Not Your Mainstream American Dream: A Jayco Family of Companies Pathfinder Embracing the RV Lifestyle

A Bold Leap into Full-Time RV Life

In the summer of 2023, Jeremy and Nicole Nicolaisen made a life-changing decision: they sold everything, purchased a 2021 Jayco North Point 377RLBH, and moved into it full-time with their children. By November of that year, they hit the road, leaving behind the constraints of traditional life in pursuit of adventure, freedom, and quality time together.

RVing had always been a part of their lives, ingrained in their childhood memories. They knew they wanted to provide the same experiences for their children—memories of campfires, scenic hikes, and the joy of discovering new places. The daily grind of opposite work schedules and the never-ending rush of modern life left them yearning for something more. They realized that waiting for "someday" was not an option—life is uncertain, and the time to embrace adventure was now.

Unforgettable Destinations and Unexpected Surprises

Some of their favorite destinations include Grand Teton National Park, Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills, and Bryce Canyon National Park. However, it’s the unexpected places that often leave the greatest impact—exploring lava tubes in Utah, searching for geodes in Kentucky, and hiking the canyons of Palo Duro State Park in Texas.

Looking ahead, their bucket list includes Alaska, Canada, Glacier National Park, and the Pacific Northwest. Yet, they find that the most exciting moments often come from the unplanned detours along the way.

Life on the Road: A Blend of Structure and Spontaneity

While many envision RV life as purely spontaneous, the Nicolaisens have found a balance between planning and flexibility. They typically plan their travels about three months in advance, ensuring long-term stays are secured due to Nicole’s work commitments. However, their schedule between assignments remains fluid, allowing them to stay longer in places they love or move on when ready.

They maintain a routine for their children, including homeschooling in the mornings and exploring in the afternoons. Travel days require a bit more structure—Jeremy and Nicole wake up early to prep the RV, secure belongings, and conduct safety checks. Once everything is in place, they hit the road, ready for the next adventure.

Advice for Aspiring Full-Time RVers

For those considering the leap into full-time RVing, Jeremy and Nicole have one piece of advice: don’t wait for the perfect time, because it will never come. There will always be obstacles—financial concerns, career commitments, or fear of the unknown—but the rewards far outweigh the challenges.

They recommend researching different RV communities, setting clear priorities for an RV purchase, and understanding campground options that fit one’s lifestyle. While downsizing and adjusting to a smaller space with kids, dogs, and a cat seemed daunting at first, they quickly adapted, embracing minimalism and spending more time outdoors.

The Ultimate Reward: A Life Well-Lived

Since embracing full-time RV life, the Nicolaisen family has found deeper connections with one another and a renewed appreciation for the world around them. They have discovered that life isn’t about following the expected path—it’s about prioritizing experiences over possessions and embracing the freedom to explore.

With each new destination, they continue to write their own story—one of adventure, discovery, and making the most of every moment together.

Follow their journey on social media:

Facebook: Not Your Mainstream American Dream

Instagram: @notyourmainstreamamericandream