The one thing that is priceless to me is knowing your mattress pad, pillows, sheets, and bedspread are all clean with products you can stand to be around. A lot of folks don't realize most hotels only change the sheets, which sometimes don't even stay on the bed well. And the food you are eating is of a quality you know is good for your health. You can't even begin to price those things!
And, it’s a roulette wheel whether or not you have some noisy jackass next to you or somebody’s checking out at 4 AM and slamming their door to wake you up.
I've been a numbers cruncher all of my life! When we were planning to retire, we did the same comparison that you did. 😆 We opted out of the full RV not only because of the poor gas mileage but also because of the purchase price ($85,000+). We went with a used high-top van and we converted it into a camper. I planned out 18 trips to take me all over the USA, taking in many national/state parks and other national sites. I opened a retirement account and deposited enough money to cover the cost of all of these trips, plus additional trips that I didn't plan out yet. My wife doesn't enjoy camping as much as I do (she prefers hotels and restaurants), so I travel alone on my trips. I budget $15 a day for food, $30 a day for camp sites, and $50 a day for gas. I have traveled on 12 of my 18 trips and I have stayed within my budget of $100 a day. So, a 10-day trip would cost me $1,200. I don't usually stay in full hook up sites, I prefer to stay in tent sites for $10-14 a day. This still gives me access to modern toilets and showers. I prefer to buy groceries and prepare my own meals; this is a huge savings! Traveling and not staying in motels allows me so much more stress-free traveling.
We bought our current RV used, from a little old couple who could no longer travel. He kept it in a barn when he wasnt using it, so it was in excellent condition. I found it on RV trader for $10,000 and weve had it for 6 years now. It was 13 years old when we bought it but like new. Its always better to buy one from a private owner if its in good shape, rather than a dealer who will jack the price up.
Because w have a motorhome we were lucky enough to take my parents from Minneapolis to northern California last spring so mom would be able to see her 2 sisters one more time. Mom had a stroke years ago and has similar issues to you. Flying or driving in a car is not an option. We were able to convert our motorhome garage into a bedroom for them, (we have a thor outlaw) and actually put their bed in it. We added seatbelts to our recliner so mom was able to elevate her feet. We limited our driving to 6 hours a day max. We could stop for an hour or two for mom to lay down and recover while the rest stayed up front or went for a walk. We were very concerned about the trip at the start but Mom did great and it was incredible to see the joy of all three sisters.
What a great helpful video!! Knowing your own bedding, being able to cook your own food, staying next to an amazing monument, canyon, or forest is priceless!! 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
There is a third option that I use, it is the car without the hotel expense. I travel 365 days a year. First, I was exploring the Appalachians for a couple of years, and now I'm at my second year exploring the rockies and Southwest desert. In the early spring, I start my journey to Alaska. I have a all wheel drive (can go anywhere a stock jeep can go) that gets about 30mpg. I spend most of my time in the backcountry. I camp at beautiful places with views of mountains, canyons, lakes, rivers, etc. I have never paid one cent to camp. I use a large 150sqft tent with 8ft ceiling that I can put up in five minutes. I have all the power I need with lithium power stations and solar. I use all electric so I don't need to purchase propane: microwave and induction stove. I have fans, heater, internet, etc. I have a queen size bed, chair, and table. No fees, no campground costs, no need to purchase RV, no RV maintenance, no propane expense, no power bills, low insurance cost, more access, better locations/views, and excellent gas mileage. My tent only cost $200, and I can convert all the walls, even the roof if I want, to sctreen windows, so that I'm surrounded by nature's beauty. I enjoy keeping my money in my pocket where it belongs.
@@JasmineSinclair-i3nif you want to do it, then the only thing holding you back is yourself. There's a lot of 70, 80, and 90 year olds living in converted vans, SUV's, etc. and traveling across this beautiful country staying on BLM land and free camping sites. You will be surprised how fast you make safe friends out there.
Very well done and useful video. We purchased a 2 year old (2021) Coachmen Freelander 22 XG in 2023. We average 10.3 mpg. We get less (8.5-9) going up the Rockies at 65 mph and 13 mpg putting around Yellowstone at 45 mph. In 2024, my wife, our two dogs, and I did a month long trip from our home in NC to Grand Canyon NP, Zion NP, Yellowstone NP, and back (6088 miles) for $4050 total. While traveling, we usually stayed at rest stops but did stay at a state park, a KOA (needed to do laundry), and twice at Walmart. The largest expense was gas ($1,957.97) with campground fees at the parks ($1,036.24) coming in a close second. We much prefer the RV since we sleep in our own beds and make our own food. There is no unloading and loading at every hotel stop. AND, we do not have to worry about whether the hotel allows pets. We much prefer the RV to the car/hotel alternative.
The added bonus of having an RV is that you have a 'lifeboat' in the driveway whether you're evacuating due to fire like California or a hurricane in the south. It could be a refuge in case like the ice storm in Texas when the power was out and the homes had no alternate heating source and were being destroyed by pipes bursting. I've even offered mine as an emergency shelter for family members evecuated from their homes. Even if your home is destroyed you have something to come home with and stay in while you rebuild.
Having a lifeboat in this day and age is such a huge blessing. What makes their life work so well is having common goals and interest. On top of that they are both well disciplined to make their goals come to fruition. Such a beautiful example for us all to watch and follow along❤
Something else to consider is in your RV, you ALSO have a way to go to the bathroom, without having to go into a gas station restroom (etc). That's just one more comfort to have, in addition to the LONG LIST of other benefits of your own RV and belongings with you at all times!!❤
Just saying... My 2024 F-550 and Arctic Fox 1140 dry bath truck camper... Gets between 14-16 mpg. I really enjoy your honesty and the way you share your experiences with us... Not to mention... You guys are pretty great. Thank you for being you...
Stupid question Robert. When you get where you are going are you able to remove the camper off the truck and live in the camper while it's not attached to the truck? My wife and I are looking at small rv's and are trying to decide between a class b or maybe a truck w/ slide in camper. Thanks for your time.
Tell tell y'all what I really love, is how you work together for the good of both of you regarding what you enjoy and what you physically need to do to be well. It's lovely to observe!❤
I just love your channel. You keep it honest, you explore the realities and layout the realities of life and things to consider as we all get older. It sets your channel apart and your subscribers reflect the evidence of the superiority of your channel. Keep it up you two.....
We did this same comparison with hauling our fifth wheel out west last summer (we visited many of the same places) 5000 miles for us. There were 4 adults. We still found it to be cheaper than driving our car, staying in hotels, and eating out. Plus, camping gives you another perspective and a person can enjoy nature more.
The gas alone but the break downs & required repairs seem to make this impossible My friends have lived in their RVs over the last almost 30 yrs. It has been exponentially expensive and only becuz he can fix anything (besides being a workaholic) and they do get some missionary support too can they do it
Thank you both for this video, thank you for going into detail. The information makes sense! You two are "on the same page" which keeps it real. Keep having fun and tell us all about it!
Some elements of your trip cannot be cost compared in terms of money. You are both very considerate of each other and patient with each other. You enjoy spending time together. You don’t mind working to make these trips happen. Some couples do not have that kind of relationship at all. Because of impatience and selfishness, this kind of trip would be intolerable and so stressful that the cost financially wouldn’t even matter. You are so blessed to have each other and to enjoy each other’s company. I love that you have gone to great lengths Bill to fit the camper to your needs as an older couple. Some things are worth much more than money and you are rich in those things. I pray you both live a long, strong, beautiful life together and travel many miles on enjoyable trips! God bless you both always! ❤
Great video! I went through a similar cost breakdown a few years ago, and came up with a similar result. My break even point was closer to 6 trips because of the price of motor home I was looking at, and the higher price of fuel here in Canada. Since my bride and I never owned an RV, we rented one to see if we wanted to travel in one. We quickly found out that we liked the RV, and long story short, we bought one this past fall. I’m especially glad we did because of the flexibility it offers. I saw far too many airport terminals, restaurants, and hotels during my working life and didn’t want to travel that way during my retirement years. Subscribed!
