Average RV Cost for Rentals and Purchases
The average RV cost is an important question for many friends or families planning adventures that involve living on the road. Many dream of taking an adventure in a recreational vehicle across the country, but without experience it’s difficult to know what expenses to expect. For a shorter journey, many will opt to limit their commitment and expenses by renting as opposed to owning. Of course, before you can consider whether renting or buying is the best option, you must consider which form of RV fits you best.
Understanding the Different Types of RVs
There are five basic classes of RVs available to rent or own. Consider the amount of passengers and cargo as well as the distance and terrain to which you’ll travel. Once you have a general idea of your travel goals, you can consider which class of RV is best for you.
Class A
Class A Recreational Vehicles are the most traditional motorhome. They are the highest-end models with maximum storage and amenities. The largest Class A motorhome can average 25 to 40 feet in length, which can cause issues with storage. Naturally, they’re also the most expensive.
Class B
Class B vehicles are smaller vehicles that offer less space, but they tend to be more drivable and less expensive. Though the decreased storage space can make packing and storage a challenge, the smaller size makes for a better fit in compact camping areas. They’re usually 21 to 24 feet and most often sleep only two.
Class C
These RVs are basically a middle ground between Classes A and B in size, space, drivability, and price. The general size range is 23 to just over 36 feet in length. Many can comfortably accommodate a small family.
Travel Trailer (Mobile Habitats)
Travel trailers, similar to TAXA Outdoors mobile habitats, aren’t towed using and external vehicle using a traditional ball hitch. This makes them more varied and versatile than other styles of RV. Travel trailers have a wide range of styles and sizes to fit various passenger and terrain requirements.
While it’s crucial to find a towing vehicle with the correct requirements, their ability to detach allows them to be more easily stored when not in used. They’re also lower priced than most typical RV models.
Fifth Wheel
Similar to travel trailers, fifth wheelers are towed behind external vehicles. However they require a special hitch, typical of 18-wheelers. While this hitch requirement can be more difficult to acquire, it can bear more weight. The towed aspect of fifth wheelers is also an advantage because the portion of the unit that resides over the bed affords extra storage space.
Average RV Cost When Purchasing
For longer term RV ambitions, it will usually be wisest to purchase an RV. Purchasing requires more maintenance and potentially storage costs, but it obviously helps you avoid the high nightly fees or renting. Refer to the breakdown of average RV cost for different RV classes below:
Class Estimated Price Class A $50,000-$150,00+ Class B $40,000-$150,000 Class C $50,000-$150,000 Travel Trailer $10,000-$60,000 Fifth Wheel $15,000-$50,000
Estimates according to RoverPass
Average RV Cost When Renting
Renting an RV incurs a nightly fee as the base charge, in addition to potential costs for mileage, generators, or other accessories needed. It’s also important to consider the potential costs for bedding or other items needed for RV travel.
Class Cost, 10+years old Cost, Newer Class A $175-$275/night $350-$450/night Class B $100-$200/night $200-$350/night Class C $150-$200/night $225-$400/night Travel Trailer $50-$125/night $125-$200/night Fifth Wheel $60-$150/night $150-$300/night
Estimates according to The Wandering RV and Outdoorsy
Additional Costs of RV’ing
Beyond the cost of obtaining the vehicle itself, there are additional costs that come along with traveling in an RV. It’s best to contact the RV dealer or rental company to ask about any possible fees you might incur. When renting, there are often potential fees for pets, cancellations, or mileage.
Whether you’re looking to rent or own, there are fees you’ll want to consider for gasoline, campsite rental, propane, electricity, or internet hotspots. It may be preferable to utilize mobile home resorts of parks that combine these fees into one nightly price, also offering shower, laundry, and sewage. Especially when you purchase and own an RV, there may be significant costs to service, store, and customize your vehicle.
It can be tempting to save money by purchasing a used RV, but older RVs will almost certainly come with more replacements and repairs. Either way, an extend warranty can be a good investment to combat these expenses.
