RVs have limited space and should not be overloaded. Not too many RVs are not at or above their maximum capacity. Overloading is not good for your RV or your safety. Offloading unused items will make your RV happy and help your wallet. Your RV tires and brakes will last longer, you won't put as much strain on your engine, to name a few benefits.
How about you? Do you tend to accumulate things? Do you go through your "stuff" periodically and cycle unused things out? Other than tools and certain kitchen things, a rule we've gone by is "if you haven't used it in a year, get rid of it." Other RVers enforce, "buy something, get rid of something" rule. Do you have a similar rule that helps you keep your "stuff" under control?
Here are three suggestions for getting some money (or new stuff) for old, or donating it.
- If you are lugging around too many books, many independent bookstores and the Arizona chain Bookman's will buy used books, giving you either cash or credit for more.
- Play It Again Sports, with more than 360 locations in the U.S. and Canada, will buy expensive or bulky equipment like skis, golf clubs, inline skates, treadmills and free weights. If you've been hauling those around and not using them, you can get cash, make an even exchange or trade up to buy a better model of what you brought in.
- If you have a wheelchair, crutches, canes, ankle splints, knee braces, etc. and no longer need them, consider donating them. Joni and Friends is one organization that seeks them. They work with disabled people internationally as well as in the U.S. The link takes you to representatives throughout the U.S. who can direct you to a church or other location where you can leave your donation.
Of course, any local shelters, Goodwills, and thrift stores will gladly take donations. Or get on Craig's List while in an area and sell those extra things you no longer use.
All of these provide a win-win solution for the RV lifestyle. Instead of going in the dumpster, your items get reused by someone who can enjoy or who needs them. You lighten your load and perhaps get cash, more goods or a tax write-off. How do you manage your "stuff?" What do you tend to accumulate? Books? Tools? Rocks like in the Long, Long Trailer?! Jaimie Hall Bruzenak
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