Imagine waking up every morning to a new view, like a sunrise over the Grand Canyon or the soothing waves of the Pacific Ocean. This dream is real for those who choose to live full-time in an RV. More people are leaving their regular homes to hit the road with a sense of adventure and freedom to explore. But before you swap your house for a home on wheels, it’s important to know the costs of living in an RV full-time. Let’s look at the numbers and details of this traveling lifestyle.
Initial Costs
Buying or Renting an RV
Starting the RV lifestyle means making some choices, like whether to buy or rent an RV. Once you decide, here are your main options:
- Buying a New RV: A brand-new shiny RV might be the choice if you have a steady income. Prices range from $60,000 for a basic travel trailer to over $500,000 for a luxurious Class A motorhome.
- Buying a Used RV: Buying a used RV can be more budget-friendly. Prices can range from $10,000 to $300,000, based on the class, condition, and mileage of your chosen vehicle.
- Renting an RV Long-Term: If you’re not ready to commit, renting can be a good option. Long-term rentals may cost $1,500 to $4,000 monthly, giving you the freedom to leave the RV lifestyle if it’s not for you.
If you have never traveled in an RV before we highly recommend traveling with a friend who has an RV or renting one for a week or two.
You could take one out for a weekend, but you may get a false sense of what it really takes to travel in an RV. A weekend trip means you probably won’t have to deal with any of the negatives that come with owning an RV. Things like water refills, grey and black tank dumps, etc, may be easy over a weekend because you haven’t gotten past the “honeymoon phase” of RVing. Having to deal with it several times over a couple of weeks may help slap the romantic idea pf RVing out of your head! 😂
Once you’ve done a rental for a week or two you will have a much better idea on whether owning an RV is right for you. You may also have a batter idea of what kind of RV will be better for you.
Do you think you’d want to tow a trailer?
Maybe a driving RV like a Class C or Class A motorhome may be better?
Figuring out you’ve made a terrible choice after spending thousands of dollars on the wrong RV is not fun. Depreciation on RVs is brutal as soon as you roll out of the lot.
A smart choice may be to buy used on your first or second RV and then once you know exactly what you want, go for the “ONE!”
Essential Upgrades and Modifications
Remember, an RV is not just a vehicle—it’s your home. Consider some essential upgrades and modifications to make it comfortable:
- Solar Panels and Energy Systems: Solar power helps keep your lights on and devices charged. Costs can range from $1,000 to $5,000.
- Water Filtration Systems: Ensure you have clean water wherever you go. Quality systems cost between $200 and $1,000.
- Internet and Connectivity Equipment: Stay connected with mobile hotspots and signal boosters, priced around $200 to $800, plus a monthly fee.
Monthly Living Expenses
RV Site or Campground Fees
Costs for RV sites can be quite different depending on where you stay:
- Private Campgrounds: These range from $20 to $100 per night and offer amenities like pools and Wi-Fi.
- Public Lands: Parking on public land may be free or have a small fee, and sometimes requires permits costing $30 to $70.
- Membership Programs and Discounts: Programs like Thousand Trails can give you discounts on campground fees after an upfront cost. Thousand Trails can save you a lot of money if you use it a lot.
You may think that your only option is to stay in campgrounds or RV parks, but the public land option we mentioned above can be really amazing.
Did you know, there are many places in the USA that you can stay for free up to 14 days.
How awesome is that!
There are state and national forests that allow free camping. There is also Bureau of Land Management (BLM) areas that you can stay for free or for a very low cost. Some states have water management areas or other designated areas that you can stay for free, as well.
And many of them are incredible!
It is a little weird the first time you stay out in the middle of the forest, by yourself, but once you’ve done it it’s hard to stop! Rvers call this “boondocking” or “dry camping.”
Utilities and Maintenance
- Propane and Heating Costs: Keeping warm can cost you $30 to $100 each month, depending on your usage and the weather.
- Sewage and Water Costs: This can be about $10 to $50, though some services are free.
- Regular Maintenance and Repairs: Save monthly for unexpected repairs, usually costing about $100 to $300.
Regular maintenance is something you shouldn’t get cheap with. There is nothing worse that getting out into a beautiful spot surrounded by nature and not being able to stay because your water or electrical systems don’t work.
Insurance and Registration
- Insurance: Full-time RV living usually needs comprehensive insurance, costing $1,000 to $3,000 yearly.
- Registration Fees and Taxes: Varies by state, generally costing $300 to $1,000 annually.
Variable Costs
Fuel Costs
You’ll need gas, and costs can vary based on RV size and travel frequency, from $200 to $800 monthly or more! Driving at 55 mph can help save money and it’s easier on your RV.
Why get in a hurry!
Many RVers call fuel, “liquid rent.”
Food and Groceries
- Groceries: Plan to spend about $300 to $600 each month and check out local markets for fresh and affordable buys.
- Tips for Cooking and Storage: Use these for efficient cooking: stackable containers, an Instant Pot, or a propane grill.
Entertainment and Leisure
Traveling isn’t just about the journey; it’s also about fun:
- Sightseeing and Activities: Budget $200 to $500 monthly for local experiences like tours and museums.
- National Park Fees: An $80 annual pass grants entry to national parks with beautiful views.
Unexpected Expenses
Medical and Health
- Healthcare on the Road: Checkups can cost more, so keep a good health insurance plan ready at $100 to $500 extra.
- Prescriptions and Emergencies: Popular chain pharmacies can simplify getting prescriptions, as long as your insurance covers it.
Emergency Repairs
All RVs, whether they are travel trailers or motorhomes, need occasional repairs like fixing roof leaks or tires. Save a $1,000 to $3,000 fund for emergencies.
Miscellaneous Costs
- Laundry and Hygiene: Expect to spend $20 to $50 monthly at laundromats.
- Storage for Belongings: You might need a storage unit, costing $50 to $200 per month.
Saving Tips for RV Living
Budgeting Wisely
Create a budget spreadsheet to track where you spend money and find areas to save.
Finding Free or Low-Cost Camping
- Using Apps and Websites: Find free RV sites with apps like Campendium or freecampsites.net.
- Boondocking and Dry Camping Tips: Consider solar energy or composting toilets while camping this way.
Earning Income on the Road
- Remote Work and Freelancing: Check out Upwork or Fiverr for jobs you can do anywhere.
- Workamping Programs: Offer free stays in exchange for helping with camp tasks.
Conclusion
Living full-time in an RV has unique costs, but with planning and a flexible attitude, it can be affordable and very rewarding. Despite the expenses, the road adventures and freedom are worth it. Remember, it’s not just where you are but where you’re going. Plan carefully and enjoy the adventure!
Call to Action
Does the idea of life on the open road entice you? Share your thoughts and tips in the comments! If you enjoy the concept of no property taxes, subscribe to our blog for more exciting posts about RV living with Best Recreational Vehicle Directory—your guide to rolling bliss!
