Summer is one of the best times to hit the road in your RV and explore the country. The weather is nice, the kids are out of school, and after a hectic winter and spring, you could use a vacation. Well, summer is just around the corner so it’s time to start thinking about at least one RV getaway! But planning an RV trip can be expensive if you don’t know how to budget wisely. Here are some top budget tips for planning an RV trip in the summertime:
#1 Book Campsites in Advance
One of the biggest expenses of an RV trip is camping fees. Booking campsites in advance can save you money and ensure you have a spot to park your RV. Many campsites offer discounts for early booking, so check their websites for deals. In addition, you can benefit from certain memberships—such as Harvest Hosts and Good Sam—which offer members free stays or discounts at camping locations across the country.
#2 Plan Your Route Wisely
Major budget busters are tolls and driving through densely populated cities. Plan your route in advance to avoid toll roads and major cities, which can add to your fuel costs. Plus, you can use free or low-cost apps like GasBuddy to find the cheapest fuel prices along your route.
#3 Pack Your Own Food
Eating out every day can quickly add up. It’s hard to buy breakfast for one person for less than $10 these days! And if you’re feeding a family, that quickly adds up. So plan out menus before your trip and pack your own food to save money. To make cooking at your campsite fun, invest in a portable grill or try cooking over open flame at your campfire.
#4 Look for Free Activities
Many national and state parks offer free admission, as do some museums and cultural attractions. Research free or low-cost activities in the areas you plan to visit and save money on entertainment. You may even belong to certain banks or businesses that offer discounts or free admission to cultural activities, such as Bank of America’s Museums on Us® program.
With these budget tips, you can plan a memorable and affordable RV trip this summer. What are some budget-friendly approaches to summer RV travel that you take? Let us know in the comments or contact us today!
