Is RV Travel Really Cheaper?

Is RV travel really cheaper? 

The recreational industry says yes. Experienced RVers say "it depends."

This is the topic of an article in RV Travel.

It begins with:

Is RV travel cheaper than other types of vacations? The RV industry says yes. According to the RV Industry Association (pdf), a family of four can vacation by RV for 27% to 60% less than trips that rely on hotels, flights, and restaurant meals.

The claim appears frequently in industry reports and promotional materials and is often cited as one of the major advantages of RV travel.

But ask experienced RVers about that claim, and you’re likely to hear a familiar answer.

It depends.

To read more, go here. 

When To Book A Cruise: It's About Timing

Everyone loves to save money. That goes for saving money when making travel plans.

One may wonder when to book one's next cruise and when to take it. USA Today has posted an article on when to book the next cruise.

They begin it with:

When it comes to finding cheap cruises, timing can make all the difference.

Fares vary based on numerous factors, from cruise line type to cabin category – and sailing date. Setting sail at peak times can be significantly pricier than other times of year.

“Summertime is going to be the most expensive, holidays (are) going to be the most expensive,” RacQuelle Major-Holland, owner of Major Adventures Travel Agency, told USA TODAY.

The departure date isn’t the only one that matters, either. It pays for passengers to be strategic about when they make reservations as well.

To read more, go here. 

Michelle Lujan Grisham Sobs Over PBS Cuts

Boo-hoo!

New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham is sobbing over the budget cut of Public Broadcasting by the Trump Administration.

According to her X post, she says that the Corporation for Public Broadcasting is closing. It appears that they were not viable enough to continue without money from the public tit. The government had no business of paying for television and radio stations in the first place. 

Why should the taxpayers subsidize stations who broadcast leftist propaganda? 

Check out the comments to her post.

She posted:

Today marks a sad day for America and for New Mexico families who depend on public broadcasting for critical information and emergency services.
The closure of Corporation for Public Broadcasting, resulting from harebrained federal budget cuts by Republicans in Washington, will… pic.twitter.com/E69F80cR7G

— Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham (@GovMLG) August 1, 2025

 

When Are The Cheapest Months To Take A Cruise?

Above, the Celebrity Mercury at Juneau, Alaska in 2001. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

When is the cheapest month to take a cruise? 

That is the question and title of an article in USA Today. People who want to take a cruise but want to do so at lower costs will find the article interesting.  

They begin with:

If you’re looking for cruise deals, it pays to pick your sailing dates carefully. Prices can vary based on your cruise line, destination and more – but certain times of year tend to be cheaper than others.

Joanna Kuther, a travel agent and owner of Port Side Travel Consultants, said it’s “all based on the demand.”

“And when you're talking about holidays and when schools are out, when families want to travel together, it's always going to be more expensive,” she told USA TODAY.

However, there are bargains out there if you know when to look for them. Here’s what to know.

To read more, go here. 

Do These 6 Things To Not Waste Money On Cruises

Above, yours truly having a cigar and cocktail on the cruise to the Bahamas last summer.

Moments ago, I saw an interesting article on six things to do to save money on cruises.

One especially caught my attention. It was not to take a cruise line transportation shuttle from the airport (in our case, Miami Airport) to the port. Last summer, a friend and I paid $50 each for transportation to the port from the airport. They never showed up despite us making several phone calls and leaving messages. I instead called Uber and they got us to the the port for about $25. This was for the cruise to the Bahamas with Norwegian Cruise Line. 

The article was posted with the Cruise Blog, and they begin it with: 

Having taken over 30 cruises, there have been times when I've felt ripped off while onboard. Sometimes, it's my fault. For example, forgetting to purchase shore excursions in advance means I'll inevitably pay more for the same product on the ship. 

This happened a few years ago when I waited until the last minute to plan my day ashore at Royal Caribbean's private island. Although cruisers have reported scoring epic deals to Thrill Waterpark, I shelled out $149 for a full-day pass. 

