WE DID THE MATHS: MOTORHOMES AND CAMPERVANS ARE THE SMARTER WAY TO HOLIDAY

Holidays are meant to be relaxing, but the cost of flights, hotels, and restaurants can quickly turn a dream trip into a budget nightmare. That’s why so many Australians are looking at motorhomes and campervans as a smarter way to travel. But can an RV really save you money — or is it just a myth? We’ve crunched the numbers, and the results might surprise you.

The Usual Holiday Equation: Flights + Hotels + Eating Out

Let’s take a family of four planning a one-week coastal getaway:

Flights: $1,200 return (domestic)

Accommodation: $1,800 (mid-range hotel, 6 nights)

Meals: $1,000 (3 meals a day for four people)

Transport: $500 (car hire + fuel)

Total: $4,500+ for one week.
And that’s before souvenirs, activities, or last-minute splurges.

The Camper Holiday Equation: Campervan or Motorhome Hire

Now let’s compare the same family in a self-contained motorhome:

RV Hire: $1,400 (7 days in a 4-berth campervan)

Fuel: $350 (approx. 1,000km coastal round trip)

Caravan Park Fees: $400 (powered sites at $60 per night)

Meals: $400 (groceries + occasional takeaway)

Total: $2,550 for one week.

That’s a saving of nearly $2,000 compared to the hotel holiday.

Hidden Savings Most People Forget

No luggage fees – your clothes, surfboards, and even the dog can come along.

Built-in flexibility – no peak-season surcharges on flights or hotels.

Self-catering – cook your own meals instead of paying restaurant mark-ups.

All-in-one transport + accommodation – no separate hire car or hotel bills.

But What About Owning an RV?

If you’re travelling regularly, buying can make even more sense. For example:

Average cost of a mid-range motorhome: $160,000

Use it for 6 weeks a year over 10 years = 60 weeks

That works out to around $2,600 per holiday (excluding resale value, which can still be strong).

Compare that to spending $4,500 every year on hotels and flights, and ownership starts looking very attractive.

The Best Way to Test the Numbers Yourself

Not sure if RV life is right for you? The simplest way to find out is to rent one first. A short trip will give you a clear picture of costs, comfort, and whether the lifestyle fits.

That’s where Campervan Rental Guide, comes in. They offer a full range of campervans and motorhomes across Australia so you can try the experience before you buy.

And if you do fall in love with life on the road? Our online dealership is here to help you take the next step towards owning your own motorhome.

So, could a motorhome or campervan save you money on holidays? The maths say yes — especially for families, long-haul travellers, or anyone tired of paying peak-season prices. Whether you rent for a week or invest in one for years to come, the RV lifestyle isn’t just about freedom and adventure — it can also be about financial sense.