I have been researching train travel since we retired. It is slower but the ride is part of the vacation. They include a sleeper car and meals and showers and bathroom. It fits in with your camper budget. You get to relax and enjoy without having to fight traffic. 😊✌
I take a cross country trail trip every few years. It’s wonderful, time to read, podcasts, books and the scenery, the meeting people is amazing. There’s cell service at city’s, most big stations hav3 wifi ( use a good vpn ).
Thank you for doing the break down on costs. We started to look into purchasing an RV, and came up with similar costs. What caused us to change our mind was the requirement to store our RV. We cannot park an RV in our driveway. Storage with the required insurance rider for storage soured us on purchasing an RV. In addition, we could not reach an agreement between us with size and type of RV. One wanted a Little Guy, the other wanted a touring bus. Glad you two have it figured out.
Found your channel today this is my first video to watch!!! Had planned to travel with my husband when he retired, unfortunately I lost him in July. Get out there people now don’t waste time with your loved ones while they are alive!
Lost my husband 2 months prior to his 60th birthday. We had retirement plans, also.... I have been traveling solo for 10 years; driving or joining escorted bus tours. Do NOT sit @ home!!!!
My partner have had the philosophy of traveling now, not waiting until retirement. Who knows what physical shape we’ll be in by the time we retire? From NW Ohio, we’ve been to South Dakota, Yellowstone and Grand Teton, all over the eastern half of Arizona, and all over New Mexico. Just visited the Outer Banks in N.C. We’ve done all these trips staying in hotels. We budget an extra $50/day for meals. We usually get free breakfast at the hotels and have a cooler with sandwich stuff in the car for lunches. We don’t want to stop for lunch in the middle of our day. We are getting ready to retire and are thinking about a camper van. Something easy to park. I’m so glad we did all those trips when we did!
The fact that we can stop and make a coffee, in a quaint little town or some scenic rest area, we just hapen upon some really amazing spots by driving on hwys that are not interstates.For us its not just the destination but that of the journey!
New to your channel. As an older single, if I get tired, I find a place to park or stay for a few days. If there’s a lot of noise at a camp site, I turn the key and leave. If I’m staying in a hotel, I have to haul everything out and load up. I cook ahead and put extras in the freezer for travel days. I bought a new to me RV after having an older one that had numerous breakdowns / tows. I really like the idea of campsite hours. I don’t drive in the dark (unless pressed to do so), I generally don’t travel on holidays, and find a place by about 3. For me this seems to be the better choice. Subscribed
As an old single, if I have to stay at a hotel I only bring inside one bag that I live from. My Element has room to spare for me, and is comfortable during moderate weather. I'm planning a trip this spring.
One thing about the RV life which is immeasurable ! The lifestyle ! The freedom of choice of where to stay ! If you don't like the area where you are , just move on . Want to stay longer in a spot , no problem with trying to extend your stay in the hotel . FREEDOM !!!
In addition, I have my own bed, pillow, and bathroom. I don’t have to schlep everything into a hotel because my clothes and toiletries are right there. Depending on how much you travel, of course, you have to add in the cost of owning an RV, which might not make it affordable for some. Last year we averaged $16.00 per night for campgrounds on our five month trip. Boondocking, staying in folks driveways, Harvest Host/Boondockers Welcome, state and federal parks, etc. helped keep the cost down.
You two are such a treasure, I so enjoy watching your videos. I look forward to your videos every time. Also, Elizabeth you have such a beautiful voice and love your guitar playing Bill. I’m looking forward to your next trip and living it through you. I never had that opportunity to do that, as my husband died when my youngest was 5 and we had 6 children. Love and prayers. Lou
Being a young widow just never stops hurting ur life. I was 25 w/2 littles and a baby. Now getting twd end of life (35yrs later) I’m again seeing how couples are so very blessed. And I miss him in yet a new way.
Plus, the people you meet along the way is priceless, the country you get to see is life changing as you experience Gods wonderful world, the coziness of staying in your own camper and not having to to sleep in beds where others have slept is when memories are made. Camper traveling is the best.
Im 73. When I was a little girl my mom planned many vacation trips. She saved all year and was a thrifty person. Even on a trip of a couple weeks we maybe ate out once or twice. She brought an electric fry pan to cook some meals and we had a cooler with milk and other food. We stayed at the most economical motels. I can't remember what we ate, so long ago but we did eat. I wish my mom had journalized it all. Of course things were much cheaper back then. We weren't rich but we always had what we needed and no debt except for a mortgage which she paid off. Blessings.
U can bring an instant pot too. They often have nukers n fridges in them or at least a nuker in the lobby. U have to be used to eating very simply at home too so u don’t feel bad (like ur missing out)
The main reason that I like to travel with the RV is to take our furry baby with us everytine. Some hotels charge $50 a night for the doggie, and others may not allow pets at all
WOW. If you had to factor in the costs of animal boarding, you REALLY save a lot of money with your RV ! Here in Texas, boarding my 2 LARGE dogs run about $70 per day at a trustworthy kennel. Yes, I have seen kennels for $20/day, but I want better for my fur babies. (German shepherd & golden doodle)
Bill, Elizabeth, Thank you for this very informative video! My husband and I have been trying to figure the best way to travel, and you have answered our questions! Love your channel!
Anyone with special health functioning needs is better off being in a vehicle where they can sleep, travel, and eat when needed. I'm glad u guys have your house rv. ✨🤗✨
I mean it’s a no brainer that going with the rv it’s a much cheaper way to go, especially if you don’t fly. You guys have done great with buying the van and redoing it!!! ❤❤
We sleep in car, bring our breakfasts & lunches and grab grocery food to supplement. Dinner is a take out pizza or split subs or cheap fast food. Once a trip we treat with fast food breakfast. Never buy drinks out. We only drink water, kefir and rarely, juice. But not from eateries. I do have coffee at home but OTR it’s only a cheap cup to keep awake when needed!
We had a VW bus/camper many years ago. We came to the conclution that sinds it was our only car, we used it for everydaydrive, it was more expensive with the taxes and the insurance...compared to an ordinary car and hotels...but sooooooo much easier and conveniant to live in on vacations or long trips, specially with small kids. We ended up paying $400 per year to have that conveniance...it was so worth it!!! Watching your videos takes me back to those days...
This is great information, and I appreciate the time you spent collecting all the facts and figures. We sometimes wonder about the cost of each method, but we have never taken the time to do it. We have compared the experience of those methods. By that I mean the interactions between us and fellow campers in RV parks vs hotels........and there is a gigantic difference. Meeting other campers has been part of the enjoyment of RV'ing, whereas, running into people at hotels can be sketchy sometimes but generally speaking, people usually avoid one another.
We make friends at the pool n outside play area Kids don’t care how dumb adults are getting and just want to make new friends n play! The adults get dragged along lol Well they did. Now adults just look down at their phn and won’t engage beyond absolute must have convo.
I bought a travel trailer and spend the past 12 months boondocking 95%+ of the time (out west). I would camp in a spot for 2 weeks at a time, then move to another nearby spot, rinse and repeat. I was able to boondock near all the major National Parks, my living / operating expenses were very low - food, water, dump station, propane & fuel. My MPG was awful when towing, but I only towed my TT a couple times a month, which made the increased fuel expenses predictable. The experience was priceless and I was surprised how little I spent on a monthly basis. Having my comfy home everywhere I went was amazing. People are doing this on every imaginable budget, bare-bones to as much as you can imagine... it really is up to you, there is no right/wrong way to have this experience, which is what makes it so great.
Very interesting breakdown. The things I like about towing a camper is we always have our own bed, bathroom and being able to cook our own meals. I sleep just as well and sometimes better in our camper than at home and I don’t do well eating out at restaurants. If I eat at a restaurant more than once in a while I just don’t feel well, I would much prefer making our own meals.
To me, hotels suck. Your own RV is much more like home. Me and my wife can eat for less than $50/day at home but on the road $50/day is probably about right. Better gas mileage rigs are out there. Great comparisons!
I love this. I had the same question years ago when I was thinking about purchasing a travel trailer. I created a spreadsheet that compared the cost of traveling distances with a travel trailer versus staying in hotels and included everything that you included and all the calculations. It was a fun project.