I've made plenty of mistakes throughout my cruising career, but I've also found that there are easy ways to always save money on a cruise vacation. Here are my 6 best tips to not waste your hard-earned money on your next cruise. 

To read more, go here. 

RV General Budgeting Tips

Above, Double J RV Park near Springfield, Illinois. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

One of the primary things to do when planning an RV vacation trip is to come up with a budget.

It is a lousy feeling to not budget one's expenses and find themselves out of cash in the middle of a trip, I would imagine. Thankfully, ATMs and online banking are available while on the road (provided your bank is where you're traveling and there's WiFi access). 

Gail Marsh at RV Travel provides some tips on how to budget and budgeting tips.

She begins with:

My husband and I often take work camping jobs that allow us to live in our RV for several months at a time. I’m not going to lie. It took a while to figure out how to budget for us RVers.

Yesterday, I published an article about budgeting for unexpected fun. Things like special events, activities, festivals or fairs, museums… things you might not have planned to stumble across on your travels.

Today, I’ll focus on some more general budgeting tips. Read on.

To read more, go here. 

The Utimate Japan Travel Guide For First-Timers

Above, Kyoto's Kinkakuji "Golden Pavilion". Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Since 2001, I have been to Japan eight times over the years. Each time I try to go to places I haven't been to during previous trips. In 2010, I published The Monster Movie Fan's Guide To Japan.

There are those who would like to visit the Land of the Rising Sun for the first time. To help get them there, GMA Network has posted their "ultimate Japan travel guide for first-timers",

It begins with:

Traveling to Japan soon? This guide will help you plan your trip from acquiring a visa to setting your itinerary.

Now that the COVID-19 pandemic is over, everyone is making up for the lost time. People are now in their “revenge travel” era--a period when travelers are eager to explore the world after being restricted for years.

One country has emerged as one of the top destinations after the pandemic--Japan. The Japan Embassy in the Philippines has been receiving a high volume of tourist visa applications since January this year. From the usual processing time of less than a week, tourists are now advised to apply for a visa at least two months prior to their intended travel date. To address this demand, the Japan Embassy introduced a new visa application center which will start processing applications on April 7, 2025. This means other accredited agencies have until April 6 to submit directly to the embassy.

If you're planning a trip to Japan, this guide will provide a comprehensive overview of all the things you need to know from applying for a visa to budgeting and travel tips.

Above, Godzilla peers over a building in Tokyo's Shinjuku district. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

To read the full guide, go here. 

Affording Hawaii In 2025

Above, a view of Diamond Head from Waikiki Beach. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Pretty much everything costs much more thanks to the rampant inflation we're enduring.

That also includes travel. Travel to Hawaii has skyrocketed during the past several years. People are wondering if it is too expensive.

Travel to Hawaii is more expensive, but there are ways to cutting costs. That is the topic of an article in Beat of Hawaii. 

They begin it with:

Hawaii’s soaring travel costs have left many wondering if a vacation to the islands can ever be within reach. Between rising airfare, astronomical hotel rates overall, activities, and everyday expenses, the perception is that Hawaii has become too expensive except for the wealthy. But with the right strategies, a trip to paradise can still be affordable—even in 2025. Here’s how.

To read more, go here. 

Save Money On Your Next National Park Trip

Above, a view of the Colorado River in Grand Canyon National Park. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

In these days of high inflation, saving money is number one for travelers. That includes visiting our national park.

Fortunately, traveling to and visiting a national park needn't break the bank and Mental Floss has seven tips to save one's hard-earned cash.

They begin with:

National parks are a fantastic way to explore the great outdoors, whether you’re into leaf-peeping or stargazing. Although most are free to enter, some destinations charge fees, which can cost up to $35 per vehicle or $20 per person. Here are some ways to save money if you plan on visiting a National Park Service (NPS) property with an entrance fee this year.

To read more, go here. 

RV Camping On A Budget

Above, a KOA Kampground in Lava Hot Springs, Idaho. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Everything is getting more expensive these days. That also includes travel. Airfares, hotels, resorts, campgrounds, cruises and restaurants are jacking up prices.

