RV life is all about freedom, adventure, and… emptying your wallet faster than a black tank on dump day? We recently asked our readers in the newsletter poll: “What is your biggest RV-related expense?”
And let’s just say, the results were eye-opening—like the first time you realized your “compact” RV is actually the size of a small moon.
If you missed the poll, don’t worry—there’s always next time! Make sure to vote so your voice is heard (and so we can all collectively cry over our spending habits together).
The Poll Results: Where Your Money Really Goes
Here’s how the votes stacked up:
| Expense | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Campground fees | 37% |
| Fuel | 32% |
| Maintenance | 26% |
| Upgrades | 5% |
Campground Fees: The Silent Budget Killer
With 37% of the votes, campground fees took the crown as the biggest expense. Who knew that parking your home-on-wheels on a patch of dirt could cost more than a fancy hotel? Between premium sites with “ocean views” (aka a puddle from last night’s rain) and resorts that charge extra for things like “air” and “sunshine,” it’s no wonder this category won. Pro tip: If you ever feel guilty about splurging on a full-hookup site, just tell yourself it’s cheaper than therapy.
Fuel: Because Your RV Drinks Gas Like It’s Happy Hour
Coming in hot at 32%, fuel expenses prove that RVs move about as efficiently as a brick with a jet engine. Whether you’re rolling in a diesel pusher or a gas-guzzling Class A, every trip feels like a high-stakes game of “How much will this cost?” Bonus points if you’ve ever pulled into a gas station and heard the attendant whisper, “You might want to sit down before we ring this up.”
Maintenance: The Never-Ending Money Pit
At 26%, maintenance is the sneaky expense that waits until you least expect it—like a surprise party, except instead of cake, you get a blown tire or a leaky roof. Just when you think you’ve got everything under control, your RV whispers, “Hey, remember that warranty you didn’t buy? Yeah… about that.”
Upgrades: The “I Swear This Is the Last One” Lie
A mere 5% of voters said upgrades were their biggest expense, which either means:
- You’re all incredibly disciplined (unlikely).
- You’re in denial (very likely).
Let’s be real—no one needs a disco ball in their awning lights… but does that stop us? Absolutely not.
Why Did Campground Fees Win? Our Theory
We think campground fees took the top spot because, unlike fuel or maintenance, they’re a recurring expense you can’t easily avoid. Sure, you can boondock to save money, but after a few nights of “rustic charm” (read: no showers), even the priciest RV resort starts to look reasonable. Plus, with rising demand for RV travel, campgrounds know they’ve got us right where they want us—desperate and willing to pay for a level spot and a working sewer hookup.
So, what’s your biggest RV budget drain?
Drop a comment—misery loves company! And don’t forget to vote in our next poll so we can all bond over our questionable financial decisions together. Happy (and hopefully budget-friendly) travels!
