Budgeting Archives - Our Next Rvadventure

Budget-Friendly RV Upgrades In 2024 That Make a Big Impact

Tracy — Sat, 14 Sep 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Owning an RV can be an incredibly fun and freeing experience. However, even entry-level models can cost a pretty penny. As such, many RVers are looking for ways to personalize and improve their home on wheels without breaking the bank. Luckily, there are plenty of inexpensive upgrades that can make a big impact on your comfort, convenience and enjoyment while RVing. In this article we talk about Budget-Friendly RV Upgrades In 2024 That Make a Big Impact.

In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the best budget-friendly RV upgrades that give you the most bang for your buck. With a little creativity and elbow grease, you can customize your rig to suit your needs and style.

RV Organization Upgrades

One of the biggest complaints among RV owners is lack of storage and organization. Clutter can quickly build up, making your living space feel smaller. Implementing some simple and affordable organizational upgrades can help maximize your usable space.

Install Shelving
Taking advantage of vertical storage space is a must in an RV. Install shelving, cabinets or cargo nets on walls, doors, under beds and in cockpit areas to neatly store items of all sizes. Focus first on organizing kitchen implements and pantry goods, then move onto folding clothes, games/toys and miscellaneous gear. Sturdy wire, plastic or wood shelving can be purchased very reasonably from hardware and home improvement stores.

Clear Storage Bins
Plastic bins are an RVer’s best friend. They allow you to neatly sort and store anything while keeping items visible. Labeling them makes finding things even easier. Look for clear plastic bins and containers that stack, connect and slide easily. Storage bins take up way less space than cardboard boxes and prevent things from shifting around while driving.

Add Drawers
Replacing or expanding kitchen and bedroom cabinet space with drawers will make the interior feel more residential. Drawers keep stored items tidy and are easier to see/access than deep cupboards. Check RV salvage centers for discounted drawers and hardware or install affordable options from IKEA. Use storage containers/bins inside the drawers to optimize space.

RV Kitchen Upgrades

The kitchen is where we spend much of our time in an RV. A few small upgrades here can make meal prep faster, easier and more enjoyable.

Add a Backsplash
Applying inexpensive tile, laminate sheets or peel-and-stick backsplash transforms blank kitchen walls into a stylish accent. This protects walls from stains and splatters while allowing you to easily install hooks for utensils and towels. Self-adhesive backsplash tiles are very budget-friendly and provide a wide range of colors/patterns to suit any décor.

Install a Built-In Spice Rack
Whipping up tasty dishes is much simpler when spices and dried ingredients are within arm’s reach. Mount a store-bought or DIY spice rack on the kitchen wall, inside cabinet doors or even above the windshield when parked. Make sure it’s secure enough to withstand vibrations and swaying while driving.

Convert to Induction Cooktop
Replacing an RV’s factory-installed cooktop with an induction version is a game-changing upgrade. Induction uses electromagnetic energy to directly heat pots/pans, making it safer, more efficient and easier to clean than propane or electric ranges. Small, portable induction cooktops start around $60. Permanently-mounted options are pricier but look sleek and free up counter space.

RV Plumbing & Water Upgrades

Fresh, flowing water and an odor-free drainage system are essentials for a pleasant RV lifestyle. These upgrades tackle common problems for less.

Install a Water Filter
Protect your RV’s plumbing and improve drinking/cooking water quality by installing an inline water filter. This removes contaminants, minerals, odors and tastes from the source before reaching your taps and tank. For about $30, you can install a basic 5-micron sediment filter. Higher end 10-micron and carbon filters provide more comprehensive filtration for less than $100.

Replace Flex Hoses with PEX
Those thin, bendy plastic hoses used for fresh water supply lines in RVs can degrade, leak and restrict flow over time. Replacing them with flexible PEX tubing solves these issues while making winterization easier. PEX also withstands freezing better if lines accidentally burst. This is an intermediate DIY job but using pre-sized tubing kits cuts down the work.

