Last Updated on September 10, 2024
Living the RV lifestyle can be an exhilarating experience filled with adventure, freedom, and the open road. But how much does it really cost to live in an RV full-time? In a video by HappilyEverHanks, they meticulously tracked their expenses for the entire year of 2023, providing valuable insights into the various costs associated with this nomadic lifestyle. Just remember to adjust for the cost of going up for this current year. So, whether you're an aspiring full-time RVer or just curious about the costs, buckle up as we dive into the details.
1. Cost of Fuel
Fuel is, unsurprisingly, one of the most significant expenses for full-time RVers. In 2023, The Hank's RV Life traveled a staggering 19,000 miles, with 11,853 of those miles being towing miles. Diesel prices can be a real wallet-buster, especially when you’re driving a 2017 GMC Sierra diesel truck. Their total fuel cost for the year was a whopping $8,335.74. June was their most expensive month, spending $1,863.55 while traveling to Alaska. On the flip side, December was their cheapest month at $291.36. If only the truck ran on good intentions and dreams, right?
2. Food Expenses
Food is another major expense, and let’s be honest, who doesn't love to eat? The Hank's RV Life combined their grocery and restaurant expenses, revealing a total of $14,234 for the year. Their best month was January, spending $808, while July saw them splurging $1,998, thanks to their love for Alaskan seafood. It turns out, living like a foodie on the road can really add up. Maybe they should consider hunting for their own food – squirrel stew, anyone?
3. Propane Cost (Yearly)
Propane is essential for heating and cooking in an RV, and its cost can vary depending on location and season. The Hank's RV Life spent $547.60 on propane in 2023. Their highest month was November, costing $115.28 due to the cold weather in Northern California. A good rule of thumb: when the propane bill starts climbing, it's time to head south. Or just invest in a few extra layers of clothing – who needs warmth when you have fashion?
4. Cost of RV Parks
Staying at RV parks can be one of the priciest aspects of RV living. The Hank's RV Life spent a total of $16,095 on RV parks in 2023, with their most expensive month being July at $2,134.25. They stayed at a mix of state parks, county parks, boondocking sites, and private campgrounds. Their cheapest month was April, spending $571.63. Perhaps they should consider more boondocking – free camping can really help stretch the budget (and your patience with nature).
5. Laundry Expenses
Laundry might seem like a minor expense, but it adds up over time. The Hank's RV Life estimated their yearly laundry cost at around $600. They typically do about ten loads of laundry a month, with the cheapest load costing $3. It's a small price to pay to avoid smelling like a campfire and yesterday's adventure, but maybe they should consider wearing the same outfit for a week – less laundry, more character!
6. RV Repairs, Supplies, and Maintenance
Keeping an RV in good shape requires regular maintenance and occasional repairs. The Hank's RV Life spent $2,387.93 on repairs, supplies, and maintenance in 2023. This included a significant tire blowout during their trip to Alaska. Add in the registration and insurance costs, and the total came to $4,561.43. It’s almost like RVs are high-maintenance divas demanding constant attention – who knew?
7. Truck Maintenance Costs
Maintaining their trusty GMC Sierra was another significant expense. The Hank's RV Life spent $3,614.04 on truck maintenance, including oil changes and tire rotations. They also spent $198.87 on Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) and $1,392 on truck insurance. The truck registration fee was $173.50. All in all, truck maintenance totaled $5,378.41. Maybe the truck should start paying rent – after all, it’s basically a mobile home, right?
8. Cell Phone & Internet Costs
Staying connected on the road is crucial, and The Hank's RV Life spared no expense. They spent $3,720 on cell phone and internet services, relying heavily on Starlink and their phone hotspot plan. At $150 per month for Starlink and $160 per month for their phone plan, the costs added up quickly. It’s a small price to pay to keep up with their favorite cat videos and Instagram-worthy sunsets.
Yearly Grand Total
After adding up all these expenses, The Hank's RV Life spent a grand total of $53,472.66 in 2023. Remember to adjust for inflation for this current year. This figure includes fuel, food, propane, RV parks, laundry, RV repairs, truck maintenance, and internet costs. It’s a hefty sum, but for the freedom and adventure of RV living, many would say it’s worth every penny. So, if you’re considering the RV lifestyle, start saving now – or maybe just get really good at mooching off your friends and family!
