WE SPENT HOW MUCH? FULL Expenses Reveal. ALASKA. RV Fulltime Living. RV COUPLE. RVing Travel Plans

All Right. The BIG Reveal! We tell all about our expenses for Alaska this summer.
I'm just going to say it was a fun trip.
And I still have most of my hair.
And I'm still not getting a boat.
#rvlife #spacecraft #fulltimerv #customrv #hdt #whataburger #harvesthost #harvesthosts #campendium #wanderlust #boondocking #lg #vanlife #classc #thormotorcoach #motorhome #alaska #alaskahighway #rvroadtrip #traveltips #travelhacks #rv #travel #travelvlog #campgrounds #yukonterritory #van #rvliving #rvcouple #rvliving #rvtravel #snowbird #snowbirds #expenses
RV Camping
We like to "Switch it Up" between resorts and campgrounds and boondocking is always an option.
We draw inspiration from Keep Your Daydream KYD, Less Junk More Journey, Finding Our Someday and Changing Lanes. We normally travel in an HDT similar to KZbin channels Suite Travels and Watts on Wheels. I also get some ideas from the editing style of Happily Ever Hanks (Happilyeverhanks) #thankshanks and believe it or not, I actually learned something from MRBeast Mr Beast video's as well.
Our journey is the destination. We want to share in our experiences in our discovery of What's Next.
I get my music from:
Epidemicsound.com
Tracks:
Globe Trekking by Philip Ayers
Amazon Shop (no extra charge to you)
A convenient way to see (or buy) the items you see in the video's which may help in your adventure.
www.amazon.com...
We use the TSD card for diesel fuel and save a bundle each time we fill up our Big Rig. We also use it to fill up our Onan generator.
The big blue boards (XL version) we use sometimes to get us "un-stuck" is from:
Gotreads.com
Our Class C is built by Thor Motorcoach on a Ford F550 chassis. It's a production build Magnitude model XG32. We tow our red Jeep Wrangler Sahara behind it. We've made some modifications to it so that we can boondock comfortably. Lithium batteries, Victron 3000w multi-plus inverter, dual alternators charge while traveling and mods to the water system greatly enhance it's boondocking capabilities.
Our extreme completely custom 5th wheel is built on a semi-trailer chassis with air suspension and air brakes. Completely loaded it weighs 42,000 lbs rolling down the highway. And we do roll down the highway nearly every week. You see, we believe that if your home has wheels they should be used.
Vehicles:
2016 Volvo VNL780 "Voyager"
2016 Smart fortwo "Pathfinder"
2019 SpaceCraft Custom built semi-trailer 5th wheel "Orion"
2023 Thor Magnitude XG32 Class C "Curiosity"
2017 Jeep Wrangler Sahara "Artemis"
Power system:
3250 watts of solar with Panasonic panels
30.1 KWH of Lithium batteries
2- 4K watt Magnum Inverters deliver power as if we are on shore power
2- 4K watt 240v Cotek Inverters deliver additional power for our LG Mini split HVAC and stove
Coachnet is our roadside assistance company we use but hopefully we don't use them too often. LOL
We are not sponsored by Whataburger but I do enjoy them anytime I can get my hands on one. They used to be just out of Texas but they have expanded.
BIg Truck Big Travels video's are based on our personal experience and not meant nor portrayed as experts in anything we do or say. It's our life on the road and our opinions are not meant to be construed as advice. Enjoy life on the road.

[@christygr]

Sondra you did a fabulously professional job presenting this expenditure report. Having done many of them in my work life, this was a good one. It was very easy to understand and summarized to a level which easily explained what we need to hear about. I was surprised to hear how much it actually costs. Imagine if you had been paying for hotel rooms and eating out every meal instead of traveling in the RV. I guess that’s why we haven’t been on a trip longer than 3 weeks. It was fascinating to hear. Now … I’m looking forward to your 2024 adventures. Happy Holidays! See you next week.

[@testersbc1]

Wow! You are very detailed! I could never do that.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

thanks. Sondra actually enjoys doing her spreadsheets and tracking stuff! She tracks more activities than you would care to know!

[@Badgerpapa]

Sandra your PM skills are next level!! Awesome job on the detailed spreadsheet. It gets very expensive to do all the awesome things you guys did, like you said the food and fuel some other expenses are part of life, your excursions and how you captured them to share with us is awesome. I for one really thank you for taking all the time to capture video and edit it into videos for us to watch. I hope you guys stay safe and healthy on your current travels.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thank you very much. We enjoy sharing our experiences with you and are excited to have you along on the journey each week. Have a merry and bright holiday season and stay safe.

