While gas prices have dropped slightly since hitting a historic high near the end of March, the cost of fuel is still something on RVers’ minds. But you don’t have to let the soaring gas prices ruin summer travel. When you travel in an RV, any location can become a fun destination. So, if you’re looking to save on fuel costs so you can spend the funds in more fun ways, these RVing staycation tips can help.
What is a staycation?
A staycation doesn’t mean you have to set up your RV in your driveway, but you can. All “staycation” means is that you are doing your vacation close to home. You are staying within your surrounding area and doing things that you could technically do while staying at home. In fact, there are many people who do staycations while staying at their house to save on the cost of accommodations. But, since you are the proud owner of an RV, your staycation can be a lot more fun than that!
Build the excitement
Just because you are staying close to home doesn’t mean your staycation can’t be a blast! Build up the excitement in your family before you go. Have conversations about what activities everyone wants to do and what they are looking forward to the most. Let everyone choose food they want to have or somewhere they want to visit and then make those things a priority.
Decide where you are going to go
The first thing you need to do is decide where you’re going to stay. If you want, you could park your RV in your own yard (if allowed by your local restrictions.) If this is the route you want to take, we encourage you to treat it like a real vacation. Try to disconnect the same way you would if you were traveling to a campground. You may choose to use your home bathroom, but do your best to spend your time outside or in your RV to get that true vacation feel.
If you want to go a little further away than your backyard, look for a local campground or RV resort. This helps give you more of the vacation feel without having to spend a lot of time traveling or money on gas. Choose one in an area you love doing activities in or better yet, choose a new campground that you haven’t checked out before. Look for areas that have activities that get you out of your daily routine. You don’t want to go to the same grocery store and restaurants that you do when you are staying at home.
Look for a campground with events and activities
Another great way to do an RV staycation is to find a campground that puts on events and has a long list of activities you and your family can enjoy. This lets you stay close to home while still getting out of your regular routine. Pack up the RV with everything you need before you go and then don’t leave the campground until it’s time to pack up and head home.
Act like a tourist
Treat the trip like you would if you were going to a new destination. Get the travel brochures, ask locals what the best places are to visit, and hit up Google to find what activities are in the area. When you take this fresh approach to your own area you are sure to find things you have never heard of before. Pay for a tour and see what new things you learn. Look for package deals where you can visit multiple museums or attractions at a reduced price.
Spend on something you normally wouldn’t
Because you are saving money on gas, shift a little of that savings to do an activity you normally wouldn’t. Pay for the Jeep ride on the beach, go horseback riding on the trails, or visit a restaurant you normally wouldn’t splurge on.
Invite friends and family to join you
One of the fun things about being close to home is that the people you enjoy spending time with are there too. Invite friends or family members to come out to your campsite to barbecue, have a campfire, and roast marshmallows. They will appreciate this small touch of camping and the chance to unplug as well. You could even get campsites together to enjoy extended time together away from home. When no one has the pressure of cleaning the house for company, everyone can relax and enjoy each other’s company that much more.
Find your perfect staycation RV
If you have been thinking about buying an RV on the central coast but have been thinking twice due to rising gas prices, don’t let that stop you. The central coast is full of amazing destinations you can visit without having to travel far. If you’re ready to explore which RV is best for you and your family, contact us today.
