After nearly four years living full-time in our RV, we’ve seen a lot of changes. But as we head into 2026, we wanted to sit down and talk about what we’re noticing—and what we’re expecting on the road ahead.
Campground prices are continuing to climb. Diesel costs remain higher than we’d like. Insurance rates are up across the board. And yes, maintenance and repairs keep getting more expensive.
In this podcast, we share what we’ve observed, what’s changing, and what we’re planning for. No sugar-coating, no manufactured drama, just honest conversation based on our experience. And while the challenges are real, the opportunities might surprise you.
(Want to see our actual 2025 spending? We’re releasing our annual full-costs recap very soon—stay tuned for the real numbers!)
What We’re Noticing in 2026
Campground Prices & Dynamic Pricing
The biggest expense for most RVers is where they stay. We’ve watched campground prices climb steadily, but what’s new is dynamic pricing. Just like airlines adjust fares based on demand, campgrounds are now doing the same—charging more during peak seasons and events.
We experienced this firsthand when visiting Hershey for an RV show. Prices jumped significantly during the event, then dropped afterward. But it goes beyond special events. During summer peak season near National Parks and high-demand areas, we’re seeing substantial price increases. Around holidays—Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day—campground rates spike dramatically. It’s becoming the norm, not the exception, and it’s something every RV traveler needs to budget for in 2026.
The Diesel Dilemma
Unlike gasoline prices, which have come down, diesel prices are actually up 5% year-over-year. Why? Less refinery capacity in the US, sanctions affecting Russian supplies, and California’s renewable diesel incentives are shifting production away from regular diesel.
This affects everyone. Diesel powers the trucks that deliver groceries, fuel, and goods across the country. When diesel costs more, everything costs more.
Insurance on the Rise
Whether it’s your RV or your tow vehicle, insurance rates are climbing. For us in Florida, it’s especially noticeable—property taxes went up after recent hurricanes, which directly impacts our premiums even though we’re rarely there.
The lesson? Get new quotes every year. And please, make sure you have full-time RV coverage, not part-time. We’ve seen cases where inadequate coverage cost people thousands.
Maintenance & Repairs Won’t Wait
We just replaced our truck tires for $2,600. That same week, we faced a major repair that would have cost us more than the tires. Extended coverage saved us, but the point is clear: stuff breaks on the road, and it’s expensive.
RVs especially need consistent maintenance. Budget for it. Have a “oh crap” fund for unexpected repairs.
The Good News: Why 2026 Could Actually Be a GREAT Year
Yes, costs are higher. But strategic planning can make 2026 your best year yet.
Boondocking Changes Everything
This is the game-changer we keep coming back to. If you can boondock—camp for free on public land—you eliminate the biggest expense. We spend $30-60 per night at campgrounds, but boondocking costs nothing.
The key? Go west. The West has abundant public land. The East doesn’t. And with new inverter AC technology (like the Turbo Greenland we reviewed), you don’t need a massive solar system to stay comfortable.
Check out our complete Turbo Greenland inverter AC review to see how this technology can change your boondocking game.
Weather-Chasing Beats AC
We spent 4-5 months without running our air conditioner. How? We moved with the weather, stayed at higher elevations where nights cool down to 40 degrees, and kept windows open.
It sounds simple, but it changes your power consumption (and your battery costs) dramatically.
Solar Technology Got Affordable
When we started, quality solar systems cost $15,000+. Now you can build a solid boondocking setup for $5,000. That’s a complete game-changer for full-timers—and it means more financial freedom.
Watch our in-depth solar setup series: Part 1 and Part 2 to see exactly how we built ours and what you need to know before investing.
Who Will Struggle in 2026?
Let’s be real: if you’re living on a razor’s edge financially, this year will be challenging. People who don’t have cushion for unexpected repairs, who can’t adapt their travel plans, or who refuse to consider boondocking will likely struggle.
But here’s the thing—full-time RV living was never meant to be a money-saving strategy. It’s about freedom, adventure, and living life on your terms. If you approach it that way, with proper financial planning and flexibility, 2026 can be incredible.
Start Strong in 2026
Whether you’re planning your first RV adventure, considering the full-time lifestyle, or already living it year-round, preparation is everything.
Listen to our full conversation in the podcast above. We discuss everything from Open Roads fuel savings to finding cheap state park alternatives to why certain RV insurance policies are non-negotiable.
And if you’re serious about making 2026 work? Check out our full-time RV living course. It’s designed for everyone—from weekend warriors to aspiring full-timers—with the tools, templates, and community support you need.
Want the real numbers? Our complete 2025 annual expenses recap is coming in the next few weeks—actual costs, where the money went, and what to expect for 2026.
Don’t miss it:
- Subscribe to our YouTube channel to get notified the moment it drops
- Head back to our homepage and join our newsletter to be the first to know when we release it
We’ll be breaking down everything so you can plan with confidence.
Because life’s too short to wait. 2026 is your year.
The One Thing We Won’t Compromise On
Real talk: if you’re going to spend more time on the road in 2026, you deserve better sleep. And we’re not exaggerating when we say this one investment has made the biggest difference for us.
We switched our old mattress to the Aurora Luxe RV King from RV Mattress by Brooklyn Bedding, and honestly? It’s better than the expensive mattress we had in our Florida home. Both of us have back issues, and the cooling tech plus the support have been absolute game-changers. When you’re dealing with the physical demands of travel, setting up camp, driving all day, navigating new places—quality sleep isn’t a luxury, it’s essential.
We love ours so much that we wanted to share it with you. RV Mattress by Brooklyn Bedding has extended 30% off exclusively for our community—and this is the highest discount they offer anywhere. You won’t find it on their regular site.
Get 30% OFF using code: liketheresnotomorrow at RV Mattress by Brooklyn Bedding
- ✓ 120-night trial (test it out!)
- ✓ Free shipping
- ✓ Limited Lifetime Warranty
- ✓ Company based in Phoenix
And while you’re preparing for 2026—don’t forget about quality sleep. Because life’s too short to wait. 2026 is your year.
Listen to the Full Conversation
For timestamps and the complete discussion, listen to our podcast on YouTube or any of your favorite podcast platforms. We dive deep into each topic and share real solutions based on what we’re seeing on the road.
Related Videos You’ll Want to Watch:
Check out our budget breakdown videos and 2025 spending recap to understand the real costs of full-time RV living.
Browse our full-time RV living playlist for more strategies and destination guides.
Ready to Make 2026 Happen?
Our Going Full-Time RV course includes everything you need: planning tools, budgeting spreadsheets, course modules, and access to our private community where you can ask questions and get direct support.
Special pricing + free month in our private Facebook group.
Because life’s too short to wait. Let’s chase the life you actually want.
— Barry, Darlene & Hugo