[@jeannealex2560]

Hi guys... That's absolutely fascinating how you have it all broke down... Sondra is a true graph Queen.... That's meant with admiration... Great planning and bookkeeping... It was a lot of money granted.... But you need to look back and realize all the memories as well as the animals and the adventure that you guys had... It was truly an amazing trip.... You are truly blessed to been able to financially Experience such a trip.... We thank you for allowing us to experience the trip with you... Laying in our bed with the AC turned down and the covers pulled up to stay warm... we felt like we were right there with you.... Thank you... We now look forward to your new adventures... hopefully our paths will cross...thanks and stay safe...J&A

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thanks J&A. Glad you enjoyed the journey and were able to experience it in the comfy confines of your home. We look forward to seeing you guys down the road and on our next out west adventure. Stay safe and hope you have a merry and bright holiday season.

[@jeannealex2560]

@@bigtruckbigtravels thank you...we hope you two have a happy holiday also...January Florida...next may...out west...stay safe..

[@vincent_v1094]

@@jeannealex2560 it’s like Sondra was moonlighting as a Financial Advisor or something?

[@YoutubeChannel-ut5ic]

she even keeps track of the number of loads of laundry, Sandra is incredible!!

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

She's out of control!

[@YoutubeChannel-ut5ic]

@@bigtruckbigtravels just found your channel yesterday!! Extremely calming to my anxiety :)

[@LaurieNCooper]

Love your honesty. So many people wouldn’t take the time to understand the cost and that is very important not just for your pocket book but also for future green technology. Look forward to seeing what’s next with you two. I’m full time vanlife in Nova Scotia so I’ll keep my eye out for ya. 👍

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Nice and thank you. NS is on our list to visit. Enjoy the journey. Safe travels.

[@richardsmith5380]

Cost is obviously a consideration, but value received for money spent is the final consideration. You had a wonderful trip, with great experiences - which you shared so generously.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thanks, Richard. No complaints on the trip costs...I think we got back more than we paid!

[@CarlasLovingWife]

Great team, great video. Thank you so much for all of the time, attention, and effort. I enjoy every minute!

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Glad you enjoy it! Appreciate you taking the time to watch the channel.

[@raoulroberts2024]

"You track how many loads?" 🤣🤣🤣 Gotta love Sondra's attention to DETAILS! After all this, I think David deserves a boat!😂 Oh! I LOVE that Alaska trip theme music and opening credits. You guys are fantastic!

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thank you! 😆 I couldn't believe when she pulled out the number of loads! First time hearing that!

[@vincent_v1094]

@@raoulroberts2024 if David gets the boat, how would they hook it up to Voyager and Orion?

[@aeconsulting1]

I cannot believe you thought about ordering “ quarters” for your laundry- that’s awesome! The food expenses, eating out, were very reasonable in my opinion. I think Curiosity need a gas tank upgrade, 60 something gallons is not enough, minimum 80 gallons to give more of a “piece of mind”. Love Tim Horton’s. I am amazed by the cost tracking skills - you are hired as Project Manager !😊 So, $4962 per month over 6 months does not sound too bad to me. You guys complement each other well- awesome travel planner and awesome Project Manager tracking all the cost 👍.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Ordering the quarters was thinking out of the box a bit but it worked out great. Gave us a nice supply for all the laundry we were going to do! Thanks for watching and appreciate the comments.

[@rigsnrvs]

Great video. Your detail is amazing and much appreciated. Fuel cost was about what I’d expect. The food budget wasn’t bad at all. Get the boat - arctic you just really wanting it ❤

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

LOL...Love it! Just for that pun...I need to get the boat now!

[@lindabrown2211]

The trip may have been a little pricey here and there but the overall experiences of this journey with one another was absolutely priceless. Be well and as always wishing you safe travels.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Totally agree! As always, thank you for the comments. Appreciate your time watching the channel. 😃

[@stanfordbanks3399]

Hay guys, what a great job explaining 👏 the trip and cost... I learned so much from your trip to Alaska... We appreciate you... The Banks Family 🎉

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Awesome! Thank you! Super glad you were along on the journey and shared in the experiences...plus the summaries! Say "hi" to all the Banks in the Family!

[@brendanoleary5885]

Amazing detail Sondra, Dave after watching this video I don't see a boat in your future. Bring out another thousand. Great video and incredibly informative

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thank you. Unfortunately, I think you're correct. No boat in the immediate future... but I'm still working it! 😆 You just never know... must be getting warmer down under. Say "hi" to the family.

[@jps1139]

Hi ! We did two months from Maine to Alaska and home. All totaled we spent $ 14,500.00 . We did this staying in hotels and motels and eating in restaurants. We did try to picnic where it was fun to do so. This was done in a Volvo wagon with our Golden Retriever . So you did well . We were lucky , not a flat tire or any maintenance items other than washer fluid a speeding ticket and a windshield replaced when we got home. Thanks for sharing . Great record keeping and planning you two, (Tip in 2012)

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

All right! so, ours's wasn't as expensive as I thought it was. That's actually good news! thank you for the perspective.