Install a Black Tank Sprayer
Nothing helps break down RV waste and keep tanks fresh like a black tank sprayer. For about $15, you can screw one into your toilet’s water line. Each flush then powerfully rinses the black tank walls to prevent lingering odors and accumulation. This cheap gadget makes a huge difference in controlling nasty smells. We recommend installing one ASAP!

RV Electrical & Lighting Upgrades

Modernizing and expanding your RV’s electrical system and lighting opens up possibilities for powering more appliances and tech devices, custom illumination and off-grid upgrades.

Install LED Lighting
Swapping out dull, power-hungry incandescent bulbs for LED lighting makes RVs brighter, cooler and more energy efficient. LED bulbs last 10+ times longer too. Upgrade interior and exterior lighting fixtures piece by piece or install complete LED replacement kits. Prices vary widely based on the number and type of bulbs needed. But on average, RV LED upgrades cost $150-300 while slashing lighting-related energy use by 75%.

Replace Battery with Lithium
Deep cycle lead acid batteries are common in RVs but lithium batteries vastly outperform them. Pound for pound, lithium batteries store more energy, recharge faster, last 5-10 times longer and have more usable capacity. This translates to longer dry camping times and fewer related headaches. Relatively new for RVs, lithium batteries remain pricey upfront, often $2000+, but pay off over their extra-long lifespan.

Install Solar Panels & Components
One of the best investments for enjoying off-grid RV living is adopting solar power. Solar panel kits have dropped significantly in price while technology continues improving. For $500-1500, an entry-level 100-400 watt system can sufficiently recharge batteries, power lights/electronics and even run AC. Scale up by adding panels and accessories like generators and inverters for nearly unlimited energy potential.

RV Interior Comfort Upgrades

Customizing the inside of your RV to better suit your needs and preferences will make every day spent traveling more relaxed and homey.

Replace Mattress
Few things affect sleep quality more than an uncomfortable mattress. RV mattresses are notoriously thin and lumpy. Upgrading to a medium-firm memory foam, latex or hybrid mattress designed for RVs can seem indulgent but your body will thank you. Look for made-to-measure shape and multi-layer options from reputable RV brands. Expect to spend $500-1500 for a queen.

Install Smart Home Device
What’s better than controlling lights, temperature and appliances with the sound of your voice? Smart home assistants like Amazon Echo Dot and Google Nest Mini work perfectly in RVs. Connect to campground WiFi or tether one to your phone’s Bluetooth to enable wireless voice control. Use smart plugs and bulbs to expand capabilities. At around $25-50 for an entry-level device, this useful upgrade is a steal.

Window Treatments
RV windows typically offer little privacy and light blocking ability. Installing custom curtains, blinds or shades transforms not only the aesthetic but also the functionality of the space. Choose room darkening fabrics in your style for the bedroom and blackout roller shades for the windshield and main living area windows. HomeGoods and thrift stores offer curtains and valances on a budget if you’re willing to hunt.

By implementing some or all of these 15 budget-friendly upgrades, RVers can customize their home on wheels to better meet their needs while adding style, convenience and functionality. The cost for these DIY projects ranges widely from less than $20 for a tank sprayer to over $1000 for new mattresses or solar gear. But combining small affordable changes with a couple bigger ticket upgrades allows most RVers to transform their rig over time on a reasonable budget.

Get out there and start improving your RV to maximize comfort and enjoyment without breaking the bank. Consistently making little upgrades here and there will have you living in your ideal customized mobile home before you know it. I sincerely hope you find this “Budget-Friendly RV Upgrades In 2024 That Make a Big Impact” article helpful.

Tracy

Tracy, the expert behind OurNextRVAdventure.com, brings over 9 years of experience in travel writing and RV living. With a Master’s degree in Travel and Tourism Management, she offers in-depth knowledge on RV maintenance, scenic routes, and campground recommendations. Connect with her adventures on Pinterest, Facebook, and Instagram.