Not only are the "real dollars" less than Hotel/flight/rental cars, but the amazing stress relief of taking your kitchen/bathroom/and shower with you is priceless. My wife made slow-cooker meals all the way and we ate VERY WELL. There are also plenty of free places to park for the night. Flying ANYWHERE takes a full day when you consider parking, car rental, lay-overs and jet lag. Driving our RV only takes one more day each way (at most) with no "strange illness" or jet lag. There's no argument here.
First time visitor as well! Great video! I would add issues with seniors and long driving trips to include any sort of bone problems, such as hips, shoulders, knees, etc. We have used the method on a car and separate trailer trips where I flew my wife out ahead of me and then joined her a couple of days later to avoid her discomfort with sitting in a vehicle day after day. Another topic that is usually addressed is the rudeness of some drivers on the highway, when they have to pass a truck and trailer traveling around 65MPH. Sometimes when they pull in front of me it looks like they will take off my right front fender! Filling up a tow vehicle with a 30’ travel at TRUCK stops can be equally entertaining where cars pull in front of me to prevent me from getting to the forward pump on the outside row of pumps! After fueling, parking at TRUCK stops with RV parking I often find cars or other non RV vehicles parked there making it challenging to get inside the store. “Thank goodness for Buccees with their 100 gas pumps”!
What a excellent video you didn't waste a lot of time getting down to the numbers then when you did start talking about the personal things I was still interested. Thank you for all the info
Your video came up on my page, so I watched with interest. We traveled from Oregon to New Hampshire and back 4 years ago taking a couple months to visit family, friends and points of interest in our 1967 silver streak travel trailer that I spent 5 years to totally restore and had a tremendous time and put over 10 thousand miles on. This last summer we went to the national parks in Utah, glad I installed an air conditioner. We are totally spoiled on having our little home on wheels and sometimes stay at harvest host places. This summer will be doing a lot of vintage trailer rallies. Thanks for making this video, I am a new subscriber now.
This assumes that the actual costs of the RV is $Zero per mile. Operational costs are real money. However, the difference in the quality of the trip and time together is priceless...assuming a good relationship. Thanks for your insight and perspective.
I so enjoyed your video! I think you dotted all the “I”s and crossed all the “T”s to! Made very good sense. Actually helped me a whole lot because I am contemplating a trip myself next spring, and was debating on the most economical way to go. I will need to do some more studying and planning. Thank you so much. Y’all are a lovely couple. Enjoyed listening to you very very much!!
Thanks for the comparison. We would love to be able to go on day trips and work ourselves up to longer trips. I also have issues with driving too long from the PCS. I thought it was a thing of the past but driving 5 hours in two days for a weekend getaway left me sleeping in till 1 pm the day after, and a bit spaced out. 😢 Hopefully one day we will get something, but your comparison helps us consider the costs of our choices.😊❤🙏🇨🇦👍
Hi guys, My first time watching you. Your break down was practical & made sense I really appreciated it. Keep enjoying your adventures 🥳. Thanks Paul...🙏🏾
We live in SC and TN. If we are going to the Rockies in spring to fall, we will make it a rv vacation and stay out there at least a month and more likely 2 months - so there would be no comparison between traveling and using hotels vs using the rv. We love it out there and are actually planning to go in April again this year.
Great video Couple of ideas is getting a kitchenette does help with hotels. Another idea would use ice chest that helps as well. The RV you have more expense with maintenance and tires vs a car. Just something to think about. Insurance on an RV is higher as well. I agree that long trips you do save more with an RV. But it sure nice to have showers and no dumping while you are on vacation. Agree with the hotels not always being clean and safe. Again great video!!! Safe travels, and enjoy.
Thank you for your video. We started RV’ing about 40 years ago, and retired 2020. Since retiring we’ve DRIVEN an average of 15K miles per year in our class C motorhome, usually month long trips. We’ve done this cost exercise many times, and kept a travel cost log since 2018. Pickup trucks have always been my daily driver. Gas mileage, depending on truck size has varied from 8 mpg to 20mpg over the years, so my class C at 9-10mpg isn’t so bad for a “condo on wheels”. Flying is not my preferred mode , but there are times it pencils cheaper, especially if you’re staying with family. But when we factor in cooking 90% of our meals, having our own bed, bathroom, kitchen , various clothes and personal belongings, coming and going without depending on airline schedules and delays, and staying 8-15 days at our destination, costs are generally lower for us with our motorhome. But if you’re using it for long hauls and short stays, not so much. Thank you for your video. Good information for folks.
Drove to So Cal from Tennessee in a 4 door Toyota Tundra 15 mpg, 4 kids and wife , travel there and back in 2 weeks, 3 days there and 3 days back, stayed in hotels and ate at restaurants. Getting in and out of hotels got old really fast, packing and unpacking. Did the same trip a few years later, in a used RV 32" A Class that I fixed up, did more fun things (listening the music, board games, movie night and or video games with digital projector outside BBQ, cooking and a telescope) and hanging out with the kids, and did more things with the family. All for half the cost, we did eat out sometimes but like a special places like Knotts Berry Farm Chicken Dinner place, CA or The Big Texan 72 ounce steak challenge in Amarillo, TX. Saving money for the beach bike rentals, tickets for Disneyland, Knotts Berry Farm and Magic Mountain. Even went jet skiing in Arizona and Slide Rock in Sedona, AZ. Both trip cost where almost the same, but did way more on the second trip.
I agree with all the remarks and costs. I used to travel a lot using my pickup to camp in the back. I miss that truck but you are right on with the numbers and advantages. I really do not enjoy traveling and spending 150 to $200 a night just to sleep a few hours in a room just does not make sense. As always, you manage to give straight forward and honest answers. Thank you.
Excellent analysis! One other fee worth mentioning about driving - Some motels also charge for PARKING ! Some places get as much as $30-50 per day... OUCH !
Nice review. We drive a class B Travato van that gets between 17-18 mpg. Always boondock unless absolutely necessary to pay for an RV site. Added extra solar and lithium to give us more independent power. Cook most of our meals. Can't glamp any cheaper than that.
We usually have enough points on our credit cards to pay for our flights. So flying for us is the cheapest. The costs of the RV including gas, depreciation, roadside repairs, extra insurrance are additional expenses. Thanks I have not seen this breakdown before and really helps see the whole picture. Taking the RV allows for more drop-ins on relatives along the way. The drive can be very enjoyable as well and easier to take pets along.
Thank you for that information. Now I can show this to my husband and show him the expenses, because he is a numbers guy this was just perfect comparison.
When we sold our condo in Maryland and moved to Tennessee, we stayed in a long-term "suites" type hotel. We had free breakfast, and a kitchen with a stove, refrigerator, and microwave. All the pots and pans, utensils, and dishes were also provided, as was a coffee maker. We had experience with this chain of hotels, since we had water pipes burst above our condo twice in the 23 years we lived there, and the condo's insurance paid for those rooms during those times. It was well over a month each time. The staff were extremely nice, and the food was good. Real hot breakfasts, not "continental breakfast." But we did experience some issues. Although there were laundry facilities in the hotel, it was coin-operated, and pretty expensive. Plus waiting for a machine. And there were times when other guests were noisy. Housekeeping was wonderful, but it was still an interruption. All in all, I prefer my home to a commercial property.
My wife and I went on a trip for a family wedding, since we are retired we decided to turn the trip into a "mini-vacation". We had a flat on the way - on a weekend - it was a blowout so had to wait until Monday (rural U.S.) to get the tire replaced - so ended up having to rush to get to the venue in time. I have similar issues with traveling long distances - when I was younger it wasn't an issue, but now that I'm older and have health issues I don't like to travel more than 4 hours or so per day. After the wedding we had planned on taking a week to get home - taking our time - but we ended up taking about 2 months to get home! By the time it was all said and done when we compared the 2 months cost compared to our 'normal' costs we were pleasantly surprised that the total expenditure above our normal expenses was a little over $1,000 - not bad for a 8 week vacation! What you say about the longer the trip the cheaper it becomes! RV'ing definitely has it's advantages! We also find it is great when we visit family a few states away because we generally go for several weeks to a month at a time. I even put a "RV plug" at my mom's house (cost like $600 to have it installed) and we just park at her house, it gives us (and her) privacy. Same with our daughter, and etc.
