RV sites with full hookups often have everything you need, but it can be hard on a budget. Relying on these connections during outings could cost you a pretty penny.
Luckily, there are several things you can do to stay within your budget while RVing.
Today, we’ll share some of the best ways to get hookups without paying an arm and a leg.
Let’s dive in!
The Challenges of RVing on a Budget
One of the hardest things about RVing is staying on a budget. Whether you enjoy camping full-time or recreationally, it can be expensive. You’ve got to take items like gas, park reservations, food, and entertainment under consideration.
Unfortunately, costs can vary a lot depending on your location.
Having a plan is crucial to avoid overspending. However, there’s not one approach that works for everyone. Expenses differ depending on your camping style and family size. Taking the time to tally up all the costs allows you to make sound financial decisions.
It’s important to remember that prices have increased over the last few years. And rising costs make it hard to manage money during your adventures.
So, even if you’ve been RVing for years, it might be time to revisit your financial plan.
7 Best Ways to Get Budget RV Hookups
You don’t have to choose between staying on budget or having RV hookups. It’s possible to have the best of both worlds.
#1 Take Advantage of Discount Camping Memberships
One of the best ways to find RV hookups on a budget is through discount memberships. Some popular programs are Passport America, Escapees Good Sam, and KOA. Doing your research is essential as the savings can vary significantly between them.
Benefits of these programs usually include discounts on nightly rates, free upgrades, and more. Most of them allow the individual campgrounds to select the perks they provide for users. You’ll likely need to ask each location to see whether or not it’ll work for you.
You’ll also want to consider the perks and how often you’ll take advantage of them. We’ve seen some that only offer deals on weekdays or during the off-season. If these don’t jive with your schedule, they’re a waste of money.
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#2 Extend Your Stay for Budget Rates
Another fantastic option for budget RVing is by extending your stay. Many locations offer steep discounts for customers making weekly, monthly, or seasonal reservations.
If you’re not in a hurry, these can be great opportunities to stretch every dollar. The longer you stay, the more you can save.
Sticking around is also an excellent way to save on fuel and other travel costs. This is especially true when your RV gets terrible MPGs. The cost of moving from one site to the next can add up quickly. So, you can keep more cash in your pocket by reducing how frequently you change locations.
#3 Take the Road Less Traveled
Booking a budget RV site with hookups requires strategically deciding when and where to travel. One key to saving is to avoid crowded areas as much as possible. Campgrounds and parks don’t have any reason to offer discounts when there’s a significant demand for sites.
Visiting popular areas while trying to cut costs means traveling during shoulder seasons, which vary regionally. Unfortunately, this can result in crummy weather conditions. On the other hand, experiencing these areas undisturbed can be unforgettable.
Exploring national parks and other exciting places during peak season is still possible. But it can mean you’ll have to look for spots further away from your destination.
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#4 Consider Volunteering in Exchange for Budget RV Hookups
Volunteering is another method of scoring RV hookups on a budget. Organizations like Lighthouse Host, Habitat for Humanity, and Animal Caregiver have programs to host volunteers. These opportunities require work commitments of a few hours, days, or weeks. Some even offer monthly or seasonal positions.
Depending on the organization, they may require that you have experience compatible with their project. Large organizations like Habitat for Humanity have positions that usually don’t need prior experience to apply.
Volunteering is an ideal path to help others and support the positive impact they’re having. Not only can you score a spot to park, but you can also give back to the local community.
#5 Join Boondockers Welcome
You’re missing out if you’ve not yet signed up for Boondockers Welcome. This membership program gives subscribers access to over 3,500 host sites across North America. Many of the individuals providing spots are people who enjoy travel lifestyles. They often charge minimal and very economical fees.
It’s important to note that not all have hookups, but their website claims that 70 percent of hosts do. Again, rates and amenities can vary significantly from one to the next.
Once you become a member, you can access information about each location. You’ll want to read reviews and ensure the spot will work for the size or type of your rig. Many campers find it incredibly easy to find RV hookups on a budget using this program.
Its sister site, Harvest Hosts, can also be helpful, especially if you move a lot.
#6 Check Out Army Corps of Engineers Campgrounds
Travelers frequently overlook Army Corps of Engineers facilities. While they may not be as luxurious as RV parks or resorts, they can be quality options. Unfortunately, not all of their 94,500 campsites offer hookups, but some do.
Additionally, if you have a Senior, Lifetime, or Disability America the Beautiful pass, it includes 50 percent off of reservation fees. With more than 450 campgrounds operated by the Army Corps of Engineers, there’s likely one near your destination.
Others that go unnoticed include state and county parks. Again, these may not be as well-appointed as other options, but they work in a pinch. If you’re RVing on a budget, the sacrifice is a small price to pay.
#7 Purchase an RV Campground Membership
Our final method for getting budget RV hookups is through campground memberships. Thousand Trails is the most recognized network in this category. While these timeshare networks can be pricey to buy into, they usually pay for themselves over time.
Typically, these resort-style facilities offer a variety of extras, including hookups. How long and how often you can use your benefits depends on the plan you purchase. As a result, these may not be for you if you’re a recreational camper. On the other hand, if you’re a full-time RVer, they can be worth it.
Be aware that the wording and conditions are incredibly confusing. Make sure you understand the rules before signing on the dotted line.
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Budget RV Hookups Let You Extend Your Adventure
Finding RV hookups on a budget can be difficult. Luckily, by following our tips, you’ll uncover ways to work around them. Will it sometimes take some effort? Absolutely. Nevertheless, you and your loved ones can make priceless memories without emptying your bank account for every adventure.
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