[@medic1541]

We were the ones that worked at the Valdez KOA. We're currently at the Patrick Space Force Base in Florida with our next camp hosting gig. I didn't keep track of out expenses while in Alaska... I didn't want to know!!!! LOLOL!!!! Thank you for doing it, tho!

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

LOL. Probably better NOT to know! Florida sounds great. Thanks

[@peterkunka2694]

What a great trip, and I really appreciate the honest breakdown of expenses recap at the end. Adulting in life and saving/investing for decades will get you wherever you want to go in retirement. We're almost there with 1-3 years more to go until freedom while still in our 50's and plenty of years left to see it all. I've been taking notes (love the pre-ordered rolls of quarters... I'm going to surprise my wife and stock our camper with some), and can't wait to see where you two go next in 2024. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Pete in Arizona - KI7LIL

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

That's the key, Pete. Save for it but enjoy the moment. The quarters will be great.

[@Tatiacha]

When you consider a big chunk of that is the special tours and transportation that are usually once-in-a-lifetime type experiences and that the driving was more extensive than a trip in the lower 48 I think you did awesome. There are people who whip off on a trip to France for 2 weeks and spend that much :-) Worth every dollar as long as you have the dollars! plus we got to come along

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thank you. We think so plus it was a very thorough trip through Alaska. We had some epic moments and some once in a lifetime experiences. No complaints...we'd do it again. Glad you're along on the journey.

[@lindacox8156]

You 2 are so awesome- you are so organized and gave such helpful tips throughout the video‼️ The way you wove footage of plqces you visited made the video so enjoyable to watch😊👍‼️You learned a LOT to pass on to others planning such a trip‼️👍😊

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thank you so much!! Glad you enjoyed it!

[@rlcarver]

Great summary of expenses! $6k a month is legit here in CA with zero entertainment, so..my math says, "Alaska was action packed and a complete $ wash." Deal! Memories are priceless. Thank you for always being so thorough.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thank you. Appreciate your perspective. We had a great trip.

[@denisewalters8247]

Thank You Both for sharing the Alaska trip! Too expensive for me, but it feel like I have gone there through You guys eyes. 👍Keep your great videos coming, Thanks👍

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Glad you joined us on the journey. Thanks for watching and there's more in 2024. Woohoo!

[@marytremblay5002]

LOL, lots of $$$. I enjoyed every one. It was one in a million trip for everyone that watched. 💖

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thanks, Mary. Definitely an expense we don't want to do every year but really worth it for us.

[@yvonnekneeshaw2784]

Impressive trip 🌎 Impressive accounting Sondra! My hubby bought another new snowmobile this year; thinking David gets his boat 😅 PS Dec 6/7th was 11 Celsius … living in mid Canada some were mowing leaves and washing outside windows !!! Snow is predicted soon though 🇨🇦 ❤

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Oh wow! Very soon I would imagine will be the white stuff all around you. Glad you could enjoy the "indian summer" this month! And, yes, I do think I should get a boat! Thanks.

[@tennesseebuck1604]

We have been following your trip and enjoyed all of the wonderful scenery and adventures. Thanks for sharing your expenses and breaking them down the way Sondra did. WOW....295 individual categories! I'm sure there must have been one for stickers, T shirts and hoodies! LIke they say " Been There... Done That... Got The T Shirt". We look forward to seeing where the Big Rig takes you next!

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thanks for watching! We definitely got our share of "Been there...done that...Got the T-Shirt" ! Appreciate your comments.

[@CarolStJohn-ev9ry]

Sondra reminds me of my late mother, she was highly organized and kept track of every dime spent. I'm looking forward to your next video!

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thank you very much. She is very organized but enjoys tracking items.

[@aquablue3803]

You folks set out to see the World. You did what a lot of folks want to do but can't. Hats off to you❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤ You'll living my dream

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thank you. Excited to have you along on the journey. 😊

[@debbiewilson4443]

Love the Whataburger cups! I have always wanted to do a trip like you did to Alaska and thoroughly appreciate your recap of expenses. Even knowing we could probably trim back on some of what you spent makes a trip there a bit out of reach, which is good to know. I have watched some of your Alaska videos and will go back and rewatch them whenever I get a hankering to head north and will live vicariously through your adventures. Thanks for all the info and your videos on such a wonderful experience.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thank you, Debbie. Really appreciate your time watching the channel. We got the Whataburger cups from a store near Tyler, TX because Sondra prefers drinking Diet Coke in a foam cup. We didn't want to buy a case and I love Whataburger so we asked the store manager if we could purchase them. He gave us about 20 cups on the condition that we text him pictures of the places we go so he could share with his employees. We now take a picture with a cup in front of NP signs or special views or landmarks and text it. His store gets a kick out of seeing them. 😆 Alaska is pricey and could be done for less but it's still expensive. Glad to have you along on the journey. 😊

[@debbiewilson4443]

@@bigtruckbigtravels Being from Texas, we love Whataburger and I love this use of their cups!! We worked two summers in Montana and Whataburger was the first place we went when we got back to Texas. Can't wait to see all the places you take them.

