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The mastery of traveling light was a revelation during our extensive RV journey across America. It presented a puzzle! How do you maintain a minimalist approach when your entire household accompanies you? Presently, every winter in Mexico, my spouse and I proudly limit our belongings to just one carry-on and one backpack each.
The journey commenced when I relocated to America with only two suitcases and one Balikbayan Box. Following Bill’s divorce, the purchase of a duplex, and subsequent rental of one unit, upon our marriage, he transitioned to my condo. Retiring from my university teaching job and selling his business six months later, we condensed all essentials into our 24-ft. Class C motorhome. Several boxes were stored in my daughter’s garage and the modest storage unit of my condo was leased out. Upon upgrading to a 37.5 Class A motorhome, we shifted all belongings to the larger rig, mastering the art of maintaining life’s necessities at a minimal level.
Sneaky Clothing
Adhering to a firm principle, my spouse enforced a rule: a new item is only acquired when an old one is departed with. Physical discomfort due to constriction and extreme temperatures prompted me to donate my larger-sized clothing before embracing medium-sized apparel. Two years later, reverting to a medium, my excess attire found its way to Goodwill once again.
Mountain of Documents
Embracing digital alternatives became our norm. We favored e-books and e-zines, transitioning our documents to electronic formats, barring essential papers like passports, birth certificates, and marriage records requiring physical presentation. Health records were securely stored in online patient portals while photographs were digitized for electronic displays.
Cuisine and Provisions
Our diningware catered to a maximum of four individuals. In instances of additional guests, disposable items were utilized, extending to wine glasses as well. Kitchenware was condensed to three cooking pots of varying sizes and two skillets. Essential appliances included a compact slow cooker and a microwaveable rice cooker. Opting for a French Press over bulkier coffee machines, our fridge accommodated a week’s supply of food. The combination microwave/convection oven and mini dishwasher held particular favor.
Restroom Responsibilities
Provisions for linens and towels extended to accommodation for us and two guests, despite the RV’s ability to host six. A persistent habit of accumulating toiletries from accommodations was countered by immediate distribution to the less fortunate, packaged within essential items like toothbrushes, toothpaste, and sustenance.
Miscellaneous Possessions
Utilizing sizable storage compartments within the RV, our inventory included a portable fire pit, compact grill, foldable outdoor furniture, suitcases, carry-ons, fishing equipment, heating and cooling appliances, and cleaning utilities. Entertainment amenities encompassed a DVD player, Ziller karaoke system, two televisions, satellite dish, and laptops.
Our RV spanned 350 square feet and weighed 20,000 pounds, prompting reevaluation due to soaring fuel expenses. This streamlined experience led us to a mere 1,200 sq. ft. abode post-RV travels. The fundamental principle of traveling light resonates universally, transcending RV lifestyle, emphasizing the essence of minimal living for effortless adventures!
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