We like your video, very informative. We have a truck camper and almost always boondock @ bass pro, cracker barrel etc. we hope to go out west this summer. Thanks, safe travels.
Great info! Some other things to consider: the cost of driving the RV other than fuel. Gas expense is only a small factor. The value of eating out. Also, the fact that in general, eating out is less healthy. Also, the value of your time driving that could have been used elsewhere.
I love seeing all your adventures.And if you really want to go cheap, you could jump in your car and get a pop-up. And throw your thrive life Freeze dried food in the back of your vehicle And now you have A complete set up, including all your meals. 😂❤
Great breakdown. I like how you kept it simple and tried to make it an apples to apples comparison. This is the first video from you I've seen and I subscribed. Elizabeth, I'm sorry to hear about your stroke. I had a significant TBI from an accident so I understand what you mean by "tired". I don't have balance issues but I can imagine that is difficult. Brains are weird, and each person can have different effects from a TBI depending on the area damaged and the fact we are all unique. I don't know how far out you are from your stroke, but I'm 13 years out from my accident and I'm still seeing improvements. The improvements are slow to come and minor, but are welcome. I hope your issues improve as well. I'm looking forward to more videos.
I have traveled both ways the one benefit of traveling in a car, restaurants and hotels is this: I do not have to cook, clean, make beds, etc. it is infinitely more relaxing traveling in a car. If you have all the time in the world to travel in an RV you can set up for a month at a time and really relax.
Thank you for the comparison. I wouldn't compare sitting in a Walmart parking lot with staying at a decent hotel though. So, if you include the cost of campgrounds and stay at economy hotels, which are pretty easy to find under $100, and dine a little cheaper than $100 per day then the cost is very comparable. Of course, you also need to factor in the much higher cost of an RV vs a car along with higher insurance and maintenance. I don't think I will ever save money traveling by RV but there are other great advantages to it. However, there is nothing like taking a long hot shower and having a car to drive around once you get there. Both have advantages.
Im with you i have spent a lot of time in travel trailers and 5th wheels was full time for 9 reats for a total of 30 years on the road. You can not compare it to anytbing. Have done it both ways. Wish i was there now.
I've spent over half my life camping & rving. Love that you're doing this. But... having listened to your story I think your wife needs a bigger more comfortable rv. One with a sofa & bed to lay down on, & a real recliner to stretch out in. More space to move around in just makes your lives more relaxing & easier for long hauls & stays. Having camped for yrs in tents, trailers & a motorhome I know what I'm talking about. Including traveling with my husband who had extremely serious health conditions & pain. Love you are traveling together ... I just think the Mrs deserves to have something more accommodating & accessible for her health. I can already tell she'll say she's doing fine ... but I had to accommodate someone with health issues, so I know something more livable is in the long run so much better, for not only your love one, but yourself as well. Just think about it... your wife is a real sweetie. Continue love & blessings as you travel down the road.
There are a couple of economic issues to consider. The depreciation on the RV may be more than on a car. After watching my parents drive across the country multiple times over the years, I noticed how often they had mechanical problems with their RV. Some repairs were very expensive compared to a car. Even with those issues, my parents loved traveling by RV.
This is pretty much how I figured your comparison was going to go. If you wanted flying to be cheaper, the numbers would be changed to say that. For someone to get their own realistic numbers, they need to do the comparison themselves. Depends in what session. How expensive or cheaply they eat.
I go from Wisconsin to California to see family in a car. Sleep at a rest stop or two along the way and bring some camping gear to fix meals. I found that I-80 is the best route as it has the most amenities along the way.
I totally agree with traveling with an RV. If only for being able to make and eat healthier food and sleeping in your own clean space. Even if it did cost more money it would be worth it to me. Can’t wait to see where your upcoming travels take you!!😊
Glad you made this video because we have an Rv class C and were planning on taking a long trip across Canada this year but were undecided whether to drive the car or take the RV. Now we figured it may be cheaper to drive and hotel it because our gas prices are very high. We estimated about $2500. For gas alone in the RV not yet knowing the mileage we are getting. Staying in campgrounds up here are about the same price but we can only use them from mid April to mid October and most required reservation ahead of time. As far as food we generally purchase from grocery stores and can get several meals for around $100. Every 3 or 4 days. Hotels are also similarly priced here depending on the area so that would probably be the same. Unfortunately Canada doesn’t have a lot of free places to camp overnight as in the US. I do love to have all my stuff in the RV with me and enjoy my own bed as well so I would prefer the RV route. The one thing we do is stop in small towns and villages to check out the thrift and antique stores and I feel it may be more difficult to find close parking with the 26 ft. RV. We are not sure which way we will go but I plan to enjoy the trip regardless. Take care and stay safe.
The one thing that is priceless to me is knowing your mattress pad, pillows, sheets, and bedspread are all clean with products you can stand to be around. A lot of folks don't realize most hotels only change the sheets, which sometimes don't even stay on the bed well. And the food you are eating is of a quality you know is good for your health. You can't even begin to price those things!
That’s a great point
This. ⬆️
Clean is a big deal!
And, it’s a roulette wheel whether or not you have some noisy jackass next to you or somebody’s checking out at 4 AM and slamming their door to wake you up.
And…you don’t have to drag your luggage in and out of hotels or worry about leaving stuff behind!
Plus U can pull over and take a comfortable nap anytime u want. Alsoless bed bugs😂....definitely better if u have pets.
I've been a numbers cruncher all of my life! When we were planning to retire, we did the same comparison that you did. 😆 We opted out of the full RV not only because of the poor gas mileage but also because of the purchase price ($85,000+). We went with a used high-top van and we converted it into a camper. I planned out 18 trips to take me all over the USA, taking in many national/state parks and other national sites. I opened a retirement account and deposited enough money to cover the cost of all of these trips, plus additional trips that I didn't plan out yet.
My wife doesn't enjoy camping as much as I do (she prefers hotels and restaurants), so I travel alone on my trips. I budget $15 a day for food, $30 a day for camp sites, and $50 a day for gas. I have traveled on 12 of my 18 trips and I have stayed within my budget of $100 a day. So, a 10-day trip would cost me $1,200. I don't usually stay in full hook up sites, I prefer to stay in tent sites for $10-14 a day. This still gives me access to modern toilets and showers. I prefer to buy groceries and prepare my own meals; this is a huge savings! Traveling and not staying in motels allows me so much more stress-free traveling.
We bought our current RV used, from a little old couple who could no longer travel. He kept it in a barn when he wasnt using it, so it was in excellent condition. I found it on RV trader for $10,000 and weve had it for 6 years now. It was 13 years old when we bought it but like new. Its always better to buy one from a private owner if its in good shape, rather than a dealer who will jack the price up.
Because w have a motorhome we were lucky enough to take my parents from Minneapolis to northern California last spring so mom would be able to see her 2 sisters one more time. Mom had a stroke years ago and has similar issues to you. Flying or driving in a car is not an option. We were able to convert our motorhome garage into a bedroom for them, (we have a thor outlaw) and actually put their bed in it. We added seatbelts to our recliner so mom was able to elevate her feet. We limited our driving to 6 hours a day max. We could stop for an hour or two for mom to lay down and recover while the rest stayed up front or went for a walk. We were very concerned about the trip at the start but Mom did great and it was incredible to see the joy of all three sisters.
What a great helpful video!! Knowing your own bedding, being able to cook your own food, staying next to an amazing monument, canyon, or forest is priceless!! 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
There is a third option that I use, it is the car without the hotel expense. I travel 365 days a year. First, I was exploring the Appalachians for a couple of years, and now I'm at my second year exploring the rockies and Southwest desert. In the early spring, I start my journey to Alaska.
