The RV lifestyle offers the benefit of being able to determine your cost of living. You can opt for a luxurious life or be frugal, with main expenses including campsite fees, fuel, maintenance of the vehicle, and leisure activities. You also need to budget for food, internet, insurance, and other supplies.
Living on the road comes with its own set of rules. If you are considering retiring or working while traveling in an RV, it’s best to understand the details so you can make informed decisions on whether this lifestyle is suitable for you.
RV living is not just for retirees. According to a study by the RV Industry Association (RVIA), the average age of RV owners is 49, with new buyers averaging 32 years old. Currently, 46% of owners fall between the ages of 35 and 54.
22% of RV travelers have someone in their household working remotely, making working while traveling a growing trend.
Parents are also joining the RV lifestyle, with 43% of owners indicating they have children under 18. Some remote-working parents take their children on RV trips during the summer.
The number of days spent RV traveling increased to 30 days in 2024, a 50% growth from the 20 days in 2021.
To start RV living, you need to purchase an RV. According to Bish RV, the price for a mid-range travel trailer ranges from $25,000 to $60,000, entry-level models can go as low as $11,000, while luxury versions can go up to $100,000. Therefore, you can find an RV that fits your budget.
Motorhomes with self-contained power systems are pricier, ranging from $50,000 to $600,000 according to HomeGuide.
Some new RV travelers opt for high-end RVs without breaking the bank by buying used ones, yet long-term travel plans might require reassessment.
Most campgrounds have a “ten-year rule,” restricting older RVs over ten years from entering to maintain the park’s appearance. While usually a guideline rather than a strict rule, violating it can occur if your RV looks rundown or has leaks.
These rules typically apply to long-term campers. If campers fail to pay site and utilities fees, your RV could be seized and sold to cover the loss for the campground.
After purchasing an RV, additional startup costs come into play. Will you be towing or driving an RV with its own power system? Ford states that a basic F-150 with a towing package costs approximately $38,810, while the F-150 Tremor starts at $64,915, both already equipped with towing devices to save on separate costs.
Insurance must be purchased for the truck, trailer, or self-powered RV. According to Trusted Choice, RV classification impacts insurance rates, with annual costs varying:
Class A: $1,150 per year
Class B: $1,000 per year
Class C: $900 per year
RV classifications range from motorhomes to trucks or camper vans. Factors considered for insurance also include the driver’s RV experience, driving record, claims history, and future mileage.
It’s crucial to consult with your insurance agent to determine the right coverage for you.
While regulations vary by state, occasional one-time or annual registration fees are charged, and some RVs may need special permits or inspections depending on local laws.
During months of non-travel within the year, winter requires finding a place to park the RV. Costs vary depending on the location, with estimated monthly expenses ranging from $50 to $500 according to Bish.
Most full-time RV travelers do not rely on campground WiFi, using mobile hotspots or satellite internet instead. However, not all mobile internet services cover every area, which is particularly noticeable in remote locations.
Starlink is a boon for RV travelers, though backup plans may be necessary. Satellite internet companies offer the Unlimited Starlink Roaming Plan at $165 per month. There are cheaper and more expensive plans available based on your travel needs.
While many retirees choose the RV lifestyle, they may or may not rely on social security, pensions, or retirement accounts. Some may still be working, such as online jobs or short-term gigs where they work in one place for a time before moving on to the next.
One popular income source for RV travelers is “work-camping,” with part-time seasonal jobs available in private and national parks, including roles like food service, gardening, maintenance, housekeeping, administrative work, and customer service. These positions often provide compensation, along with free camping and utility services. Amusement parks like Dollywood in Tennessee and Six Flags in New York offer work-camping opportunities.
House-sitting or pet-sitting are additional options, which may involve yard work or caring for animals.
While RV travel incurs expenses, many costs are manageable. If you aspire to travel full-time, work-camping or working online can help fund your lifestyle.
You don’t necessarily need the priciest RV, but you do need appropriate insurance and permits.
Overall, RV travel is no longer exclusive to the baby boomer generation; young adults are also embracing the open road lifestyle.