Do you have a designated computer desk or work area in your RV?
Newer, longer RVs often come with a desk. In older or shorter RVs, you might need to remodel an area or use another area like the dinette or dining room table as a work area. In the 1989 Pace Arrow that my late husband and I traveled in for ten years, we ended up taking out the dinette, selling it, and then making a desk out of two two-drawer metal filing cabinets with a custom-made formica top resting on them in that area. Holes were drilled like in a regular desk for cords from printer and computer to pass through. For eating, we used the small table between the passenger seat and the captain’s chair.
The Lance camper I had after that was not the best for working on the computer. The only place to sit was at the dinette. My laptop sat higher than it should for typing so it was hard on my wrists. It wasn’t a comfortable place for reading or watching TV either. That’s one reason we didn’t keep it.
George and I travel in a New Horizon 5th wheel now. With New Horizon you custom design your RV. George designed it with a desk/work area. When we got together, he was gracious enough to let me use it. He doesn’t use the computer as much so sits in the recliner with a TV tray for a desk. George did recently add a tray for a regular keyboard for me. The desk was a little high for using a laptop too. Using the regular keyboard is much easier in all respects.
Travel
How do you secure your computer and printer? We have laptops so we pack them up and put them in a cupboard. The desk is in the rear and it does ride quite smoothly. We haven’t had a problem with things bouncing off. And, the printer has Velcro to hold it down. The WiFi router with Aircard stays in place because of its wires.
Ideal work area
For me, an ideal computer area has room for your computer and a printer plus some room to put paper or books you are using. A drawer or two for files is also a must – in reach is better. And, of course, a secured space like a drawer for supplies like paper, stapler, paper clip, etc. is necessary. We also use the cabinets above the work area to store our backup drives, blank CDs and other assorted items we use. One more thing that is essential is good lighting. We have one fluorescent light above the desk that works well. And lastly, I have a regular office chair that is adjustable. Oops- I thought of one more thing: we have a router that takes our Aircard so we both can be on the computer at the same time and also have a Wilson antennae that we crank up for better reception.
What works for you?
How about you? Where do you work on your computer? Do you have a dedicated area 0r does another spot function as a desk too? What would you want in your ideal area? Do you take extra measures to protect your computer, printer and other electronic things while traveling? Add a comment.