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Natures Beauty Grand Teton National Park

Tracy — Wed, 11 Sep 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Grand Teton National Park, which is in the Rocky Mountains, offers a breath-taking example of nature’s grandeur. Renowned for its different environments, beautiful lakes, and glorious pinnacles, this Wyoming park is a well-known location for climbers, campers, and photographic artists. Grand Teton National Park is a truly stunning destination in the United States, and as we travel there, we will fully embrace its stunning landscapes, diverse animal life, and one-of-a-kind adventures. Let’s read below about “Natures Beauty Grand Teton National Park”.

A Tapestry of Peaks: Natures Beauty Grand Teton National Park

1. Grand Teton and the Cathedral Group:

The Great Teton, overshadowing the recreation area at an amazing 13,770 feet (4,197 meters), is the recreation area’s most noticeable component. A shocking horizon that never fails to flabbergast is shaped by an assortment of the Teton Reach’s best pinnacles known as the Basilica Gathering. Prominent tops in the recreation area incorporate Mount Owen and Teewinot, which upgrade the generally shocking displays.

2. Teton Range Geology:

The rugged peaks and glacial basins of the Teton Range are the result of millions of years of geological processes shaping the environment. As the mountains were being elevated by structural plate impacts, icy masses cut out profound gorge, abandoning U-formed valleys and lovely lakes. The captivating topographical history of the Teton Reach supplements the stunning regular magnificence of the recreation area.

Lakes and Waterways:

1. Jenny Lake:

Jenny Lake in Grand Teton National Park is a stunning jewel at the base of the Teton Range. Glacial masses cut it out. The tranquil lake is surrounded by breathtaking hills, making it an ideal location for outdoor activities. The peacefully, climbing trails, and boat administration across the lake are accessible to visitors.

2. Jackson Lake:

The park’s largest lake, Jackson Lake, spans fifteen kilometers and offers a stunning view of the Teton Range. They are ideal for boating, fishing, and other water sports due to their crystal-clear waters. The dawn and nightfall over the Tetons make an always mesmerizing display at Jackson Lake.

Wildlife Encounters:

1. Bison Herds:

Fantastic Teton Public Park is home to a few eminent natural life, including American buffalo. Seeing buffalo groups eat in the recreation area’s knolls makes a genuine Western feel. Untamed life encounters, for example, seeing these enormous animals in their local territory against the stunning Tetons setting, permit guests to associate with the district’s plentiful regular history.

2. Moose and Elk:

Visitors can see moose and elk in their natural habitats in the park’s diverse ecosystems. The mornings and evenings are when moose and elk are most active, foraging for food near water sources or grazing in fields. An air of magic emanates from the juxtaposition of the mesmerizing Tetons with the skeletal antlers.

3. Birdwatching:

Over 300 distinct bird species have been recorded in Grand Teton National Park, making it an ideal location for birdwatchers. Pelicans, trumpeter swans, and a wide variety of duck species flock to the lakes and marshes in large numbers. The park is home to many different kinds of birds, including raptors like bald eagles and ospreys.

Scenic Drives and Overlooks:

1. Teton Park Road:

Teton Park Street winds its direction through the recreation area, giving staggering vistas of the Teton Reach and the Snake Waterway. As you advance toward notable posts, trailheads, and natural life watching regions, take in the staggering scene. En route, drivers might take in dazzling scenes of the Tetons’ dynamic excellence.

2. Signal Mountain Summit:

For a stunning vista of the encompassing scene and the sum of the Teton Reach, it is an unquestionable necessity to climb Signal Mountain. A viewpoint that can be reached via Signal Mountain Summit Road offers breathtaking views of the park’s various environments. Any season of day, this is the best spot to see the sun rise or set.

Hiking Trails and Backcountry Adventures:

1. Cascade Canyon Trail:

As it goes through the core of the Teton Reach, the Fountain Gorge Trail is a famous course for explorers. The path starts at Jenny Lake and goes through lovely snow capped scenes, offering looks at untamed life, cascades, and the transcending slopes that encompass the gorge as it goes. The park’s stunning scenery captivates hikers throughout the entire hike, despite its difficulty.

2. Paintbrush Canyon and Lake Solitude:

An undeniably troublesome climb over bumpy landscape and wonderful glades might be found along the Paintbrush Gulch and Lake Isolation trail. The stunning Lake Solitude, which can be seen behind the majestic Tetons, will be visible at the race’s conclusion. This high-height experience will permit you to get very close with the recreation area’s snow capped biological systems.

