stronger WiFi.

  3. Invest in reliable technology

    Depending on your job and the type of work you do, having the proper technology and gear is critical for your success. We recommend having at least two different WiFi options. For us, this means having two different cell phone carriers, a mobile hotspot and a Starlink satellite. We also recommend a backup power source, including a generator or power bank. This way, you’ll have power to run and charge your equipment even if you’re in a location without hookups. Some additional items to consider include an extra monitor, noise-canceling headphones, a webcam, and a microphone. Just remember that space and power are limited in an RV, so ensure you can properly power and store any items you bring with you.

    Gabe and Rocio Rivero sitting in front of their RV with a starlink by a mountain camping location

  4. Stay organized

    Living in a small space requires organization. Keep your work and living areas tidy to maximize productivity and minimize stress. Use storage solutions like bins, baskets and shelves to keep everything in its place. Develop a routine to clean and declutter regularly so items don’t pile up or get lost. Watch this video if you want even more helpful tips for maximizing storage in a small RV.

  5. Don’t forget to enjoy nature

    One of the best things about an RV workcation is being surrounded by nature. Take breaks to immerse yourself in the outdoors. Go for a hike, enjoy a scenic drive or simply set up your workspace outside. Nature has a calming effect and can boost creativity and overall well-being. If you can do the work later, and the day is perfect for an outdoor adventure, then go for it.

    Gabe and Rocio Rivero smiling with their arms raised in front of mountains

  6. Prioritize your self-care

    Working and traveling simultaneously can be demanding. It can be hard to find balance on a workcation—it’s not like a vacation where you can stop working, and it’s not like a traditional job where you stay at your desk all day. To help, allocate moments for relaxation and leisure throughout the day. This might be your daily morning coffee or a quick workout outside in the sun. Whatever it is that makes you feel good, don’t forget to do that thing. It also helps to remember that you don’t have to see and do everything all at once. Because you have comforts of home with you, you’re able to slow down and enjoy where you are.

  7. Build a flexible work schedule

    To balance work and adventure, create a flexible work schedule that accommodates your explorations. Allocate specific times for work, allowing yourself breaks to explore your surroundings. Take advantage of the freedom that comes with remote work to visit attractions during off-peak hours, avoiding crowds and making the most of your experience.

    Rocio Rivero working at his laptop inside his camper van

  8. Connect with other RVers

    Connecting with fellow RV enthusiasts on the road can enhance your workcation experience. Attend RV meetups, join online communities or use social media to find like-minded travelers. Share experiences, exchange tips and create lasting friendships. Collaborating with other RVers can lead to exciting joint adventures and valuable networking opportunities.

  9. Embrace spontaneity

    While planning is important, don't forget to embrace spontaneity. Allow yourself room for unexpected adventures and detours. Some of the best experiences often come from unplanned moments. Be open to the random encounters, hidden gems and last-minute changes in your itinerary. Embracing spontaneity adds a sense of excitement and surprise to your workcation.

    Gabe and Rocio petting their two dogs in front of their RV

  10. Experience local cuisine and culture

    Exploring new places means getting to experience different, local cuisines and cultures. Use your work breaks to try out local dishes, visit farmers' markets or attend cultural events. Food can be a gateway to discovering a region's identity, and immersing yourself in local customs and traditions can broaden your horizons and create unforgettable memories.

Embarking on a workcation in an RV is an incredible opportunity to combine work and travel, leading to unforgettable experiences and personal growth. By following these essential tips, you can create a seamless balance between work responsibilities and the freedom of exploration. And before you know it, you'll be well on your way to an extraordinary workcation adventure.

Class B Camper Vans

Class B motorhomes are small, streamlined and ready to roll. Nimble and more fuel efficient than Class C motorhomes, Class B motorhomes offer living space best suited for small groups. Most Class B motorhomes do not offer slide outs yet still offer luxurious amenities like galley kitchens, beds and restrooms.

Thor Motor Coach Sequence

Learn More

Find Your Perfect RV

Whether you're new to the world of RVing or you're ready to narrow your search, we're here to help you sort through it all and find the RV that's right for you. Explore RVs based off of your lifestyle and the features important to you.

Find Your RV
An travel trailer RV parked in a green field.