[@robertsmith-fj2rx]

From where I sit “bang for buck” as the saying goes, it was worth every cent you spent. Not often do you see people travelling so as to get the absolute best out of every moment. You both seemed to get the very best from what was around every corner and even made the best from the not so good bits. Great job and really looking forward to seeing what’s next.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thank you, Robert. You only go around once so we try to enjoy the moment... while still planning for what's next. 🤔

[@scottcameron1012]

Thank you guys for letting us travel along with you on your amazing trip! Loved it and cant wait to be able to do the same!!

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Our pleasure! Glad you enjoyed it and I'll bet you can't wait for your own adventure to begin...meanwhile, we're excited to have you along on the journey.

[@cindylehman1016]

Wow awesome that everything was tracked!! Great job!

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thanks so much!

[@maryannlarson3041]

Love the breakdown of expenses. I look forward to new travels and getting to come along with you both.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thank you. Pack your bags. We'll be rolling in 2024.

[@StampsNLingers]

Can't wait to see what 2024 brings for you! Merry Merry Christmas, y'all! :)

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Should be fun. We're going to visit some old haunts and some new ones too. A little bit of desert, mountains and water! Aloha

[@downtownbrowne77]

Thanks for the great info! You guys rock! Come back to Canada soon!

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

More to see in the lower 48 but we'll be back in the near future. Thank you very much for all your comments.

[@andycommonsincanada]

Great video guys, especially the way you have done the break down. Very interesting to see what you spent money on. Some off the expenses were less than we guessed and some were more. Overall the total was what we guessed at for that trip.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thank you. Great guessing on your part. I was the same way. I thought fuel would have been more and I was surprised on camper night costs. Appreciate your time watching the channel. 😃

[@Rashnak66]

you can't take it with you, might as well enjoy it. for reference, I did 3 weeks on a motorcycle much the same trip as you but much faster and fewer(well, next to none) excursions. Stealth camping = free the whole way. I took the ferry from Haines to Bellingham to come back which cost like $800 sleeping in a tent on the boat deck. Total cost for my whole trip was around $3k. So it can be done on the cheap but trust me, it was darn cold in that tent some nights! And riding on a motorcycle in the snow was not fun. memories are priceless.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Wow! Quite a trip. Thanks for watching.

[@tanyaparker776]

Videos like this are essential!!!! Thank you for sharing❤️❤️❤️

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Super glad you found it helpful. 😊

[@donwalker9904]

Deng 😃 I’m a big believer of living today like it’s your last because tomorrow is not a guarantee. Could be worse, that could’ve been bail money 🤣 ( but those stories would’ve been phenomenal 🤣🤣 ) Loving the dialogue guys, appreciate you!! Safe travels & have fun 😊

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

😆 thanks, Don. Hopefully, no bail money in our future!

[@c1dancer]

Great job in tracking all the expenses. Very informative. Enjoyed the video.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Glad it was helpful! Thank you for watching.

[@StampsNLingers]

A box of quarters. That's the bestest pre-planning I've ever seen. I might have thought of it - but...buying a box of quarters probably would never have even occurred to me! If you don't already have your PMP - you need an honorary, for sure!! :). You should do a Master Class on planning RV Lifestyle finances. :) And I love the top-off story. Gas you COULD have put in is about as useful as runway behind you! :)

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thanks, Mary. Ok...the runway analogy is funny! First time I've heard that. Thank you for the funny. Some banks were on a "quarter ration" so we checked with our bank and they said "no problem. How many do you want?" Hope you have a merry and bright holiday season...oh...did her first holiday card! Turned out nice...not as many layers as you do but she tried!

[@StampsNLingers]

@@bigtruckbigtravels Congrats on the first Holiday card! We'll get y'all layering in no time! Runway behind you and altitude above you - both...useless! ;). Merry Christmas!

[@cherylchamberland6744]

Great video. Amazing trip. Thanks for sharing your expenses breakdown. Lots of great information.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thank you, Cheryl and glad you enjoyed the recap.

[@Sushi2735]

I think you did an amazing job on expenses. Considering you were gone six months! Wow! You have to eat wherever you are, and the fuel and maintenance on the RV,of course,you’ll have those,plus tires! Now all the excursions, you had todo these things while you’re there!! Next trip will less expensive because you have done so much! But divided into5 or 6 months. Really quite incredible! Pat yourself on the back! Personally I think you were incredible budgeters! Growing up we always had the best food. My father said we’ll take one less vacation, but we will always have good food on the table. And we did. Roasts, steaks, pork loins, chicken breasts. Always good meats. Garden in the Summer, but fresh produce, store bought in the Winter. Never feel bad about good food. Many can’t afford it!