Finding a Vehicle for Your Adventures
Whether you’re looking to rent for a week or purchase for the long haul, TAXA Outdoors partners with an extensive network of high quality RV dealers across the country. To connect with a dealer that can help find the perfect vehicle for you, use our Find a Dealer tool. Or, to find the right TAXA habitat for your journey, check out Choose My TAXA.
How Much Does An RV Cost To Buy? Including 20 Example Prices
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RV travel continues to grow in popularity throughout the United States and Canada. This has driven many motorhome, camper trailer, and RV manufacturers to fill the marketplace with tantalizing options.
If you are thinking about getting into this rewarding experience, then chances are you are wondering what type of RV is right for me? And just how much does an RV cost to buy?
The cost of a new RV can range from $10,000 to as much as $300,000 depending on RV class, included features, and more. A camper trailer, that you pull behind a full-size truck, is going to be in the $15,000 to $20,000 price range. While a well-appointed fifth-wheel camper could cost $35,000 to $100,000 and for a all-inclusive motorhome prices generally start at $100,000.
So, buying a new RV can be quite expensive, but could also be quite a bargain. The average price of a new RVs truly depends on the model that you buy, as well as the types of RV you choose.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the Average Prices for various types and sizes of RVs you might want to consider, as well as the features you prioritize while Owning an RV.
19 Popular New RV’s With Example Prices?
RV’s come in a lot of different forms with special features and amenities affecting the price of each type. It’s always a good idea to do your research.
You might also want to consider buying a relatively recent “Pre-Owned” RV.
There are also RV dealership and rental companies all across North America who will let you rent a unit for a vacation.
You might want to also check with sites like Outdoorsy and RVshare, where you can connect with RV owners who are interested in renting out their privately owned units for a price that is even more affordable than a new unit from a rental company or dealership.
This can be a great way to try a few of the more popular options to really dial in the type of RV and RV amenities that are right for you.
The following is a list of some of the more popular RVs on sale in 2021, with some sample prices for their standard amenity packages.
1. Forest River Inc. Berkshire XLT Diesel 45A Class A Motorhome
Average cost: $280,041
This large Class A RV has a set of bunk beds each with their own 22″ LED TV to let children enjoy their own shows, as well as a sleeping area for the adults.
This RV is loaded with all the comforts of home. It may require a special license endorsement depending on the state you live in.
2. Coachmen Leprechaun 240FS (450 Ford) Class C Motorhome
Average cost: $68,700
This Class C motorhome has a slide-out and an awning. It can sleep up to six and includes a built-in fireplace as well as a U-shaped dinette to accommodate families.
3. Dutchmen Astoria 2513RLF Fifth-Wheel Camper
Average cost: $50,600
This fifth wheel camper requires a full-size truck with a special gooseneck hitch installed in the box. It includes an iN-Command Remote Operating System with a touchscreen that provides you with access to all of your essential features.
It includes an awning, interior and exterior lights, a dedicated generator, tank levels, slide-outs, and many other important creature comforts.
4. Keystone Passport Express 239ML
Average cost: $18,595
This is a bunkhouse travel trailer designed to let you take your family on many adventures. It features a set of double bed bunks, as well as a rear bath layout, and front bedroom with a built-in Murphy bed.
5. 2019 Jayco Embark 37MB Class A Motorhome
Average cost: $295,200
This large Class A Motorhome with a powerful diesel engine. Some of the manufacturer’s highlights include an outdoor entertainment center, king-sized bed, A 17′ electric awning with LED Lights, an Insignia Sound Bar, and a built-in navigational system. The bed arrangement sleeps up to five adults.
6. Thor Motor Coach Compass 24LP Class B Motorhome
Average cost: $114,000
The manufacturer of this Class B motorhome bills it as an RUV that is stylish, comfortable and rugged, with all the comfort features you are looking for. There are several trim levels and options, including custom options.
7. Palomino PaloMini 177BH Travel Trailer
Average cost: $10,000+
This tow behind travel trailer needs a light-duty pickup or larger to transport is safe. It includes a queen bed in the front, with bunk beds in the back.
