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Traveling By RV: How to Reduce Your Expenses
Do you enjoy traveling? If you do, you may want to examine RV trips. Traveling by RV is not only a great way to get to your destination, but it is also a relatively affordable way to vacation and sees all that the United States has to offer.
As previously stated, traveling by RV is a relatively affordable way to travel. With that being said, many are still concerned with the cost. Yes, traveling by RV can be an expensive venture, but there are steps that you can take to help reduce costs. Just a few of the many ways that you can help to reduce or at least limit the costs associated with traveling in a motor home are outlined below.
If you do not already own a motor home, you will want to consider all of your options. For starters, do you have a close friend or family member who would let you borrow their RV or even rent it? If so, this approach is often much cheaper than dealing with a professional RV rental company. Speaking of RV rentals, be sure to examine all of your options. If you have access to two or more motor home rental companies, be sure to compare prices. The largest expense of traveling in a motor home is renting or buying one to travel in.
Stock Up
Another great way to help reduce the cost of traveling by RV is to stock up on supplies when they are on sale. This is ideal for long-distance trips, as you likely need more supplies, including food, drinks, snacks, and toiletries. Even if you are interested in taking a last-minute RV trip, you can still save money. You can do this by shopping at stores that you already know have low prices. Watching what you buy and what you spend is an easy way to save money.
Fill Gas Tank
Before you leave for your trip, make sure that you fill up your gas tank. What is nice about doing so locally is that you likely already have a good idea as to which gas stations have the cheapest prices. Of course, you will never want to run too long on gas when on the road, but if you can stop in well-populated areas, you may be able to save money. Well, populated areas often give you access to multiple gas stations all within a short distance. This makes it easier to find the cheapest gas prices. If possible, avoid isolated gas stations, as they often have the highest gas prices.
Compare Prices
If you will be staying at a public campground or an RV park, take the time to compare prices. This can be done as soon as you have a destination in mind. Many areas in the United States have multiple RV parks or public campgrounds with motor home accommodations. Remember that not all charge the same rates. That is why you should compare prices. You can easily find information on campgrounds and parks online. If rates are not posted online, a quick phone call can get you the answers that you need. Comparing rental rates for motor home accommodations can save you a considerable amount of money, especially on long-distance trips.
Moochdock
In keeping with overnight accommodations, if you are traveling to visit friends or family, see if you can park and stay on their land, even if you must do so in their driveway. This can save you a considerable amount of money. It also gives you the opportunity to spend as much time as possible with those that you are visiting.
Odds and Ends
- Don’t do propane tank exchanges, and check your tire pressure
- Slow down and stay longer.
- Invest in a slow cooker, air fryer, or Instant Pot.
- Take advantage of Groupon or free tours.
- Use the GasBuddy or TSD Diesel Discount.
- Use the GoodRx or ScriptSave WellRx,
- Park outside major cities.
As outlined above, there are a number of steps that you can take to limit or reduce the cost of traveling by RV. Additional ways that you can save money include preparing your meals on your motor home, as opposed to eating at restaurants, as well as by visiting popular attractions with no or low admission fees, such as parks. Another great way to save money when traveling by RV simply involves using your best judgment.
