Camping isn’t always a low-cost endeavour, especially when you’re unprepared. You’ll have to pay for your campsite passes, which can be expensive – depending on where you’re setting up camp – as well as rental sites for your recreational vehicle or trailer, fuel, firewood, food, clothing…etc. Not to mention the biggest expense of all: your RV.
When we think “low-cost” vacationing in the summertime, many of us default to camping. While that’s not always the case, RecProtect is here to give you some hot tips on how to reduce costs while camping in Alberta! We go over reducing costs on your RV, your RV insurance in Alberta, basic amenities, fuel, and so much more in this blog post. Read on for tips!
Reducing Costs When Purchasing an RV
Your RV is likely to be your biggest upfront cost – there’s no way around it. Fortunately, it doesn’t have to break the bank as much as you think it does. Purchasing an Albertan RV is the first and foremost way to reduce costs, as there’s a lack of provincial sales tax (unlike in other popular camping provinces.) Here are some other tips to keep in mind when first buying your RV.
- Ask the dealership about any potential perks that come with the overall price tag, including winter storage, maintenance, emergency towing, etc., to see if you might be able to get more bang for your buck.
- If you’re financing, look for the lowest possible rates.
- Purchase your RV at the end of camping season.
- Purchase a used RV rather than a new one.
- Cut any unnecessary, luxury features, as they’ll hike your end price substantially.
- Know that you can always negotiate if you’re dissatisfied with the potential price tag.
Know that the upfront cost of your RV isn’t where it ends. There’s maintenance costs, insurance, fuel and gas, and so much more.
Reducing Costs on Gas and Food
Gas is a tough one because it’s cost will always fluctuate depending on the circumstances. Obviously, the more you travel, the more you’ll have to spend on gas. You may also be driving uphill quite a bit, if you’re camping in the mountains. Some good ways to reduce costs on gas in Alberta are as follows:
- Ensure that your tires are properly inflated before you leave for a trip.
- AMA and Costco may both offer gas discounts.
- Certain gas stations offer discounts on specific days of the week. Try to refuel accordingly.
- Avoid bringing any unnecessary appliances and belongings, as the additional weight you’ll be required to haul will add to your gas usage.
- Avoid idling where possible.
Reducing costs on food when camping in Alberta is relatively simple: avoid takeout. It can hike costs, and while it’s fun to do it can be seriously expensive. Reduce your overall costs by preparing your food ahead of time, and choose items that are non-perishable: oatmeal for breakfast, dried fruit and nut mixes for snacks, pasta, etc. You can meal prep to reduce the odds that you’ll spend money on food items you won’t ever use. Ensure adequate storage to avoid spoilage.
You may also want to use reusable dishes/utensils that are easy to pack. These are better for the environment and better for your budget.
Reducing Activities Costs
Outdoor activities may certainly be some of the most affordable things you can do while you’re camping in Alberta, but that doesn’t mean they’re always free.
- For things like golfing, museums, and checking out attractions, check online to see if you or any of your family members may qualify for discounts.
- If you’re still choosing between campgrounds, pick campgrounds that offer free activities – i.e., have a pool included, have bike parks, etc.
- Purchase any gear you may require for activities used or borrow from family members.
- Do your research for nearby free activities.
- Rent as opposed to purchasing new items.
- Pack more as opposed to purchasing new items specifically for your activities.
There’s a lot you can do with the time that you have if you’re creative! Enjoying the great outdoors – for free – is likely one of the best things about camping, and you can enjoy different areas the more you travel out in Alberta.
Reducing Alberta RV Insurance Costs
How much does RV insurance cost in Alberta, anyway? Well, that answer depends. You may find that the best RV insurance in Alberta is not the one with the lowest price tag, but the one that best suits your needs (while still being affordable.) You’ll find that your price for Alberta RV insurance will vary based on the following factors:
- Size of RV
- Type of RV
- Age of RV
- Where you use it
- How often you use it
- Past accidents
- Insurance history
- Your personal demographics
- If you rent it out
While some of these factors you cannot change, others you may be able to tip if you’re strategic. You can significantly reduce your Alberta RV insurance costs by using the following tips:
- Use a broker to help you shop around for affordable rates
- Ask about potential discounts (especially for preferred parks!)
- Bundle your policies for return-customer discounts
- Raise your deductible amount
- Slash any unnecessary coverage
- Opt for an actual cost value settlement versus a replacement value settlement
- Only make claims for damages that you won’t be able to cover yourself
- Practice safe driving behavior and avoid making tickets
- Check out any club memberships you may use to qualify for discounts
RecProtect helps you get the best RV insurance rates in Alberta, while ensuring that you have coverage that fits your needs. Get a free quote today. You can Buy it, Insure it, and Enjoy it immediately when you choose RecProtect.