RV Living Costs: What You Need to Know Before Hitting the Road

If you’re dreaming about life on wheels, the first question is always the money side. How much will a motorhome actually cost you each month? This guide cuts through the hype and gives you a plain‑spoken, item‑by‑item look at the expenses you’ll face when you go full‑time in an RV.

Major Monthly Bills

1. Campsite Fees – Most full‑time RVers park in paid sites for utilities. Prices range from £150 to £400 per month depending on location, hookups, and amenities. If you mix in free boondocking nights, you can bring the average down to around £200.

2. Fuel – Motorhomes sip more than a car, especially on highways. A typical 7‑meter motorhome gets about 12‑15 mpg. Assuming 1,200 miles a month and current diesel prices, budget roughly £250‑£350 for fuel.

3. Insurance – Policies vary by age, vehicle value, and mileage. Expect £80‑£150 a month for comprehensive cover. Young drivers or high‑value rigs may pay more.

4. Maintenance & Repairs – Preventive work (oil changes, tire checks, RV‑specific systems) usually averages £100‑£200 a month when you spread annual costs over the year.

5. Utilities – Electricity, water, and propane are often included in campsite fees, but if you run a solar setup or use external power, add another £30‑£60.

Everyday Living Expenses

Food, laundry, and internet are the same as any household, but the space constraints can change habits. Cooking at home saves big bucks – aim for £150‑£250 for groceries. Internet access at campsites can range from free Wi‑Fi to £30 a month for a mobile hotspot plan.

Don’t forget the often‑overlooked cost of waste disposal. Dump stations charge £5‑£10 per use, so if you empty the tank weekly, set aside £20‑£40.

Finally, factor in licensing and road tax. A motorhome over 3.5 t may need a larger tax class, costing about £150‑£250 annually – roughly £12‑£20 per month.

Adding all these lines together, a realistic monthly budget for a modest full‑time RV lifestyle in the UK sits between £850 and £1,300. Of course, you can live cheaper by staying on free campsites, cooking in bulk, and doing DIY maintenance, or spend more if you choose luxury parks with pools and gyms.

Here are three quick ways to trim the budget without sacrificing the adventure:

• Mix paid sites with free boondocking. Spend weekdays in free spots and reserve paid sites for weekends.
• Invest in solar. A modest solar panel can cut electricity fees by up to 70% after the initial outlay.
• Plan meals ahead. Batch‑cook meals in the motorhome kitchen and avoid pricey campsite restaurants.

Remember, the key to a sustainable RV lifestyle is knowing where your money goes and making small adjustments. Track your expenses for a month, see the biggest spikes, then tweak one thing at a time. Before long, you’ll have a clear picture of your RV living costs and the freedom to roam without financial stress.