Full-time RVing costs, data-backed: real budgets, campsite pricing, insurance, fuel, connectivity

Introduction: What Full-Time RVing Really Costs in 2025—A Clear-Eyed Look Before You Leap

AI-powered research tools have systematically collected and analyzed public information to produce this report. Our goal is to give aspiring and current full-timers a frank, numbers-first view of what it actually costs to live on the road in 2025, why those costs have shifted since 2020, and how to plan a resilient budget in a market still adjusting from the pandemic boom. You’ll find up-to-date strategies, warning signs, and cost controls that matter to your bottom line, whether you choose a van, a travel trailer, a fifth wheel, or a motorhome.

Prices for rigs, campsites, fuel, insurance, and connectivity have all moved since 2020—and not in a straight line. Used RV prices cooled in 2023–2024 after peaking in the boom, yet financing, insurance underwriting for full-timers, and campground dynamic pricing have tightened. This report breaks down each major cost category with actionable tactics and specific examples. We also summarize owner-reported pain points and what’s actually working out there.

Where to Hear Unfiltered Owner Experiences (Start Here)

Before locking in a budget, read what full-timers are saying right now. Peer reports will help you avoid wishful thinking and hidden costs. For independent perspectives, try:

Reddit r/RVLiving discussions about Full-time RVing costs (search by rig type, region, and “monthly budget”).
YouTube breakdowns of Full-time RVing costs (watch for exact line items and timeframes).
Join multiple Facebook full-time RVing groups for current pricing and availability trends—use this search: Full-time RVing Facebook groups (Google search). Compare posts across several groups for a balanced view.

Have you seen campsite rates or insurance premiums change recently? Add your firsthand cost update.

Baseline Monthly Budget: What Most Full-Timers Spend

Core line items you’ll almost certainly have

Rig payment or depreciation: Loan payment if financed; if paid cash, plan for depreciation and future replacement.
Insurance: Full-timer’s RV policy (liability similar to homeowner’s), plus auto if towing, health insurance, and sometimes umbrella liability.
Registration/Taxes: Varies by domicile state.
Campsites: Nightly, weekly, monthly, or long-term stays; plus utilities if metered.
Fuel & Tolls: Driven miles, rig type, regional fuel prices.
Maintenance & Repairs: Routine service plus reserve for breakdowns.
Connectivity: Cellular data plans and/or Starlink.
Propane & Electricity: Heat/cooking; metered electricity on monthlies.
Mail forwarding & domicile services: Address, scanning, and forwarding.
Personal & household: Groceries, laundry, subscriptions, entertainment.

Typical monthly spending ranges in 2025

These are real-world ranges reported by owners and corroborated by marketplace pricing as of late 2024 into 2025. Your choices and travel style will push you to the low or high end.

Frugal solo in a van or small trailer: $1,700–$2,800/month.
Couple in 25–32′ trailer or Class C, moderate travel: $2,800–$4,500/month.
Family in fifth wheel or Class A, active travel and connectivity: $4,200–$7,000+/month.

Key drivers: campsite type and duration, mileage, insurance assumptions (full-timer’s vs standard), connectivity plan mix, and whether you finance the rig. What are your current averages? Tell us your monthly budget.

Startup Costs You Should Budget Before Launch

Acquisition costs beyond the sticker price

Sales tax, title, registration: State-specific; can be 0–10%+ depending on domicile and local taxes.
Dealer fees: “Doc,” “delivery,” and “prep” fees often add $500–$2,500. Ask for an itemized out-the-door quote before signing.
Pre-purchase inspection: Hire a certified inspector to avoid expensive misses. Search locally: RV Inspectors near me.
Initial maintenance catch-up: Tires (age matters more than tread), battery replacement, roof reseal, fluids and filters, brake service.
Essential gear: Surge protector/EMS, water filter, pressure regulator, sewer kit, leveling blocks, torque wrench, TPMS, fire extinguishers, first-aid kit.
Connectivity hardware: Router/hotspots, external antennas; Starlink hardware if needed.
Safety and security: Smoke/CO detectors, propane leak detector, deadbolts/cams, rear/side cameras.

Insist on roof, frame, slide, and appliance functionality tests during inspection. Water intrusion and structural issues are the most expensive surprises.

