Planning for the cost of an RV Trip

An Rv trip can give you the freedom to travel at your own pace and bring many of the comforts of home with you. But the costs can add up faster than you think. A little planning before you leave can help you enjoy the trip without worrying about every stop along the way.

Start with the big expenses

For many trips fuel and campground fees will take up a large part of the budget. To estimate fuel, look at the miles you plan to travel, your RV's usual fuel mileage, and the current price of fuel. Remember to include driving around at your destination, especially if you're towing a vehicle.

Campground costs depend on where you stay, how long you stay, and what the campground offers. Check the full price, including taxes or extra fees, before you book. Staying an extra night in one place can sometimes cost less than moving on and paying for more fuel and another campground.

Don't forget the everyday costs

Food is another expense to plan for. Bringing groceries and preparing some meals in the RV can help keep costs down, while leaving room in the budget for an occassional meal out. You might also want to set aside money for attractions, local activities, parking, tolls, or laundry. Small costs are easy to overlook when you're planning from home. Adding them to your estimate can give you a more realistic picture of what the trip might cost.

Leave room for the unexpected

It's a good idea to keep some money available for surprises. Plans can change, weather might send you to another campground, or the RV might need attention during the trip. You may not use that extra amount, but having it in your budget can make an unexpected expense less stressful. On our last trip to Delaware, I needed to get some propane. My indicator said the tank was empty, but when I tried filling the tank, the attendant said my tank was full. Luckily, we were visiting my brother, who is a retired diesel mechanic, and was able to solve the problem with little expense.

Make a simple trip budget

• Fuel

• Campground fees

• Tolls and parking

• Activities and attractions

• Propane, laundry, and other small costs

• Extra money for unexpected expenses

Keep receipts or make quick notes as you travel. When you get home, compare what you expected to spend with what you actually spent. That information can help you plan your next trip more easily.

A trip budget doesn't have to be complicated, and it doesn't have to take the fun out of traveling. It's a simple way to know what to expect, make choices that fit your budget, and enjoy the road with a little more peace of mind.

What trip expense do you make sure to plan for?