Despite all the uncertainty and challenges faced by Sam, from Bourn to Go, and her military family during their RV lifestyle journey, they never gave up on their dreams of debt-free living. Little did they know that embracing the RV life would be their saving grace in 2021 and 2022 when Sam’s husband, Eric, faced potential job loss due to the pandemic. What will become of this family’s RV lifestyle dreams?
In this episode, Kate Flemister speaks with Sam, a military spouse and mother of two, who has embraced the RV lifestyle as a way to live debt-free and flexible. Sam and her family have been living in an RV for 11 years, finding the perfect balance between military life and enjoying the freedom that comes with their RV home.
The Journey to Full-Time RV Living
Living in an RV full-time can be a liberating and beneficial experience, especially for military families seeking flexibility and a debt-free lifestyle. In this episode, Sam shares her family’s journey into full-time RV living, detailing their process of downsizing and adapting their daily routine. As a military spouse and mother of three, Sam describes the adjustment to small-space living as a transformative experience for her and her husband, leading them to be more intentional about their possessions and personal space. Despite the occasional challenges, Sam has found this new way of life to be a fulfilling experience for her entire family.
Advantages of RV Living on a Military Base
Living in an RV park on a military base provides a unique set of advantages for military families, offering a sense of connection, affordability, and convenience that has made their RV life even more appealing. Sam explains how living on base has allowed her family to save money on rent, take advantage of free electricity, and remain within the supportive military community. By living in an RV park on base, military families can also take advantage of the cost-saving opportunities offered by on-base RV parks and complimentary utilities.
Tips and Resources for Military Families
Sam, from Bourn to Go, shares some tips and resources for military families looking to embrace a flexible lifestyle on base:
- Consider living full-time in an RV to save money and pay off debt.
- Look into living in military RV parks for cheaper options and convenience.
- Take advantage of being able to book a year out for active duty military members at RV parks.
- Explore the possibility of becoming a camp host at an RV park to receive free rent.
- Be open to moving your home (RV) if stationed in different locations for the military, making transitions smoother.
- Use your RV for vacations, such as visiting Thousand Trails or other campgrounds, to save money and maintain your own space.
Intentional Living in a Family RV Setting
Sam also emphasizes the importance of intentional living and efficient space management in a family RV setting. Balancing family dynamics and outdoor adventures in tight living conditions can be a challenge, but with some planning and patience, it is possible to strike the perfect balance between financial freedom, family bonds, and outdoor experiences.
Overall, living in an RV on base can provide military families with the financial flexibility and freedom they need to enjoy their time together, travel to new places, and create unforgettable memories.
Where to Find Bourn To Go
Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/bourntogo
Youtube – https://www.youtube.com/@BournToGo
From Their Social Media
Military family Erik + Sam, Aria, Karina, Mia + 2 dogs📍Florida •Full time living•homeschooling family •adventures •2021 GD Solitude S-Class 3740-BH
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Quotable Moments from the show with Bourn to Go
00:00:00 – Hiking and Living on Military Bases,
The guest shares a story about hiking up Stone Mountain and down in a thunderstorm while holding a child. They then discuss their experience living on military bases, particularly in Jacksonville, Florida, where they are currently stationed.
00:01:13 – Becoming a Full-Time RV Family,
The guest explains how they decided to sell their house and become a full-time RV family, which took them three years to accomplish. They started with an Airstream and eventually upgraded to a Fifth Wheel, which they currently live in.
00:05:25 – Living in an RV Park on Base,
The guest shares their experience living in an RV park on base, which is a cheaper option than traditional housing. They also discuss the perks of being a camp host, including free rent and no electricity bills.
00:08:06 – Military Orders and RV Life,
The guest talks about how military orders work and how they can impact their RV life. They discuss their options for moving their home if they get stationed somewhere else and the benefits of not having to wait for a house to sell.
00:10:58 – Benefits of RV Life,
The guest shares the financial benefits of RV life, including the ability to save money and pay off debt. They also discuss the flexibility of being able to move their home and take it on vacation without losing their spot.
00:12:57 – Major Life Changes,
Sam discusses how major life changes led her family to living in an RV and the benefits it has brought. She talks about being closer to family and having the flexibility to travel.
00:13:18 – Turning Point,
Sam talks about the turning point in her life being when her husband’s exemption from the vaccine was denied, and he was almost kicked out of the Navy. They felt at peace with their decision, even though it was scary, and it solidified their appreciation for their lifestyle.
00:16:10 – Highs and Lows,
Sam discusses the lowest point being during the time her husband almost got kicked out of the Navy and the challenges of selling their Airstream. The highest points were the adventures they had with their children, including backpacking trips and camping experiences.
00:18:00 – Hiking Adventures,
Sam shares her experiences taking her children on backpacking trips and camping adventures. She talks about the challenges of carrying everything they need and how it brings them closer together.
00:23:32 – Future Plans,
Sam discusses their future plans, which are dependent on her husband’s job in the Navy. They are considering moving to Hawaii or San Diego, but if they stay in their current location, they are debating whether to stay in their RV or get a house.
00:25:40 – Making the Move,
Sam encourages listeners to take the leap and try living in an RV, especially if it’s something they’ve been considering. She emphasizes that it’s a flexible lifestyle that allows for more opportunities and experiences, and notes that many active duty families are already doing it.
00:29:02 – Life in the RV,
Sam discusses how living in the RV has brought her family closer together and reduced stress on their marriage. She also mentions how her daughters have adapted to the small space and have become more creative in their play.
00:33:49 – Military Life,
Sam compares her experience as a Navy spouse to growing up in a military family with Air Force parents. She notes that Air Force families are able to move to more places, while Navy families are limited to specific duty stations.
00:35:03 – Making Memories,
Sam shares her family’s philosophy of “making memories, not dreams” and encourages listeners to make the most of their time and experiences. She emphasizes that there are many active duty families already living in RVs, and that it’s a possibility for anyone considering it.
00:37:37 – Finding Born to Go,
Sam shares where listeners can find her and her family’s travel adventures, including their Instagram account and YouTube channel under the name “Born to Go”.
