Trying to decide between renting an RV or booking hotels? Been there. I’ve done both — slept in hotels with blackout curtains and room service, and also parked a rented camper next to lakes so quiet they didn’t seem real. Each comes with its own vibe. But if you’re looking for more freedom, flexibility, and a little adventure? RV travel might be what you didn’t know you needed.
Let’s break it down in a way that’s easy to read and actually useful — especially if you’re scrolling on your phone.
🚐 RV Life: Your Home on the Move
A few years ago, I rented a motorhome and took off across the coast with no reservations, just a full tank and good weather. I ended up sleeping under the stars, grilling dinner at a quiet beach, and waking up with zero idea what day it was. Bliss.
Here’s what stood out:
- You’re in charge of your schedule. No check-ins, no checkout pressure.
- Everything’s with you — bed, kitchen, coffee mug.
- You save cash when traveling with others. One RV = one nightly fee.
- Cook your own meals. Way cheaper than eating out daily.
- RVs are usually pet-friendly.
Sure, you’ve got to empty a waste tank and drive something bigger than a sedan. But honestly? The trade-off is waking up in the middle of nowhere — in the best possible way — with your whole day wide open.
🏨 Hotel Life: Comfort Without the Work
Hotels are the safe bet. You book, show up, and someone else makes the bed.
Here’s where hotels shine:
- Full comfort: big beds, hot showers, zero chores.
- Great for city stays or quick business trips.
- You don’t have to think about hookups, parking, or driving logistics.
- Reliable internet and standard amenities.
But the thing is — they can feel a bit… predictable. You’re waking up in a box with a view of another box. And by the third meal out, you’ll probably start missing your own snacks.
💸 Cost Breakdown: RV vs Flights + Hotels (Updated 2025)
| Expense | RV Rental | Flights + Hotels |
|---|---|---|
| Transportation | Fuel: $250–$600 per trip | Flights: $400–$1,000 per person |
| Accommodation | $50–$130 per night (campgrounds) | $150–$350 per night (hotels) |
| Food | $150–$250 per trip (groceries, RV kitchen) | $600–$1,000 per trip (restaurants, 4 people) |
| Extras (Rental, Fees, etc.) | $120–$280 per night (RV rental + basic fees) | $500–$1,000+ (car rental, resort fees, baggage, etc.) |
| Total (4 people, 7 days) | $2,200–$3,800 | $5,000–$7,200 |
According to the RV Industry Association, RV vacations can save families between 21% and 64% compared to traditional travel.
KOA’s 2023 camping report shows 58 million households went camping in 2022 — and 38% said they’d increase camping if the economy tightens.
✨ So… Which One’s for You?
Pick an RV if:
- You want open-ended travel and spontaneous stops.
- You’re into national parks, coastlines, or chasing sunsets.
- You like having your own space and making your own meals.
Pick a Hotel if:
- You need something quick, clean, and hands-off.
- You’re traveling for work or staying in dense urban areas.
- You really love room service.
But truthfully? RVs offer something more personal — it’s your space, your pace. And once you try it, hotel hallways and mini-fridges might feel a little less exciting.
🎯 My Honest Take
There’s no perfect choice for every trip. But if you’re craving space, views, and the freedom to change your mind mid-journey, an RV rental can turn a vacation into a full-blown experience.
Me? I’ll still grab a hotel now and then. But more and more, I find myself choosing the road — windows down, no schedule, just seeing where the map takes me.
Thinking of trying RV travel? Book your ride with Campstar and see where the road takes you.