When we hit the road full-time in 2020, we knew we were trading square footage for freedom—and we were all in. What we didn’t know was just how quickly the cost of this nomadic lifestyle would rise over the next five years. As we travel across the country in our 24-foot Entegra Odyssey 24B, we’ve been tracking changes in campground fees, fuel, maintenance, and even the price of a simple overnight stay. So let’s talk about it—the real dollars and sense of RV life in 2025.
We were honored to be invited to Mountain Pines Campground where we enjoyed the many benefits the campground offered, its a great park for smaller rigs checkout out our reivew here
From Cozy to Costly
In 2020, a full-hookup campground stay would typically run us $25–$40 per night at military bases, and about $45–$60 at public RV parks. Fast forward to 2025? That same site at a private campground can easily push $50–$100 per night—sometimes more in popular destinations or peak seasons.
Even military bases, once a hidden gem of affordability, have bumped their prices by 15–30%. We're now seeing base campgrounds charging $35–$50 a night, still a deal but not quite the steal it used to be.
Our Tip: We use a mix of Harvest Hosts, military base campgrounds, and casino lots to keep things affordable. If you’re planning full-time travel, flexibility is your financial superpower.
We met @kimba_the_lioness at the pump at a Loves in Wyoming we struck up a conversation of how we live fulltime in an RV and that we use the Loves app to save on gas prices. She shared how she was riding her motorcycle from South Carolina to Canada and uses the app as well.
The Rollercoaster Ride of the Open Road
Back in 2020, when we first rolled out, gas prices averaged around $2.20–$2.40 per gallon. Then came the spikes—especially during 2022 and 2023—when prices had us clutching the pump like it was a slot machine we hoped would spit out a deal. At one point, we were seeing $4.50+ per gallon in certain states.
That said, fuel still eats up a big chunk of the budget—especially when we’re moving often or covering long distances.
Our Tip: We use apps like Loves to find the best rates. We also try to plan our routes to minimize backtracking and combine errands on off days. Every little bit counts.
Maintenance and Upgrades: That Part Ain’t Cheap
We’ve had to replace tires, upgrade suspension (hello, Koni shocks!), and get both gray and black tanks professionally cleaned. Inflation and labor shortages have made RV service costs skyrocket. What was once a $100 service call might now run $175–$200.
We are so glad that we invested in Warranty Forever which allows us to save BIG on repairs
Our Tip: Stay on top of preventive maintenance. And if you can learn to do a few things yourself? Even better. YouTube has saved us hundreds.
Many don't cook in their RV because of smell but we talk all about how we don't buy into that here
Groceries and Dining Out: RV Life Isn’t Immune
Remember when eggs were under $2 a dozen? Yep, those days are long gone. We’ve seen our grocery bill increase by 20–30% compared to 2020. And while it’s tempting to dine out while exploring new towns, even casual meals now average $50–$70 for two.
Our Tip: We cook most of our meals inside our RV. (Yes—we cook in it, not just grill outside!) And we keep snacks packed for travel days to avoid those overpriced gas station splurges.
So, Is It Still Worth It?
Absolutely. Even with the rising costs, this lifestyle has paid us back in sunrises, freedom, and unforgettable memories. As an African American couple in our 50's and 60s, we’ve broken generational norms and created a new rhythm for our lives—one that doesn’t include waiting on “someday.”
But we won’t sugarcoat it: RV life isn’t always cheaper. It can be—if you’re intentional. It’s not just about rolling down the highway. It’s about knowing when to stop, how to save, and why you chose this life in the first place.
Thinking about hitting the road? Drop your questions in the comments or reach out for a 1-on-1 coaching session. We’ve been where you are—looking at that open road and wondering, “Can we really do this?”
Thanks for following our journey!
Kirsten & Mack