The average American has a vacation budget limit of about USD$2,800 per Statista data. This means that most of the vacations they opt for are planned for to the last dollar. If you’re looking to make the best of your budget as well, opting for a campervan holiday can go a long way.

These holidays allow you to save on accommodation costs and escape the nightmares of expensive last-minute bookings. Also, you get to cook your meals in the campervan if you wish, which can cut down on dining expenses. These are some of the reasons why campervan holiday promises adventure on a budget.

With careful planning, you can make that budget even friendlier. This guide shares insider tips to maximize savings on your campervan holiday.

Plan Smart, Save Smart

Travel in the off-season when campsite fees are lower, thus making it easier to score better rental deals. Also, consider free options like public lands or national forests that allow dispersed camping. All you need is a self-contained campervan. These free spots can save you a bundle on campground fees.

Opt for a campervan that fits your group without wasted space. A smaller, fuel-efficient model saves on rental and gas costs. But don’t cram in more people than seatbelts either. With options like campervan hire Christchurch or others you prefer, you’ll easily find the sweet spot that maximizes comfort and savings.

Be Food Savvy

Cook meals in your campervan rather than relying on restaurants. It saves money and lets you enjoy made-to-order favorites using fresh ingredients from local markets. Get creative with one-pot meals, foil packet dinners, sandwiches, etc.

Also, consider shopping for groceries at regular supermarkets, not pricey convenience stores. You’ll find far better deals on fresh produce, proteins, dairy and pantry staples to stock up your campervan.

Plan recipes using similar ingredients to avoid waste. If Monday’s tacos have leftover taco meat, repurpose it for nachos later in the week. Stretch ingredients across multiple meals.

But don’t stop at that. Ditch bottled water and invest in a reusable bottle and water filter. Filling up from the tap or natural sources is much cheaper and reduces plastic waste.

Fuel Efficiency For The Win

Compare gas prices and avoid filling up at highway rest stops if possible. Exit and find stations off the main drag for better fuel rates. Take advantage of the many smart phone apps out there to help you locate the cheapest spots.

While on the road, use eco-driving techniques to improve mileage. Accelerate gently, maintain even speeds, and limit idling. It takes discipline, but the fuel savings add up.

Also consider mapping out routes strategically, avoiding highways when possible. Scenic backroads and detours may be more fuel efficient depending on terrain. Calculate total mileage of route options.

Consider alternative fuels like propane if available for your campervan model. While the upfront cost is higher, you may save in the long run. Compare options within your budget.

Embrace Free Activities

About 32% of Americans planning vacations fret about the affordability of the tours, attractions and activities at their destination of choice. You can beat this by embracing free activities.

Take advantage of free access to beautiful hiking trails, lakes, forests, beaches and more. Pack a lunch and spend the day exploring without spending a dime.

You can also visit local historical sites and museums that offer free or donation-based entry. It’s a budget-friendly way to soak up some culture and local history. Time it with free community days for extra savings.

Look into volunteer camping programs at some campgrounds or national parks. You can earn your stay by doing a few hours of volunteer work around the grounds each day. An easy way to camp for free! Attend local festivals, concerts in the park, or community events for free entertainment.

Borrow, Rent, Or DIY

Save money by borrowing camping gear from friends or family instead of buying, or maybe get creative with budget-friendly swaps like a tarp instead of a tent. You can also consider approaching local outfitters also rent equipment for much less than purchasing.

Learn basic maintenance skills like changing a flat tire, checking fluid levels, etc. Handy tutorials online can teach you how to handle minor roadside repairs and save on mechanic costs.

Also, consider making your own campsite decor with items from nature like sticks, leaves, flowers. Entertain yourselves with simple games, singing campfire songs, reading, playing guitar, whipping up s’mores.

In Closing

A thrifty campervan holiday takes research, creativity and smart choices. But the payoff is huge – you get to embark on an epic adventure that fits comfortably within your budget.

Follow these money-saving hacks, and you’ll stretch your dollars further, leaving you more funds for making priceless memories. By planning smart and traveling wise, you can savor the freedom of a campervan holiday without breaking the bank.