Living in an RV full time, or just recreationally, can come with a lot of unexpected costs. However, the more prepared you are for these costs, the better you can budget and get the most out of your vehicle. We’ve broken down the top money pits to be aware of when it comes to RV’s so that you can make the right decision for your lifestyle and enjoy your vehicle without breaking the bank.
To start, let’s breakdown RV costs into two categories, traveling and staying. Traveling costs include things like gas, tolls, general maintenance and occasional repairs. Staying costs are things like campground fees, food budget, and overall quality of life expenses.
Everyone travels different, so for some traveling fees might be much larger, while others prefer to park their RV and enjoy the local scene for a while. Once you’ve figured out your type, you’ll be able to budget better. If you and your traveling companions enjoy the experiences of the places you’re visiting, you might want to add a little more to your staying costs. However, if you know you’re in it to see as much as possible as fast as possible, then it’s best to add to your traveling costs.
Keep in mind that not every campground is equipped to handle RV’s, and not every RV park is perfectly suited to RV’s. It’s important to research ahead of time to find out prices as well as overall reviews so that you can trust your vehicle is in good hands. Another great tip is to get involved in various travel or RV groups that may offer discounts at some campgrounds. Many sites also offer discounts to military members, AARP members, and more!
When it comes to traveling fees, gas is what typically comes to mind. However, just because RV’s require a lot of fuel does not mean that they’re not worthy investments. Reducing your fuel costs can be as easy as traveling at a slower and more consistent speed, making sure your cabin isn’t overweight, not traveling with a full freshwater tank, and of course, towing occasionally.
In the end, the RV experience is what you make of it. You shouldn’t go into it imagining that it’s going to cost you too much, or that it’s going to be a cheap ride. The truth is somewhere in the middle. By researching, joining communities, and getting basic experience, you’ll be able to optimize your trip in no time; and if you ever need help while on the road, you can count on Capital Diesel to get you back where you need to go without bursting your budget.