Renting an RV for a road trip sounds like an amazing adventure—until you realize how many hidden fees can sneak up on you. From rental costs to gas-guzzling mileage charges, the expenses can add up faster than marshmallows roasting over a campfire.

Whether you’re dreaming of a cozy pop-up trailer or a luxurious motorhome, it’s crucial to budget wisely so you don’t end up broke before your first s’more session.

To help break it all down, a video from ETrailer covers all the costs of renting an RV.

1. Rental Fees: The Starting Point

The most obvious cost is the rental itself, and prices vary wildly depending on what you choose. As Jacob from ETrailer explains, “If you’re looking for a budget option, we recommend a pop-up trailer or a small travel trailer—these are going to run you about $70 to $100 a night.” But if you want something fancier, like the massive RVs in the background of the video, prepare to shell out “anywhere between $200 to $300 an evening.”

Sure, luxury RVs are cool, but is that $300-a-night rig really worth it when you’ll probably spend half the trip arguing over who gets the top bunk?

2. Travel Costs: Gas, Tolls, and Mileage, Oh My!

Once you’ve got the RV, the real financial pain begins—fuel costs. Jacob warns, “If you think your car uses up a lot of fuel at the tank now, wait until you start towing a travel trailer.” Every extra 100 lbs decreases fuel efficiency by about 2%, meaning your wallet will feel lighter long before you reach your destination. And don’t forget tolls—RVs often get charged double!

At this rate, you might as well just burn cash in a campfire—it’ll keep you warm and save you the hassle of stopping for gas every 50 miles.

3. Insurance: Because Accidents Happen (Especially When Backing Up)

Insurance is non-negotiable, and Jacob notes it’ll cost “anywhere between about $5 to $75.” Some rentals include it, but if not, check if your current insurance offers temporary RV coverage.

If you’ve ever parallel parked a sedan poorly, imagine doing it with a 30-foot RV. Yeah, insurance is definitely worth it.

4. Generator Fees: Power Isn’t Free

Some rentals charge extra for generator use—“an additional $5 to $10 a day,” plus the cost of fuel or propane to keep it running.

Nothing says “relaxing vacation” like constantly worrying about whether your generator will conk out mid-movie night.

5. Additional Fees: The Sneaky Budget-Killers

Campsite fees, late return charges, and cleaning costs can all pile up. As Jacob puts it, “There’s no telling how many s’mores you are going to eat over the weekend,” so budget for food and supplies too.

You thought renting the RV was the expensive part? Just wait until you see the bill for forgetting to empty the dump tank.

Final Thoughts

Renting an RV can be an incredible experience—if you plan for all the costs. For even more tips, check out the full video below!