Three friends recently completed an eight-day road trip across California in a rented camper van, spending approximately $1,134 per person. The trip included visits to three national parks, gas, food, and campsite fees.
Bailey Dean, a travel and lifestyle content creator, shared details of the journey, emphasizing that road trips can be an affordable way to explore, especially when costs are shared.
MOTORHOME RENTAL AND GAS HIGHLIGHT EXPENSES The largest expense for the group was the camper van rental, which totaled $2,265. Split three ways, this amounted to $755 per person. Gas was the second-highest cost, with the group spending $211 each due to California's high fuel prices, which were around $7 per gallon during their trip. Dean noted that their van used regular gasoline, avoiding even higher diesel prices.
The trio managed their food budget by preparing meals themselves, allocating $119 each for groceries. They reported cooking "pretty elaborate meals" and stocking up on snacks, with stops at Trader Joe's to manage costs.
ACCOMMODATION SAVINGS Campsite fees for five nights totaled $40 per person. The remaining nights were spent at free campsites. Their itinerary included four nights in Yosemite National Park, one night in Sequoia National Park, and two nights in Death Valley National Park. MOTORHOME RENTAL AND GAS HIGHLIGHT EXPENSES The group rented their camper van from California Vanlife, a Fresno-based company. The total rental cost was approximately $2,265, which they found to be a more economical option compared to hotel stays.
This trend aligns with a broader increase in RV travel. Jon Gray, founder of RVshare, an online marketplace for RV rentals, noted that approximately 60% of travelers planned road trips or RV vacations in 2026, with over half preferring RVs. Gray stated that travelers are seeking affordable vacation options and value control over their travel dates, destinations, and budgets.