I have a all wheel drive (can go anywhere a stock jeep can go) that gets about 30mpg. I spend most of my time in the backcountry. I camp at beautiful places with views of mountains, canyons, lakes, rivers, etc. I have never paid one cent to camp.
I use a large 150sqft tent with 8ft ceiling that I can put up in five minutes. I have all the power I need with lithium power stations and solar. I use all electric so I don't need to purchase propane: microwave and induction stove. I have fans, heater, internet, etc. I have a queen size bed, chair, and table.
No fees, no campground costs, no need to purchase RV, no RV maintenance, no propane expense, no power bills, low insurance cost, more access, better locations/views, and excellent gas mileage. My tent only cost $200, and I can convert all the walls, even the roof if I want, to sctreen windows, so that I'm surrounded by nature's beauty. I enjoy keeping my money in my pocket where it belongs.
Yes, absolutely, car camping is another viable option. We did that a lot in our younger years.
@@LiveSimpleLiveFree Yea, I waited too long. I'm turning 70 next year.
Fourth option - do what you do and occasionally stay in campgrounds.
@@JasmineSinclair-i3nif you want to do it, then the only thing holding you back is yourself. There's a lot of 70, 80, and 90 year olds living in converted vans, SUV's, etc. and traveling across this beautiful country staying on BLM land and free camping sites. You will be surprised how fast you make safe friends out there.
@@JasmineSinclair-i3n Next year I turn 80 and I still enjoy tent camping. Use what time you have.
Very well done and useful video. We purchased a 2 year old (2021) Coachmen Freelander 22 XG in 2023. We average 10.3 mpg. We get less (8.5-9) going up the Rockies at 65 mph and 13 mpg putting around Yellowstone at 45 mph. In 2024, my wife, our two dogs, and I did a month long trip from our home in NC to Grand Canyon NP, Zion NP, Yellowstone NP, and back (6088 miles) for $4050 total. While traveling, we usually stayed at rest stops but did stay at a state park, a KOA (needed to do laundry), and twice at Walmart. The largest expense was gas ($1,957.97) with campground fees at the parks ($1,036.24) coming in a close second. We much prefer the RV since we sleep in our own beds and make our own food. There is no unloading and loading at every hotel stop. AND, we do not have to worry about whether the hotel allows pets. We much prefer the RV to the car/hotel alternative.
The added bonus of having an RV is that you have a 'lifeboat' in the driveway whether you're evacuating due to fire like California or a hurricane in the south. It could be a refuge in case like the ice storm in Texas when the power was out and the homes had no alternate heating source and were being destroyed by pipes bursting. I've even offered mine as an emergency shelter for family members evecuated from their homes. Even if your home is destroyed you have something to come home with and stay in while you rebuild.
Having a lifeboat in this day and age is such a huge blessing. What makes their life work so well is having common goals and interest. On top of that they are both well disciplined to make their goals come to fruition. Such a beautiful example for us all to watch and follow along❤
You are a blessing.😊
Unless the rv is also destroyed in the process.
Plus stepping out of the RV into a beautiful view...Priceless.
Yeah a view of a crowed Cracker Barrel lot or a noisy semi next to you on a Walmart lot.
Something else to consider is in your RV, you ALSO have a way to go to the bathroom, without having to go into a gas station restroom (etc). That's just one more comfort to have, in addition to the LONG LIST of other benefits of your own RV and belongings with you at all times!!❤
Uhm, if you want all your belongings and the comforts of your home, it's easier to stay in yours.
@@psdaengr911 true, but hard to hike the Grand Canyon Rim Trail that way. To each his own.
Just saying... My 2024 F-550 and Arctic Fox 1140 dry bath truck camper... Gets between 14-16 mpg.
I really enjoy your honesty and the way you share your experiences with us...
Not to mention... You guys are pretty great. Thank you for being you...
Stupid question Robert. When you get where you are going are you able to remove the camper off the truck and live in the camper while it's not attached to the truck? My wife and I are looking at small rv's and are trying to decide between a class b or maybe a truck w/ slide in camper. Thanks for your time.
Tell tell y'all what I really love, is how you work together for the good of both of you regarding what you enjoy and what you physically need to do to be well. It's lovely to observe!❤
I just love your channel. You keep it honest, you explore the realities and layout the realities of life and things to consider as we all get older. It sets your channel apart and your subscribers reflect the evidence of the superiority of your channel. Keep it up you two.....
We did this same comparison with hauling our fifth wheel out west last summer (we visited many of the same places) 5000 miles for us. There were 4 adults. We still found it to be cheaper than driving our car, staying in hotels, and eating out. Plus, camping gives you another perspective and a person can enjoy nature more.
The gas alone but the break downs & required repairs seem to make this impossible
My friends have lived in their RVs over the last almost 30 yrs. It has been exponentially expensive and only becuz he can fix anything (besides being a workaholic) and they do get some missionary support too can they do it
Thank you both for this video, thank you for going into detail. The information makes sense! You two are "on the same page" which keeps it real. Keep having fun and tell us all about it!
Some elements of your trip cannot be cost compared in terms of money. You are both very considerate of each other and patient with each other. You enjoy spending time together. You don’t mind working to make these trips happen. Some couples do not have that kind of relationship at all. Because of impatience and selfishness, this kind of trip would be intolerable and so stressful that the cost financially wouldn’t even matter. You are so blessed to have each other and to enjoy each other’s company. I love that you have gone to great lengths Bill to fit the camper to your needs as an older couple. Some things are worth much more than money and you are rich in those things. I pray you both live a long, strong, beautiful life together and travel many miles on enjoyable trips! God bless you both always! ❤
@@Restorethem Thank you for the encouraging words. We really credit Jesus and don’t take it for granted that we live in such peace with each other. ❤️
Very true. Patience and unselfishness are the key for a long-lasting relationship.
Very well stated. Also if one of the camper passengers is a back seat driver can be soooo frustrating, and dangerous 🙋🏼
You've apparently met my ex-wife. 😂
@@colormedubious4747 Ha Ha Ha
Having driven an otr truck for 45 years, I learned how to exist, and even thrive, while traveling over this majestic land!
Don’t eat out
Sleep in ur car
That’s how our way to travel is
Kids don’t like no motels but sry
We would go nowhere if we didn’t do it this way
Great video! I went through a similar cost breakdown a few years ago, and came up with a similar result.
My break even point was closer to 6 trips because of the price of motor home I was looking at, and the higher price of fuel here in Canada.
Since my bride and I never owned an RV, we rented one to see if we wanted to travel in one.
We quickly found out that we liked the RV, and long story short, we bought one this past fall.
I’m especially glad we did because of the flexibility it offers. I saw far too many airport terminals, restaurants, and hotels during my working life and didn’t want to travel that way during my retirement years.
Subscribed!
It’s awesome you bought an RV!
I have been researching train travel since we retired. It is slower but the ride is part of the vacation. They include a sleeper car and meals and showers and bathroom. It fits in with your camper budget. You get to relax and enjoy without having to fight traffic. 😊✌
I take a cross country trail trip every few years. It’s wonderful, time to read, podcasts, books and the scenery, the meeting people is amazing. There’s cell service at city’s, most big stations hav3 wifi ( use a good vpn ).
I have been watching for a while and always take something away from my time with y'all. Thanks for the three-way cost comparison.
Thanks Bill and Elizabeth, great job showing cost difference.
Great info, and glad you shared that wonderful trip with us last summer. So many beautiful spots that I may not ever get to see again! Thanks!
Thank you for doing the break down on costs. We started to look into purchasing an RV, and came up with similar costs. What caused us to change our mind was the requirement to store our RV. We cannot park an RV in our driveway. Storage with the required insurance rider for storage soured us on purchasing an RV. In addition, we could not reach an agreement between us with size and type of RV. One wanted a Little Guy, the other wanted a touring bus. Glad you two have it figured out.
Thanks for the shout out! You know I had to watch this one! You've confirmed what I thought.
Found your channel today this is my first video to watch!!! Had planned to travel with my husband when he retired, unfortunately I lost him in July. Get out there people now don’t waste time with your loved ones while they are alive!