It includes a basic bathroom with a toilet. There is also a kitchenette with a refrigerator and a modest media station.
8. Winnebago Cambria 27K Class C Motorhome
Average cost: $129,000
Winnebago has long been a trusted name in quality RV manufacturers. The Cambria is one of the stars of their Class C motorhomes. There are many features to consider and trim levels that can be tailored to your family’s needs.
9. Northwood Arctic Fox 28-5C Fifth-Wheel
Average Cost: $42,900
This spacious fifth wheel camper needs a full-size half-ton to one-ton pickup to tow it safely. It includes a king-size bed, multiple pull-outs, a sofa, bathroom, and a stylish kitchen. This camper is geared more toward traveling couples than family travelers.
10. Thor Motor Coach Outlaw 29J Class C Toy Hauler
Average Cost: $123,000
This is a somewhat rare blend of a motorhome that also pulls double duty as a toy hauler. It’s great for the times when you want to take an ATV with you to camp.
11. Jayco Jay Sport 10SD Camper Trailer
Average cost: $13,500
This popup camper is easy to tow and comes with a lot of comforts that you might not find in the competition. They even back it with a strong 5-year warranty.
12. 2017 K-Z RV Connect C191RBT Travel Trailer
Average Cost: $20,400
This easy to tow travel trailer includes two queen beds, a sofa, a basic bathroom, and a nice little kitchenette. It’s a great option for a small family with a pickup truck, who want to travel in style.
13. Thor Motor Coach Hurricane 35M Class A Motorhome
Average cost: $144,600
This large Class A motorhome is available in multiple floor plans with multiple slide-outs. One of the more popular iterations includes a king-size bed, over-cab bed, two separate bathrooms, and ample closet space, as well as a large dinette. It includes an expanding sofa for guests.
14. Prime Time RV LaCrosse 339BHD Travel Trailer
Average cost: $46,700
With the Prime Time RV, LaCrosse attempts to redefine value in price and quality, without having to sacrifice luxury, comfort, or convenience.
They do their very best to pay attention to detail in providing an RV loaded with pleasure-inducing convenience, as well as copious storage space and, residential appeal.
15. Heartland Bighorn BHTR 39 D Traveler
Average Cost: $49,000
The Bighorn is a camper designed for families who value their private space. The living room is large and is adjacent to a free-standing dining room.
The camper includes a large bunkhouse with a ladder as well as another private living room which can double as a private office if needed.
16.Winnebago Minnie Winnie 22M
Average Cost: $80,000+
The Minnie Winnie is a Class C Motorhome that is designed for quick setup and includes a 60″ x 75″ slide-out bed. It also has a U-shaped dinette, as well as an overhead bed.
17. Thor Motor Coach Tuscany 45AT Class A Diesel Motorhome
Average cost: $429,000
The Tuscany is a Class A diesel motorhome that was designed for people who want to travel in luxury. If you love “Glamping” this is the RV for you.
As you might imagine there are multiple layouts and options. Most include a private bedroom for a couple, an impressive kitchen, a comfortable living room, full bath, and tons of other high-quality amenities.
18. Keystone Sprinter 312MLS Travel Trailer
Average Cost: $36,900+
The sprinter was designed by Keystone to be “The Perfect Travel Trailer.” It offers a kitchen with 2 stools and expandable sleeping areas.
Most models are designed with creature comforts and ease of use. Their underlying goal was to “Make Camping Easy.”
19. Starcraft Autumn Ridge Outfitter 17RD Travel Trailer
Average Cost: $11,900
The Autumn Ridge offers a full bed in front with overhead cabinets throughout. There is also a convenient bathroom including a tub/shower, toilet, and linen cabinet.
The kitchen includes a two-burner cook-top, microwave oven, refrigerator, and single sink, along with copious counter space.
What Other Factors Influence RV Price Other Than Size?
As you might imagine there are a lot of different factors that can influence the price as well as the cost of available features. Taking a few of them into account might further help you dial in the RV that is right for you and your family.
