These days all the hipsters are calling it “van life” but for the adventurous souls who live and breathe the snow-covered slopes, the idea of embracing the ski bum lifestyle often involves a unique twist – a home on wheels. Traveling from one powder paradise to another, ski aficionados with recreational vehicle campers have figured out a way to truly get the most out of their Epic Pass or Ikon Pass. They carve their own path through the mountains, living a nomadic existence that revolves $3 PBRs, hot pots with ramen noodles, fresh powder, breathtaking landscapes, and the freedom of the open road. When you meet these individuals they are the first to tell you that they are “just a ski bum with an RV” trying to enjoy life.
1. The Freedom of the Open Road:
If you are a ski bum with an RV you are probably reveling in the freedom that comes with life on the open road. The ability to pick up and move to the next snow-covered destination at a moment’s notice is a hallmark of the ski bum lifestyle – and an RV provides the perfect vessel for this mobile adventure. Not being tied to skiing a mountain with lousy ski conditions means you have the ability to spend a few hours in the car and find a new powder stash.
2. Chasing the Snow:
Living in an RV also allows ski bums to follow the snow throughout the entire season. From the Rockies to the Cascades, and everywhere in between, these enthusiasts can chase winter storms, ensuring they’re always where the powder is deepest and the slopes are most inviting. Not to be left behind in the trend, East Coast skiers and riders, while very hardy, have also started to embrace van life. With the Ikon and Epic Pass, you can now find new terrain just 2-3 hours away.
3. Affordable Living:
Embracing the ski bum lifestyle doesn’t always mean sacrificing comfort. Many ski bums find that living in an RV is a cost-effective way to enjoy the mountains. The ability to park in affordable campgrounds, boondock in scenic locations, and minimize living expenses allows for more time and resources to be invested in skiing adventures. Gas prices have remained fairly steady for the past 8 years which means that you can put more of your money into other fringe benefits.
Most RV ski bums tend to only travel and sleep onboard their rides while opting for showers and bathrooms at the resorts themselves. Buying a day pass to the heated pool/gym gives you full access to some amazing facilities.
4. Creating a Mobile Basecamp:
In today’s world, the RV has become a mobile base camp, equipped with all the essentials for a comfortable life on the road. Ski bums can stow their gear, cook a hearty meal, stream their favorite movies using Starlink, and even enjoy a cozy evening by a fireplace using Solos smokeless firepits – all within the confines of their rolling home.
5. Community on the Move:
Life as a ski bum in an RV introduces a unique sense of community on the move. Its not uncommon to see RVs all parked next to each other. This not only provides a sense of community for those who may need to borrow a cup of sugar but it also provides safety in numbers. Small RV parks, ski resorts, and popular winter destinations become hubs where like-minded individuals gather, share stories and forge connections over a shared love for the slopes.
Pro Tip: If you are looking for a list of spots where you can park for free you will want to check out this site: rvblogger.com/blog/overnight-rv-parking/
6. Seasonal Employment Opportunities:
Many ski bums sustain their nomadic lifestyle by taking on seasonal employment opportunities at restaurants or bars or offering personal guiding on the mountain. Whether working in a ski shop, instructing on the slopes, or contributing to the mountain community in various ways, RV-dwelling ski bums find ways to support their passion for skiing. The goal is to ski more and work less so typically you will find ski bums working hard for a short period of time and then saving their money to travel or working part-time to “earn money as they go”.
7. Embracing Minimalism:
Living in an RV encourages ski bums to embrace minimalism. The compact living space necessitates a focus on the essentials, fostering a lifestyle where experiences on the mountain take precedence over material possessions. Obviously ski gear is the most important but the next important piece is undergarments. Not knowing when your next laundry stop will be a lot of nomads focus on clean socks and underwear. Less things to worry about can mean having more fun.
8. The Cozy Appeal of Après-Ski by the RV:
After a day on the slopes, an RV can become a warm and inviting space for après-ski gatherings. Be a lot depends on the quality of your ride. These days a lot of high-tech equipment has been invested into RV life. We are talking about satellite internet or laptops streaming internet from the free WiFi at the base lodge. Battery powered generators can also allow you to remain warm using heated blankets and snuggling up with your partner (if its a couples trip).
Whether it’s sharing stories with fellow RV-dwellers or simply enjoying a quiet evening with a view of the mountains, the cozy appeal of the RV enhances the overall ski bum experience. Some of the best memories come from funny experiences, long days on the road, and all the great people you meet along the way.
For those who dream of a life intertwined with snowy peaks, an RV provides not just shelter, but a portal to a nomadic existence filled with powder days, mountain communities, and the endless possibilities of the open road. As a ski bum with a RV, you can traverse the winter landscapes, embrace the spirit of freedom and adventure that defines the true powder-chaser lifestyle.