For the RVer, some budget planning can help save money. 

This is the topic of an article in RV Life. They provide expert tips and tricks on saving money. 

The article begins with:

Are you looking for budget-friendly ways to enjoy RV camping this year? You’re not alone. Rising costs have many RVers rethink how they’ll be camping in the coming camping season. Luckily, one of the best parts about the RV lifestyle is that it’s flexible. That means you don’t need to break the bank to have fun in your RV. We researched the best ways to save money on RV camping and live big for less. And we’re happy to share our favorite tips and tricks for RV camping on a budget.

To read more, go here. 

How To Plan A Trip To Japan On A Budget

Above, the Godzilla statue at Toho Studios. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Not everyone has pockets big enough to afford international travel, including Japan.

Travel + Leisure has posted a handy article telling how to plan a trip to Japan a budget. There are some tips on transportation, food, lodging and free activities.

They begin it with:

Japan is a top destination for travelers in 2025. And while some of the once-in-a-lifetime experiences — whether that’s savoring exquisitely prepared nigiri at a Michelin-starred omakase restaurant, staying at one of the best five-star hotels in Tokyo, or relishing a luxurious private onsen experience — do cost a pretty penny, a memorable trip to the Land of the Rising Sun doesn’t have to break the bank (especially considering the weak yen, which fell to a 38-year low this past July). Even in pricier cities like Tokyo and Kyoto, there are plenty of affordable activities, accommodations, and places to eat. And if you venture beyond the main tourist hubs, the prices get even more reasonable. 

Here's how to plan a trip to Japan on a budget.

To read more, go here. 

L.A. Slashed Fire Department Budget Before Fires

Above, Los Angeles City Hall from Little Tokyo. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

The following was posted on Facebook in a comment in The Adventures Continue page (the Adventures of Superman):

' Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass oversaw a city budget adjustment which slashed over $17 million from the city's fire department months before Tuesday’s devastating wildfires, information shared by a city official shows.

Thousands fled the Los Angeles area Tuesday as wildfires swept across the area. The fast-approaching flames shut down multiple major roadways, forcing some people to abandon their vehicles.

Los Angeles City Controller Kennith Mejia in October shared to X adjustments made to the city’s fiscal year 2024-2025 budget. Mayor Bass signed the budget in June, according to a press release.

City fire services decreased by $17.6 million through those adjustments, the X post shows. Other impacted services included “street services,” which decreased by $21.4 million, and sanitation, which decreased by $15.1 million.

Among budget items which received extra cash was “zoo,” which increased by $27,000, the information shows. Also receiving increases were “library,” which jumped $14.6 million, and “cannabis regulation,” which increased by $1.8 million.

“As the City of LA goes broke, one of the many questions we get is: ‘WHERE ARE OUR TAX DOLLARS GOING?’” Mejia wrote at the time.

“The City just started a new fiscal year & if you want to know how the Mayor & a majority of City Council increased or decreased departments' operational budget, see below,” Mejia added.'

I can't vouch for its accuracy, but it wouldn't surprise me given that the Democrat Party controls the Los Angeles city government.

UPDATE:

It's true! Go here.

Is Japan Expensive To Visit?

Above, Tokyo Tower. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

The weak yen is attracting visitors to Japan from the U.S.and elsewhere. Some businesses have been raising prices to counter this weakness.

The question, Is Japan Expensive To Visit? has been asked by many for years.

The Planet D delves into that question and has some answers.

They begin with:

Try to find out whether Japan is an expensive country to visit, and you’ll quickly find yourself in a rabbit hole without a definitive answer. There is a lot of conflicting information online about the travel costs in Japan; some swear it’s the priciest country they’ve been to, while others are raving about fantastic $5 meals. 

So, is Japan really as expensive as some people say? It’s both a yes and a no. Some things in the country, like transportation, are very expensive, and others are not. The balance is there, and a trip to Japan is possible on any budget.

