Living the RV Lifestyle: Should You Do It?

RVing isn’t just for baby boomers; younger adults are also choosing the open roads.

New Africa/Shutterstock

One significant benefit of living the recreational vehicle (RV) lifestyle is determining your cost of living. You can live luxuriously or on a budget. Major expenses include campsite fees, fuel, vehicle, and any activities. You also must budget for food, WiFi, insurance, and other supplies.

But there are the rules of the road. And if you want to retire or work while “RVing,” it’s best to know the ins and outs. That way, you’ll be able to make an informed decision as to whether you should live the RV lifestyle.

Who’s Living the RV Lifestyle?

RVing isn’t just for retirees. According to an RV Industry Association (RVIA) study, the median age of an RV owner is 49, but the RVIA also notes that the median age for new buyers is 32. In fact, 46 percent of owners now fall between 35 and 54.

Twenty-two percent of RVers indicate that someone in their home currently works remotely. Taking it to the road and still working is trending.

Parents are entering the RV lifestyle, with 43 percent of owners reporting children under 18 in their household. Some parents who work remotely take the summer to RV with their children.

RVing has increased to 30 days a year in 2024. This is a 50 percent increase from the 20 days in 2021.

Newer RV Necessary

It starts with buying an RV. According to Bish RV, the average price for a mid-range travel trailer runs between $25,000 and $60,000. But an entry-level can go as low as $11,000 while a luxury travel trailer can go as high as $100,000. So you can find one that meets your budget.

Motorhomes are more costly and, according to HomeGuide, range between $50,000 and $600,000.

But some new RVers want high-end without the cost and go with a used RV. If you plan to travel for a few years, you might want to reconsider.

Most campgrounds have a “10-year rule.” This limits access to older RVs that are over 10 years old. It helps maintain the appearance of the park. And although it’s usually used as a guideline and not a hard-and-fast rule, if your RV is aesthetically in disrepair or leaking fluids, the rule can be legally invoked.

Campgrounds tend to apply this rule to long-term campers. That way, if the camper doesn’t pay their site and utility bill, the campground will have a suitable asset to sell for reimbursement.

Miscellaneous Costs for RVing

The startup costs don’t end when you purchase your RV. Will you have to pull it, or is it a motorhome? According to Ford Motor Company, if you’re pulling, expect to spend about $38,810 for a basic F-150 with a towing package. And the F-150 Tremor starts at $64,915. These trucks come with a hitch, so you can at least forgo that cost.

You’ll need insurance for your truck, trailer, or motorhome. According to Trusted Choice, the RV class affects insurance rates, such as:

• Class A: $1,150 annually
• Class B: $1,000 annually
• Class C: $900 annually

RV classes are broken down from motorhomes to truck or van bases.

Your RV driving experience, driving record, claims history, and future mileage are factors to consider for insurance.

It’s essential to check with your insurance agent to determine what insurance is correct for you.

Registration and Permits

Although these vary by state, there are sometimes one-time or annual registration fees. Some RVs may require special permits or inspections depending on local regulations.

Storage for RV During Off-Season

If you aren’t planning to travel 12 months out of the year, you’ll need to store your RV during the winter months. According to Bish, what you'll spend depends on your location. But plan on spending between $50 and $500 per month.

Internet for Business or Personal Use

Most full-time RVers don’t depend on campgrounds for WiFi access. You’ll need to rely on cellular data hotspots or satellite internet options. And no mobile internet works everywhere. This is especially true if you’re in the middle of nowhere.

Starlink is an RVer’s friend. And although it’s reliable, it sometimes needs backup. According to Satellite Internet, an unlimited Starlink roam plan will cost you $165 monthly. However, there are less expensive and more expensive plans. It depends on what type of traveling you'll be doing.

Working While RVing

Although many retirees live the RV lifestyle, they may or may not be living off Social Security, pensions, or retirement accounts. Some may be working. For example, some have worked online, while others have found short-term jobs. They work in one location for a while, then move to the next.

“Work camping” is a popular way to fund the RV lifestyle. There are part-time seasonal jobs at private and national parks. For example, jobs could include:

• food service
• landscaping
• maintenance
• housekeeping
• administrative work
• customer service

Many of these positions are paid and come with free site and utilities.

Amusement parks, like Dollywood in Tennessee and Six Flags in New York, offer work camping opportunities.

Property or animal caretaking is another possibility. It could be yard maintenance or feeding horses. These types of jobs usually come with free site and utilities for your camper.

Should You RV

Although RVing has its expenses, many of the costs can be controlled. If you want to travel full-time, work camping or an online job will help finance your lifestyle.

You don’t need the most expensive RV, but you will need the appropriate insurance and permits.

Overall, RVing isn’t just for baby boomers anymore. Younger adults are choosing the open roads.

The Epoch Times copyright © 2025. The views and opinions expressed are those of the authors. They are meant for general informational purposes only and should not be construed or interpreted as a recommendation or solicitation. The Epoch Times does not provide investment, tax, legal, financial planning, estate planning, or any other personal finance advice. The Epoch Times holds no liability for the accuracy or timeliness of the information provided.