Mallorcan Pensioners Gave Up Their Apartment to Live in a Motorhome Across Europe. Maribel and Vicente have been living in a motorhome for five years, saving on housing costs and enjoying the freedom to travel. They share how their lives have changed, what this lifestyle truly costs, and the challenges they face.
Maribel and Vicente, retirees from the Balearic Islands, once decided: their usual apartment no longer brought them joy, and housing costs kept rising. Five years ago, they sold their property in Mallorca, bought a motorhome, and set out to travel across Europe, making their camper their permanent home.
Their decision was well thought out: the couple wanted not only to reduce their monthly expenses but also to reclaim time they lacked in the routine of city life. According to them, living in a motorhome allows them to “escape monotony,” spend more time in nature, discover small towns, and live more peacefully.
Savings and organization
Vicente notes: “Living here is much cheaper than in an apartment.” After moving, they eliminated expenses for rent, utilities, insurance, and car maintenance—altogether saving around €1,200 a month. Now, this money goes toward fuel, motorhome maintenance, and travel.
However, this lifestyle requires strict discipline. Every day they have to plan their route, monitor fuel levels, find suitable places to park, and keep a reserve for unforeseen expenses. Their motorhome is a fully equipped home with a kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, and autonomous electricity. The trailer holds tools, clothes, and even a motorcycle for short trips.
Budget and daily life
The couple lives on two regular pensions, trying not to exceed 2,000 euros per month. They cook at home, rarely go to restaurants, and carefully plan their purchases. An important expense is technical maintenance: repairs, tire replacement, regular check-ups. Savings on utilities are offset by the costs of keeping the motorhome in working condition.
Maribel notes that the compact space turned out to be even more convenient than their previous apartment: "I got used to the size, and it became easier for my back — I used to have to climb stairs without an elevator."
Freedom and limitations
Life on wheels offers a sense of freedom, but also requires being ready for limitations. The hardest part is seeing their children and grandchildren less often, although modern technology helps them stay in touch. Otherwise, the couple says, the advantages outweigh the drawbacks: mobility, closeness to nature, and the ability to set their own pace of life.
Interest in alternative forms of living is growing in Spain, especially among retirees seeking a balance between saving money and quality of life. For those considering new opportunities, by the way, the government regularly launches free educational programs — you can find out more about them in the article on free online courses with official certificates from SEPE.
The experience of Maribel and Vicente shows that living outside familiar walls requires flexibility and planning, but can be a real way to save money and gain new experiences in retirement.
