Desoto State Park in Fort Payne, Alabama is beautiful and peaceful.

RV travel offers freedom and adventure, but costs can add up quickly if you’re not careful. From fuel and campground fees to food and maintenance, it’s easy to go over budget. However, with the right strategies, you can enjoy life on the road without breaking the bank. Here are my top budget-friendly RV travel tips to help you save money on the road.

Budget-Friendly RV Travel Tips to Save Money on the Road

A hot tub on the bay? Yes please. The amenities at this RV resort in Biloxi were spot on. At places like this, we select less expensive sites but have the same amenities without paying extra!

1. Plan Your Route to Save on Fuel

Gas prices fluctuate, and RVs aren’t exactly fuel-efficient. Use apps like GasBuddy or Google Maps fuel estimator to find the cheapest gas stations along your route. Planning ahead can help you avoid costly last-minute fill-ups in high-priced areas.

We also take advantage of the Loves app. It saves you 10 cents a gallon at the pump. And, your Good Sam Membership will save you at Pilot. Don't forget about fuel points at Kroger and other loyalty programs. Every dollar does add up, and making wise decisions on these costs can add up over the cost of the year.

One additional way to save on fuel is not using those propane tanks that you swap out. We own our propane tanks and refill them at campgrounds and propane stores. This is half the cost of a tank that you swap out. Again, it is all about trade offs and where the money adds up.

Bonus Tip: Stick to slower speeds and avoid excessive idling to maximize fuel efficiency.

Waterfront sites at Lakeside Landing are only about $50 a night even on a 4th of July weekend. It is a bargain if you ask me!

2. Take Advantage of Discount Campgrounds & Free Stays

Campground fees can be one of the biggest expenses for RVers. To cut costs:

Join camping membership programs like Harvest Hosts, Boondockers Welcome, and Passport America.
Stay at state parks, national forests, and BLM land for lower fees or even free camping.
Consider weekly or monthly rates at RV parks for big discounts.

A clean, level spot right off the interstate is where we try to land when we are just on a quick overnight stop.

3. Cook Your Own Meals Instead of Eating Out

Dining out adds up fast! Instead, plan easy, budget-friendly RV meals using your RV kitchen or campfire. Meal prepping before trips can also help reduce food waste and unnecessary spending. Many times I freeze pasta sauce, soup or casseroles ahead of time to make meals easy to prepare. Plus, just shopping ahead for sandwich and snack items really adds up. I try to keep from making repeat trips to the store where we might waste time and money on the road.

The snack box meals are perfect and an easy way to have a healthy lunch on the go!

Cooking and dining outdoors can be a magical experience. There is nothing like a cup of coffee with the sunrise or a sunset meal in the dessert.

We also pack picnic lunches for tow days. Or, I plan for quick breakfast on travel days. Even a quick meal can cost $30 or more for the three of us. If we eat out twice in a day, that is $60. Or, that is two nights at a state park or a night at a private campground. I feel like everything is a trade off when you are trying to stay within a reasonable budget.

Pro Tip: Invest in a slow cooker, Instant Pot, or portable grill for affordable and convenient campground meals.

Think about the meals you like to cook on the road and buy the gear that will help you get there. You don't have to own everything. But, you want to have a few select pieces that work for your cooking style and overall flavor preferences.

Even state parks offer swimming. Rickwood Caverns is a small state park and has a large swimming pool.

4. Stick to a Travel Budget

Keeping track of expenses is key to staying within your budget. I’ve updated my RV Travel Budget Template to help you monitor fuel costs, campground fees, food expenses, and more. Download it now to make budgeting a breeze!

Last year we spent more because we had a Disney trip and stayed at private camp ground several times. This year, we are opting for more state parks and less expensive spots. Also, time of year can really drive up costs. Determine what is in your budget for the year and determine where you can splurge and where you need to save.

Out West RV Resort in Monahans, Texas is right on 1-20 and was where we stayed for a couple of days while our tow vehicle was out of commission!

5. Use Apps & Loyalty Programs for Savings

Many RV-friendly apps can save you money on camping, fuel, and even attractions:

GasBuddy – Find the cheapest fuel stations.
Allstays or Campendium – Discover free or low-cost campgrounds.
Good Sam, KOA, or AAA Memberships – Get discounts on campsites, fuel, and gear.

Our friend's farm is another spot we love during the MS Pecan Festival. It is electric and water only, but it works for that short trip!

6. RV Maintenance to Avoid Expensive Repairs

Regular maintenance can prevent costly breakdowns. Before every trip:

Check tire pressure and fluid levels.
Inspect seals, brakes, and the battery.
Keep up with oil changes and generator maintenance.

Ignoring small issues can lead to expensive repairs down the road, so stay on top of maintenance!

This was another quick, overnight stop where we just needed somewhere to sleep for the night.

Frequently Asked Questions About Budget RV Travel

How much does it cost to RV full-time?

The cost varies depending on travel style, but most full-time RVers spend between $1,500 and $3,500 per month on fuel, campgrounds, food, and maintenance.

What’s the cheapest way to RV travel?

To travel affordably, use boondocking locations, cook your own meals, stick to low-mileage routes, and take advantage of campground memberships.

How do I save money on RV fuel?

Plan efficient routes, drive at moderate speeds, use fuel discount programs, and maintain proper tire pressure to improve gas mileage.

Is boondocking safe?

Yes! Boondocking is safe if you choose well-reviewed locations, follow campground etiquette, and have sufficient water and power supplies.

The Hideaway Retreat in Navarre Beach is an amazing spot where you can camp right on the sound. It is right on the water and private campground. So, it is more expensive. We try to balance more expensive stays with ones that cost less.

Final Thoughts

With a little planning and the right money-saving strategies, RV travel can be both affordable and enjoyable. Don’t forget to download my free RV Travel Budget Template to keep track of your expenses and make the most of your adventures!

What are your favorite ways to save money on the road? Let me know in the comments! 🚐💨

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