Financing vs Cash: The Real Cost of Money

Loan landscape in 2024–2025

Rates rose significantly from 2020 lows: Many RV loans now carry mid-to-high single-digit APRs depending on credit and term.
Long terms (12–20 years) lower payments, raise interest cost: Extending term to fit the monthly budget can create negative equity for years.
Dealer-arranged financing: Convenient but often pricier; compare with bank/credit union pre-approvals.

Finance office add-ons: Be selective

Extended service contracts (ESC): Some owners report value on big failures; others encounter exclusions and denial conflicts. Read term length, covered components, labor rates, and claim process carefully.
GAP coverage: Can be appropriate if putting little down on a fast-depreciating rig.
Tire & wheel, paint/fabric protection: Mixed value; many consider self-insuring via an emergency fund.

Accountability note: Don’t sign a payment-driven deal without an out-the-door itemization and the total cost of credit. Full-timers frequently report being rushed through F&I disclosures; slow down and insist on copies before agreeing. What add-ons did you accept or reject? Share what saved or cost you money.

Insurance and Domicile: Hidden Differentials You Need to Price

Full-timer’s policy vs. recreational use

Full-timer’s liability: Functions like homeowners liability if your RV is your primary residence.
Personal property and medical coverage: Check sub-limits for electronics, e-bikes, and tools; you may need riders.
Underwriting tightened: In high-claim states or for certain rig types, some carriers have reduced appetite; premiums have trended upward since 2022.

Domicile states (TX, SD, FL) and cost impacts

Vehicle registration fees and insurance rates: Shop quotes across your top domicile candidates.
Health insurance access: ACA EPO/HMO networks can be state-centric; consider national PPO options when available, or pair with telemedicine.
Mail forwarding services: Typically $15–$30/month plus postage; budget setup fees and notarized USPS Form 1583.

Owners report the biggest variability in Florida and Texas insurance pricing for full-timers; quotes vary drastically by address and rig. Verify your “garaging” address matches your insurer’s rules for full-time use.

Campground Pricing Reality in 2025

Nightly, weekly, monthly—how rates stack

Nightly: $40–$120+ depending on region and amenities; popular coastal or national park-adjacent areas often surge higher.
Weekly: Common 7-for-6 style discounts; still subject to dynamic pricing.
Monthly: $450–$1,200+ plus electric; metro and resort locations commonly exceed $1,000/month.

What’s changed since 2020

Dynamic pricing: Peak seasons and events can spike rates dramatically.
Resort and pet fees: Added charges for amenities and multiple pets are more common.
Availability: Pressure has eased since 2021’s peak, but booking early is still wise for popular months or destinations.

Strategies to lower campsite spend

Stay monthly with metered electric: Even with power costs, monthlies often cut lodging costs by 30–50%.
State park systems and LTVA: Many state parks offer affordable weeklies; Bureau of Land Management Long-Term Visitor Areas (LTVA) can be ultra-economical in winter.
Memberships:
- Thousand Trails: Zone pass runs several hundred dollars/year, often on sale; upgrades add cost but can slash nightly spend if you travel within network.
- Passport America: ~50% off participating parks, usually weeknights with restrictions.
- Harvest Hosts/Boondockers Welcome: Excellent for overnights between longer stays; factor in courtesy purchases at hosts.
- Good Sam/KOA: Modest nightly discounts; KOA monthly rates vary widely.
Workamping/volunteering: Trade site fees for set hours; great for seasonal anchoring and community.

Fuel, Mileage, and Route Planning

Typical fuel economy ranges

Class A diesel pusher: ~7–10 mpg.
Class C gas: ~8–12 mpg.
Half-ton towing a mid-size trailer: ~8–12 mpg depending on terrain/speed.
Three-quarter/one-ton towing large fifth wheel: ~8–11 mpg (diesel often on the higher end under load).
Van builds: ~14–20+ mpg depending on weight and engine.

Monthly cost drivers

Miles per month: Touring weekly can 2–3x your fuel budget vs staying put for a month.
Speed and wind: Cruising at 65 vs 75 mph notably improves mpg.
Regional prices: Coastal and remote areas tend to cost more per gallon.

Route clustering—planning loops within 200–300 miles and anchoring with monthly stays—consistently delivers the best combined savings for lodging and fuel.

Connectivity in 2025: Starlink, Cellular, or Both?

What most full-timers end up with

Two-carrier cellular setup: Example: one AT&T hotspot plan + one Verizon or T-Mobile plan for redundancy.
Starlink: Hardware commonly $599+; mobile-focused monthly plans typically in the $150–$200+ range depending on priority and motion features.
Pros and cons: Starlink shines in remote areas with weak cell coverage; cellular is cheaper and can be faster near towns.

