Housing

[infinitynotzero]

Hello there,

I'm looking to start travelling with my husband and our fur babies (cat and dog) in the next three months. We are very in-between on where we want to stay. We would like to live conservatively as he will be leaving his career to get on the road. I wanted to ask what has been the easiest living arrangement for everyone who has experience with travelling? We are rolling around between apartment, RV, air B&B, or extended stay. So pretty much every option out there (we're still in the beginning stages of planning). My other question is, take the stipend or take the housing? What has been easier? What has been cheaper? Also, any difficulties taking two cars as far as parking?

[NedRN]

Taking the housing is easier, taking the stipend nets you more in the bank. Everyone develops their own favorite style of housing (and thus would recommend just one way). I would not invest in an RV until you are certain travel is agreeable with you and yours (although RV parks will save you a huge hassle on finding housing that accepts your dogs). In fact, it might be a good idea for your husband to keep his job for your first assignment and for you to take a leave of absence from your staff job for three months.

Take five cars if you want! Unless you are in an inner city, parking is not usually an issue. But it will be cheaper to just own one car.

Finally, you need to examine the concept of a tax home. If you become itinerant (no fixed home you can return to), all your compensation including housing stipends (or housing) and per diems will be fully taxed. Don't listen to recruiters on this subject, they won't be present or responsible at your IRS audit.