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Very true, Susan. Looking back, the Alaska expenses weren't too bad and we saw a lot! Thank you for watching the channel. 😁

[@John-hq6em]

Wow, very impressive cost tracking! And such great organization overall-those food boxes were amazing. You two are such a good team. Thank you for sharing. On the generator: how did you know how much fuel it used (the $700), when it draws from the same tank as the motor? And what were the major draws on power? I was surprised you had to run the generator so many hours on the non-drive days.

[@raoulroberts2024]

That's a great question.

[@Tatiacha]

i think they only have one solar panel

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thanks so much! Great question. We have a Victron inverter which charges the batteries and because of certain conditions it's only able to access 50% of the genset output (this will get corrected). So we had to run the generator effectively twice as long because the inverter was only recognizing half the power output! Very frustrating. Sondra keeps track of how many hours we ran the generator and we knew that it was consuming about .6 gals/hour so we calculated based on that data. Hope this explanation helps.

[@teresadavis32]

David, I hope you get a boat!

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Me too... but I'm not holding my breath.

[@conchscooter]

My wife is our quartermaster as we travel in retirement. Considering you were on the road for six months I think it was a pretty decent cost in one of the most expensive areas to travel. We live the opposite to you with everything sold and living aboard a boondock capable custom built Promaster. Fuel is always our biggest expense and campgrounds in Latin America are inexpensive. But your presentation is very helpful for planning. Currently we’re in Central America for the winter but Alaska is in our future. I look forward to more ( thanks to Starlink).

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Yours sounds like a very interesting travel style being able to go to places in Latin America that we can't get to in our setup. Very cool indeed. Starlink is a great tool to have and keeps you connected. Thank you for watching the channel. Excited to have you along on the journey as you travel on yours. Be safe.

[@steveegbert3554]

Realy not to bad, the experience was priceless I'm sure.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thanks. We felt it was an acceptable price to pay for everything we did.

[@hickey13]

We just did a 7400 mile 6 week trip around the country including National Parks, State Parks, Regional Parks and KOA type campgrounds. Also some mooch docking. We averaged $50 per night and came to the conclusion that we need to boondock more and Harvest Host more. Diesel averaged .33 cents a mile, California with the most expensive fuel prices in the national skewed that cost considerably but lots of nice places to see. We also concluded we ate out too many times but still, you gotta try the local fares and brews! Thanks for the travel vlog and we'll continue to follow. Cheers.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Wow! Nice trip. California is very expensive...almost like Canada! Thanks

[@downtownbrowne77]

Awesome job Sondra!!!

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thank you! Cheers! Appreciate the comments.

[@Sushi2735]

I really enjoyed Alaska! Thank you! I hope you got a little from KZbin to offset a small bit of these expenses. You were gone along time. I think you were amazing!

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Glad you enjoyed it! It was a fun trip full of adventure. We appreciate your coming along on the journey. Thank you.

[@steveddavis]

Not a boat, a yacht! Come on, he deserves it 🛥 Thanks for sharing all of the information. It was very interesting!

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

I completely agree! I'll keep working on her! Thanks 😄

[@jadope1]

I was actually shocked. That was a lot of adventure for that price!! I would have thought another 50% to that total. Pretty hard to even live locked up at home for that price!! Awesome accounting!

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

OK...I like the way you think! Thank you.

[@scottm4977]

Followed your entire trip, well done ! Ive gone from RV dp and toads to now having the ole hole in the water to pour your money hobby so I get it. Memories with loved ones and the ROI is priceless. LET HIM GET A BOAT. ha enjoyed the videos.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

I like your way of thinking! A boat is definitely a hole in the water you use to pour money into. Thanks for watching.

[@miltonkchambers]

Great review! It takes some of the scare out of our planning.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks

[@JHA6100]

Good info. Now, I like detail in knowing but wow, amazing level of detail! 😀😀😀. I need a partner that had the tenacity to detail this out!

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Glad it was helpful! Sometimes it's great...but sometimes we find out more than we need to! LOL. Knowledge is power and it definitely helps us in our future endeavors. Sondra is amazing with all the detail that she tracks. Thanks for watching.

[@ak-homegrownroots8185]

Hi there excellent podcast again. I just love watching you guys. FYI I just wanted to let you know Seward always is the most expensive. Homer is 2nd to follow. Both communities make most money on tourism. I live in AK and I was hosed by Millers Landing. lol Unfortunately it burnt to the ground years ago, but they still owe me well over $300. I paid cash and had no proof or a receipt. At that time they use a recipe box for receipts. And I had been using them for years. Boy I was frustrated! lol So I certainly understand your frustrations with Seward price gouging. It’s a tourist town now. Everything is very expensive there. But so beautiful!! Big hugs to all❤️🎄

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thanks for watching and good info on the coastal towns. I know all prices go up but it was just a shock!