Typical monthly spend

Budget connectivity: $60–$120 (one carrier, deprioritized plans; less reliable for work).
Reliable remote work: $150–$350+ (multi-carrier plus Starlink for redundancy).

Owners emphasize redundancy if your livelihood depends on internet. Pay attention to plan terms (deprioritization thresholds, throttling, in-motion restrictions).

Maintenance, Repairs, and Big-Ticket Risks

Annualized routine maintenance

Engine and generator service: Oil/filters based on hours/miles; budget several hundred dollars annually.
Roof maintenance: Inspection and reseal as needed; set aside funds yearly.
Tires: Replace based on age (often 5–7 years). Class A sets can run several thousand; trailer tire sets lower, but still budget for quality and TPMS.
House systems: Water heater/anode, furnace, fridge maintenance, slide seals, and leveling system checks.

Common expensive failures

Water damage and delamination: Repairs can easily reach thousands; prevention and early detection are critical.
Absorption refrigerator replacement: Conversions to residential fridges are popular after failures; budget for inverter/battery impacts.
Slide mechanisms and leveling systems: Motors, hydraulics, and controllers are costly.
Transmission/engine work: For motorized rigs, set aside a serious emergency reserve.

Mitigate risk proactively

Emergency fund: Many full-timers target $5,000–$15,000 depending on rig class and age.
Quality surge protection/EMS: Protects from bad pedestal power; far cheaper than replacing electronics.
TPMS and load management: Proper tire pressures and weight distribution reduce blowouts and suspension wear.
Service lead times: Expect longer waits in peak season; mobile techs can bridge the gap for many issues.

Propane, Electricity, and Heating/Cooling Costs

What to plan for

Propane: $20–$60/month typical; spikes in cold weather if heating primarily with LP.
Electricity on monthlies: $0.12–$0.25/kWh common; heavy AC use can push $75–$200+ in hot months.
Hybrid strategies: Heat pumps down to moderate temps; space heaters if metered electric is cheaper than propane (confirm campground rules).

Insulate weak points (windows, vents) to control HVAC costs. Simple fixes like reflective window coverings and vent cushions pay for themselves.

Mobile Internet and Work Costs for Remote Professionals

Budgeting for serious online work

Hardware: $300–$1,500+ for a tandem cellular router, antennas, mounts; Starlink hardware adds more.
Plans: $150–$350+/month for robust multi-carrier coverage with Starlink redundancy.
Power: Larger battery and inverter capacity if you rely on residential appliances and Starlink off-grid.

If your income depends on uploads and video calls, budget top-end connectivity—then save elsewhere (monthly campsite rates, route clustering) to offset it.

Domicile, Mail, and Voting: The Unseen Budget Line Items

Mail and address solutions

Mail forwarding providers: Expect $15–$30/month for basic plans with scanning; forwarding postage is extra.
Document requirements: USPS Form 1583 and notarization; ensure your “PMB” is accepted by your insurers and banks.

Taxes and registrations

State differences: Vehicle taxation and registration fees vary widely; run scenarios before committing to TX/SD/FL or elsewhere.
Driver’s licensing: Check CDL or non-commercial Class B/A requirements for heavy rigs in your domicile state.

Sample Monthly Budgets: Four Realistic Scenarios

1) Solo in a DIY van, heavy boondocking

Campsites: $0–$300 (BLM/state land + occasional pay stays)
Fuel: $150–$350 (slow travel)
Connectivity: $80–$150 (one carrier + occasional Starlink borrow or day-pass)
Insurance & registration: $120–$220
Maintenance reserve: $100–$200
Propane/electricity: $20–$60
Mail forwarding: $15–$30
Food/life: $300–$600
Total: ~$1,700–$2,600 (no rig payment)

2) Couple in a 30′ travel trailer, monthly stays

Campsites: $650–$1,100 (monthly + electric)
Fuel: $200–$400 (short relocations)
Connectivity: $120–$220 (two carriers)
Insurance & registration (truck + trailer): $200–$380
Maintenance reserve: $150–$300
Propane/electricity: $60–$150
Mail forwarding: $15–$30
Food/life: $500–$900
Loan payment (if financed): varies widely ($300–$900+)
Total: ~$2,800–$4,500+