Manufacturer Reputation
Large manufacturers like Thor Motor Coach, Jayco, and Keystone have a more established reputation for quality and dependability. They know this and market themselves accordingly.
There are also likely to be more dealership that represents their line compared to smaller manufacturers like Starcraft and Heartland.
Availability
Some RVs are more widely available than others. This is especially true for large manufacturers who offer a broad line of motorhomes, fifth-wheel campers, and travel trailers.
In certain parts of the country, a particular unit from a smaller manufacturer might not be as readily available or might be in higher demand.
Floorplan
The general layout, how many people an RV sleeps, the size of the kitchen, bathrooms, slide outs and room for media appliances can all factor into an RV’s price.
In general the larger the RV and more expansive the floor plan is, as well as the number of people it sleeps, can all have a significant influence on the price.
You will undoubtedly pay more for a queen-sized or king-sized bed, full bathrooms, large kitchens, and living spaces.
Bonus Features And Creature Comforts
Today’s RV manufacturers know individuals and families prize customization. To answer this demand most of the popular models come designed to be versatile.
The goal is to allow each owner to put their own touch on their new RV. Of course, every new feature, upgrade, and creature comfort has a cost, which will inevitably show up on the final price tag.
Different Types Of RV Have Different Price Ranges
As you likely noticed in the earlier sample of popular RVs, there are indeed many different types to choose from.
Size is, of course, a factor. When we start talking about travel trailers, the type of tow vehicle also comes into play.
The following is a break down to help you dial in the size and type of RV that’s right for you.
Tent Trailers Or Popup Campers
These are small, lightweight travel trailers. Most can be towed behind an SUV or a rear-wheel-drive sedan. With some popup campers, the accommodations can be a little sparse. Especially, with older “Pre-owned” units.
It’s essentially a small hardtop trailer that you pull with you. When you get to where you are going the central ceiling can be raised up and the sides flare out with canvas or another tent-like material.
Many of the modern-day popup campers worth considering will also include a kitchen space and a dinette to go with bed or two.
Some of the more posh units will include a refrigerator. You might even find one or two with a basic bathroom. However, these things will most likely ramp up the price.
As you might imagine time and exposure to the elements are not very friendly to the canvas on these popup trailers. As they age, they become increasingly prone to cracks, rips, tears, and unsightly discoloration.
This can drastically decrease the value. If you are looking for a pre-owned unit, to use for a few family vacations before your kids graduate from high school, you could save a pretty penny on an older model.
Security can also be an issue with popup campers. If you are planning to set up the camper as a home base at a remote or rustic campsite, and then use your tow vehicle to tour the area, your valuables in the camper can be at risk. All it takes is a robust knife, for a would-be thief to let themselves in and take your valuables.
How Much Does A Pop-Up Camper Cost ?
If we exclude the unpredictable deals offered by a pre-owned unit, most new popup campers will range from as low as $5,900 to like $15,000. Some of the more luxurious models like the AliBaba can even cost up to $29,000.
If you are looking for a reasonable place to start, I would recommend the Flagstaff Classic which runs on average for $11,999.
Hard-Sided Travel Trailers
If you have a full-size SUV or a light-duty pickup truck, and you want to look past the pop-up campers for something a little more sturdy, you will likely be in the market for a hard-sided travel trailer.
They are especially popular with campers who want to take valuables with them. Hard-sided pop-up camper or A frame camper can also stand up better to inclement weather. Many have roofs that are rated to handle strong winds and even modest hail.
They also tend to have more windows and sleeping space. Some even have spacious kitchens and full bathrooms. Though these features will also drive up the price.
The tow vehicle is a little bit more of a concern with these trailers. A rear-wheel-drive sedan or a mid-size SUV might be able to move them down the suburban streets around your house.
Yet when you get it on the highway it could be prone to dangerous levels of trailer sway. Unless it’s a very lightweight model, you really should pair a hard-sided trailer with a full-size SUV or a half-ton pickup truck.
Price Range For Hard-Sided Travel Trailers
New hard-sided pop-up campers can range widely in price from as low as $10,000 to as much as $100,000, depending on floor plan and features.