Lost my husband 2 months prior to his 60th birthday. We had retirement plans, also.... I have been traveling solo for 10 years; driving or joining escorted bus tours. Do NOT sit @ home!!!!
My partner have had the philosophy of traveling now, not waiting until retirement. Who knows what physical shape we’ll be in by the time we retire? From NW Ohio, we’ve been to South Dakota, Yellowstone and Grand Teton, all over the eastern half of Arizona, and all over New Mexico. Just visited the Outer Banks in N.C.
We’ve done all these trips staying in hotels. We budget an extra $50/day for meals. We usually get free breakfast at the hotels and have a cooler with sandwich stuff in the car for lunches. We don’t want to stop for lunch in the middle of our day. We are getting ready to retire and are thinking about a camper van. Something easy to park. I’m so glad we did all those trips when we did!
@@raallen1468 My husband passed away a month after his 61st birthday after an 11 month fight with leukemia. Hugs!
@@alisonwentland3765 we did do some traveling and cruises, and I’m happy we got those done! He had just turned 61 when he passed.
@@RivBiv 🤗
The fact that we can stop and make a coffee, in a quaint little town or some scenic rest area, we just hapen upon some really amazing spots by driving on hwys that are not interstates.For us its not just the destination but that of the journey!
Exactly!
Oh def
If u have the time
Working families n schoolkids need to get back in a timeframe
But if ur retired u can vacation as long as wanted
New to your channel.
As an older single, if I get tired, I find a place to park or stay for a few days. If there’s a lot of noise at a camp site, I turn the key and leave. If I’m staying in a hotel, I have to haul everything out and load up.
I cook ahead and put extras in the freezer for travel days.
I bought a new to me RV after having an older one that had numerous breakdowns / tows.
I really like the idea of campsite hours. I don’t drive in the dark (unless pressed to do so), I generally don’t travel on holidays, and find a place by about 3.
For me this seems to be the better choice.
Subscribed
As an old single, if I have to stay at a hotel I only bring inside one bag that I live from. My Element has room to spare for me, and is comfortable during moderate weather. I'm planning a trip this spring.
One thing about the RV life which is immeasurable ! The lifestyle ! The freedom of choice of where to stay ! If you don't like the area where you are , just move on . Want to stay longer in a spot , no problem with trying to extend your stay in the hotel . FREEDOM !!!
In addition, I have my own bed, pillow, and bathroom. I don’t have to schlep everything into a hotel because my clothes and toiletries are right there. Depending on how much you travel, of course, you have to add in the cost of owning an RV, which might not make it affordable for some. Last year we averaged $16.00 per night for campgrounds on our five month trip. Boondocking, staying in folks driveways, Harvest Host/Boondockers Welcome, state and federal parks, etc. helped keep the cost down.
*I would much rather stay nights in my own RV, than staying in motels!*
⚘️⚘️
🙂👍♥️♥️
You two are such a treasure, I so enjoy watching your videos. I look forward to your videos every time. Also, Elizabeth you have such a beautiful voice and love your guitar playing Bill. I’m looking forward to your next trip and living it through you. I never had that opportunity to do that, as my husband died when my youngest was 5 and we had 6 children. Love and prayers. Lou
Being a young widow just never stops hurting ur life.
I was 25 w/2 littles and a baby.
Now getting twd end of life (35yrs later) I’m again seeing how couples are so very blessed. And I miss him in yet a new way.
Plus, the people you meet along the way is priceless, the country you get to see is life changing as you experience Gods wonderful world, the coziness of staying in your own camper and not having to to sleep in beds where others have slept is when memories are made. Camper traveling is the best.
Being that you’re semi retired or work on-line, drive the truck, enjoy the view and quality time together. ❤
Bonus compared to hotels: Private, reliable digital access at your permanent work station.
Im 73. When I was a little girl my mom planned many vacation trips. She saved all year and was a thrifty person. Even on a trip of a couple weeks we maybe ate out once or twice. She brought an electric fry pan to cook some meals and we had a cooler with milk and other food. We stayed at the most economical motels. I can't remember what we ate, so long ago but we did eat. I wish my mom had journalized it all. Of course things were much cheaper back then. We weren't rich but we always had what we needed and no debt except for a mortgage which she paid off. Blessings.
U can bring an instant pot too. They often have nukers n fridges in them or at least a nuker in the lobby.
U have to be used to eating very simply at home too so u don’t feel bad (like ur missing out)
The main reason that I like to travel with the RV is to take our furry baby with us everytine. Some hotels charge $50 a night for the doggie, and others may not allow pets at all
WOW. If you had to factor in the costs of animal boarding, you REALLY save a lot of money with your RV ! Here in Texas, boarding my 2 LARGE dogs run about $70 per day at a trustworthy kennel. Yes, I have seen kennels for $20/day, but I want better for my fur babies. (German shepherd & golden doodle)
As a hotel renter, I hate dogs in a hotel. Always barking, peeing in rooms that owners don’t clean up.
Bill, Elizabeth, Thank you for this very informative video! My husband and I have been trying to figure the best way to travel, and you have answered our questions! Love your channel!
On a personal note...Elizabeth, you look fantastic!!! Love love love the hair cut!! Cool video....
Anyone with special health functioning needs is better off being in a vehicle where they can sleep, travel, and eat when needed. I'm glad u guys have your house rv. ✨🤗✨
I mean it’s a no brainer that going with the rv it’s a much cheaper way to go, especially if you don’t fly. You guys have done great with buying the van and redoing it!!! ❤❤
We only stay at hotels that have free breakfast, and only eat 2x a day.
Bingo! Traveling by any means and eating THREE meals a day will add the pounds on real fast! It's a foolish thing to do.
We sleep in car, bring our breakfasts & lunches and grab grocery food to supplement. Dinner is a take out pizza or split subs or cheap fast food. Once a trip we treat with fast food breakfast. Never buy drinks out. We only drink water, kefir and rarely, juice. But not from eateries. I do have coffee at home but OTR it’s only a cheap cup to keep awake when needed!
We had a VW bus/camper many years ago. We came to the conclution that sinds it was our only car, we used it for everydaydrive, it was more expensive with the taxes and the insurance...compared to an ordinary car and hotels...but sooooooo much easier and conveniant to live in on vacations or long trips, specially with small kids.
We ended up paying $400 per year to have that conveniance...it was so worth it!!! Watching your videos takes me back to those days...
I’ve ALWAYS wanted a VW bus! I’m 60 now and never had 1 lol
Starting at +/- 21 min., Thank you again. Thank you for sharing your lives and your love.
This is great information, and I appreciate the time you spent collecting all the facts and figures. We sometimes wonder about the cost of each method, but we have never taken the time to do it. We have compared the experience of those methods. By that I mean the interactions between us and fellow campers in RV parks vs hotels........and there is a gigantic difference. Meeting other campers has been part of the enjoyment of RV'ing, whereas, running into people at hotels can be sketchy sometimes but generally speaking, people usually avoid one another.
We make friends at the pool n outside play area
Kids don’t care how dumb adults are getting and just want to make new friends n play! The adults get dragged along lol
Well they did. Now adults just look down at their phn and won’t engage beyond absolute must have convo.
I bought a travel trailer and spend the past 12 months boondocking 95%+ of the time (out west). I would camp in a spot for 2 weeks at a time, then move to another nearby spot, rinse and repeat. I was able to boondock near all the major National Parks, my living / operating expenses were very low - food, water, dump station, propane & fuel. My MPG was awful when towing, but I only towed my TT a couple times a month, which made the increased fuel expenses predictable. The experience was priceless and I was surprised how little I spent on a monthly basis. Having my comfy home everywhere I went was amazing. People are doing this on every imaginable budget, bare-bones to as much as you can imagine... it really is up to you, there is no right/wrong way to have this experience, which is what makes it so great.
Ok . Sounds great 👍
Problem is I don’t know if my wife will go for that.
Normally we fly 1st class and stay in popular hotels.
But we can try it.
Thank you for delving so deeply into the comparisons between driving the truck (RV); car and flying! It was a real eye opener!!
Hotels and eating out will definitely get you. Many times people forget that when they see what gas cost. Y'all are wise.
