If you’re thinking about living in your RV full-time, it’s best to determine your budget first. What will it cost to live your lifestyle on the road? The costs of RVing vary depending on your personal preferences. Let’s look at some of the expenses to prepare for before hitting the road full-time.
Monthly Costs of RVing Full-Time
Even if you sell your home and move into your rig, you’ll still have monthly bills. Monthly expenses include your cell phone bill, groceries, internet, health insurance, and car payment. If you’re driving a motorhome and towing a car, you’ll have an RV payment and a car payment each month until they’re paid off.
Some RVers opt to pay monthly rent at a campground. Whether you stay in an area for a few days or a few months, include campground fees in your budget. The cost of camping varies depending on the amenities the site offers. You might prefer a site with a laundry room, swimming pool, and WiFi. The more amenities, the more expensive the campground.
Alternatively, you can choose to boondock on public or private land that welcomes off-the-grid RV travel. Often these places are free or inexpensive, but there will be no hook-ups or amenities.
RV Utility Costs
Expect to spend money on propane to power your refrigerator, stove, and water heater. You might opt to bring along a gas-powered generator if you intend to spend a lot of time boondocking.
If you’re staying long-term at a campground, many spots are metered and you pay for the electricity you use while you’re there. Your costs will vary depending on your usage, but on average RVers spend around $60 – $90 per month for electricity when staying at a campground.
Other Costs of RVing
When you’re on the road you’ll also need to budget for dining out, unexpected repairs costs, and entertainment. If you live frugally and don’t plan on visiting every attraction in a new town, you’ll keep your RVing budget within reason. Make a menu to prepare meals every day and plan to eat in a restaurant only occasionally to save money.
Don’t overlook budgeting for RV repairs. Put aside money each month as an emergency fund in case you experience problems with your rig. Many RVers learn to do basic upkeep and maintenance themselves, but a serious problem may require a professional. Be ready for unexpected situations while RVing.
RV Home Inspections offers RV inspections to customers in Houston, Texas. Contact us to request an appointment for our services.