Last Updated on November 25, 2024
Have you ever wondered why California has some of the highest fuel prices in the entire country? Known for its Hollywood glam, Silicon Valley buzz, and breathtaking diverse landscapes, the Golden State also comes with a hefty price tag. The hosts from HappyEverHanks really put this to the test and they end up tracking the costs of RVing from Northern California's Valley to the sunny beaches of San Diego. Whether you are curious about fuel expenses, unexpected repairs, or RV park fees, their video covers it all. Make sure you watch their video. Buckle up, because this journey is as eye-opening as it is wallet-draining.
1. Fuel Costs
California's fuel prices are notoriously high, and the journey from Redding to San Diego was no exception. Diesel prices alone made the travelers consider boondocking more frequently. At $5.29 per gallon at the pump, even their trusty discount card could only bring it down to $4.54. That's a savings of about twenty bucks for a 30-gallon fill-up, which, let’s face it, is just enough to get a decent lunch in California. If anyone ever wondered why so many RVs are parked at truck stops, now they know—they're all crying over their fuel receipts!
2. RV Park Fees
Staying at RV parks in California can be an expensive affair. The travelers were shocked to find that a single night at a regular RV park could set them back $70, even after applying all possible discounts. It’s almost as if the RV parks have Hollywood agents setting their prices! While boondocking is a cheaper alternative, sometimes one just wants to park, set up, and relax without feeling like they’re in a fast-paced action movie.
3. Unexpected Repairs
Nothing says "adventure" like drilling a hole into the frame of an RV and then nervously towing it for the first time. The journey was filled with unexpected repairs, and each one came with its own set of costs and anxieties. They even had to deal with a cattywampus suspension issue that looked like it needed more than just a simple fix. If anyone thinks RVing is all about scenic drives and campfire songs, think again—it’s also about mastering the art of impromptu mechanical engineering!
4. Boondocking and Free Camping
Boondocking, or free camping, is an attractive option to avoid the steep costs of RV parks. The travelers discovered places like Sawtooth Canyon Campground, which offers dispersed camping and a ton of hiking and rock climbing opportunities. Going without hookups can be a challenge, but it’s a small price to pay for a night under the stars. Plus, it gives them the perfect excuse to finally use that generator everyone in the comments has been nagging them to get.
5. Dining and Groceries
Eating out in California can quickly drain a budget, so the travelers often cooked their meals in the RV. Grocery prices are also higher compared to other states, but they’re still more affordable than restaurant meals. Imagine their shock when they realized that even a simple lunch could cost as much as a small tank of diesel! Cooking their own meals might not be as glamorous as dining out, but hey, at least they can pretend they’re celebrity chefs in their own RV kitchen.
6. Entertainment and Activities
California offers endless entertainment and activities, from skiing in the mountains to surfing on the coast. However, these activities often come with a price tag. Ski passes, surfboard rentals, and entrance fees to attractions can add up quickly. The travelers tried to balance paid activities with free or low-cost options like hiking and beach days. After all, who needs a pricey theme park when the great outdoors serves as the playground? Just remember, the best things in life are free—except, of course, when RVing in California.