3. Backcountry Camping:

Fantastic Teton Public Park offers boondocks setting up camp choices for people who need to interface with nature genuinely. Campers can truly escape into the solitude of the Tetons at any one of the permitted campsites; in any case, licenses are required. Hiking through the recreation area might allow one to interface with its regular magnificence.

Wildflower Blooms:

As wildflowers bloom, the alpine zones and meadows of Grand Teton National Park come to life in the summer with a rainbow of colors. Lupines and columbines, in the entirety of their dynamic, fragile brilliance, make a kaleidoscope of variety in the blossom game plan. Photographing the fleeting beauty of these alpine flowers is a passion for ecotourists and photographers alike.

Conservation and Preservation Efforts:

1. Grizzly Bear and Gray Wolf Reintroduction:

Grand Teton National Park has led conservation efforts by reintroducing numerous species, including grizzly bears and grey wolves. The jobs played by these top hunters make them indispensable to the recreation area’s nature. Seeing these mind blowing creatures right at home drives home the need of progressing preservation endeavors.

2. Leave No Trace Principles:

To watch out for Great Teton Public Park’s regular excellence, fundamental park guests adhere to the Leave No Follow rules. Limiting impact, recognizing creatures, and remaining on assigned trails are critical in safeguarding the recreation area’s environments for people in the future to appreciate.

Cultural and Historical Significance:

1. Native American Heritage:

The Bannock and the Shoshone are two of the Local American people group that have incredible social and verifiable importance to the Excellent Teton Public Park district. Taking into account the recreation area’s importance to native networks’ set of experiences and culture is an inescapable piece of each visit.

2. Historic Structures:

Numerous ancient structures in Grand Teton National Park bear witness to human settlement. Both the Cunningham Cabin, a farmhouse from the late 19th century, and the Chapel of the Transfiguration, which has a famous view of the Tetons through a large window behind the altar, provide a glimpse into the park’s past.

The Changing Seasons:

Stupendous Teton Public Park appears stunningly changed with each passing season. In stark contrast to the wildflower blooming and outdoor activities of the summer, the aspen trees, as they change color in the autumn, paint the landscape in gold and amber tones. Excellent Teton’s shocking scene goes through occasional changes, every one of which has its own remarkable appeal.

Tips for Visiting Grand Teton National Park:

1. Plan Ahead:

Research the recreation area’s attractions, trails, and different elements ahead of your visit. Ensure you don’t pass up anything by preparing of time so you can capitalize on your excursion.

2. Consider the Season:

Every season, the park has something new and exciting to offer. Assuming you carve out opportunity to find out about the evolving seasons, you might fit your visit to your inclinations, whether that is seeing fall foliage, winter snowscapes or summer wildflower sprouting.

3. Wildlife Safety:

Continuously avoid natural life. Recall when elk and bears sleep and while to carry optics to see untamed life.

4. Practice Leave No Trace:

You can lessen your impact on Mother Nature by adhering to the Leave No Trace guidelines. Remain on the assigned paths, get after yourself, and regard the recreation area’s local greenery.

5. Bring Essential Gear:

In view of your planned exercises, fundamental stuff for backwoods outings might incorporate. Yet are not restricted to, great climbing shoes, various layers of dress, sunscreen, and bear shower.

6. Check for Alerts and Closures:

Be on the lookout for any warnings, restrictions, or signs of road closures before you leave. To guarantee a smooth and pleasurable visit, be educated on park conditions.

7. Capture the Moments:

Bring your camera or cell phone if you have any desire to report the entire get-away, regardless of whether you’re an expert photographic artist. There is a wealth of picture operations at Amazing Teton Public Park.

Conclusion:

Here you might see every one of the lofty mountains, tranquil lakes, and different environments that make Terrific Teton Public Park so extraordinary. The recreation area’s various attractions welcome investigation and stand amazed at the untamed scenes that have dazzled people for ages. Whether you’re drawn to the impressive Great Teton or the shining Jenny Lake.

