Brave the Wild: How Chris and Kristen Locati Turned RV Living into a Family Business

When Chris and Kristen Locati dreamed of hitting the road full-time with their kids, the hardest part turned out to be buying the RV itself. “We found out how difficult it was to make that decision and find the right RV for your family,” Chris remembers. The Locatis eventually found their rig, but only after hiring an inspector who gave them the peace of mind to move forward. That experience stuck with them.

Today, through their business Brave the Wild RV Inspections & Repair, Chris and Kristen help other families make those same decisions with confidence—whether it’s purchasing an RV, maintaining one, or fixing problems that crop up on the road.

Building a Life on the Road

For years, Chris and Kristen searched for a way to support themselves while traveling. They wanted freedom: time to homeschool their kids, explore the country, and experience life beyond the four walls of a house. In December 2024, they found their answer.

“We wanted a way to be out on the road full-time, homeschooling our kids, seeing the country, and spending time together,” Chris explains. With his background in construction and mechanical work, the NRVIA Inspector Course and RVTAA Certified Technician Program were a perfect fit, and with the launch of RV Help, Chris could get work wherever they traveled instead of depending on Google rankings or being tied to one service area. Kristen took on scheduling and logistics, balancing the business with homeschooling duties. Together, they launched Brave the Wild RV—a name that reflects not just the company, but their lifestyle.

Understanding The People They Serve

On social media, the Locati family shares the real heart behind their business. One post shows their kids splashing in the ocean at sunset with this caption:

“This is our why. Why we sold everything to live in an RV and chase sunsets. To not miss these moments with our kids. Pure magic.”

They’ve traveled from the rocky Oregon coast to warm Florida beaches. They’ve explored shipwrecks, ridden out a tsunami advisory, and documented the everyday beauty of full-time RV life.

And because they live in their rig, they truly get the people they serve.

“Sometimes it’s first-time RV owners, sometimes it’s seasoned owners,” says Chris. “Sometimes they’re using it for work… or living in it full time… or just using it occasionally. It’s always cool to hear the different ways people get out there and RV.”

They’ve seen every type of rig—from tiny travel trailers to large Class A motorhomes—and every type of owner, from retirees to families to remote workers. That variety keeps things interesting—and makes Chris incredibly relatable.

Why Inspections Matter

Because the Locatis have stood in a buyer’s shoes, they know how overwhelming it can feel to invest in an RV. “Inspections are such a major part of our business because we know how hard it is to make that decision, and we want to give you the full picture before you buy,” Chris says.

He’s quick to point out what buyers should focus on:

• Dealbreakers: Structural frame damage. “That’s the foundation of the entire RV. If it’s compromised, you’re going to have endless problems down the road.”

• Hidden dangers: Slow leaks behind panels or cabinetry. “It might just be a drip, but over time it rots the wood and leads to major damage.”

• Things that look worse than they are: Rust on chassis components. “Most of the time it’s just surface rust from road moisture. Don’t panic—but do have it checked.”

These insights are more than technical notes; they’re lifelines for families making one of the biggest lifestyle purchases of their lives.

Adventure Starts Now

At its heart, Brave the Wild RV is about more than repairs and reports—it’s about helping families embrace the freedom of RV life without second-guessing their investment. “We want to help you get to your adventure, confident that your RV is ready for the road ahead. Adventure starts now,” Chris says. And thanks to RV Help, Chris and Kristen can keep serving RV owners no matter where the road takes them.

Follow the Locati family's adventures: instagram.com/bravethewildrv.