3) Family in a large fifth wheel, active travel

Campsites: $900–$1,600 (mix of weekly and nightly)
Fuel: $350–$700 (more miles)
Connectivity: $180–$350 (multi-carrier + Starlink)
Insurance & registration (HD truck + fifth wheel): $300–$550
Maintenance reserve: $250–$500
Propane/electricity: $100–$250
Mail forwarding: $15–$30
Food/life: $800–$1,400
Loan payments (truck + trailer if financed): varies ($800–$1,800+ combined)
Total: ~$4,200–$7,000+

4) Remote-work couple in a Class A diesel, mixed travel

Campsites: $1,000–$1,800 (prefer resort amenities, some monthly)
Fuel: $300–$600
Connectivity: $220–$400 (cell redundancy + Starlink)
Insurance & registration: $250–$500
Maintenance reserve: $300–$600
Propane/electricity: $100–$250
Mail forwarding: $15–$30
Food/life: $600–$1,000
Loan payment (if financed): often $1,000–$2,000+
Total: ~$4,400–$7,500+

Does one of these profiles match yours? Which scenario fits your costs?

Cutting Costs Without Cutting Safety

High-value savings

Shift to monthly rates: Anchor in shoulder seasons to get lower monthly pricing in desirable areas.
Bundle memberships strategically: Use Passport America and Harvest Hosts to bridge between longer, cheaper stays.
Optimize speed and route: Keep speeds to 60–65 mph and route with elevation and wind forecasts.
DIY maintenance: Learn seasonal checks (roof, caulking), basic electrical/plumbing fixes; invest in tools once.
Power management: Use EMS, balance propane vs electric based on metering, and upgrade insulation.

Where not to skimp

Tires and brakes: Age out tires proactively; a blowout costs more than a replacement.
Surge protection/EMS: Protects your entire electrical system from bad pedestals.
Insurance coverage: Confirm full-timer’s liability and personal property coverage levels.
Inspections: Before purchase and periodically after major repairs or heavy seasons.

Dealer and Campground Negotiation Tactics

At the dealership

Out-the-door price first: Demand a line-item quote; ignore monthly payment pitches until you see total cost.
Shop multiple markets: Out-of-state dealers may have better pricing, but factor tax/registration logistics.
Contingent offer: Make it contingent on passing an independent inspection and a cold-start demo of all systems.

At campgrounds

Ask for monthly rates even in shoulder months: Many parks offer discounts outside peak season.
Negotiate pet and extra vehicle fees: Especially for longer stays; some parks will waive or reduce.
Request metered electric details upfront: Ask for last month’s kWh history for your site type if available.

Owner-Reported Cost Pain Points (And How to Address Them)

Summarized consumer concerns from public forums

“Campground prices keep creeping up.” Owners report resort fees, dynamic pricing, and higher pet charges since 2021. Tactic: lock monthly rates and leverage memberships to cover gap nights.
“Insurance jumped when I switched to full-time.” Full-timer’s liability and personal property riders raise premiums. Tactic: shop multiple carriers and test quotes in TX/SD/FL before choosing domicile.
“Repair delays and labor rates are brutal.” Parts delays eased vs 2021–2022 but backlogs still happen. Tactic: mobile techs for non-warranty issues and proactive seasonal maintenance checks.
“Connectivity is the lifeline—and it’s pricey.” Professional remote workers often carry two cell plans plus Starlink. Tactic: budget for redundancy and incorporate savings elsewhere with monthlies.

To read ongoing discussions and budget breakdowns by rig type, sift through r/RVLiving cost threads and corroborate with YouTube full-time RVing cost videos.

Power Upgrades: Solar, Lithium, and Generators—Cost vs Payoff

Budgeting for off-grid capability

Starter solar: 200–400W panels + PWM/MPPT controller + 200Ah batteries: $1,000–$2,500 DIY.
Mid-tier: 400–800W + 200–400Ah lithium + inverter/charger: $3,000–$7,000 DIY; more with pro install.
High-end: 1,000W+ solar + 400–800Ah lithium + 3,000W inverter + DC-DC charging: $6,000–$15,000.
Generator strategy: Onboard or portable; factor fuel, sound, and maintenance. Many blend solar for daytime loads and generator for heavy draws/AC.

Financially, solar rarely “pays back” in strict dollars unless you boondock extensively—but it dramatically increases flexibility, work reliability, and campsite options.