Breakdowns even it all out
Very interesting breakdown. The things I like about towing a camper is we always have our own bed, bathroom and being able to cook our own meals. I sleep just as well and sometimes better in our camper than at home and I don’t do well eating out at restaurants. If I eat at a restaurant more than once in a while I just don’t feel well, I would much prefer making our own meals.
I love these people. They’re so helpful with these details. And she has the brightest smile. Thank you 🙏🏾
😀
Good Afternoon Bill & Elizabeth,I was so surprised by the cost.You did so well & had a wonderful time.Enjoyed this video Bill & Elizabeth.Take care!❤️
To me, hotels suck. Your own RV is much more like home. Me and my wife can eat for less than $50/day at home but on the road $50/day is probably about right. Better gas mileage rigs are out there. Great comparisons!
I love this. I had the same question years ago when I was thinking about purchasing a travel trailer. I created a spreadsheet that compared the cost of traveling distances with a travel trailer versus staying in hotels and included everything that you included and all the calculations. It was a fun project.
Not only are the "real dollars" less than Hotel/flight/rental cars, but the amazing stress relief of taking your kitchen/bathroom/and shower with you is priceless. My wife made slow-cooker meals all the way and we ate VERY WELL. There are also plenty of free places to park for the night. Flying ANYWHERE takes a full day when you consider parking, car rental, lay-overs and jet lag. Driving our RV only takes one more day each way (at most) with no "strange illness" or jet lag. There's no argument here.
First time visitor as well! Great video! I would add issues with seniors and long driving trips to include any sort of bone problems, such as hips, shoulders, knees, etc. We have used the method on a car and separate trailer trips where I flew my wife out ahead of me and then joined her a couple of days later to avoid her discomfort with sitting in a vehicle day after day. Another topic that is usually addressed is the rudeness of some drivers on the highway, when they have to pass a truck and trailer traveling around 65MPH. Sometimes when they pull in front of me it looks like they will take off my right front fender! Filling up a tow vehicle with a 30’ travel at TRUCK stops can be equally entertaining where cars pull in front of me to prevent me from getting to the forward pump on the outside row of pumps! After fueling, parking at TRUCK stops with RV parking I often find cars or other non RV vehicles parked there making it challenging to get inside the store. “Thank goodness for Buccees with their 100 gas pumps”!
It is all about the adventure. There is no substitute for all the fun that comes with it. RVing is freedom and your space on wheels.
What a excellent video you didn't waste a lot of time getting down to the numbers then when you did start talking about the personal things I was still interested. Thank you for all the info
Your video came up on my page, so I watched with interest. We traveled from Oregon to New Hampshire and back 4 years ago taking a couple months to visit family, friends and points of interest in our 1967 silver streak travel trailer that I spent 5 years to totally restore and had a tremendous time and put over 10 thousand miles on. This last summer we went to the national parks in Utah, glad I installed an air conditioner. We are totally spoiled on having our little home on wheels and sometimes stay at harvest host places. This summer will be doing a lot of vintage trailer rallies. Thanks for making this video, I am a new subscriber now.
Welcome to the channel!
This assumes that the actual costs of the RV is $Zero per mile. Operational costs are real money. However, the difference in the quality of the trip and time together is priceless...assuming a good relationship. Thanks for your insight and perspective.
I so enjoyed your video! I think you dotted all the “I”s and crossed all the
“T”s to! Made very good sense. Actually helped me a whole lot because I am contemplating a trip myself next spring, and was debating on the most economical way to go. I will need to do some more studying and planning. Thank you so much. Y’all are a lovely couple. Enjoyed listening to you very very much!!
We're so glad it helped you!
Thanks for the comparison. We would love to be able to go on day trips and work ourselves up to longer trips. I also have issues with driving too long from the PCS. I thought it was a thing of the past but driving 5 hours in two days for a weekend getaway left me sleeping in till 1 pm the day after, and a bit spaced out. 😢 Hopefully one day we will get something, but your comparison helps us consider the costs of our choices.😊❤🙏🇨🇦👍
Hi guys,
My first time watching you.
Your break down was practical & made sense I really appreciated it.
Keep enjoying your adventures 🥳.
Thanks Paul...🙏🏾
We live in SC and TN. If we are going to the Rockies in spring to fall, we will make it a rv vacation and stay out there at least a month and more likely 2 months - so there would be no comparison between traveling and using hotels vs using the rv. We love it out there and are actually planning to go in April again this year.
Great video
Couple of ideas is getting a kitchenette does help with hotels. Another idea would use ice chest that helps as well.
The RV you have more expense with maintenance and tires vs a car. Just something to think about. Insurance on an RV is higher as well.
I agree that long trips you do save more with an RV. But it sure nice to have showers and no dumping while you are on vacation.
Agree with the hotels not always being clean and safe. Again great video!!!
Safe travels, and enjoy.
So much more expense to an RV than gas!
This was a very simplistic breakdown
If ur poor, do NOT get an RV!
Thank you for your video. We started RV’ing about 40 years ago, and retired 2020. Since retiring we’ve DRIVEN an average of 15K miles per year in our class C motorhome, usually month long trips. We’ve done this cost exercise many times, and kept a travel cost log since 2018.
Pickup trucks have always been my daily driver. Gas mileage, depending on truck size has varied from 8 mpg to 20mpg over the years, so my class C at 9-10mpg isn’t so bad for a “condo on wheels”.
Flying is not my preferred mode , but there are times it pencils cheaper, especially if you’re staying with family.
But when we factor in cooking 90% of our meals, having our own bed, bathroom, kitchen , various clothes and personal belongings, coming and going without depending on airline schedules and delays, and staying 8-15 days at our destination, costs are generally lower for us with our motorhome. But if you’re using it for long hauls and short stays, not so much.
Thank you for your video. Good information for folks.
Drove to So Cal from Tennessee in a 4 door Toyota Tundra 15 mpg, 4 kids and wife , travel there and back in 2 weeks, 3 days there and 3 days back, stayed in hotels and ate at restaurants. Getting in and out of hotels got old really fast, packing and unpacking.
Did the same trip a few years later, in a used RV 32" A Class that I fixed up, did more fun things (listening the music, board games, movie night and or video games with digital projector outside BBQ, cooking and a telescope) and hanging out with the kids, and did more things with the family. All for half the cost, we did eat out sometimes but like a special places like Knotts Berry Farm Chicken Dinner place, CA or The Big Texan 72 ounce steak challenge in Amarillo, TX. Saving money for the beach bike rentals, tickets for Disneyland, Knotts Berry Farm and Magic Mountain. Even went jet skiing in Arizona and Slide Rock in Sedona, AZ. Both trip cost where almost the same, but did way more on the second trip.
I agree with all the remarks and costs. I used to travel a lot using my pickup to camp in the back. I miss that truck but you are right on with the numbers and advantages. I really do not enjoy traveling and spending 150 to $200 a night just to sleep a few hours in a room just does not make sense.
As always, you manage to give straight forward and honest answers. Thank you.
Excellent analysis! One other fee worth mentioning about driving - Some motels also charge for PARKING ! Some places get as much as $30-50 per day... OUCH !
Also pets. We travel with 2 dogs, which hotels also charge.
You have to figure in property tax /Tags and maintenance,insurance that stuff never goes away.
And maintaining the vehicles…tires, sun damage, repairs, depreciation, all things you avoid with hotels and rental cars
Nice review. We drive a class B Travato van that gets between 17-18 mpg. Always boondock unless absolutely necessary to pay for an RV site. Added extra solar and lithium to give us more independent power. Cook most of our meals. Can't glamp any cheaper than that.
We usually have enough points on our credit cards to pay for our flights. So flying for us is the cheapest. The costs of the RV including gas, depreciation, roadside repairs, extra insurrance are additional expenses. Thanks I have not seen this breakdown before and really helps see the whole picture. Taking the RV allows for more drop-ins on relatives along the way. The drive can be very enjoyable as well and easier to take pets along.
Holy smoke great video with real world numbers. You even included my Cracker Barrel budget!
