RV Vacations – do the Math
You decide to rent an RV for your next summer vacation. You can save on hotel costs, you won’t have to unpack every evening and you can even cook your favourite delicacies on board. For many people, an RV means freedom.
Some planning is required, however, beginning with the budget. A 24-foot Class B RV rents for $1,990 a week in high season. If you prefer a Class A motorhome, you’re looking at $2,595 for a 33-footer. A more economical compact trailer goes for somewhat less than $800 a week.
Motorhomes are rented with insurance and a full tank of gas. When you take it back, you can either fill it back up or pay a penalty. With some exceptions, a regular driver’s licence is all you need to drive an RV, but you must be 25 or older.
Before you choose, you will have to work out what a traditional vacation with your vehicle might cost you. A motorhome is usually rented with an average weekly allowance of 2450 km. Going over that limit will cost you extra. Using your own vehicle involves costs, of course: apart from fuel, you should calculate 50 cents a kilometre for a midsized car.
Remember that most campsites charge $50-$70 a night for a motorhome. Plus, you’ll need to plug in to the electrical supply when you reach the campsite.
An RV vacation isn’t for everyone, but why not try it at least once?