We have visited Japan several times and have based this article on our experiences. Here’s what you need to know when budgeting for a trip to Japan!

To read more, go here. 

10 Cheap Japan Solo Destinations On A Single Budget

Above, the Dotonbori District is the heart of nightlife in Osaka. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Seven of my eight trips to Japan was as a solo traveler. It gave me the freedom to do what I wanted and on the spur-of-the-moment at times. 

But I wasn't alone while there. Fortunately, I know people in Japan and we would meet up.

TheTravel has posted an article on 10 solo travel destinations in Japan on the cheap while on a single budget.

It begins with:

Japan is a beautiful and fascinating country with a rich culture and history, but many solo travelers often shy away from visiting due to the perceived high costs of travel, especially in its capital, Tokyo. Known for its technological advancement, sheer beauty, and countless iconic, Instagram-worthy spots, it’s easy to see why many would think it’s exceptionally expensive. However, the truth is that Japan can also be a budget-friendly destination, and there are many affordable attractions and experiences that a single person can enjoy without breaking the bank.

This article introduces readers to ten of the cheapest experiences for solo vacationers in Japan. From exploring ancient temples and shrines to enjoying delicious local cuisine, readers will discover that Japan has plenty to offer for those on a tight budget, above and beyond the famous landmarks it’s known for. By the end of the article, readers will better understand how to experience the best of Japan without spending too much money. Here are 10 cheap solo travel destinations in Japan for those on a single budget.

To read more, go here. 

National Parks Remain Open Through Mid-November

Above, Yellowstone's Old Faithful Inn. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

The compromise funding agreement will allow the national parks to remain open, at least through mid-November.

According to National Parks Traveler:

An 11th-hour compromise Saturday averted a shutdown of the federal government for at least 45 days, allowing the National Park System to remain open through one of the most popular tourist seasons of the year.

With the agreement, reached by the House on Saturday afternoon, approved by the Senate that evening, and sent to President Biden for his signature, the Congress bought time to try to come to terms on government funding for Fiscal 2024, which opens October 1. As a result, the National Park System will remain open at least through mid-November, allowing for Fat Bear Week to run at Katmai National Park and Preserve in Alaska, enabling leaf-peepers to flock to the hardwood forests of Great Smoky Mountains, Shenandoah, and Acadia national parks to marvel at fall's vibrant coat of leaves, and allowing tens of thousands of sky gazers to flock to the National Park System from Oregon through Texas to catch the annular solar eclipse on October 14.

Just in case an agreement on the Continuing Resolution wasn't reached, officials in Utah and Arizona were prepared to keep national parks in their states open with state funding, and Colorado officials were working to do the same.

To read more, go here. 

RV Budget Hacks To Save Money

Above, overnighting at Twin Arrows Casino Resort. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

The dollar isn't buying as much as it used to in these days of high inflation while RV traveling. 

There are ways to saving money with some budget hacks that RV Life is recommending.

They begin with:

Budgeting is essential for every RVer because you need to ensure you have enough money for your everyday needs (plus some extra for unforeseen problems). Factors like a fixed income, monthly RV payments, maintenance fees, and other costs can lead to a very tight budget.

But even if you have limited funds, you can still enjoy the RV lifestyle. You just need to understand how to save money while you’re on the road! Making a few trade-offs and thrifty decisions can help you stay within your budget. Maybe you won’t be able to stay in luxury resorts or eat out every night, but you can still have plenty of fun on your trips.

If you need to make every penny count, these budget RV hacks are for you. We’ve compiled some of the top RV hacks for camping on a tight budget. Some of this advice may seem obvious, while other points may surprise you! Carefully read each tip to see if it will align with your life on the road. Let’s get started!

To read more, go here.

Social Security and A Government Shut-Down

This coming Sunday, if the congress (House and Senate) and the White House don't come to an agreement on a spending bill, the government will shut down.

What does that mean for those of us geezers who are collecting Social Security? Nothing.

According to NBC News (via AOL):

If the federal government shuts down on Sunday, numerous publicly funded agencies will stop work and their employees won't be paid, but Social Security checks will still go out.

