Monthly RV Expenses: Simple Budget Guide for Motorhome Travelers

Thinking about hitting the road in a motorhome? Before you book a campsite, you need to know what you’ll spend each month. Knowing the numbers helps you avoid surprise bills and lets you enjoy the journey.

Core Costs You Can’t Ignore

Fuel. Motorhomes gulp more petrol or diesel than a car. On average a 30‑foot RV uses about 12‑15 mpg. If you drive 1,000 miles a month, expect roughly £200‑£300 for fuel, depending on price and road conditions.

Campsite fees. Hook‑ups (electric, water, sewage) cost anywhere from £15 to £50 per night. A full‑time boondocker who stays in one spot can keep this under £500 a month, while a traveler moving weekly may spend £800‑£1,200.

Insurance. Comprehensive RV insurance typically runs £60‑£120 a month. It covers road accidents, theft and accidental damage, so it’s worth budgeting for the higher end if you travel far.

Maintenance and servicing. Regular checks, oil changes and tyre wear add up. Set aside £100‑£150 each month to cover routine work and unexpected fixes.

Electricity and water. Even when you’re not at a campsite, you’ll need power for lights, fridge or charging devices. A good portable battery or solar panel can cut costs, but plan for £30‑£50 a month for grid electricity.

Depreciation. Owning a motorhome is like owning a car – it loses value. If you intend to keep it for several years, factor about £100 a month as a “loss” on resale value.

Tips to Keep Your Monthly Spend Low

Choose free‑boondocking spots whenever possible. National forests, rest areas and some farms let you park overnight for free. Just check local rules first.

Invest in a solar panel kit. After the upfront cost, you’ll generate free power for lights and small appliances, trimming your electricity bill.

Keep your speed steady. Driving at 55‑60 mph improves fuel economy dramatically. A smoother ride also reduces wear on the engine and tyres.

Shop around for insurance. Online comparison tools can shave off 10‑15% of the premium without sacrificing coverage.

Plan your route to hit multiple campsites in one area. Staying longer at one site often earns discounts and reduces the number of hookup fees you pay.

Do simple DIY maintenance. Changing your oil, checking tyre pressure and cleaning the filters can be done in an afternoon and save you a hefty garage bill.

Track every expense in a spreadsheet or budgeting app. Seeing the numbers daily stops small leaks from becoming big holes.

Consider a smaller motorhome for the first year. A 20‑foot model uses less fuel, costs less to insure and fits into tighter campsites, cutting your monthly outlay.

Join RV clubs. Many offer members‑only discounts on campsites, fuel, and even insurance.

Finally, be realistic about how much you’ll travel each month. If you only go on weekends, your campsite and fuel costs will be far lower than a full‑time nomad.

By snapping these tips together, you can keep your monthly RV expenses in check and spend more time enjoying the open road instead of worrying about bills.