Low Cost RV States: Where to Travel Cheap in a Motorhome

When planning low cost RV states, areas that let you park a motorhome without breaking the bank. Also known as budget-friendly RV destinations, they combine cheap or free sites, easy access, and basic amenities. To make the most of them you’ll need to know about free camping, overnight stays that cost nothing on public lands or private properties that allow it, boondocking, dry‑camping without hookups, often on BLM land or national forests, and keep an eye on motorhome hire cost, the daily or weekly price you pay to rent a motorhome in the first place. These three ideas together shape the budget equation for any road trip.

Free camping is the backbone of low cost RV states. In places like Michigan’s state forests or the sprawling BLM parcels in the Southwest, you can pull in for the night, dump waste at a nearby dump station, and be ready to move on by morning. Boondocking expands those options by letting you stay off‑grid for days, using solar panels or a portable power station to run lights and a small fridge. Knowing the rules—like staying 25 miles from the nearest home or respecting fire bans—keeps you out of trouble. Meanwhile, motorhome hire cost determines how much of your budget is spent before you even hit the road; comparing rates, mileage allowances, and insurance options can shave off hundreds of pounds.

Key Tips for Finding and Using Low Cost RV States

Start by mapping the public land parcels that allow overnight stays. Most state forest websites list designated campgrounds, and the US Forest Service has a handy “free camping” map. Next, check the boondocking rules for each state: some require permits, others forbid overnight stays on certain trails. Third, calculate your total trip cost by adding the hire price, fuel mileage (average 12‑15 mpg for a 30‑ft motorhome), and any dump fees you’ll encounter. Finally, pack lightweight cooking gear, a portable toilet, and a reliable solar panel; these tools let you stay comfortable without paying for campsite hookups.

By blending free camping sites, boondocking spots, and smart hiring decisions, you unlock a network of low cost RV states that stretch your dollars across the country. Below you’ll find articles that dive deeper into each piece of the puzzle—public land camping rules in Michigan, tips for using a toilet while wild camping in the UK, a cost guide for motorhome hire, and many more. Each post adds a layer of detail, helping you turn a vague idea of “cheap motorhome travel” into a concrete, doable plan. Ready to see which states give you the biggest bang for your buck? Scroll on to explore the full collection of guides and start plotting your affordable adventure today.