Winging it is really not a viable strategy.

Most likely if you’re going to live in your car while traveling, it’s at least partially related to limited funds.

My goal is to live within my means so I can continue living this lifestyle. Here are some things to consider as you put together your own budget.

Fixed Expenses:

What expenses do you have to pay that you have no control over, those you can’t cancel nor put on vacation hold.

• Mortgage, Rent, HOA Fees, Property Taxes
• Home Owners or Renters Insurance
• Home Extras (phone, internet, cable/satellite)
• Vehicle Debt, Registration and Insurance
• Other Expenses (i.e. life insurance)
• Medical Insurance Premiums
• Cell Phone

Flexible Expenses (unrelated to travel):

• Home Utilities
• Other Expenses (i.e. credit card, income taxes)
• Prescriptions and other medications
• Medical/Dental/Optical copays and deductibles
• Clothing/Shoes
• Grooming
• Toiletries

Flexible Expenses (related to travel):

• Vehicle maintenance (i.e. oil changes, tire rotations and replacements)
• Vehicle gas
• Campground/Lodging/Permit/Park Entrance Fees
• Food
• Other (i.e. InReach subscription)

Income:

• Do you have income to offset any of these costs?

Savings:

• What’s the realistic amount you have available annually?

Tip: Create a spreadsheet based on your previous year income and expenses. Create a budget for the upcoming year based on your previous year’s experience, edited for changes you plan to make. Reconcile the budget to actual experience at the end of the year. Evaluating the variances each year will help you create a realistic budget for the upcoming year. 

More posts about Me and My CRV