Cost of RV Living: What You Need to Know

Thinking about swapping a house for a motorhome? You probably wonder if the freedom is worth the price tag. The good news is you can keep a clear picture of where every pound goes. Below is a no‑fluff guide that shows the biggest costs and the daily spend you’ll actually see on the road.

Big Ticket Items

Buying or renting the motorhome is the first big hit. A used Class C in the UK can run from £30,000 to £80,000, while a new model easily tops £100,000. If you prefer hire, weekly rates for a VW campervan sit around £300‑£500, and a full‑size motorhome can be £600‑£900 per week. Remember to add a deposit if you’re leasing.

Insurance isn’t optional. Expect £350‑£700 a year for a basic policy, but if you travel often or have a high‑value vehicle the premium can climb to £1,200. Compare quotes and look for discounts for low mileage.

Fuel is the next variable. A 12‑litre motorhome will sip about £1.40 per litre at current rates. If you drive 15,000 miles a year at 10 mpg, fuel alone can cost £2,600. Planning a route with fewer hills can shave a few hundred pounds.

Maintenance and servicing keep the rig road‑ready. Budget £800‑£1,200 annually for routine checks, oil changes, and tyre wear. Unexpected repairs (like a broken water pump) can add another £500‑£1,000, so a small emergency fund helps.

Everyday Expenses

Campsite fees vary a lot. A basic site with electricity and water in Nottinghamshire ranges from £15‑£30 a night. Luxury glamping spots charge £50‑£80. If you boondock or use free wild‑camping spots, you save the nightly fee but may need a portable power solution.

Power and water at sites are usually included, but if you’re off‑grid you’ll need a portable power station or solar panel kit. A good lithium power pack costs about £500‑£800 and can power lights and a small fridge for a few days.

Food and groceries don’t change much whether you’re at home or on the road. A simple weekly grocery shop for one person is around £35‑£45. Cooking in the motorhome saves money compared to eating out, which can run £10‑£15 per meal.

Licensing and taxes are easy to overlook. A motorhome over 3.5 tonnes needs an MOT and may attract a higher road tax, roughly £300‑£500 per year.

Adding all these up, a full‑time RVer in the UK can expect to spend between £12,000 and £20,000 a year, depending on lifestyle choices. That’s roughly £1,000‑£1,700 a month, which can be cheaper than a mortgage in many areas if you keep campsite fees low and avoid luxury rentals.

Bottom line: the cost of RV living is predictable once you break it into big tickets and daily spend. Track each expense, set a realistic budget, and you’ll enjoy the freedom without surprise bills.