FAQs for Full-Time RV Living: What Beginners Really Want to Know About Utilities

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Aug 5
4 min read

Thinking about hitting the road and living full-time in an RV? Whether you’re craving adventure, flexibility, or a lower cost of living, RV life has become a popular choice for digital nomads, retirees, and families who want to make more core memories. Before you commit to life on wheels, it's smart to get clear on the practical stuff, like water, power, internet, and sewage.

We've been welcoming everyone from beginners to seasoned experts at our Dallas area RV park, and today we're answering five of the most common questions that we see come up for beginners.

How Do You Get Water, Electricity, and Sewage Hookups in an RV?

Most RV parks and campgrounds offer full or partial hookups. Here's what that means:

Water: You'll connect your RV to a fresh water spigot using a drinking-safe hose. Always use a pressure regulator to avoid damaging your plumbing.
Electricity: RVers hook up to shore power using the RV’s electrical cord (30 or 50 amp, depending on your rig). Use a surge protector to guard against voltage spikes.
Sewage: Connect your black (toilet) and gray (sink/shower) tanks to the sewer inlet with a sloped sewer hose. Only open the black tank valve when it's at least two-thirds full, then flush with gray water after to rinse the hose.

If you're staying at a campground without full hookups, you may need to rely on onboard water tanks, a generator or solar power, and periodic dump station visits. It's always a good idea to ask the park staff what you'll be working with before you book if it's not clear to you.

What’s Boondocking, and How Do You Live Off-Grid?

Boondocking (or dry camping) means living in your RV without hookups, so no water, electricity, or sewer connections. It’s popular on public lands like BLM (Bureau of Land Management) or National Forest areas, and it offers peace, nature, and budget-friendly stays. This approach is a bit less beginner-friendly, but still doable with the right information.

To boondock successfully:

Use solar panels and/or a generator to power your essential devices.
Conserve water by using low-flow fixtures and washing dishes consciously.
Empty tanks and fill fresh water before heading out to boondock.
Stay organized; you’ll want to know exactly how long you can go before needing to refill or dump tanks.

How Often Do I Need to Dump the Black and Gray Tanks?

Dumping the tanks can be an unpleasant task, but RVers get used to it like any other household chore. The frequency with which you need to plan on dumping your tanks depends on your RV size and how many people are using it. As a general rule of thumb:

Gray tank: May need to be dumped every 2–4 days with typical use.
Black tank: Usually lasts 5–7 days for two people.

You’ll know it’s time when your tank sensors (or your nose!) let you know. Use RV-safe toilet paper and tank treatments to reduce odor and buildup. As you're getting used to your RV, it's smart to err on the conservative side to avoid allowing your tank to become overfilled.

How Do I Stay Connected to the Internet While Traveling?

Internet access is a huge concern, especially for remote workers and families on the go. Here are some of the ways RVers stay online:

Mobile hotspots: Use a data plan through your mobile carrier for reliable LTE coverage, and use your phone as a hotspot when you need it.
Signal boosters: Devices like the WeBoost improve weak signals, especially in rural areas.
Starlink RV: A popular satellite internet option, especially for remote boondocking locations.
Campground WiFi: Often available but rarely fast or secure enough for work or streaming.

Pro tip: If you need internet for work or school and can't afford to skip a day of coverage, always have a backup option. Many full time RVers carry two data plans just in case one network has weak coverage.

How Do Heating and Cooling Work in an RV (Especially in Extreme Weather)?

If you're planning to live in an RV in Texas, with extremely hot summers, or maybe another climate with snowstorms or extreme heat, your climate control features really matter. RVs use a mix of systems to keep you comfortable year-round:

Heating: Most RVs have propane furnaces; some newer rigs include electric heat pumps or hydronic systems.
Cooling: A/C units typically require shore power or a generator to run effectively.
Insulation: RVs vary widely in the area. Four-season RVs handle cold better but still benefit from window coverings, vent pillows, and skirt insulation in winter.

While you're traveling in the summer, consider using reflective window shades and fans to reduce heat. In the winter, use space heaters if you are plugged in, and insulate external pipes to prevent freezing.

RV life is rewarding, but it definitely comes with a learning curve. By understanding how your systems work and preparing for life both on- and off-grid, you'll be far more confident starting your journey.

If you're just starting out, remember: every seasoned RVer was a beginner once. Take your time, ask questions, and embrace the learning process. And our final tip? Plan one of your first stays as Southern Belle RV Park, where you'll find a welcoming and hospitable staff, as well as:

Fenced dog park
Wash house
Fire pits
Picnic areas
On site laundry
Vending machines
On site management