The Airstream Classic is a little in the middle to the high end of the range at $49,000. It’s a good first place to start when dialing in the kind of features and price range you are interested in.
Should I Consider Buying A Used Travel Trailer?
The “Pre-Owned” marketplace for hard-sided travel trailers and campers is loaded with options. Sometimes you can find a great deal, and sometimes you can be left spending money on someone else’s problems.
With older models, the wheel bearings tend to be a serious concern. If the owner of a used camper will let you take it for a test drive, make sure to listen for any abnormal noise.
If you are in love with a particular hard-sided camper and you suspect the bearings are bad, you can usually get them fully replaced for around $500. Just make sure to factor that into the negotiated price!
Fifth-Wheel Trailers
Fifth-Wheel Trailers are the big brother of hard-sided travel trailers, some are even as big as a class B motorhome. Even the smaller fifth-wheels require a half-ton truck with a special hitch mounted in the cargo box.
If you need to climb hills or deal with tough roads, a three-quarter-ton or full-on one-ton truck is a better choice for a tow vehicle.
Most fifth-wheels campers can accommodate around six people. Though there are some that are designed just for a single couple or a small family.
They tend to have most of the features and amenities that you find in motorhomes, yet in some states, you don’t need a special driver’s license endorsement for a fifth-wheel.
These campers are large enough to let you take most of the comforts of home with you. They include full-size kitchens, large beds, partial or full bathrooms, media areas, couches, and large windows. Some even have slide-out sections as you find in luxury motorhomes.
One of the most attractive things about a fifth-wheel camper is that unlike a motorhome, you can park it, set it up as a home base.
Then you can use the tow vehicle to tour the surrounding area. With a motorhome, you either have to tow a separate vehicle with you, or you have to negotiate the large vehicle everywhere you want to go.
What Is The Average Cost Of A Fifth-Wheel Camper?
Slide-outs, kitchen size, bathrooms, and a number of bedrooms can all affect the cost of a fifth-wheel camper. Some of the smaller, basic units will run as low as $15,000. Larger fifth-wheels with all the bells and whistles can cost as much as $50,000. Though some of the luxurious models can push into the $70,000 range.
If you are interested in a fifth-wheel camper, you might want to start by looking at the Jayco Eagle, which runs around $21,500. It has a spacious master bath with custom framing.
The sleeping accommodations are very comfortable as well as versatile. Some floor plans even include a spacious living room area suitable for hosting a fair number of guests.
Average Motorhome Costs
The Department of Transportation and the Department of Motor Vehicles breaks motorhomes down into three distinct classes based on their size. Class C is the smallest, Class B is in the middle range, and everything over 26 feet is ranked as a Class A motorhome.
Each of these units has its own drive vehicle that is specifically rated for the size and weight of the living accommodations that it carries.
Many have their own heating and independent air conditioning. As well as copious sleeping areas. Kitchen and bathrooms are pretty much standard.
Class C Motorhomes
In a Class C Motorhome, the bathroom and kitchen might be a little on the small size. Some class C motorhomes are on par with small fifth-wheel campers when it comes to amenities. A few of the higher-end units will also have slide outs and electric awnings.
A Class C Motorhome is best for small families or perhaps retired couples who want to travel, yet don’t want to go through the hassle of applying for a special driver’s license endorsement.
How much do Class C motorhomes cost?
With all motorhomes, special features like slide outs and amenities can swing the price wildly. Most class C RV range between $50,000 to $100,000. Though there are certainly some Class C motorhomes with all the bells and whistles that can push into the $150,000 range.
The Coachman Leprechaun costs around $68,000, which is a good price range to start shopping.
It boasts superior materials and construction to go with it’s very versatile floor plans. The manufacturer also have several accessories that can easily be integrated into newer units.
Class B Motorhomes
Of course, the next step up from Class C is the Class B Motorhome. They tend to be a little bit larger, but some are even lighter in gross weight than their Class C siblings.
