Earlier this year, I shared a reader question on Facebook about ow to save money on RV travel. Little did any of us know that with increasing travel restrictions and limitations coming, this question might become even more relevant! If you decide to purchase an RV, you’re able to travel at your own pace and can control much more of your expenses. But in order for it to be worth it, it’s smart to consider associated costs and how you can actually save money when you’re traveling. Here are the most helpful responses from our amazing Southern Savers readers!

Reader Question: How Can I Save Money on RV Travel?

Most of the comments were related to specific ways to save money, many of which were extremely helpful!

Money Saving Tips

Yvonne W.: “If you are in SC (unsure about other states), if it has a full bathroom and kitchen, you can claim it as a second home and it will lower your taxes some. Also check to make sure the appraisal value they have listed is what you paid. They had ours a couple thousand over what we paid. I took in the bill of sale and it also lowered the taxes significantly.”

Adrienne W.: “We have a travel trailer and love it! We are a family of 5, so we would need at least a 2 bedroom condo or home for vacation. We just booked a week in Gulf Shores for less than $400 for our summer beach trip. We also grocery shop before and plan a menu, and that helps save a ton of money. I highly recommend looking into state parks because they will help will save you a good bit, too.”

Rachel R.: “You can definitely save money on vacation with an RV. We always picked cheaper campgrounds such as the state parks. $30.00 a night is way cheaper than a hotel. Mom always made our lunches which were usually sandwiches while dad drove. And most nights we have dinner in the RV, too. If you and you hubby can make the repairs yourself it definitely helps with the cost of repairs. RV repair shops are really expensive, especially like engine work, etc. In our family’s first camper when I was a kid, my dad even rebuilt the floor once. If you would need someone else to do mechanical repairs I would pull a camper instead.”

Donna H.: “If you happen to be military you can stay on most military bases really cheap. Great campsites and there is usually a commissary close by. Always look for places to boondock. There are several good websites that list them by location. Be sure you have the gas buddy app so you can find the cheapest gas. You will want a plug in toaster oven to use instead of firing up the gas one. An infrared space heater will heat it nicely and use the electricity you have already paid for instead of using your propane.”

Nancy P.: “Try to get one only 5 years old. And get a small one just for now. So you can.learn and see what works for you. Also, with shorter feet. You will fit into more national parks that don’t accommodate 40 footers.”

Nancy M.: “Get an extended warranty. Things are going to break and repairs are expensive.”

Barb P.: “Join a camper FB page for helpful information.”

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