Anew studycommissioned by Go RVing and the RV Industry Association and conducted by an outside, independent firm has found that RV vacations cost much less than other types of vacation travel, even when factoring in fuel prices and the cost of RV ownership. According to the study, CBRE Hotels Advisory Group found there is an average cost savings of up to 60% for a four-person travel party, while a two-person travel party saves up to an average of 46%, depending on factors such as the type of RV and type of vacation.
For the most common type of RV, the lightweight travel trailer, the average cost per day of the four-person camping vacation was found to about 48% less than the average daily cost of a comparable four-person air/hotel vacation and be about 34% less expensive than the average daily cost of comparable four-person car/hotel combination vacation.
For the fastest growing segment of RVs, Class B motorhomes, the average cost per day of the four-person camping vacation was found to be about 49% less than the average daily cost of a comparable four-person air/hotel vacation and about 35% less expensive than the average daily cost of comparable four-person car/hotel combination vacation.
“Consumers continue to place a priority on traveling and spending time with family and this study confirms the fact that RV vacations are one of the most economical ways to travel,” said RVIA President and CEO Craig Kirby. “RV vacations provide freedom from many of the traditional hassles of travel, while also providing greater control over your budget.”
The study analyzes vacation costs using two sets of hypothetical travel groups: a four-person travel party of two adults and two children, and a two-person travel party of two adults. The study compared different methods of travel, including a:
- Folding camping trailer
- Lightweight travel trailer
- Compact motorhome
- Class C motorhome
- Class A motorhome
- Traveling in a personal car, staying at hotels/motels, and eating meals in a restaurant
- Traveling by airline, renting a car at the destination, staying at hotels/motels, and eating meals in a restaurant
- Traveling in a personal car or airline (as appropriate), staying at a rental house/condominium, and eating the majority of meals in the rental unit.
The class A motorhome, typically the largest and most luxurious RV, was compared to travel options such as flying first class, renting a premium car, staying in upscale hotels/resorts, and eating meals in restaurants.
“It was important for us to look at real itineraries for travelers and quantify what real families can expect to save by choosing RVing as their preferred mode of travel,” said Go RVing Chief Marketing Officer Karen Redfern. “Beyond the cost savings, RVing also allows families the unique ability to travel whenever and wherever desired while avoiding common travel hassles and fostering an increased sense of togetherness, control, flexibility, convenience and accessibility to the great outdoors.”
RVIA members can view the full reporthere.
FAQs
For the most common type of RV, the lightweight travel trailer, the average cost per day of the four-person camping vacation was found to about 48% less than the average daily cost of a comparable four-person air/hotel vacation and be about 34% less expensive than the average daily cost of comparable four-person car/ ...
What is the cheapest way to travel in an RV? ›
Want to Save Money While RVing? Use these 7 Tips to RV on a Budget
- Sign Up For Membership Discounts. ...
- Live Minimally. ...
- Try Boondocking. ...
- Camp Longer. ...
- Cook Simple Meals. ...
- Use Public Transit in Cities. ...
- Prioritize Free Tourist Attractions.
Generally speaking, the monthly cost of full-time RVing might lie between $1600 and $5000, depending on what you need during the travel time. The overall RV living cost primarily includes gas and propane, campsite fees, food, RV maintenance, insurance, phone/internet, entertainment, etc.
Is owning a RV cost effective? ›
It costs a lot of money to buy an RV, maintain it and store it, but it may be worth it in the long run if you plan to use it multiple times a year. If you want a simpler way to use an RV that doesn't require you to be responsible for maintenance and upkeep, renting is the better option.
Is it cheaper to fly or rent an RV? ›
The Distance of The Trip
The distance of your trip will also impact if it is cheaper to rent an RV or stay in various hotels. In many instances, if the trip is very far and you need to get to your destination quickly, it's cheaper to fly.
What is the 3 3 3 rule for RV travel? ›
To follow this rule of thumb, drive no more than 300 miles in one day, arrive no later than 3 p.m., and try to stay at your destination for a bare minimum of 3 days. This schedule makes sure you have enough time to rest up and recharge.
What is the 2 2 2 rule for RV travel? ›
For example, the 2-2-2 rule for RVing means you limit your travel to 200 miles a day, check in to your campground at 2 pm, and camp for no less than 2 days. The 3-3-3 rule ups everything to 300 miles, 3 pm check-in time, and a 3-day stay.
Is it financially smart to live in an RV? ›
It can be financially smart to live in an RV to pay off your debt. If you're looking for a more minimalistic lifestyle and want to reduce housing expenses, you can save money by living in an RV.
What is a good size RV to live in full-time? ›
Class C motorhomes are a great option for RV living. They come in many different sizes to meet living needs and are usually easy to drive and park. You can get a Class C motorhome also as a Super C RV or Super C motorhome with a large diesel engine.
Is it cheaper to live in an RV than a house? ›
Living in an RV can be cheaper than traditional home ownership because RVs require less space and utility usage, resulting in lower costs for heating, cooling, and maintenance. Additionally, RV living encourages a simpler and more minimalist lifestyle that can lead to fewer expenses related to possessions.
Apart from the initial purchase price, expenses like depreciation, maintenance, insurance, storage, fuel, and campground fees can accumulate to a significant amount. Renting an RV is a practical alternative, offering the chance to experience the RV lifestyle without the financial responsibility of ownership.
What is the downside of owning an RV? ›
RVs require a lot of upkeep. You need to keep on top of cleaning, which includes dumping RV waste. You also need to make sure fluids are topped up and tired are inflated. Then of course, there could be occasional repairs that need doing.
Is it smart to buy an RV right now? ›
Late fall and winter are generally the best times to buy a travel trailer or motorhome. Fewer people shop for RVs during this period, and less competition means you have more negotiating power. You may also find bargains right before a new RV model is released, when gas prices are up, and at RV trade shows.
Is it cheaper to camp or stay in a hotel? ›
The final verdict is that you can camp cheaper, if you're willing to give up some conveniences and take the time to travel the backroads. If this is what you choose to do, don't leave home without a backroads mapbook.
Is it worth buying an RV to live in? ›
RV life is affordable, comfortable, and off the grid
Any monthly payments you might need to make will be negligible compared to the mortgage/rent obligations most other people have. Plus, modern RVs have all the amenities you need to live comfortably, anywhere!
How much does it cost to drive an RV across the US? ›
If we assume 8 MPG and 3000 miles coast to coast, it would cost perhaps $1200 to $1700 in fuel, $0 to $300 for overnight stays, and any food and tolls. For fuel alone for a typical truck pulling a trailer or a motorhome, let's say averaging 10 miles per gallon, traveling approx.
How to budget for RV travel? ›
Be realistic about a budget—allow yourself a few extra hundred dollars for unexpected emergencies. Try to choose activities that are free, such as biking, swimming and hiking. Take inventory of items that you already have in your RV so you don't unnecessarily purchase anything on the road.
What is boondocking? ›
Meaning of boondocking in English
the activity of camping (= sleeping outside in a tent or special vehicle) on land that does not have any services and is not part of an official campground: Boondocking is allowed on public land in Canada, with a few restrictions. For some, boondocking is a long-term lifestyle choice.