A Class B Motorhome might have a single queen-sized or even a king-sized bed as a sort of “Master Bedroom” then a pull-out couch for children or overnight guests. A few have bunk beds as standard, but most only offer them as an added special feature.
The bathroom and kitchen space in Class B might still be a little sparse. A shower and a flushing toilet are far more likely than say a small bathtub.
Some Class B Motorhomes have slide outs which will increase the total floor space when you are parked up at a campsite or an RV park.
You might want to also double-check the electrical system. Some Class B motorhomes will have a 30 Amp system. Though a few have 50 Amp systems which will allow you to use more electricity, and your overall comfort level.
How Much Does a Class B RV Cost?
Class B Motorhomes can vary in price depending on the features. You should expect to pay more for a unit with a slide-out. On average, they run between $80,000 to $150,000. If you are looking for a nice Class B Motorhome to tryout you might want to take a closer look at the Thor Motor Coach Compass 24LP Class B Motorhome, which costs around $115,000.
Thor is one of the industry leaders in the RV industry, and have many subsidiaries in the camper market. However, they focus on motorhomes.
Their Compass is an easy to use entry-level motorhome with ample living and sleeping space. It was designed to feel like a much larger “Luxury” motorhome.
Class A Motorhome Price Range
This is the class of motorhome that really lets you stretch your legs. A Class A RV can range from 21 feet to as much as 45 feet long. Many weigh in excess of 26,000 pounds. You might need a special driver’s license endorsement to operate one, depending on the state you live in.
Many modern-day Class A Motorhomes have one or more sides that slide out, and might also include electric awning. Most have powerful diesel engines to provide the necessary power to get them from Point A to Point B.
Bathroom spaces typically have a shower, toilet, and sink. Though some of the more luxurious models might have a bathtub or jacuzzi.
Kitchens tend to be large, with double sinks, a four-burner range and likely an oven. Most have medium to full-size refrigerators, with a freezer compartment.
Sleeping accommodations can vary, as many popular manufacturers will offer multiple floor plans, with custom options available. Though a king-size bed or even a pair of queen size beds are not out of the question.
In short, a Class A Motorhome can be a bit of a blank canvas when it comes to picking the level of luxury you want to travel in.
How Much Does a Class A RV Cost?
Class A motorhomes have the widest possible price range in the RV world. Some new units start out around $100,000. Though there are certainly some luxury models that can go as high as $300,000.
The Forest River Inc. Berkshire XLT Diesel 45A Class A Motorhome is a good place to start shopping in this category.
It’s built on a Freightliner Raised Rail XCR chassis with complete pass through storage. It’s available in three distinct floor plans.
As standard, the Berkshire XLT has fiberglass roof, full body paint, automatic generator slide out, automatic door and patio awnings, LCD TV, and much more.
The diesel engine is heavy-duty, while also being far more fuel-efficient than a gasoline counterpart.
Final Verdict
RV shopping can be a very exciting experience. Taking your time to find just the right one, isn’t something you want to do on impulse.
If you give yourself permission to take your time, chances are good that you’ll find the value that meets your budget.
When in doubt, rent one or two for a weekend vacation to try them out. There are also RV social media groups and message boards, where experienced members are happy to provide you with their own firsthand advice.
How Much Does It Really Cost to Live in a RV?
Living in an RV fulltime allows you to see the world and experience true freedom—but it's not free. Find out how much cash you need to be a full-time RVer.
Living in an RV may seem like a dream—and for some, it’s a reality. Living in an RV lets you see the country or world while living in your own portable home. However, is it cheaper than living in a brick and mortar home? These full-time RVers shed light on how much it really costs to live in an RV.
Your new home: Up to $300,000
The cost of a motorhome or travel trailer is by far the biggest investment of an RV lifestyle. RVs and travel trailers can cost between $10,000 and $300,000—depending on the style and features. “Unless you have cash upfront, you will need to finance your RV,” Regina Caligiuri, a full-time RVer. “Since it’s a recreational vehicle, the interest rates are usually higher than an average car loan.”