[@dellingson4833]

Fist time you came up on my feed. Greetings from North Dakota. I enjoy how you track your spending so well well having a trip of a lifetime. When i have traveled here in the states i used BLM land a lot. Once you realize how much there is in the US it's awesome.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Welcome aboard! Glad you found us. We really enjoy the BLM experience whenever we can and wherever we fit. There is a lot of land to use in the US.

[@duanerichardson1669]

Retired over the road truck driver here, love watching your videos , so you burned just over 8000 lbs of diesel 😂

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Wow! That is a different way to look at that! Very true. Back in our Volvo truck and our 5th wheel for 2024. Thank you very much.

[@DreamIt_PlanIt_DoIt]

Impressive bookkeeping, Sondra! I really thought it was going to cost a lot more. If you figure that it is half a year of living, it isn't that horrible.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thanks. We were excited that it wasn't more...well, I was...Sondra wasn't! LOL. We enjoyed it and had an epic time. Looking forward to what's next as we head west for 2024.

[@kevinbrewer2141]

That is one heck of an accountant . They do sell real nice inflatable boats. Then you could take it on all your avenues. Safe travels.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thanks. We have a 2 person inflatable kayak...does that count?

[@shirleyharvey7376]

What jobs did y’all do before retirement? I can’t ever see me tracking our expenses in such detail. I have enjoyed your trip and I’m very jealous❤️

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

LOL...If you couldn't tell, Sondra is an engineer. She loves her spreadsheets! Thanks for watching.

[@geosh10]

Sandra, excellent job reporting your expenditures! Past career, accountant or teacher? 👩‍🏫 😊

[@cherifroehling6593]

I vote accountant!

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Good question! You would think an accountant but she's an engineer... and loves spreadsheets. It's relaxing to her so the more she tracks the better! Oh man...I mean, laundry loads?!? Really?!? 😆 🤣

[@geosh10]

@@bigtruckbigtravels, awesome! We love watching your videos, thank you both for entertaining us!

[@marcomorissette7940]

So happy to have been able to follow you without spending a Canadian Penny who we don’t have anymore!!😂🇨🇦 and it’s a lot but not that bad! Last time we spent a month is USA it cost us around the same acv money but we had to calculate de 35% exchange rate lol thanks again to have bring us with you!👍

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

It was definitely a cheaper trip for you! LOL...next time, it's your turn and we'll watch!

[@marcomorissette7940]

I wish but my Finance Minister (Wife) is keeping the budget tight so honestly I do not think it’s coming in a near future but we will make 3 weeks trips in USA!😂👍🥰🇨🇦

[@TheGrayLifewithJimPearl]

Very informative. Some stuff we would of not thought of

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thank you. Hope you enjoyed it too.

[@krisklopf1901]

I will be packing my bags and traveling with you!! 😀

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Oh yeah. We'll be rolling in 2024!

[@owenarkison3558]

We are not full timers so track all RVing costs on a per day basis so we can compare it to our other travel costs for scuba diving trips to Indian Ocean or South Pacific etc. What would be your cost per day for this trip start to finish? PS We Loved the video and all your videos, y’all do a great job. Safe travels and happy RVing

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

About $180/day which includes all expenses for our 6 month journey in the RV.

[@tommoraga8318]

Worth every penny spent!

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thank you. We agree.

[@vincent_v1094]

Good thing I thought about laundry situation, even though I’d need to fill up on water more times than not, and thought of using the RS36 with washer/dryer prep.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

It's definitely a trade-off. Longer RV and more water consumption but greater convenience. We struggled with it but love the flexibility and layout of the XG32.

[@vincent_v1094]

@@bigtruckbigtravelsyou’d adapted Curiousity to having a pseudo washer/dryer set up. You mentioned having Curiousity’s Tires replaced…. I would’ve installed a skid plate under the rv so there’s no risk of the transmission being ripped apart while going through the the unpaved roads, and try to change out the stock suspension system with a more robust system. Having a little lift to it so the skid plate won’t slide along the ground. Hopefully, I’d get Maggie (my name for the future RS36) the same simple mods of the tires and suspension for a smoother ride.

[@davidbudzynski2449]

I don’t remember hearing what your careers were but I guess Sondra was either an accountant or an engineer. 😀

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Ding, ding, ding! You're correct. An engineer... and she loves her spreadsheets!

[@davidbudzynski2449]

@@bigtruckbigtravels I get it. I am a retired electrical engineer, my wife is a retired CFO with accounting degree and both of our sons are engineers. You can guess our family get togethers are really nerdy! 😀

[@jameswbarry9576]

Hi guy's great videos with all that expenses i think you forget got the smart car gas oil,maintenance how many miles does it have take care happy camping

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Those were Alaska expenses but it has 42K miles on it. Oil change once a year at 10K interval.

