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Dilemma in an RV Bathroom

For many, the allure of living in an RV, either temporarily during travel or as a more permanent lifestyle change, offers a sense of freedom and simplicity. However, this lifestyle shift comes with its challenges, particularly when accommodating personal comfort within the confined spaces of an RV. 

A common concern among prospective RV dwellers, especially those of larger stature, revolves around the adequacy of RV bathrooms. 

Given their notoriously small and cramped appearances, it’s a valid concern that merits exploration.

The Concern: Can Size Compromise Comfort?

The question recently asked on Reddit by u/Fantastic_Mongoose_4 highlights a genuine worry: “Is the bathroom situation in RVs as bad as it looks for someone on the heavy side?” This concern is not unfounded, as many RV bathrooms are designed with space conservation in mind, often leading to tight quarters that may not comfortably accommodate all body types.

For taller or heavier individuals, the fear of not being able to use the toilet adequately is a significant factor in deciding whether or not an RV lifestyle is viable.

Real Experiences Offer Real Insights

Addressing these concerns, individuals with firsthand experience living in RVs provide valuable insights. Redditor, blevinsg2, who describes themselves as “Big dude here myself (6’8 350),” who emphasizing the importance of personally visiting RV dealerships to explore different models. 

Their journey led them to purchase a 42ft 5th Wheeler, chosen specifically for its residential-sized bathroom and ample toilet space, proving that with diligent search, one can find an RV that caters to larger body sizes without compromise.

This individual’s experience underlines a crucial point: not all RVs are created equal, and some models are indeed designed with more spacious bathrooms that can comfortably accommodate larger individuals.

The specific RV they chose was the Alliance Paradigm 370FB, noting its elevated bedroom and bathroom over the hitch and storage area. This model features a skylight in the shower for extra headroom and opposing slide-outs in the bedroom for additional space around the bed. 

FYI: WE BOUGHT AN ALLIANCE 5TH WHEEL, TOO!

Despite a few head bumps, the overall satisfaction with the living arrangement is high, highlighting the importance of prioritizing certain features like shower height and bed size when selecting an RV.

Tips for Finding the Right Fit

These anecdotes provide a blueprint for others in similar situations. The key takeaway is the importance of physically inspecting various RV models to gauge the comfort and space of the bathrooms firsthand. Here are some tips for those embarking on this search:

  1. Visit Multiple Dealerships: Explore a wide range of models to get a feel for the different bathroom layouts and sizes available.
  2. Prioritize Essential Features: Determine what aspects of the bathroom are non-negotiable for your comfort and focus on models that meet these requirements.
  3. Consider Custom Modifications: Some RVs can be customized to better fit your needs, including expanding bathroom space or upgrading fixtures.
  4. Seek Out Reviews and Advice: Engage with the RV community, especially individuals of similar stature, for recommendations and tips on suitable models.

Is There a Bathroom Big Enough

While the concern about the adequacy of RV bathrooms for larger individuals is valid, real-world experiences reveal that solutions are available. 

By prioritizing essential features, conducting thorough research, and seeking advice from the community, it’s possible to find an RV that offers both adventure and comfort, regardless of size. 

The journey towards finding the perfect RV may require effort and patience, but as the stories shared by those who have navigated this path demonstrate, the reward of a comfortable and accommodating living space on the road is well worth it.

Pro Tip: The Best Small RVs with Bathrooms

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