Social Security is considered a mandatory program and it isn't funded by the shorter-term appropriations bills passed by Congress and signed by the president. That means its operations and funding don't stop when the government shuts down.

That's important for a large portion of Americans, as about 67 million people are currently receiving monthly Social Security benefits, according to the Social Security Administration. Those benefits primarily go to retirees, but also to people with disabilities as well as dependents of deceased beneficiaries.

Medicare and Veterans Affairs benefits also continue being distributed during a shutdown.

To read more, go here. 

Can You Live The RV Dream On Retirement Money?

Above, dry camping at Lake Cachuma in California. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

The following is mainly for retirees who are contemplating RVing full-time. But for the rest of us, it is something to consider. RVing full-time has never been a consideration for me when I bought my motorhome when I retired.

RV Life posted an article about retirees and if they can live the RV dream on retirement money. Generally, the correct answer is "it depends."

They start out with:

How far will your retirement money go while RVing? If RVing is in your retirement plans, budgeting for life on the road should be a priority for you. We’re going to look at ways to stretch your money and keep you on the road.

Unfortunately, this question is pretty open-ended and has no definite answer. Traveling from person to person varies greatly, as does the cost to do so.

Many think of retirement RVing as touring the country in a fancy new Class A, which itself could cost $250,000 or more. The operational costs that follow those big diesel pushers can also quickly add up. But not everyone will be living the Class A life, and much more modest RVs are also used for full-time retirement travel.

How much you travel will also make a huge difference in your retirement money and how quickly it disappears. For most RVers, fuel is the number one cost, and it can eat into your bank account in a big way.

As part of your retirement planning, you will have to determine what your RVing will look like. The type of RV you will be buying, frequency of travel, and type of stays you will be enjoying will make up most of your budget. The important thing is to have a plan for your retirement money and live within your plan.

To read more, go here. 

RV Industry Again Falsely Claims RVing Is Cheapest Way To Travel

Above, The Beast at Hubbell Trading Post in Arizona last October. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

If anyone thinks that RV Travel is a mouthpiece for the RV industry, particularly the Recreational Vehicle Industry Association (RVIA), the following should dispel that notion.

Chuck Woodbury, founder and publisher of RV Travel, takes on the RVIA's recent press release that claimed RVing is "the cheapest way to travel".  

He begins with:

The RV Industry Association (RVIA) issued its annual press release recently that claims, again, that yet another study confirms traveling by RV is the most affordable way to take a vacation.

The headline on its recent press release was:

Families save money by vacationing in RVs 

The release begins:

“A new study conducted by an outside, independent firm has found that RV vacations cost much less than other types of vacation travel, even when factoring in fuel prices and the cost of RV ownership.”

I say that’s a lie! The sad part, and this is why I get so upset when I read about this, is that many people (including those in the media) will believe it.

To read further on, go here. 

Key West: 10 Cheapest Places To Stay

Above, there's plenty to see and do in Key West. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Before the pandemic started in early 2020, I was planning to head to Key West, Florida for a vacation. Once the pandemic hit, all plans went out the window.

Key West was a stop with our April 2019 cruise to Havana, Cuba. We were there for a few hours and I wanted to go back to enjoy it more. I did notice at the time that accommodations were on the pricey side. But according to a new article by TheTravel, budget accommodations can be found.

They begin with:

Key West is a top beach vacation due to its sparkling waters, tropical climate, and numerous beaches. Travelers can enjoy panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico from Fort Zachary Taylor's Historic state park or the abundant marine life and coral reefs at Dry Tortugas National Park. While Key West is one of the best vacation destinations, there is a high demand for accommodation by tourists that can drive prices up, making it expensive for budget travelers. But it doesn't have to be; there are many cheapest places to stay in Key West. With some research, travelers can get decent accommodation without sacrificing comfort and experience or breaking the bank. Here are the ten cheapest places to stay in Key West on the beach for thrifty travelers.

To read more, go here.