First-time RV owners often forget to budget for maintenance, storage, insurance upgrades, campground fees, hookups, gear, repairs, and fuel variability.

Buying an RV is an exciting new adventure, but it is an investment. The purchase price is only part of the total cost of RV ownership. That’s why we have compiled a practical checklist of expenses that are often overlooked by first-time RV owners. We want to share the true cost of owning an RV so you can make an informed financial decision with confidence.

Why First-Time RV Budgets Are Often Incomplete

When purchasing an RV for the first time, it’s easy to make the purchase-price bias mistake. By adhering to the purchase price as a cost guideline, rather than long-term expenses, buyers will inevitably go over budget.

When finalizing your RV budget, consider how long you intend to keep the RV and factor in all expenses associated with ownership versus operating costs. Some expenses are fixed and will be easier to budget for, but you need to budget for variable expenses too. Afford yourself a reasonable cushion, so you aren’t surprised later!

Setup Costs Most New RV Owners Miss

This list highlights essential commonly overlooked essential setup costs that first-time RV owners should factor into their startup budget.

• Sewer hose kit (with extra seals): Required for dumping tanks safely and legally at campgrounds or designated dump sites.
• Fresh water drinking hose (potable-rated): Prevents contamination when connecting to campground water spigots.
• Water pressure regulator: Protects RV plumbing from high-pressure campground water systems that can cause leaks or burst lines.
• Electrical surge protector: Protects your RV’s electrical system from voltage fluctuations that may damage wiring or loads
• Leveling blocks (if applicable): Used to level the RV on uneven campsites, critical for appliance operation and structural stability.
• Wheel chocks: Prevent trailer movement during setup and while parked.
• RV-specific toilet chemicals: Necessary for proper waste breakdown and odor control in holding tanks.
• Dedicated RV tool kit: For minor repairs and adjustments.
• Wheel lug torque wrench (for trailers): Ensures wheels are tightened to manufacturer specifications after purchase or service.
• Spare fuses and bulbs: Common failure items that can interrupt power systems unexpectedly.
• Battery monitoring system (if not factory-installed): Prevents over-discharging house batteries, extending their lifespan
• Portable air compressor and tire pressure gauge: Maintains proper tire pressure, which directly impacts safety and fuel efficiency.

Essential Gear and Starter Equipment

Beyond the equipment listed above, be sure to budget for storage and essentials for the kitchen, bedroom, and bathroom. You may have much of what you need already, so tailor this to your own needs and preferences!

Safety and Protection Equipment

It’s a smart idea to keep essential safety and protection equipment in your RV. You should have some form of fire safety gear, such as a fire blanket, smoke alarm, and fire extinguisher. Fire extinguishers require annual inspection to ensure functionality. Consider whether you want to upgrade any security systems, too.

Ongoing RV Maintenance Costs

The average annual cost of RV maintenance can be anywhere from $500 to $3,000 for routine upkeep. This number will vary widely depending on the model type, manufacturer, and usage. This number does include unexpected or emergency repair costs. You will either need to create a separate budget for repairs or invest in an extended warranty.

Regular Maintenance Items

So what should first-time RV owners include in their maintenance budget? Here are some routine maintenance items people often outsource to professional mechanics:

• Roof sealing
• Tire replacement cycles
• Battery replacement
• Air filter replacement
• Alignment
• Oil & transmission fluid changes
• Belt & hose replacement
• Brake inspection
• Bearing inspection
• Axle & suspension inspection

Unexpected Repairs: Self-Insurance vs Warranties

RV repairs are rarely cheap. RVs are complex vehicles with a lot of working mechanical and electrical components. When they break down, it is often the case that several components fail simultaneously. Furthermore, parts and labor costs continue to rise each year.

When budgeting for unexpected RV repairs, you will either choose to self-insure or purchase an extended service policy. For those who decide to self-insure, they typically receive multiple quotes from different RV warranty brokers and create a budget based on those costs, but only do so with a considerable cushion: most self-insurers multiply that amount by two.

For those who travel frequently and prefer not to assume any risk, an extended warranty is the better option. Be wary of dealers who are incentivized to push their warranty plan: get a few different quotes and compare coverages so you know you’re getting the best deal for your RV travel lifestyle. Warranties often pay for themselves—sometimes after just one repair. Protect your RV investment.