[@jameswbarry9576]

@bigtruckbigtravels ok thanks take care happy camping

[@markw6602]

Love the data. I'm a numbers person, so I really appreciate your effort. I like your rig, also. How did the Jeep fare? We went in 2019 towing our Jeep and it got beat by rocks. I had a Rock Tamer and the Jeep chucked rocks off the front tires that bounced off of the back of the rig and back on to the Jeep.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Some of the items we used are on our Amazon store for reference. We used a protect-a-tow and our Jeep had no rock chips and didn't throw any onto the RV. We actually got no windshield damage at all except for a very small chip on the motorhome which is difficult to see. We were very pleased with this type of set up. www.amazon.com/shop/bigtruckbigtravels?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsfshop_aipsfbigtruckbigtravels_CVW156G1MQJS2Q4CNJFC

[@aRVeesBlog]

wow very interesting experience friend

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Yes, thank you. Hope you enjoyed it.

[@aRVeesBlog]

welcome@@bigtruckbigtravels

[@jimstephens9491]

What is the depreciation cost on the travel equipment and the opportunity cost on the travel equipment cost? I figured this out for us and for short trips, AirBnB and motels were less expensive. I sure enjoyed your trip and sharing the adventure. Thanks we were in Alaska last summer.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

I think that is true, Jim, but for us we enjoy RV travel and the "comforts of home". The added costs are worth it for us. Thank you.

[@mercywas]

Thanks for the info on expenses. We spend $5 k per month on that kind of stuff anyway. You must have saved a lot of money by taking a lot of food with you.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

We saved a ton of money by taking our "non-perishable" items with us. Thanks

[@a.h.s.1441]

Its time for a new line item....B-O-A-T! It stands for: Bring On Another Thousand! I own two boats, ask me how I Know? Merry Christmas and may God richly bless you in 2024.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thank you. I love that acronym! And it's sooo true.

[@DanFitzgerald-ny4uy]

I love watching your video of your trips. Be safe and take care ❤

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thanks, Dan. Really appreciate your time watching the channel and your comments. We enjoy sharing our experiences.

[@vincent_v1094]

Sondra? Are you midnighting as a professional financial advisor? When I think about it, if you used your laundry set up…… you could basically use the freshwater tank and the 110 outlets and have the solar online to help power the dryer you have. You’d won’t have to worry about doing laundry at laundromats and campground laundry room.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

😆 that's true. We love our setup in the big rig. No room in the Class C for a washer combo that we want to use.

[@vincent_v1094]

@@bigtruckbigtravelswith David’s jenga skills, it may fit inside one of the exterior storage bays near Curiousity’s rear diesel tank fill.

[@miketulley809]

OUCH!!! But well worth it with the lifetime memories.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Expensive but the memories are why we do this. Thanks

[@richardross3172]

$30,000 to have that much fun? Oh, heck yes!!!!!!!!🎉

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

😆 thanks and we agree... just not every year!

[@robertaharns7828]

I used to hang my own lights in the cold windy sometimes light rain. It was a freezing experience but I loved it❣️So I started just leaving them up and they lasted a long time and so satisfying lol. That I just had to plug in simple. I have sickle ones too!! Oh forgot say that was in Spokane ❣️ Living tiny but I still am doing some…lower to the ground 😁❣️much love to your family and what you do❣️❣️Blessings and Merry Christmas ❣️❣️🫶🏼🫶🏼🌵

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

No fun in the windy cold! Love the lights! Thanks for watching. Appreciate your time watching the channel.

[@Carpo74]

Awesome breakdown

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Glad you liked it! Hope it helps and thank you.

[@grantmarut7488]

Not bad for 150 days you only live once fun fun Joy let's do it again load up 😊

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Let's do it. 2024 is just around the corner, no time to stand still!

[@blippacg]

Great video guys. It would be interesting to know how much revenue was generated from the videos during your Alaska trip. That might be none of my business! But you have a unique opportunity to generate revenue from your travels which offsets the costs of that trip. I'm fantasizing about converting an extended length Expedition to a traveling rig (pull out seats and add bed). That seems to be a good way to minimize costs of traveling. The super C you guys have is a terrific RV but it costs a little more to run. Couldn't do an Expedition with 2 people but 1 person could do it easily. Maybe travel with others so you have company. McDonalds has the best cinnamon rolls I've experienced...just sayin'.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

A rigged up Expedition would be a good vehicle for all kinds of roads up there...for one person. We enjoyed the Class C and it performed well. So no complaints.

[@fitfifties]

still watching your video. Since your original tires were still in good shape, did you keep them for future use, save some money down the road?

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Good question. We did not keep all. We kept a few for spares. Thank you.

[@dennis12345]

Great job. Very detailed.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thank you! Sondra did a great job putting it all together.

[@KickininMyRv90]

Expenses Yikes $29,771. So I really love your Vlogs so do you get money from KZbin posts? Was the new Rig Curiosity and tow rig factored in these expenses? Maybe it was all previously owned.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thanks for watching the channel. We are not commercial but our videos are monetized but the money from the videos is so little as to not be an "offset" for the trip expenses. It would be nice but we definitely don't travel for free. We aren't sponsored nor do we Patreon its just us traveling as Fulltime RVers and sharing our journey.

