Unexpected RV Expenses
Once you’ve got your RV and all the necessary accessories there shouldn’t be too many extraneous costs right? I mean: you’re cooking your own food instead of eating out and campsite fees are cheaper (generally) than hotels. But there are a few things that we forget to consider that can add the $$ up really fast.
Fill ‘Er Up!
Unless you’re driving an incredibly fuel-efficient SUV or truck your overall gas mileage can be shocking to say the least. Depending on the weight of your RV, efficiency of your tow vehicle, or motorhome type, expect to get maybe ⅓ of your regular mileage compared to average.
Activities Get Expensive
On vacation you’ve probably planned for more than a few excursions to museums, restaurants, and other attractions – but full time or even full-season RVers tourist draws can also drain your bank account. In those cases, maybe stick to the free options, like a good hike or beach day!
Maintenance Costs
I mean there are people who don’t give a whiff about maintaining their RV but…why? Yes, proper maintenance isn’t cheap: oil changes and new tires, roof checks and resealing. But if you want to keep your RV in working order, whether toe or motorized, you’re gonna have to set aside a maintenance fund.
Storage
We cover the why (and how) fairly effectively when it comes to theft and winterization but it comes down to: your RV is an investment and you should protect it as such. Proper storage will protect your RV from water damage, unwanted lodgers, and improve its worth should you ever decide to sell it. But unless you can park it in your garage for the winter (or are comfortable storing it on your driveway, not recommended for Alberta winters) you’ll have to fork over cash.
Short Term Park Reservations
Here’s a secret you should know: if you do nothing but short-term stays all season (or all year) you’ll spend more than someone doing long-term stays. Daily/nightly rates, when you do the math, are a lot pricer than weekly and monthly rates on average. Extending the period spent at each site can save you money instead of campsite hopping.
Mobile Internet
Not for you? That’s okay, but for those who work on the road or just want Netflix access, reliable internet isn’t as easy as calling the local internet provider. Nah, you’ll need cellular internet (this can be included in your cell phone plan but that can have limitations). Sure, some campsites will have wifi but it’s not always reliable, fast, or secure. Your own wifi can look like mobile hotspots, upgraded cell plans, cell boosters – all pricey additions to your RV kit.
Did any of these surprise you, would you add anything to our list? Let us know!