Let’s face it: no two RVers travel the same. Some live the high life in luxury motorhomes, and others travel frugally in small micro-campers.
That’s why we created this comprehensive monthly cost list of seven different types of RVs and trailers, as well as seven expense categories, including fuel, camping fees, groceries, propane/utilities, insurance, and more.
Are you ready for the cold, hard truth?
1. Fuel Costs
- Luxury Motorhome (Diesel): $600 – $1,500
- Class A (Diesel): $500 – $1,200
- Class B (Gasoline): $300 – $600
- Class C (Gasoline): $400 – $800
- Small Trailer (Gasoline): $150 – $400
- Large Trailer (Diesel): $200 – $500
- Fifth Wheel (Diesel): $250 – $600
Fuel costs for luxury motorhomes and Class A RVs are higher due to their larger size and lower fuel efficiency, typically around 5-8 mpg for luxury motorhomes and 7-10 mpg for Class A RVs.
Class B and C RVs are more fuel-efficient, averaging 10-20 mpg. Trailers depend on the towing vehicle’s fuel efficiency, which can vary widely. Current national average fuel prices are $3.44 for gasoline and $4.00 for diesel (EIA Homepage) (AAA Gas Prices).
The amount of miles traveled can obviously skew these numbers; keep that in mind if your one month of RVing is a cross-country road trip.
2. Campground Fees
- Luxury Motorhome: $1,000 – $2,000
- Class A: $800 – $1,500
- Class B: $600 – $1,200
- Class C: $700 – $1,300
- Small Trailer: $400 – $900
- Large Trailer: $500 – $1,000
- Fifth Wheel: $600 – $1,200
Luxury motorhomes often stay in high-end campgrounds with premium amenities, resulting in higher fees. Class A RVs also often use more luxurious campgrounds. Class B, C, and trailers might stay in a mix of campgrounds, including state parks and boondocking spots, which are cheaper.
Memberships in clubs like Good Sam and Passport America can offer significant discounts.
3. Groceries and Dining
- Luxury Motorhome: $600 – $1,200
- Class A: $400 – $800
- Class B: $300 – $700
- Class C: $350 – $750
- Small Trailer: $250 – $600
- Large Trailer: $300 – $650
- Fifth Wheel: $350 – $700
Luxury motorhomes and Class A RVs typically have more storage space and better kitchen facilities, allowing for more extensive grocery shopping and cooking. They often also have more high-end travelers who enjoy splurging more.
Smaller RVs and trailers might have limited kitchen facilities, allowing these travelers to be more frugal out of necessity.
4. Propane and Utilities
- Luxury Motorhome: $100 – $300
- Class A: $50 – $150
- Class B: $40 – $120
- Class C: $50 – $130
- Small Trailer: $30 – $100
- Large Trailer: $40 – $110
- Fifth Wheel: $50 – $120
Propane costs vary based on usage and the season. Larger RVs like luxury motorhomes and Class A RVs use more propane for heating and cooking.
Smaller RVs and trailers use less, leading to lower costs. Seasonal changes also affect these expenses, with winter months being more expensive due to heating.
5. Insurance
- Luxury Motorhome: $200 – $700
- Class A: $100 – $400
- Class B: $70 – $300
- Class C: $80 – $350
- Small Trailer: $50 – $150
- Large Trailer: $60 – $200
- Fifth Wheel: $70 – $250
Insurance premiums for luxury motorhomes are higher due to their high value and the extensive coverage needed. Class A RVs also require significant coverage, while smaller RVs and trailers cost less to insure due to their lower value and reduced risk.
6. Maintenance and Repairs
- Luxury Motorhome: $200 – $600
- Class A: $100 – $400
- Class B: $50 – $300
- Class C: $75 – $350
- Small Trailer: $30 – $200
- Large Trailer: $50 – $250
- Fifth Wheel: $60 – $300
Due to their complex systems and larger engines, maintenance, and repair costs are higher for luxury motorhomes, and Class A RVs. Smaller RVs and trailers are simpler and cheaper to maintain.
Regular maintenance helps prevent costly repairs down the road.
7. Miscellaneous Expenses
- Luxury Motorhome: $200 – $500
- Class A: $100 – $300
- Class B: $80 – $250
- Class C: $90 – $280
- Small Trailer: $50 – $200
- Large Trailer: $60 – $220
- Fifth Wheel: $70 – $250
Miscellaneous expenses include entertainment, laundry, and personal items. These costs can vary widely based on lifestyle choices. Luxury motorhome owners might spend more on entertainment and additional amenities compared to those in smaller RVs and trailers.
Total Estimated Monthly Costs by RV Type
- Luxury Motorhome: $2,900 – $6,300
- Class A: $2,050 – $4,350
- Class B: $1,440 – $3,470
- Class C: $1,745 – $3,910
- Small Trailer: $960 – $2,550
- Large Trailer: $1,150 – $2,930
- Fifth Wheel: $1,450 – $3,420
Tips for Saving Money on the Road
- Join Membership Clubs:
- Memberships like Good Sam, Passport America, and Thousand Trails offer significant discounts on campground fees. These memberships can save you hundreds of dollars annually.
- Cook More, Eat Out Less:
- Preparing meals in your RV can drastically cut down on dining expenses, this was key in our early RV experience. A good portable grill is a game-changer.
- Optimize Fuel Efficiency:
- Reduce fuel costs by driving slower, maintaining tire pressure, and avoiding excessive idling. A well-tuned engine can save a lot on the road.
- Utilize Free and Low-Cost Campgrounds:
- Look for boondocking spots or campgrounds in national forests and BLM lands. Boondocking not only saves money but also provides some of the most beautiful and secluded spots.
- Regular Maintenance:
- Keep up with regular maintenance to avoid costly repairs down the road. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
Living the RV lifestyle requires careful budgeting and smart planning, but the right approach can be an affordable and fulfilling way to explore the country.
Happy travels, and stay safe on the road!
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