Why We Chose RV Life: Natalie’s Travel Therapy Adventure

Why We Chose RV Life: Natalie’s Travel Therapy Adventure
Natalie OTD, OTR/L, loves her career as a travel therapist, and she also loves exploring new places with her PT husband, Jacob. When the opportunity came to take their home on the road, they went for it. Now, their RV is more than just a place to sleep … it’s the starting point for every new adventure.
Every contract brings them to a new part of the country. Instead of living out of suitcases or scrambling for short-term rentals, they settle in with their adventure pup, Freya, and make each stop feel like home.
Choosing the Open Road
When Natalie began her travel therapy career, she wanted something flexible. Renting was expensive, and finding a place that allowed large dogs was a challenge. The RV solved both problems. It also gave them the freedom to choose where they wanted to stay and the kind of views they’d wake up to.
“We liked the idea of having everything with us wherever we went,” Natalie said. “It just made sense for our lifestyle.”
Finding “Maki”
Shopping for their RV took time. They visited dealerships, watched countless walk-through videos, and compared layouts until they found one that worked.
It had to be light enough to tow with their Toyota 4Runner and have a bit of separation between the bed and the living space. That way, Natalie could go to sleep early while Jacob stayed up later.
Eventually, they found a gently used 2021 Apex by Coachmen. It’s about 25 feet long with 160 square feet of living space, just right for the two of them and their dog. They named it “Maki” after their favorite sushi.
Living Comfortably in a Small Space
Moving into 160 square feet means being intentional about what you bring. Natalie and Jacob use storage bins, collapsible kitchenware, and multi-use items to make the most of their space.
They’ve learned to keep things tidy, so it always feels comfortable inside. Without excess clutter, they have more time to explore their surroundings and enjoy wherever they are.
Why It Works for Travel Therapy
For Natalie, living in an RV makes traveling for work simple.
- No packing and unpacking every few months
- A familiar and comfortable place to come home to
- More time spent outdoors
- The ability to bring their pet everywhere
- Freedom to move straight to the next contract
She says the lifestyle has made her travel therapy career even more rewarding.
Looking Ahead
Natalie and Jacob have been traveling this way for more than three years. They’ve stayed in beautiful places, met great people, and made memories they’ll always treasure.
“If you love to travel and you want your home with you, I think it’s one of the best decisions you can make,” Natalie said.
For them, the RV isn’t a compromise. It’s the life they want, and they’re excited to see where the road takes them next.
Massive shoutout to Natalie Azzarito, her husband Jacob, and their pup Freya for opening up their home on wheels and sharing their story! Natalie is a proud mentor of the Ardor Aspire program, and a huge advocate for helping follow therapy professionals.
Check out a mini recap of their RV adventures on our social media here!
#HealingOnTheFly