Additional vehicle: $40,000++
ChuckSchugPhotography/Getty ImagesThere’s also the cost of owning a separate vehicle to either tow the RV or to tow behind it. Towing vehicles are typically heavier duty, such as a full-size truck or SUV. If you need to invest in a new one, the average cost of a full-size truck is around $30,000 to $40,000. Motorhome owners often tow a smaller vehicle as well so you need to factor in the cost of a sedan (or similar) vehicle. According to Kelley Blue Book, the average cost of a sedan in 019 was around $20,000. “You also need to connect the RV and vehicle with a towing and braking system,” says Kerensa Durr, a fulltime RVer. These cost in the neighborhood of $1,000. In addition to the cost of the vehicles, there’s insurance for the motorhome, travel trailer, and towing vehicle and cost of repairs. Here are 10 signs you’re shortening the life of your RV.
Speaking of insurance, insurance for your RV is not like car insurance, rather it’s similar to homeowner’s insurance and it requires a separate policy. RV insurance is fairly reasonable, about $350 per year or more depending on if you are covering a motorhome or a travel trailer. There are also ad valorem taxes for RVs in some states. “Insurance runs about $300 per year and registering the truck and trailer is also about $300 per year,” says Robyn Robledo, a full-time RVer.
Camping fees: Up to $50/night
Not every place will let you park your RV for free. Campgrounds and RV resorts have different costs based on location, time of year, and length of stay. Average costs for many resorts or campgrounds are around $30 and $50 per night but you can usually get a discount by the month or week. The fees typically cover water, electricity, cable, WIFI, sewage, and use of facilities such as bath, shower, and laundry. The more amenities the resort has, the more money it will cost per night.
Of course, there are some options for camping for free, but be prepared to “dry camp.” This means there will be no access to water, sewage, or electricity. You will need to haul out your own waste—there are typically no dump stations in these areas. Many of these “free campgrounds” are located on public lands run by the Forest Service Land, Bureau of Land Management, or Wildlife Management Areas. If you are looking for a place to camp out overnight, there are several retailers that will allow you to park overnight for free such as Cabelas, Camping World, Cracker Barrel, Walmart, rest stops, and truck stops, but do not provide any type of hookups or amenities.
Fuel: Varies
moodboard/Getty ImagesFuel is possibly the most expensive aspect of RV life. The fuel economy of an RV can range from 8 to 20 miles per gallon, depending on if you are towing a travel trailer or driving a motorhome. If you’re towing it, be prepared for lower gas mileage in your vehicle. “My truck gets about seven miles per gallon while towing the RV,” says Caligiuri. Diesel engines are more fuel-efficient, but they will cost you more upfront. The price of fuel fluctuates, depending on the region and season. Other fuel costs include propane (used to heat and cook.) Propane costs vary as well, depending on the time of year. Many RV resorts and camping retailers offer propane tank refills, which is more economical than swapping out tanks.
Real-life costs for RVers
Other costs for full-time RV living aren’t much different than living in a home. There’s food, cell phone, medical insurance, and other wants and needs that will make you more comfortable on the road. Here’s how much a few real, full-time RVers spend on their to live in their RVs:
“My overall costs are roughly $2,000 per month: $200 for insurance, $400 for gas and maintenance, $800 for food, $80 for a gym membership, $80 for phone, and $500 for miscellaneous. However, in the summer when I travel much more, these costs can easily reach $3,000 or more per month.” —Sam Kemmis, travel rewards expert at NerdWallet
“The RV Park we stay at is $1,085 a month plus $159 for an extra car. Insurance runs about $300 per year and registering the truck and trailer is also about $300 per year. Obviously we also have regular living expenses like food, gas, clothes, and health care but those would be the same for us in a house as they are in an RV.” —Robyn Robledo, Blogger at Nomads With A Purpose
“Our annual spend is under £30,000 (about $39,046.50) per year for two people, four dogs, two cross-channel return journeys (from England to the European continent), and six months skiing. We could spend considerably less if we did not have these luxuries.” —JackieLambert, Blogger at World Wide Walkies
Find out what it’s really like to live in an RV year-round.
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