Health Insurance and Medical Costs On the Road

Planning considerations

ACA plans: Many EPO/HMO networks limit out-of-state coverage except emergencies; scrutinize networks if you roam.
Alternative arrangements: National PPOs, high-deductible plans paired with HSAs, and telemedicine offerings can help fill gaps.
Prescriptions and labs: Use nationwide chains and order-ahead pickups; budget for travel to in-network providers when needed.

Legalities and Local Rules That Can Impact Costs

Stay length and parking restrictions

Municipal overnight bans: Some cities restrict lot camping (e.g., select Walmarts); plan backup options to avoid last-minute high-rate parks.
BLM and USFS limits: Typically 14-day rules; enforcement and fines vary—factor drive-outs into fuel budget.
Long-term RV park policies: Background checks, deposits, and pet breed restrictions can add upfront costs.

Hidden Fees and “Gotchas” That Bust Budgets

At purchase

Freight/prep padding: Some dealers inflate these; compare across multiple out-the-door quotes.
Extended service contract exclusions: Pre-existing conditions disputes are common; keep inspection records and maintenance logs.

On the road

Electric surcharges: Some parks apply high kWh rates; request rates in writing before booking monthly.
Data throttling: Cheap plans slow to unusable speeds during work hours; read the fine print on deprioritization thresholds.
Toll roads: Large rigs incur higher toll classes; set aside funds if traveling through major toll regions.

What’s Changed Since 2020: A Brief Timeline

Key shifts affecting budgets

2020–2022: Demand surge; new and used RV prices jumped; campsites booked months ahead; connectivity and mobile tech investments spiked.
2023–2024: Used prices cooled; some supply normalized. Insurance underwriting tightened in certain states; interest rates increased; park rates continued price experimentation.
2025: Relative availability improved versus peak years, but popular areas still pricey; professional-grade connectivity remains a major line item for working travelers.

Your 10-Step Cost-Planning Checklist

1. Define your travel style: Nightly tours vs monthly anchors; estimate monthly miles.
2. Price campsites realistically: Use monthly rates where possible; confirm electric metering.
3. Choose domicile thoughtfully: Compare registration, insurance, and health plan options by state.
4. Get multiple insurance quotes: Full-timer’s policy, auto (if towing), and umbrella if needed.
5. Build a connectivity stack: Redundant carriers; evaluate Starlink for your routes.
6. Set an emergency fund: Target $5,000–$15,000 depending on rig and risk tolerance.
7. Plan maintenance: Tires-by-age, roof checks, fluids, and appliance service.
8. Audit the finance offer: Out-the-door pricing, APR, total interest, and any add-on contracts.
9. Lock in memberships that fit: Don’t overbuy; start with one or two and expand as needed.
10. Review quarterly: Track actuals vs budget and adjust route, memberships, and stays.

Reality Checks from the Road: Validating Claims

To cross-verify the ranges and issues discussed here, compare owner-reported budgets and detailed line items across multiple sources. Scan the latest posts and videos focusing specifically on costs, not just travel highlights:

If your real-world costs differ, we want to know where and why. Post your numbers and region.

Accountability: When to Escalate, Document, or Walk Away

Finance and insurance

Documentation: Keep copies of every finance and insurance page; confirm policy endorsements reference full-time use.
Dispute add-ons: If you were sold an ESC under pressure, some states allow cooling-off periods; ask immediately.

Repairs and warranties

Service orders: Demand detailed written estimates, labor rates, and timelines; approve change orders in writing.
Manufacturer and component recalls: Check for open recalls before paying out-of-pocket; keep serial numbers handy.

Putting It All Together: A Sustainable Full-Time Budget

Build the model that fits you

Start conservative: Assume higher campsite, insurance, and connectivity costs in year one; your skills will lower costs over time.
Track by category: Campsites, fuel, maintenance, insurance, connectivity, groceries, and lifestyle. Use a separate reserve for big repairs.
Iterate: After three months, review actuals and adjust travel pace or memberships.
Exit plan: If you need to sell the rig, know current comps and payoff; avoid negative equity by not over-extending term/price.

Full-time RVing can cost less than a city apartment or much more than a suburban mortgage—outcomes hinge on travel tempo, rig choice, and discipline. The best budgets are honest, flexible, and reviewed regularly. What’s your single biggest cost pressure right now? Join the discussion with your top challenge.

Comments

We read every comment to update our cost estimates and examples. What are you actually spending per month, and what surprised you the most? Please share detailed line items, your rig type, travel pace, and regions so other readers can calibrate their plans accurately.