Getting Started w/ RV Living, RV Living Tips

Rising Costs of RV Living (and How to Save Money)

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September 24, 2025

Full-time RV living has always been a dream for many—freedom, adventure, and the ability to explore at your own pace. But if you’ve been on the road for any length of time, you’ve probably noticed that costs are climbing. From campground fees to fuel prices, the lifestyle that once promised affordability and flexibility is starting to feel more expensive than ever.

Let’s take a closer look at what’s driving the costs up—and share some practical tips to help you keep RV life sustainable.

Why RV Living Is Getting More Expensive

1. Campground & RV Park Fees

Not too long ago, it wasn’t hard to find RV parks for $20–30 a night. These days, many campgrounds are charging $50–70 per night, and popular resort-style parks can easily top $100. Even monthly rates, once a major money-saver, are creeping upward as demand for sites outpaces supply.

This isn’t just anecdotal—it’s happening across the country. For example, in Idaho, the U.S. Forest Service announced that it will “eliminate free camping and raise fees at 33 Idaho campgrounds” (RV Pro). That means sites that were once free will soon cost RVers more each night.

In Oregon, rates are climbing, too. “Oregon state parks plan to increase camping fees to the highest level at nearly 30 parks” (RV Travel). Full-hookup sites will jump to the upper end of their current range, making a weeklong stay significantly more expensive than just a few years ago.

And in Michigan, Bridge Michigan reported: “Camping fees will rise by $4 to $10 per night at state parks beginning in 2025” (Bridge Michigan). This includes both modern and semi-modern campsites, plus hikes on cabins and lodges.

Even the most affordable paid camping option on the BLM (Bureau of Land Management) LTVAs (Long-Term Visitor Areas), such as those in Quartzsite and the rest of Arizona, has proposed raising its fees by a whopping 333% from $180 per season to $600. Fortunately, due to public feedback, these increases have not yet taken effect, but they remain on the table. For more information on this check out RV Miles’ video by clicking HERE to watch on YouTube.

2. Fuel Costs

Gas and diesel prices continue to fluctuate, and filling up a large motorhome or towing vehicle can hit hard. A full tank might run you $150–$250, depending on where you are.

According to RV Travel, “Fuel costs have again become one of the biggest expenses for RVers. In 2025, RVers are expected to rethink their travel plans as diesel climbs past gasoline.” (RV Travel – Diesel Prices). Another report from the same site noted that “RV fuel prices will influence route planning, with more RVers opting for shorter trips and longer stays.” (RV Travel – Fuel Impact).

3. Rising Maintenance & Repair Costs

From tires to oil changes to unexpected breakdowns, RV maintenance is another area seeing price hikes. With the new tariffs, parts are harder to source, repair shops are backed up for weeks, and labor costs are climbing. Even DIYers are feeling the squeeze when ordering supplies online.

4. Food & Everyday Living

Groceries and eating out have gone up nationwide, but for RVers traveling in remote areas, limited options often mean higher prices or fewer choices. The further off the beaten path you go, the more likely you’ll pay extra for basics.

Tips to Save Money While RVing

Rising costs don’t mean you need to give up the lifestyle you love. With some flexibility and strategy, you can stretch your dollars and keep adventuring.

1. Get Creative With Camping

Boondock (dry camp): Use public lands, national forests, and BLM areas to camp for free or very low cost. Apps like Campendium, FreeRoam, and iOverlander can help.
Join discount clubs: Programs like Passport America, Harvest Hosts, or Thousand Trails can save you up to 50% at participating locations.
Seek monthly stays: Even at higher rates, monthly stays are often cheaper than nightly or weekly bookings.

2. Plan Smarter Travel Routes

Slow down: Fewer miles mean fewer fill-ups. Consider longer stays in each location instead of hopping frequently. PRO TIP: Control the lead foot! Keeping your speed between 50-60 mph gives you the best fuel mileage!
Fuel apps: Use tools like GasBuddy to find the lowest fuel prices along your route.
Travel during shoulder seasons: Avoid expensive “peak season” destinations when possible.

3. Stay on Top of Maintenance

Do small fixes yourself: Learn basic RV repairs to avoid shop fees. YouTube is full of tutorials.
Routine checks: Catch small issues before they become big, expensive ones.
Shop around for parts: Online retailers sometimes beat local RV shops.

4. Save on Food & Daily Expenses

- Cook in your RV: Limit eating out to occasional treats and stock up on groceries in larger towns where prices are lower.
- Buy in bulk: Stores like Costco and Sam’s Club can help you stretch your food budget.
- Farmers’ markets: Seasonal produce is often cheaper and fresher.
*** If you’re curious about how much it costs to live full time in your RV check out the video where I go through my rv living expenses line-by-line to help you budget for your adventure: How Much Does it Cost to Live in an RV Full-time? ***

Final Thoughts

Yes, the costs of RV living are rising. From campground rates in Idaho, Oregon, and Michigan to fuel hikes hitting diesel rigs especially hard, the trend is clear. But with the right mindset, flexibility, and a few strategic money-saving habits, the open road can still be one of the most rewarding and adventurous lifestyles out there.

The key is slowing down, budgeting wisely, and taking advantage of the many resources RVers have at their fingertips.

Because at the end of the day, it’s not about how much you spend—it’s about the freedom, the memories, and the experiences you gain along the way.

Further Reading & Resources

If you’d like to dive deeper into how rising costs are affecting RV life, here are some articles and reports worth checking out:

These resources highlight the real-world changes happening across campgrounds, fuel costs, and state park systems—and can help you plan and budget smarter for the road ahead.

Related Resources from Carolyn’s RV Life:

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Carolyn’s RV Life and Carolyn Higgins share her experiences, thoughts, opinions and ideas in this blog post and on this website for entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, instruction or guidance. Viewers/Readers should consult with professionals before pursing any actions or behaviors exhibited in this video. Carolyn’s RV Life or Carolyn Higgins cannot be held liable in the event of any accident or injury that may occur as a result of application of procedures and information provided in this video.