Cost Comparison Guide for Motorhome Adventures

If you’re planning a motorhome holiday, the first thing on your mind is probably the price tag. How much will a portable power station set you back? What’s the real cost of living full‑time in an RV? And which campsites give the best bang for your buck? Below you’ll find straight‑forward numbers, quick calculations and handy tips to keep your wallet happy while you explore Nottingham and beyond.

Power Up: Portable Power Stations vs. Traditional Generators

Many motorhome drivers think a diesel generator is the only way to stay charged. A good portable power station can cost anywhere from £300 for a basic 500 Wh unit to £1,200 for a high‑capacity 2 kWh lithium pack. The upfront price looks steep, but remember the fuel savings. A 2‑hour run on a diesel generator can burn up to £3 of fuel, while a charged power station gives you silent, clean power for the same period at zero fuel cost. If you camp at sites with electricity, you can even top up during the day and avoid nightly fuel stops.

Full‑Time RV Living: What Does It Really Cost?

Full‑time RVing in 2025 breaks down into a few core expenses. On average, UK motorhome owners spend about £800‑£1,200 per month on insurance, road tax and MOT. Add £300‑£500 for campsite fees if you stay in a mix of paid and free spots. Electricity, water and dump‑station fees run another £100‑£150. Food and everyday living stay roughly the same as a traditional household, around £250‑£350. Total monthly cost ends up between £1,500 and £2,200 – far less than a small flat in the city centre.

Want to tighten the budget? Look for campsites offering weekly discounts or consider boondocking (free overnight parking) where legal. Many UK service stations now provide electric hook‑ups for £5 a night – a cheap alternative to full campsite fees.

Comparing this to tiny‑home living, RVs usually win on flexibility. A tiny house costs about £15,000‑£30,000 to set up, plus land rent. Over five years, the RV’s monthly cost can still be lower, especially when you factor in travel savings.

When you add up the cost of a VW campervan hire, expect around £650‑£800 per week in Ireland and about £700‑£900 per week in the UK during peak season. Hidden fees – cleaning, mileage overage and insurance excess – can add another £150‑£200. Booking early, choosing off‑peak dates and checking for discount codes can shave 10‑15% off the total.

Finally, don’t forget the lifespan of your motorhome. A well‑maintained vehicle can last 10‑15 years, meaning the purchase price spreads over many holidays. Regular servicing, tire checks and proper storage keep depreciation low and avoid costly breakdowns.

By laying out these numbers side by side, you can see where your money goes and where you can cut back. Whether you’re buying a power station, planning a full‑time adventure or just renting a camper for a week, a clear cost comparison helps you decide what fits your budget and travel style.