Set out on an otherworldly excursion to the focal point of nature’s loftiness by visiting Fabulous Teton Public Park; This is not simply a vacation. The always-moving seasons, shifted natural life, and stunning mountains weave a profound woven artwork. You will be a part of a long-standing tradition that honors and preserves the beauty of one of America’s most beloved national parks as you witness the breathtaking Tetons. I hope you like reading “Natures Beauty Grand Teton National Park”.

Tracy

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How Much Did It Cost For Us To Travel Full-Time In Our RV The First Year?

Tracy — Thu, 05 Sep 2024 00:00:00 +0000

As we were sitting around a campfire sharing stories of our travels with neighbors last month, the most prevailing question was, “How much does it cost to travel full-time?” It’s often the first question we hear from aspiring full-time rvers, and it’s arguably one of the most important. Our go to answer has always been, “As little or as much as you want to spend” because not everyone travels the same.

We are definitely not budgeting gurus but traveling full-time, being retired, and living on a fixed income has propelled us to be more cognizant of our bottom dollar. Most full-time travelers will tend to maintain the same level of lifestyle as they had when they lived in their sticks and bricks but change in spending habits is sometimes necessary to attain a balanced family budget.

We are going to preface this article by saying personal finances are just that, they are PERSONAL!! We debated long and hard about putting our finances out there for the world to see. We asked ourselves two prevailing questions: 1). Would this information have been beneficial to us prior to full-timing? 2). Will this information be beneficial to any of our readers who are contemplating traveling full-time? The answer to both of those questions was an overwhelmingly YES!!

To understand how we traveled this year might provide a better understanding of our numbers:

We visited fourteen (14) states and seven (7) National Parks
We drove 12,344 miles in the motorhome
We drove 10,691 miles in our truck
Spent 147 days in private campgrounds
Spent 46 days in state parks, corps of engineers, and national forests
Spent 120 days dry camping at friends/families, Cabelas, Bureau of Land Management, Sams Club, etc.

Without further ado, let’s take a look at our numbers.

Home Expenses

Accommodations

Annual Budgeted Amount: $9600
Spent: $9843

We look at this category much like paying rent for an apartment. It includes our campground accommodations at private parks, state parks, corps of engineers, and national forests, which averaged $51 a night. This in most part had to do with the tourist areas we visited this year during the peak season: Estes Park, CO; Yellowstone NP; and Glacier NP were the most expensive.

In an effort to reduce this expenditure, we are adding 1000 watts of solar to Grizzly that will allow us to stay off-grid longer. We also use our RV memberships such as Good Sam, Passport America, and KOA to get discounts from 10%-50% off the daily rate. Another method of saving money is to stay in one location longer. The daily rate versus the weekly rate can mean a savings to upwards of 30%.

Cellular and Internet Service

Annual Budgeted Amount: $2100
Spent: $2076

We have AT&T as our cellular and Internet service provider. Our cellular plan is for unlimited LTE and includes coverage in Mexico/Canada. We updated our phones this year to the iPhone XR and our budget reflects a $38 payment for Lana’s phone. For our Internet, we have an AT&T Netgear Nighthawk M1100 hotspot with unlimited LTE data for $24 a month. We pair this with our WeBoost cellular booster and Netgear MIMO antenna. We stream HULU, Netflix, and Prime Video, averaging 312gb a month.

Propane

Annual Budgeted Amount: $960
Spent: $636

This category includes propane we use for cooking, on-demand hot water tank, furnace, and refrigerator when we are dry camping. It also includes propane for our Blackstone grill.

Transportation Expenses

Diesel (Motorhome)

Annual Budgeted Amount: $7800
Spent: $4724

In our first year, we traveled 12,344 miles in our motorhome averaging a whopping 7.5 mpg. We used 1646 gallons of diesel at an average of $2.87 per gallon (Thank you Texas and Buc-ees). Grizzly does not use DEF, therefore, we do not have any additional costs.

