Patti’s Saga of An RV Rookie: “How to Earn Money RVing: Chapter 2: “Doing it Off-Line.”

You know who you are. You hate the internet, or would, if you knew enough about it. You’ve always thought “online” referred to wet clothes in the backyard and that an “attachment” is a connection with another person (true, but it means something else in the techno world). It’s ok. You’re not alone. According to a recent Pew Foundation study, 21% of all American adults agree with you. http://techcrunch.com/2010/08/11/pew-fifth-adults-internet/ That’s right. One-fifth,  just like you, avoid the internet. You’re only reading this blog because your techno-geek spouse or friend printed it out for you… because you for sure the heck aren’t getting on the internet!

So does having zero interest in the internet mean you can’t earn money from your RV? Or lessen your value as a human being? Or that you’re not quite right in the head? Of course not! Earning money from an RV without the internet may be more challenging, but the work exists.

Consider:

1. What skills do you have?  Were you a security guard, plumber, barber, mechanic, handyman, landscaper before you started RVing?
2. Can you visualize using those skills in an RV park or campsite? Might someone need what you have to offer?  For example:

Let’s say you’re a handyman; a Mr. Fix-it kind of guy:

• Make new business cards.
• Drive your rig up to the place you pay at the campground. I’m sure there’s a name for it…somewhere.
• Exchange pleasantries with the campground host. Let him/her know if anyone needs help with anything, you’re available. You’ll be on-site for x days, and would they consider referring you? Leave a couple of your business cards with the host. Check back to chat.  Maintain relationships. People need to know you’re not an idiot.

The worst that can happen?  Hearing a host say, “Sorry…no can do.” The best?  Hearing a host say, “Sure, folks always  need help with something. I’ll send them your way.”  What do you have to lose?

• Think of a situation when  RVers  may need reputable help from, say, a security guard ( I can think of two right now), plumber, barber, etc? Try to think “outside the box.”

So you know I’m not blowing smoke, I just called four RV parks. I asked if they would accept my business card when I registered and refer campers to me  that needed  a handy (wo) man. Three responded “Sure”  and one replied, “Probably.’   Guaranteed source of income? No. Potential for income? Yes.

3.   Workamping:  This website offers unique ideas and things to consider. http://www.happyvagabonds.com/Rving%20Guide/Workamper%20Work%20Camper.htm

4.   Workamping:  This Good Sam’s Club forum offers exchanges among RVers with all kinds of income making ideas.

http://www.goodsamclub.com/forums/default.aspx

5.  Other ideas:

• Selling RV stuff for RV or travel companies:  a/k/a become a “rep.”
• Selling a high- quality, family-friendly product. I bought some Mary Kay night cream from a lady at an RV park…I beat on her door after seeing the sticker on her toad (car they towed).
• Read RV or travel magazines. Study articles carefully. See what the publisher likes: she paid someone for that article; why not you? Then submit your own article or review of a place/product. You can send your writing snail mail (unless the company requires email submissions).
• Sell your crafts, handmade soap, jewelry, etc. beside your RV.  I called three RV parks and asked if I could set up a discreet card table and display my handcrocheted dishcloths under my awning.  Again, each park said it would be fine. NOTE: However, each county, state and national park I called said “No” and explained they have  restrictions. So be up front. Always ask. Do the right thing.

Earning money can be a challenge from anyplace–RVing is no exception. It requires creativity, self-motivation, and a willingness to do your homework. It might mean retraining. I invite you to visit next week’s blog,   “ How to Earn Money RVing: Chapter 3 “Time to Retool.” I hope to see you here again.

Happy Tales,

Patti