[@susanwalker8122]

Thank you, it was very interesting.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thank you, Susan. Appreciate your time watching the channel. 😃

[@alaskakv]

Thanks for sharing this info on expenses . But how much was spent on souvenirs ( shirts hats ,stickers etc . ?? When we rv’d to Alaska we budgeted for souvenirs.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

We do too! Not sure on the stickers (Sondra has that one "hidden") but we were under on the t-shirts! Thanks

[@sarahloyd4876]

Can you share more on the meal boxes? Send to be an effective way to shop for 2?

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

We found the meal boxes to be very convenient since we were out in the wilderness so much. Also, we were guaranteed to have our particular food on hand. Sometimes the selection up there is not great. We put our favorites in the box that we knew we'd eat every month such as breakfast items, soups, teas, etc...

[@donnaburrill3473]

Hello: Really enjoyed watching your vlogs on your Alaska trip. We're planning a very similar length trip and would like to see your expense spreadsheet. I believe you said you posted it, but I can't find it.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

We posted our itinerary but not the expenses since everyone does it differently. Our trip was $29K but most could do it for $15K or so with less driving. Except for us, no one drives the Denali, McCarthy, Dalton and Dempster Highways in one summer in a Class C RV. Lol. That's crazy! Appreciate the comments and your time watching the channel. 😃

[@lilacameron1488]

Is Sondra’s background in finance. As a LOVER of charts and statistics, I very much enjoyed her level of detail. My husband laughs because my charts are color coded

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Oh, if you color code then you are well on your way! LOL. Sondra is an engineer and loves to track all kinds of stuff!

[@timfeckley1689]

David deserves a boat!

[@timfeckley1689]

Also our trip didn’t cost me a dime you did most of the video and David did just about all the driving thanks for the ride a long. Also didn’t freeze my jewels in the arctic ocean 😳

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

I think I do too! You were definitely more comfortable than I was while in the Arctic Ocean!

[@lindafeinauer5634]

I would be interested in what the difference would be in spending in Alaska and what the same time frame would be in the USA. Then deduct it from the 30,000. My hubby and I really enjoyed all of your videos, many thanks for sharing.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Good question! We were just talking about that. I'm actually curious too! Thanks for the comment. 😃

[@tobbiemoody7040]

Thank you for shareing awesome

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

You're very welcome. Thanks for watching the channel. We appreciate it.

[@denniscampbell8711]

I would have to think with all the miles you did an the excursions ,and everything else that cost wasn’t all that bad Loved riding along with y’all. Be Safe see you soon

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

We think so too but it's still a chunk of change even though it was a 6 month trip. Appreciate your comments and your time watching the channel. 😃

[@mercywas]

We would love to caravan with you guys next time.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Lots of fun to see the country. We'll do so more in 2024.

[@SidebandSamurai]

Sandra, how did you keep track of all the details? Day by day? very impressive

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Day by day...receipt by receipt. She logged misc cash items in her log, credit card statements for most of our items. Then she goes back and enters each item into her spreadsheet. It's a job!

[@SidebandSamurai]

@@bigtruckbigtravels thank you for sharing important details like this. It really puts into perspective what it really costs to travel. Patti and I are really enjoying your channel. Hope to meet up with you if you return to Southern California area.

[@Tpixs]

How did you cope with the limited Cargo Carrying Capacity of Curiosity? I have watched most of your trip to Alaska series and notice that you don't appear to scrimp on cargo. Considering that the fresh water tank accounts for over 8 lbs of cargo per gallon, it would seem that you would exceed the CCC allowed.

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

We weighed before and after our loading for Alaska and made some adjustments. We transferred some to the Jeep because of the CCC rating and we were very close but watched it since we didn't want to strain the frame. You would think it could handle more weight but it was at it's limits. Thanks and great question.

[@wayneboulware4730]

The funniest comment. Was when another traveler said there's not another water burger around

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

LOL...that was a great moment and stuck with us for the remainder of the trip.

[@NationalParkNerd]

I am going on a quest to visit every national park in the National Park System. I know Alaska is going to be difficult and expensive. Now I know I'm going to have to knock off a bank to do it!🙂

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Definitely. Several of the parks are only accessed by air. We want to try and see more next time!

[@bobw1133]

Great videos. Was 500 cd money enough ? When are you going back?

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

It will be a few years. It was enough but we also try to put everything on our credit card. If you want to only pay cash then I'd bring more... massive 750 cad.

[@bradhowe5790]

I will be traveling along with you and just show. You know you're a trip to Alaska. Cost me more than I make in one dear love you too

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Excited to have you along on the journey. We're heading out west next so get some rest over the holidays. Thanks again.

[@barrypierce9100]

Very nice lets do it again friends take care god bless

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

Thank you, Barry. Let's get the wheels rolling for 2024.