Gas (Truck)

Annual Budgeted Amount: $1800
Spent: $1505

This category includes gasoline for our 2017 Ram 1500 4×4 we tow behind the motorhome. We traveled 10,691 miles averaging 18.4 mpg, using 1505 gallons of gas at an average of $2.59 per gallon.

Insurance and Registration

Annual Budgeted Amount: $4800
Spent: $4403

This category includes full-time RV insurance with personal liability/agreed value for our motorhome and auto insurance for our truck/car through Progressive Insurance. It also includes our registration fees for all three vehicles in the State of Florida. This cost will be reduced this year as we moved our autos to Allstate Insurance, saving us over $880 a year.

Maintenance

Annual Budgeted Amount: $7800
Spent: $2276

This includes any maintenance done to the motorhome or autos to include preventive maintenance. We know this category is high but our motorhome is fourteen years old and will be expensive to fix if a major component breaks.

Health / Life Insurance

Annual Budgeted Amount: $7800
Spent: $7584

This category includes our Healthshare through Christian Heathcare Ministries (CHM) and life insurance policies. I will preface this by saying we LOVE CHM!! We pay $300 a month for healthcare and they pay 100% for any claim over $500. Tracy’s post retirement healthcare costs were going to be $25,500 a year with the City of Lawrence ($1500 mo. premium with a $7500 deductible), which would cripple our dream of traveling full-time. We potentially save $21,900 a year with CHM. Yes, we have used CHM and yes they have paid 100% of our claims.

This category also includes life insurance premiums with Prudential Life Insurance and Gen Life.

Pet Care

Annual Budgeted Amount: $1800
Spent: $1464

We travel with our two Bichon Frise’ fur babies. This category includes food, toys, vet visits, grooming, and any medicine.

Membership Fees

RV Club Memberships

Annual Budgeted Amount: $160
Spent: $150

This category includes memberships to Good Sam, Family Motor Coach Association (FMCA), Passport America, and Escapees.

Living Expenses

Groceries

Annual Budgeted Amount: $5400
Spent: $6024

This includes all of our groceries and farmers market purchases. We were slightly above our budget because we found ourselves eating at home more than dining out. We tend to shop more frequently at Trader Joes, Sprouts, Natural Grocers, and Wholesale Foods.

Dining Out

Annual Budgeted Amount: $3000
Spent: $1644

We found the only time we were eating out was when our daughters visited us…hmmm.

Laundry

Annual Budgeted Amount: $420
Spent: $300

This category includes detergent and necessities associated with doing laundry. We try to use our washer/dryer in the motorhome as often as possible but sometimes it was required to use a laundromat.

Mail Forwarding

Annual Budgeted Amount: $420
Spent: $384

This category includes our mail forwarding address in Florida and monthly postage.

Entertainment

Annual Budgeted Amount: $3600
Spent: $4332

This includes anything from going to the movies, whitewater rafting, zip lining, and tours.

Miscellaneous

Annual Budgeted Amount: $7200
Spent: $7564

This is like Tracy fitting into his high school jeans. If it doesn’t fit in any of the above category, it goes here.

Summary

As we mentioned before, each individual or couple will travel differently. We travel for the adventure, to see and do new things, to experience the unforgettable, and to make ever lasting memories.

For our first year, we think we did pretty well considering we jumped into this blindfolded. We over spent in a few categories and have a lot of adjustments to make in others. Our total first year expenses totaled $54,909 or roughly $4600 a month, almost $10,000 under budget. We hope to get our monthly numbers to under $4000.

What we did not include in our article was the accounts we have for a replacement vehicle, personal savings account, medical savings account, investments, gifts, birthdays, holidays, clothing, cash, and taxes as these will differ from individual to individual.

We also did not include the upgrades/updates we did to the Grizzly as that money came out an account we had initially set up to purchase the motorhome but saved during the price negotiation process. If you finance your RV, you will need to figure the monthly payment into your budget.

Since it was not RV related, the costs of our cruises and any related expenses were also not included.

We hope this article helps answer some of the questions you might have when setting your budget for traveling full-time in your RV. If you have any comments or questions, feel free to comment below or send us a private message and we will be happy to help you out.

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Tracy

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