Long-term RV living offers freedom, flexibility, and a simple lifestyle that more people are embracing—retirees, remote workers, traveling professionals, and families alike. But even though it’s often more affordable than renting a traditional apartment or home, costs can add up fast if you’re not intentional about how you plan your stay. From utilities to food, fuel, campsite rates, and maintenance, small adjustments can make a big difference over weeks or months.
If you’re planning a long-term RV stay near St. Louis, whether for work or leisure, this guide will help you stretch your budget without sacrificing comfort. St. Louis Mulberry RV Gardens has built a strong reputation for offering affordable monthly stays, but with the right strategies, you can save even more. Below, you’ll find practical, realistic tips that seasoned long-term RVers swear by.
Why Long-Term RV Living Is More Affordable Than Traditional Housing
Before we dive into savings strategies, it’s worth highlighting why long-term RV stays remain one of the most budget-friendly housing options:
Lower monthly rates compared to apartments
Reduced utility costs
No long-term lease commitments
Flexibility to move anytime
Control over your lifestyle and expenses
But like any type of living, RV life has predictable and unpredictable costs. Knowing where to save helps you make the most of your stay in St. Louis.
Tip 1: Choose a Park With Fair, Simple Monthly Rates
Not all RV parks price their long-term stays the same. Some charge high electricity fees or add hidden costs, while others offer clear, all-inclusive pricing.
At St. Louis Mulberry RV Gardens, guests enjoy affordable monthly rates that include reliable hookups, peaceful surroundings, and easy access to everyday essentials. Choosing a park with transparent pricing can instantly save you hundreds.
When comparing RV parks, look for:
Full hookups (water, sewer, electric)
Free or affordable WiFi
Clean amenities
Quiet environment for work or rest
Proximity to grocery stores and gas stations
Saving money starts with choosing the right location—one that supports your lifestyle and eliminates unnecessary expenses.
Tip 2: Reduce Your Electric and Propane Usage
Energy usage is one of the biggest contributors to long-term RV costs. Fortunately, there are several ways to use less electricity and propane without sacrificing comfort.
Use electric heaters wisely
Electric space heaters save propane, but overuse can spike electric usage. Use heaters during daytime and switch to propane furnace only when needed at night.
Cook smart
Propane is used heavily for cooking. Save money by using:
Electric skillet
Pressure cooker
Microwave
Air fryer
These appliances reduce propane usage and cook meals faster.
Use LED lights
LED bulbs are energy-efficient and long-lasting—an easy swap that saves electricity.
Manage your AC and furnace
Set a consistent temperature. Constant changes force your systems to work harder.
Keeping energy usage low is one of the best ways to reduce your total monthly RV expenses.
Tip 3: Insulate Your RV to Save on Heating and Cooling
Missouri weather can shift dramatically, from warm sunny days to cold nights in fall and winter. Better insulation means less reliance on AC or heating.
Here’s how to insulate effectively:
Add RV skirting to prevent cold air from circulating beneath your rig
Use thermal curtains
Install foam insulation around windows
Add draft stoppers to doors
Use rugs to reduce cold floors
Proper insulation lowers your electric and propane bills immediately and boosts overall comfort.
Tip 4: Cook More, Eat Out Less
Eating out in St. Louis can add up quickly, especially if you’re here for several months. Cooking in your RV is one of the easiest ways to save money.
Plan simple meals
Sticking to easy, quick recipes helps you avoid takeout temptations.
Stock up at affordable grocery stores
Nearby options like Walmart, Aldi, Schnucks, and Costco help keep grocery costs low.
Buy in bulk
Non-perishables and freezer-safe items are perfect for long-term RV storage.
Cooking meals inside your rig or grilling outside not only saves money—it also adds to the fun of RV living.
Tip 5: Use a Grocery and Meal Budget
Food is often the biggest variable expense for long-term RVers. A simple weekly budget goes a long way.
Set limits for:
Groceries
Eating out
Snacks and drinks
Meal prep ingredients
Choose low-cost staples like rice, pasta, beans, eggs, frozen vegetables, chicken, and canned goods. Your wallet—and your stress levels—will thank you.
Tip 6: Take Advantage of Free or Low-Cost Entertainment Near St. Louis
You don’t need expensive outings to enjoy St. Louis. Many of the best attractions are free or budget-friendly.
Free activities you can enjoy year-round:
St. Louis Zoo
Forest Park
The Gateway Arch grounds
Laumeier Sculpture Park
Missouri History Museum
Anheuser-Busch Brewery grounds
Walking trails and nearby lakes
Low-cost activities around the area:
Mini golf
Bowling
Movie nights
Local diners
Discount days at museums
St. Louis offers endless entertainment without overwhelming your budget.
Tip 7: Practice Preventive RV Maintenance
One of the biggest ways long-term RVers accidentally overspend is by ignoring maintenance until costly repairs arise.
Staying ahead saves you hundreds (sometimes thousands).
Routine maintenance tasks include:
Checking tire pressure weekly
Inspecting seals and caulking
Flushing water heater regularly
Cleaning AC filters
Lubricating slides
Monitoring battery levels
Checking for leaks after heavy rain
Do these small steps consistently and your rig will thank you.
Tip 8: Track Your RV Expenses Monthly
If you’re staying long-term in St. Louis, tracking expenses ensures you stay within budget. Use apps like:
Mint
EveryDollar
Google Sheets
Track categories such as:
Rent
Propane
Groceries
Entertainment
Gas
Maintenance
Internet/phone
Long-term RV living becomes even more affordable when you have clear insight into your spending patterns.
Tip 9: Reduce Water and Sewer Usage
Saving water saves money, especially if you’re paying for certain utilities directly.
Water-saving tips:
Take faster showers
Turn water off while brushing teeth
Fix leaks immediately
Use small amounts when washing dishes
Reuse warm-up water for cooking or cleaning
These small habits change your monthly costs dramatically.
Tip 10: Choose an RV Park With Great WiFi
Remote workers and digital nomads often use hotspots or paid mobile plans—but these can get expensive fast.
St. Louis Mulberry RV Gardens offers reliable WiFi, helping you reduce or eliminate mobile data costs during long-term stays. If you work online, this one change alone could save you $40–$100 per month.
Why St. Louis Mulberry RV Gardens Is a Smart Choice for Long-Term RV Living
Choosing the right long-term RV park can make a huge difference in your monthly expenses and comfort. St. Louis Mulberry RV Gardens offers:
Affordable monthly rates
Full hookups with reliable utilities
Clean, quiet surroundings
High-speed WiFi
Easy access to St. Louis attractions
Nearby grocery stores, pharmacies, and gas stations
Spacious sites for long-term comfort
For travelers, workers, or families looking to settle in temporarily, the park makes long-term RV living simple, affordable, and enjoyable.
Final Thoughts: Save More While Enjoying Long-Term RV Life in St. Louis
Long-term RV living doesn’t have to be expensive. With the right strategies—cooking more meals at home, choosing an affordable RV park, reducing energy usage, insulating your rig, and taking advantage of free activities—you can significantly lower your monthly costs.
St. Louis Mulberry RV Gardens provides an ideal home base for long-term stays, offering comfort, convenience, and peace of mind. If you’re planning a weeks-long or months-long stay near St. Louis, these tips will help you get the most out of your experience while keeping your budget in check.
