Whether you’ve already embraced full-time RV living and want to cut costs, or you are seriously considering a permanent RV camping life, several full-time RV living tips will help you enjoy a nomadic lifestyle while also saving money.
1. RV Memberships and Reward Programmes
Full-time RV living for beginners can mean adjusting to many of the intricacies and nuances of life on the road. The more you liaise with fellow RVers, the quicker you’ll find out what will make your lifestyle choice successful and economical. Most experienced travellers and campers take advantage of memberships and reward programmes as one of their full-time RV living must-haves. You can save money with discounted campground and RV park fees, fuel price savings, free RV apps and several other partnership offers.
For example, KOA Rewards gives RVers in North America a 10% discount on daily registrations at over 500 locations and offers a free night of camping at specified campgrounds over their Rewards Weekend. The rewards programme’s partners also get discounts on items like tyres and RV mattresses. KOA Rewards is one of many RV clubs and reward programs that offer multiple benefits to its members, so you should investigate available membership options for valuable savings.
2. Use Campground Memberships for Longer Stays
How much do RV parks cost? This pertinent question can be a deciding factor as you weigh the potential benefits of switching to life on the road. Depending on the RV park or campground, the cost can be akin to paying for a hotel stay, so take advantage of any saving opportunities you can. While RV club memberships and reward programs can substantially lessen your financial burden, becoming a member at your favorite campgrounds will save you even more.
You’ll enjoy significantly reduced daily camping rates as an RV park member, with even more savings for extended stays at a single location. Staying longer maximizes weekly, monthly or seasonal deals and reduces trips, so you use less fuel. To make the most of these benefits, consider slowing down your travels and staying in campgrounds where you genuinely enjoy the surroundings.
3. Camp in State and National Parks
It’s well-known that camping in national or state parks is typically cheaper than in privately owned RV parks, and these sites are full of outdoor activities and programs. If you’re near a government park, you might want to stay for a night or two and avoid extra camping expenses. You’ll also save on entertainment, as your camping admission fee will include the cost of your park-based activities.
4. Refill Your Propane Tank
It’s easy to exchange your almost-empty propane tank, but is it worth it? Many RV bloggers say they lose out by exchanging their tanks because there’s inevitably propane left even when the tank feels empty. If you’re swapping out a tank, you may be handing the dealer up to five pounds of fuel, which means they save on a refill instead of you.
Refilling always means you’re paying for what you receive and not giving anything away in return. On average, refilling your tank also costs you less, as exchanging your tank will likely be more expensive per gallon than a refill. Remember, you’re living in an RV to save money, so do the math and pass on the short time-savings you might reap by exchanging tanks.
5. Regularly Check Your Tyre Pressure
Don’t forget to check your tyre pressure when you fuel up. Full-time RVers rack up the miles, and the more you travel, the more necessary it will be to keep your tires inflated to optimal pressures. While the obvious reasons are to ensure their longevity and keep you safe by reducing the chances of blowouts, there’s another factor to consider.
The US Department of Energy states that inflating your tires to stipulated pressures can increase your gas mileage by up to 3%, with the average being slightly under a percentage point. Your tires will also last longer, which will save you money even if you’re an RV reward programme member and receive discounts on tires.
Other Ways to Save With Full-Time RV Living
Besides the above tips, here are other smaller but relevant ways to ensure you don’t spend more than you have to as a permanent RVer.
- Check your RV’s weight to ensure you’re getting the optimal gas mileage. It’s up to you to decide which possessions you leave in storage when you live on the road. If you’re on the fence about whether you’ll use something, leave it behind. Traveling lighter is safer and saves gas.
- Keep your travelling speed down to avoid issues like blowouts and other mechanical problems. You’ll reach every destination sooner when your trips are uneventful.
- Shop for groceries instead of stopping at restaurants for every meal. Home cooking is kinder for your budget, so reserve dining out for special occasions.
Saving Money Is Easier With Knowledge and Experience
Whether you’re new to full-time RV living or are considering it in the future, keep these money-saving tricks in your back pocket to make your lifestyle more cost-effective. Speaking to experienced RVers will give you additional insights, and you’ll pick up specific cost-saving methods over time. Do yourself a favor, though — invest in that RV reward programme soon.
