Unexpected Costs of RV Camping

One of the many reasons people travel in RV campers is to save money. So, when there are unexpected costs, there is some concern that perhaps the wrong choice was made. Here are some of the unexpected costs you may run into just so they will not be so unexpected.

Travel always costs money. So, finding out that the purchase of your RV camper is not the end of the travel expenses should not be a shock. And, most people know there will be some costs that they did not plan on. If you are prepared for them, they may not be as much of a shock when they come around.

The first expense you will come across that you might not have expected is the fee for taxes and title. If you have ever purchased any other type of vehicle, you know what these are. An RV camper is, after all, a vehicle. So, the same types of taxes and title fees will apply. The taxes and fees are usually based on the state in which you reside. This is true even if you purchase your RV camper in another state. You have to register it in your state of residence.

Just like other vehicles, you will be required to purchase insurance on your RV camper. It is a good idea to shop around. You might be able to find a better deal. And, if you combine RV insurance with auto and home insurance, you might be able to get an even better deal. Be sure you are getting the correct insurance for your RV camper. Standard auto insurance rarely covers living in a vehicle. If you are not careful, you might be in for an unhappy surprise when you file a claim.

First time RV camper owners may have serious anxiety the first time they fill up the gas tank. These vehicles tend to have larger tanks that most cars and trucks. So, it may be a bit of a shock the first time. In addition, be sure to budget enough money in your trip costs for a vehicle that will probably get less than 10 miles per gallon. Keeping up with maintenance will help with gas mileage, but RV campers will never get great mileage. If you buy a new RV camper, you may want to consider an extended warranty to be sure the maintenance gets done.

If your RV camper breaks down while you are on the road, towing expenses can be very costly. When you are purchasing insurance, you should check and see how much it will cost to have towing expenses included in your policy. If you are far from home when your vehicle breaks down, there will also be the expense of accommodations for the duration of the repair time. This could be several days if the parts that are needed are not in stock. It is a good idea to take a bit of extra money, if you can afford it, for just such occasions.

Traveling in an RV camper is a great way to save money. However, as with anything in life, there will always be some unexpected occurrences. If you have an idea about what could happen, they may not be as devastating when they do occur.

SOURCE

Eure, Marian. "The Everything Family Guide to RV Travel & Campgrounds". 2005. Adams Media. Avon, MA. USA.