The True Cost of Full-Time RV Living: What We’ve Learned on the Road

We’ve been full-time RVers for a while now, and let me tell you, the adventure is incredible! But if you’re thinking about hitting the road full-time, you probably want to know the real deal about the full-time RV living costs. Spoiler alert: it’s not just about fuel and campgrounds. There’s a whole lot more to consider, and we’re here to share everything we’ve learned so you can plan your journey with your eyes wide open.

Breaking Down Full-Time RV Living Costs: What You Need to Know

When we first started, we thought the biggest expense would be gas and campground fees. Turns out, that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Here’s a quick rundown of the main costs we’ve encountered:

• RV Purchase or Rental: Whether you buy or rent, this is your biggest upfront or monthly cost.

• Fuel: Depending on how much you drive, this can add up fast.

• Campground Fees: From free boondocking to luxury RV resorts, prices vary widely.

• Maintenance and Repairs: RVs need regular TLC, and unexpected repairs can pop up.

• Insurance: You’ll need coverage for your RV and possibly your personal belongings.

• Utilities: Propane, electricity, water, and dumping fees.

• Food and Supplies: Groceries, dining out, and everyday essentials.

• Internet and Phone: Staying connected on the road is a must for us.

• Miscellaneous: Laundry, entertainment, and occasional splurges.

  
  

We’ve found that budgeting for these categories helps us avoid surprises. For example, Memorial Day we broke an axel in Jackson Hole Wyoming. Yes, my thoughts exactly "what do we do now?, How long will this take? How Much will this cost? Do I need to cancel my next reservation?" So many things to consider but we got through it all. That repair cost us over $1400, but because we had a little cushion in our budget, it didn’t derail our trip.

Our cozy RV parked at a beautiful campground

How much to rent an RV for a month per month?

If you’re not ready to buy, renting an RV is a great way to test the waters. We rented a Class C for a month before committing to full-time life, and it gave us a solid feel for the lifestyle and costs.

On average, renting an RV for a month can range from $1,500 to $4,000, depending on the type, size, and season. Here’s what to expect:

• Base Rental Fee: Usually around $50 to $150 per night.

• Mileage Fees: Some rentals include a set number of miles; extra miles cost more.

• Insurance: Rental companies often require insurance, which can add $20-$50 per day.

• Deposits and Cleaning Fees: Be prepared for a refundable deposit and a cleaning fee.

  
  

We found that renting gave us flexibility and helped us understand the ongoing costs before buying. Plus, it’s a fun way to try different RV styles!

Fuel and Campground Fees: The Daily Expenses That Add Up

Fuel is one of those sneaky expenses. Our RV gets about 8-10 miles per gallon, so long drives can get pricey. We try to plan routes that balance sightseeing with fuel efficiency. Using apps to find the cheapest gas along the way has saved us a good chunk of change.

Campground fees vary a lot. We love boondocking (camping without hookups) because it’s free and lets us get off the beaten path. But sometimes, we splurge on RV parks with full hookups, laundry, and Wi-Fi, especially when we need a break from roughing it.

Here’s a quick snapshot of what we pay:

• Boondocking: $0 - $10 per night (sometimes free on public lands)

• State Parks: $20 - $40 per night

• Private RV Parks: $40 - $70 per night

• Luxury Resorts: $70+ per night

  
  

Balancing these options helps us stretch our budget while still enjoying creature comforts when we want them.

Monitoring fuel and navigation during our road trip

Maintenance, Repairs, and Insurance: Protecting Your Home on Wheels

Owning an RV means you’re responsible for maintenance. We’ve learned to do a lot ourselves, like checking tire pressure, changing oil, and cleaning filters. But sometimes, you need a pro, and those bills can surprise you.

Insurance is another must-have. We pay for comprehensive coverage that protects us on the road and covers our belongings inside. It’s not cheap, but peace of mind is priceless.

Here are some tips we’ve picked up:

• Regular Inspections: Catch small issues before they become big problems.

• Emergency Fund: Set aside money for unexpected repairs.

• Shop Around: Compare insurance quotes to find the best deal.

• DIY When Possible: Learn basic maintenance skills to save money.

  
  

We’ve found that staying on top of maintenance keeps our RV running smoothly and helps avoid costly breakdowns.

Living Full-Time: Budgeting for Food, Connectivity, and Fun

Living on the road means adapting your lifestyle. We cook most meals in our tiny kitchen, which saves money and keeps us healthy. But we also love trying local eats and treating ourselves now and then.

Internet and phone service are essential for us since we work and share our adventures online. We use a combination of mobile hotspots, campground Wi-Fi, and sometimes satellite internet. It’s an extra cost but worth it to stay connected.

Don’t forget to budget for:

• Groceries: Stock up in bigger towns to avoid high prices in remote areas.

• Dining Out: Treat yourself occasionally but keep it balanced.

• Entertainment: National park fees, tours, and local attractions.

• Laundry and Supplies: Laundromats, toiletries, and household items.

  
  

We keep a flexible budget and track expenses with an app, which helps us stay on top of our spending without feeling restricted.

Is Full-Time RV Living Worth It? Our Take on the Investment

We won’t sugarcoat it - full-time RV living has its costs. But the freedom, experiences, and memories we’ve gained are priceless. If you’re curious about the cost of full time rving, it’s definitely doable with some planning and flexibility.

What did 16,000+ Mile Cross-Country Trip Cost

This is where the rubber meets the road, or should say where the bank account, hits the brakes, or, I guess any number of things that can stop you in your tracks.

The only thing is, you'll have to wait to see it in the NEXT Blog post.

But for this post.

Our advice? Start small, rent first, and build your budget based on real experiences. Join online communities, watch travel vlogs, and ask questions. The more you know, the better prepared you’ll be.

We hope our insights help you on your journey. Remember, it’s not just about the dollars - it’s about the lifestyle and the incredible places you’ll see along the way. Happy travels!

If you want to dive deeper into budgeting tips or hear more about our adventures, stay tuned for our next posts. We’re here to share the real, unfiltered RV life with you!