Spring Break season is upon us! And for road warriors, it’s the perfect time to dust off the rig and hit the hot, open road. But let’s face it — spring breaking can get super spendy. Thousands of people each year are looking for a way to get out but reduce the cost. Enter the RV, hero of the hour. With a bit of planning, some insider know-how, and these eight Spring Break RV secrets, you can make it a memorable week. All without breaking the bank.
So, here are the eight best ways to save some green while chasing the sun and enjoying new freedom on Spring Break with your RV.
Secret No. 1: Choose Budget-Friendly Destinations
Selecting the right destination is half the battle. The good news is that because you’re RVing, you’re not tied to spots with lots of housing options. In other words, you can avoid pricey vacation hotspots. Instead, opt for locations that offer natural beauty and recreational opportunities without hefty price tags.
- Foley, Alabama. Just a short drive from the white-sand beaches of Gulf Shores, Foley offers a fantastic spring break RV camping experience with coastal charm. Campers can enjoy the tranquil setting of the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge, perfect for birdwatching and hiking. Nearby, Graham Creek Nature Preserve has miles of scenic trails and kayaking opportunities.
- Padre Island, Texas. For beachfront camping, Padre Island allows you to camp right on the sand and wake up to the sound of waves — for free! Activities include beachcombing, fishing, and spotting sea turtles.
Secret No. 2: Leverage RV Memberships and Discounts
Joining RV clubs can lead to substantial savings. So, this Spring Break is a great time to pull the trigger. Clubs and other memberships are also a great way to help make picking a parking spot easier, because instead of endless options, you’ll typically have only a couple in whatever area you’re headed to.
- Harvest Hosts. For as little as $80 per year, a membership to Harvest Hosts gets you free or low-cost stays at a huge range of interesting parking spots, from wineries to working farms.
- Passport America. This membership offers 50 percent off at over 1,100 campsites across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. Destinations include Caliente Springs Resort in Palm Springs and various locations in Florida and Texas.
Secret No. 3: Opt for State Parks and Public Lands
State parks often provide affordable camping options with beautifully scenic surroundings. Most state parks also have plenty of discount programs available, like senior discounts and military or veteran discounts.
- Tugaloo State Park, Georgia. Located on the shore of Lake Hartwell, this park offers 108 tent, trailer, and RV campsites ranging from $27 to $30. Amenities include a swimming beach, boat ramps, and ample fishing opportunities.
- Boiling Springs State Park, Oklahoma. This 820-acre park features cabins, RV sites, and tent campsites. Activities include hiking, camping, swimming, fishing, and wildlife observation.
Secret No. 4: Cook Your Own Meals
One of the joys of RVing is having your kitchen on wheels. Preparing your meals saves money and allows for healthier choices. Stock up on groceries before hitting the road, and plan simple, delicious meals that can be whipped up in your RV kitchen. Also, if you’re fishing near your campsite, consider cooking the fish you catch!
Secret No. 5: Utilize Free and Low-Cost Activities
Use your RV as a launchpad for activities that don’t require a hefty fee. This is where a toy hauler comes in handy, but RVs of any size can hold lawn games, bikes, and other free activities. This is where you benefit from hauling a huge mobile garage behind you.
- Hiking and Nature Trails. Many state parks offer free hiking trails that showcase local flora and fauna.
- Fishing. Don’t forget to pick up a license, because fishing can be a relaxing and cost-effective pastime.
- Local Festivals. Research local events or festivals happening during your stay. These often provide entertainment and cultural experiences at little to no cost.
Secret No. 6: Plan Ahead and Be Flexible
Booking in advance can secure lower rates, but being flexible with your travel dates can also lead to savings on last minute deals. Traveling during the “shoulder season,” just before or after peak times, can result in lower campground fees and fewer crowds.
Secret No. 7: Consider Boondocking
For the more adventurous, boondocking — camping without hookups on public lands — can be a free or low-cost option. Ensure you’re prepared with adequate water, power sources, and waste management plans, and buckle in for some peaceful chillaxin’ at a fraction of the price of a busy beach.
Secret No. 8: Rent Before You Buy
If you’re new to RVing or considering a different type of rig, renting can be a cost-effective way to test the waters. Platforms like Outdoorsy offer a variety of RV rentals, allowing you to find the perfect fit for your adventure. You’re likely to pay a premium over a holiday, but it’s still going to save you big dollars vs. hitting up a busy beach or lakefront.
With these strategies, you can enjoy a fulfilling and budget-friendly spring break on the road. Spring is a time for leaning into the new. New roads, new parking spots, and new cost-effective adventures await!
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