downtheroad wrote:
AGC wrote:
1. We don’t really like staying in cabins/hotels because we don’t like using (i.e. sleeping, etc.) other people’s things (i.e. blankets, sheets, etc.)
2. Cost saving as we could eat some meals in the RV/TT, when staying in hotels we eat out EVERY meal
3. More comfortable (and safer) than tent camping
4. We can take the dog with us (also a cost saving)
All good reasons to RV EXCEPT for your #2.
Most of us have learned that overall, you will not save money by using an RV for your traveling. Factor in ALL the costs.
Not trying to discourage you in any way. We RV for many reasons, but saving money is not one of them.
Go for it, you and your family will not regret it.
Agree....if you are thinking of purchasing an RV to save money, then think again. It will take a lot of usage over years to even start to try and break even. Unless you are living in it and you are not paying a mortgage on a real home. You will also find yourself eating out time to time while RVing. That's actually part of the fun.
Costs to think about with an RV....
1) Do you already have a tow vehicle? Yes? Great! Do you normally use it for travel for the whole family? If Yes, then get ready for your gas mileage to go down. Depending on the size of the towable you get will depend on the dip in gas mileage which equals more cost for gas when traveling. If getting a motorhome, plan on around 8mpg unless you can buy a small one with a diesel enging which will give you a little better, but they cost a bit more.
2) Inusurance...depends on RV...
3) Registration and taxes (if applicable where you live).
4) Upkeep....maintenance...stuff breaks
5) Stocking...while many use extra stuff from home, there will probably be stuff you will buy just for it...and it's non stop...was in Ikea yesterday and several times we thought of stuff for the motorhome.
6) campground costs...while cheaper than a hotel, they can not be overlooked.
7) Almost forgot about the actual cost of the unit you buy. Paying cash outright? Great, you can save on the interest. How much you plan on spending? Financing it?
RVing is great, but it's not a savings unless you do it full time...
