I agree completely with padredw's reply. Before buying our current Class A we compared expenses of driving a hybrid car (45-50 mpg) and staying at motels versus driving the Class A (8 mpg) and staying at campgrounds while driving cross country. It turns out to be pretty much a wash. The hybrid reduces the fuel costs but then we add in the motel costs plus meals at restaurants and that nearly equals costs for fuel in the RV, campground fees and preparing our own meals.
For us, the biggest attraction to driving cross country in the RV and staying in campgrounds is the people you meet. The managers of motels tend to get upset if you start a campfire in the lobby just so you can meet your neighbors. Another advantage is the campground. Usually secluded and somewhat natural. Yes there are exceptions, but most motels we've stayed at are on frontage roads facing fast food joints, auto parts stores, shopping malls, gas stations, etc..
So there you have my two cents.
Chris