Campground and Overnight Fees Add Up

Ownership costs have to include usage costs. Fuel, campground fees, and food add up—especially if you’re budgeting for full-time or seasonal travel.

Nightly Site Fees by Type

Many public parks and BLM land are free for overnight RV camping. However, state park, national park, and resort campgrounds all charge nightly fees that vary by type, site, and location.

Extra Charges Owners Don’t Expect

These are expenses first-time RV owners often forget to account for:

• Hookups
• Dump stations
• WiFi
• Resort amenities
• Peak season surge pricing

RV Insurance and Registration

It’s important to factor insurance and registration costs into your RV budget. Minimum liability insurance is required for motorhomes. Insurance is not required for trailers, but registration is required in most states. If you are financing a trailer, your lender may require comprehensive and collision coverage.

Consider premium and deductible costs when formulating your budget.

Insurance Coverage

Although minimum liability insurance is required for motorhomes, there are different levels of coverage available at different pricepoints. Full-time RVers should seek full-time coverage from a provider who specializes in RV coverage.

Taxes and Registration Variations

Registration costs and sales tax will vary depending on the vehicle and state of purchase and whether you have a specialty license plate.

Storage Costs When You’re Not Traveling

Part-time RV travelers have to decide how they plan to store their RV when not in use and budget accordingly.

Off-Site RV Storage Rates

Storage facilities range in price depending on various factors. Covered, indoor storage may be more costly than outdoor storage. Storage may be cheaper in rural versus urban areas.
If you’re considering off-site storage, research the rates of nearby sites.

Some people will be able to park their RV in their driveway. Consider parking fees, permits, and HOA compliance. Check local policies regarding street parking a motorhome or trailer, if applicable—you don’t wany any surprise parking fines!

Fuel and Travel Cost Variability

This is one of the variable expenses associated with RV ownership and operation. Motor fuel and generator fuel costs will never be exactly what you calculate, so it’s important to prepare a realistic budget and manage expectations.

Real MPG vs Advertised MPG

Your motorhome or tow vehicle has a manufacturer MPG guideline, but this number does not always correspond with the vehicle’s actual MPG. The following are major factors that influence changes in MPG:

• Towing
• Terrain
• Traffic

H3: Route and Distance Budgeting

Trip-planning apps are more advanced than ever, and some, like Adventure Genie, are geared specifically toward RV owners. These factors may add unexpected trip costs:

• Detours
• Idle time
• Weather reroutes
• Breakdown

Utility and Hookup Expenses

Propane Refills

Factor in propane fuel costs into your travel budget. Reference experienced RV owners with a similar travel style for realistic propane usage. You may need more propane in colder weather or heavier travel months.

Hookups

Septic and electricity RV hookups are an easily forgotten cost that can be hard to pin down. Know beforehand whether you intend to utilize hookups at campgrounds or resorts and understand how cost is calculated.

Water and Dump Fees

Wastewater and dump station facilities charge a fee for using their very important services. RV dump station fees typically range between $10 and $20. They may be even cheaper at truck stops and campgrounds.

Subscription and Membership Costs

Many RV owners participate in subscription and membership programs.

Camping Membership Programs

If you’re considering joining a campground membership program, such as Passport America or Harvest Hosts, factor membership and campground costs into your budget.

Passport America provides a 50% discount for all participating campground locations. Get a free Passport America membership with warranty purchase through Wholesale Warranties.

Roadside Assistance Plans

Emergency roadside assistance is essential for smooth, safe RV travel. Bundling a roadside assistance plan with your RV warranty or insurance will bring the overall cost down.

Navigation and Trip Planning Apps

Subscription options for navigation and trip planning apps are another thing to consider. Although they add costs to overall ownership, they provide the convenience, ease, and luxury that draws regular campers to the RV lifestyle.

First-Time RV Owner Budget Checklist

• Routine maintenance
• Extended warranty
• Roadside assistance
• Tire & wheel protection
• Insurance
• Vehicle registration
• State taxes

• Essential gear & equipment
• Appliances & personal items
• RV tool kit
• Storage

• Fuel
• Propane
• Hookups
• WiFi
• Amenities

• Overnight & campground fees
• Parking fees
• Dump stations
• Memberships
• Subscriptions

FAQ