Calculate Your RV Adventure Costs
Your comprehensive solution for RV budgeting and planning. From fuel costs to maintenance, insurance to environmental impact — we provide all the tools you need for stress-free travel.
COST PLANNING
Understanding RV Ownership Costs
RV ownership involves multiple cost categories that many first-time buyers don't fully consider. Our calculators help you plan for every expense.
Purchase & Financing
New RVs range from $50,000 to $500,000+, while used models start around $20,000. Factor in down payments, monthly loan payments, and interest rates when budgeting. Consider depreciation - RVs lose 20-25% of their value in the first year.
Fuel & Operating Costs
Fuel is typically the largest ongoing expense. Large motorhomes average 6-10 MPG, while smaller RVs get 10-15 MPG. At current gas prices, expect $0.15-$0.50 per mile in fuel costs. Don't forget propane, generator fuel, and increased maintenance from towing.
Insurance & Legal
RV insurance costs $200-$3,000+ annually depending on RV value, coverage level, and usage. Full-timers need specialized policies. Add registration fees ($50-$500 annually), taxes, and potential permits for oversized vehicles in some states.
Maintenance & Repairs
Budget 3-5% of your RV's value annually for maintenance and repairs. This includes routine services, tire replacements (RV tires cost $200-$500 each), appliance repairs, and weatherproofing. Emergency repairs can easily cost $1,000-$5,000+.
Campground & Travel
Campground fees vary dramatically: $15-$30 for basic sites, $40-$80 for full hookups at popular destinations, and $100+ for luxury resorts. State parks offer the best value. Boondocking (free camping) can eliminate this cost but requires self-sufficiency planning.
Storage & Setup
Off-season storage costs $50-$200+ monthly depending on location and facility type. Many owners need to maintain a home base for mail, insurance, and legal purposes. Consider costs for utilities, internet connectivity, and equipment upgrades for comfortable living.
ESSENTIAL TOOLS
Core RV Cost Calculators
Get accurate estimates for the most important aspects of RV ownership and travel planning.
Total Ownership Cost Calculator
Calculate comprehensive RV ownership costs including purchase price, financing, insurance, maintenance, storage, and depreciation. Get annual and monthly cost breakdowns to plan your budget effectively.
Includes: Purchase, loans, insurance, maintenance, storage, depreciation
Calculate Total Costs →Fuel Cost Calculator
Plan trip budgets with precision by calculating fuel costs based on distance, current gas prices, and your RV's fuel efficiency. Includes towing impact and regional price variations.
Includes: Distance, MPG, gas prices, towing adjustments
Calculate Fuel Costs →Insurance Cost Calculator
Estimate RV insurance premiums based on vehicle type, value, coverage levels, and your driving history. Compare different coverage options and find the right protection for your needs.
Includes: RV type, value, coverage levels, location factors
Calculate Insurance →SPECIALIZED TOOLS
Advanced RV Planning Calculators
Dive deeper into specific aspects of RV ownership with our specialized planning tools.
Solar Power Calculator
Calculate exactly how much solar power you need based on your energy consumption patterns and boondocking goals.
Plan Solar Setup →Maintenance Cost Estimator
Plan for routine and unexpected maintenance with detailed annual cost estimates based on RV age and type.
Estimate Maintenance →Storage Cost Calculator
Compare storage options and costs for your RV during off-seasons based on location and facility features.
Compare Storage →Environmental Impact Calculator
Calculate your carbon footprint and explore ways to minimize environmental impact while RVing.
Calculate Impact →Towing Capacity Calculator
Ensure safe towing by calculating if your vehicle can handle your RV or trailer's weight requirements.
Check Towing →Pet Travel Cost Calculator
Budget for traveling with pets including additional fees, supplies, and veterinary considerations.
Plan Pet Travel →SAVE MONEY
Proven Ways to Reduce RV Costs
Smart strategies to minimize expenses without sacrificing the RV lifestyle you want.
Fuel Savings Strategies
- • Plan routes to avoid mountains and headwinds when possible
- • Maintain steady speeds between 55-65 mph for optimal fuel efficiency
- • Use apps like GasBuddy to find cheapest fuel stops along your route
- • Consider shorter trips and longer stays to reduce driving
- • Keep tires properly inflated and RV well-maintained
Campground Savings
- • Book state and national parks early for the best rates
- • Use apps like Campendium and FreeRoam for free camping spots
- • Consider membership programs like Thousand Trails or KOA
- • Stay longer at each location to get weekly/monthly discounts
- • Volunteer camp host opportunities for free sites
REAL EXPERIENCES
Stories from Full-Time RVers
Honest accounts from families and individuals living the RV lifestyle.
Financial Freedom
"Went from $1,700/month mortgage to zero loans. Property taxes were over $9k/year in NJ. Now I work as a workcamper with free site, laundry, and propane. We've traveled to 13 states in one year!"
- Billie Marie, Full-time RVer
Dramatic Savings
"Family of 6 in Oklahoma. Went from $2,600/month (mortgage + utilities) down to $1,300/month total. Our fifth wheel payment is $600, and even the most expensive RV park was only $700."
- Andrea, Oklahoma Family
Learning Curve
"It's definitely a lifestyle change. Learning to empty hoses, fix things, keep warm in winter, and prevent toilet issues. Things you never think about in regular housing, but unique to RVing."
- Sheila, Full-time Family
COST BREAKDOWN
RV Living vs Traditional Housing
Real numbers from actual RVers across different situations.
Monthly Cost Comparisons
Traditional Housing Costs
RV Living Costs
BE PREPARED
Challenges to Consider
Honest insights about the difficulties and adjustments required for RV living.
Families with Children
Privacy Concerns
Limited space means less privacy, especially for teenagers. Shared bathroom facilities can be challenging.
School Considerations
May be classified as "homeless" by school districts. Missing out on traditional school activities and lasting friendships.
Social Development
Constantly making new friends only to leave them behind. Limited exposure to consistent peer groups.
Practical Considerations
Maintenance Reality
RVs require constant upkeep. Things break more frequently than in traditional homes.
Space Limitations
Storage is extremely limited. You'll need to drastically downsize possessions.
Long-term Planning
RVs depreciate in value. What happens when you're too elderly to manage the lifestyle?
A Child's Perspective
"I lived in an RV from age 6-18 (1970s-80s). While I learned to make friends easily and saw much of the US, I missed sleepovers, school dances, and lasting friendships. Privacy was a major issue as a female. The constant moving meant leaving friends behind repeatedly, and I felt like an outsider when visiting extended family. There comes a time when children need more than limited space and constant relocation."
- Karen, who grew up in an RV
GETTING STARTED
Your RV Living Checklist
Essential steps to take before making the leap to full-time RV living.
Financial Preparation
- ✓ Calculate your current housing costs vs estimated RV costs
- ✓ Research RV financing options and get pre-approved
- ✓ Budget for unexpected maintenance and repairs
- ✓ Consider the depreciation vs equity building trade-off
Practical Preparation
- ✓ Try RV living for a weekend or week first
- ✓ Learn basic RV maintenance and systems
- ✓ Research mail forwarding and domicile services
- ✓ Plan for healthcare access and prescription management
Ready to Explore RV Living?
Join our community of full-time RVers sharing real experiences, tips, and support.