Thank you for that information. Now I can show this to my husband and show him the expenses, because he is a numbers guy this was just perfect comparison.
When we sold our condo in Maryland and moved to Tennessee, we stayed in a long-term "suites" type hotel. We had free breakfast, and a kitchen with a stove, refrigerator, and microwave. All the pots and pans, utensils, and dishes were also provided, as was a coffee maker. We had experience with this chain of hotels, since we had water pipes burst above our condo twice in the 23 years we lived there, and the condo's insurance paid for those rooms during those times. It was well over a month each time. The staff were extremely nice, and the food was good. Real hot breakfasts, not "continental breakfast." But we did experience some issues. Although there were laundry facilities in the hotel, it was coin-operated, and pretty expensive. Plus waiting for a machine. And there were times when other guests were noisy. Housekeeping was wonderful, but it was still an interruption. All in all, I prefer my home to a commercial property.
My wife and I went on a trip for a family wedding, since we are retired we decided to turn the trip into a "mini-vacation". We had a flat on the way - on a weekend - it was a blowout so had to wait until Monday (rural U.S.) to get the tire replaced - so ended up having to rush to get to the venue in time. I have similar issues with traveling long distances - when I was younger it wasn't an issue, but now that I'm older and have health issues I don't like to travel more than 4 hours or so per day. After the wedding we had planned on taking a week to get home - taking our time - but we ended up taking about 2 months to get home! By the time it was all said and done when we compared the 2 months cost compared to our 'normal' costs we were pleasantly surprised that the total expenditure above our normal expenses was a little over $1,000 - not bad for a 8 week vacation! What you say about the longer the trip the cheaper it becomes! RV'ing definitely has it's advantages! We also find it is great when we visit family a few states away because we generally go for several weeks to a month at a time. I even put a "RV plug" at my mom's house (cost like $600 to have it installed) and we just park at her house, it gives us (and her) privacy. Same with our daughter, and etc.
That’s why I like my truck trainer. Thank you. I knew it!!! Unfortunately I also get 8-12 miles per the gallon pulling a utility trailer
We like your video, very informative. We have a truck camper and almost always boondock @ bass pro, cracker barrel etc. we hope to go out west this summer.
Thanks, safe travels.
Great info! Some other things to consider: the cost of driving the RV other than fuel. Gas expense is only a small factor. The value of eating out. Also, the fact that in general, eating out is less healthy. Also, the value of your time driving that could have been used elsewhere.
I love seeing all your adventures.And if you really want to go cheap, you could jump in your car and get a pop-up.
And throw your thrive life Freeze dried food in the back of your vehicle And now you have A complete set up, including all your meals. 😂❤
The factor that makes me go with a van is that I do not sleep well in strange beds. My cozy nest in my van is familiar and I get the rest I need.
Right? When I get mine it will be my nap mobile. Go to the beach, take a nap, take some pictures, take a nap walk the dogs, take a nap….
Great breakdown. I like how you kept it simple and tried to make it an apples to apples comparison. This is the first video from you I've seen and I subscribed. Elizabeth, I'm sorry to hear about your stroke. I had a significant TBI from an accident so I understand what you mean by "tired". I don't have balance issues but I can imagine that is difficult. Brains are weird, and each person can have different effects from a TBI depending on the area damaged and the fact we are all unique. I don't know how far out you are from your stroke, but I'm 13 years out from my accident and I'm still seeing improvements. The improvements are slow to come and minor, but are welcome. I hope your issues improve as well. I'm looking forward to more videos.
I have traveled both ways the one benefit of traveling in a car, restaurants and hotels is this: I do not have to cook, clean, make beds, etc. it is infinitely more relaxing traveling in a car. If you have all the time in the world to travel in an RV you can set up for a month at a time and really relax.
Flying make sure you add airport parking if you are figuring all trips from your home.
This was excellent! We have been wondering about this as we plan for retirement.
Thank you for the comparison. I wouldn't compare sitting in a Walmart parking lot with staying at a decent hotel though. So, if you include the cost of campgrounds and stay at economy hotels, which are pretty easy to find under $100, and dine a little cheaper than $100 per day then the cost is very comparable. Of course, you also need to factor in the much higher cost of an RV vs a car along with higher insurance and maintenance. I don't think I will ever save money traveling by RV but there are other great advantages to it. However, there is nothing like taking a long hot shower and having a car to drive around once you get there. Both have advantages.
Very nice and professional estimate of traveling all three ways. Definitely I’ll go with the RV! It will be worth the ride. Thank you guy.😊👍
Great video folks, you're a blessing!
Thank you for the helpful information. We have similar issues for our traveling desires. Next video!
I stay at hospitals and 24 hour fitnesses gyms even if i am not a member. Your pretty accurate on the rates.
Im with you i have spent a lot of time in travel trailers and 5th wheels was full time for 9 reats for a total of 30 years on the road. You can not compare it to anytbing. Have done it both ways. Wish i was there now.
I've spent over half my life camping & rving. Love that you're doing this. But... having listened to your story I think your wife needs a bigger more comfortable rv. One with a sofa & bed to lay down on, & a real recliner to stretch out in. More space to move around in just makes your lives more relaxing & easier for long hauls & stays. Having camped for yrs in tents, trailers & a motorhome I know what I'm talking about. Including traveling with my husband who had extremely serious health conditions & pain. Love you are traveling together ... I just think the Mrs deserves to have something more accommodating & accessible for her health. I can already tell she'll say she's doing fine ... but I had to accommodate someone with health issues, so I know something more livable is in the long run so much better, for not only your love one, but yourself as well. Just think about it... your wife is a real sweetie. Continue love & blessings as you travel down the road.
There are a couple of economic issues to consider. The depreciation on the RV may be more than on a car. After watching my parents drive across the country multiple times over the years, I noticed how often they had mechanical problems with their RV. Some repairs were very expensive compared to a car. Even with those issues, my parents loved traveling by RV.
Very helpful, thanks. We're planning a trip and have been trying to come up with accurate numbers. This has been very helpful.
Glad to be of help.
Well, done! I really enjoyed your content!!
This is pretty much how I figured your comparison was going to go. If you wanted flying to be cheaper, the numbers would be changed to say that. For someone to get their own realistic numbers, they need to do the comparison themselves. Depends in what session. How expensive or cheaply they eat.
Thanks for this. I have been thinking through this very issue.
I go from Wisconsin to California to see family in a car. Sleep at a rest stop or two along the way and bring some camping gear to fix meals. I found that I-80 is the best route as it has the most amenities along the way.
I totally agree with traveling with an RV. If only for being able to make and eat healthier food and sleeping in your own clean space. Even if it did cost more money it would be worth it to me. Can’t wait to see where your upcoming travels take you!!😊
Glad you made this video because we have an Rv class C and were planning on taking a long trip across Canada this year but were undecided whether to drive the car or take the RV. Now we figured it may be cheaper to drive and hotel it because our gas prices are very high. We estimated about $2500. For gas alone in the RV not yet knowing the mileage we are getting. Staying in campgrounds up here are about the same price but we can only use them from mid April to mid October and most required reservation ahead of time. As far as food we generally purchase from grocery stores and can get several meals for around $100. Every 3 or 4 days. Hotels are also similarly priced here depending on the area so that would probably be the same. Unfortunately Canada doesn’t have a lot of free places to camp overnight as in the US. I do love to have all my stuff in the RV with me and enjoy my own bed as well so I would prefer the RV route. The one thing we do is stop in small towns and villages to check out the thrift and antique stores and I feel it may be more difficult to find close parking with the 26 ft. RV. We are not sure which way we will go but I plan to enjoy the trip regardless. Take care and stay safe.
When we fly, we also have to park our car at the airport and that gets really expensive too.
Good point. I forgot about that one! 👍
I'm 69 and my family and i tent camp all over the country. Keeps me young and fit, saves tons of money.
Very nice and professional estimate of traveling all three ways. Definitely I’ll go with the RV! It will be worth the ride.😊👍
Thank you!!!!!!!! Amazing information I been looking for!!!!! I been planning on getting a class a or class C to travel
This was so helpful!! Thank you so much for researching and sharing. ❤