| Type | Average Price (New) | Price Range (New) |
| Pop Up Camper | $20k | $14k – $22k |
| Teardrop Trailer | $20k | $10k – $40k |
| Travel Trailer | $20k | $18k – $70k |
| Fifth Wheel | $55k | $35k – $120k |
| Class C Motorhome | $90k | $80k – $200k |
| Class B Motorhome | $80k | $70k – $140k |
| Class A Motorhome | $175k | $110k – $500k+ |
Perhaps you’re new to RVs and campers, or maybe it’s just time for you to make a change. Whatever the case may be, there is a specific vehicle out there for your needs and for just the right price.] How much does an RV or camper cost on average?
The average cost of a camper is $25,000 to $40,000 and up. RVs are more expensive still, retailing for between $10,000 and $190,000 depending on the size, class, and amenities.
In today’s article, we’ll delve deeper into RV and camper prices and include 21 examples of real costs so you can see where the price discrepancy lies and why.
How Much are RVs? How Much are Campers?
Average Camper Costs
Let’s say you want to get your hands on a camper, also known as a trailer.
Trailers come in all sorts of shapes and sizes, from the toy haulers to fifth wheels, teardrop trailers, and travel trailers.
If you want a small, lightweight trailer, then you’ll spend the least amount of money, typically around $10,000 or $12,000.
Related Reading: 13 Reasons a Camper Trailer Should be Your First RV
Midweight to heavyweight trailers are large enough that some models rival smaller RVs in classes B and C. These campers are more expensive still, retailing for anywhere from $20,000 to $35,000 and sometimes up to $60,000 for the most luxe trailers on the market.
Airstreams, which are technically campers, are in a category of their own. These high-end, aluminum-clad, bullet-shaped trailers can last for upwards of 90 years according to the manufacturer.
Between the excellent build quality, the purported longevity, and the beloved brand that is Airstream, you’ll pay between $36,000 and $170,000 for an Airstream, sometimes close to $200,000.
That’s regardless of the fact that Airstreams are not necessarily larger than your average travel trailer.
Further Reading: How Much do Airstreams Cost?
Average RV Costs
Now let’s switch gears and discuss how much is an RV.
As we alluded to in the paragraphs above, RVs are categorized into one of three sizes or classes A through C.
Class A RVs are the largest, class B RVs are the smallest, and class C RVs are the second-largest.
Thus, a class A RV is the most expensive at $50,000 to $150,000 and sometimes well over that.
Class B RVs cost between $40,000 and $150,000 on average depending on how luxe yours is.
If you’re interested in a class C RV, you’ll pay anywhere from $50,000 to $150,000 for one of these motorhomes.
Factors Influencing How Much RVs Cost
If you’re wondering why most trailers and RVs retail for the upper end of five figures and well into six figures, there are a variety of factors at play that dictate the cost. Let’s take a closer look now.
RV Size
When you to go the grocery store, the bigger box of cereal costs more than the smaller box, right? It’s no different with an RV or trailer.
If yours is an ultra-tiny teardrop trailer or a moderately-sized class B RV, then you can expect that your vehicle will be less costly.
Your trailer or RV does not require the wealth of materials that it takes to build a 35-foot or 40-foot RV.
Of course, a smaller vehicle means cutting back on a lot of luxuries that you can enjoy with RV and trailer living. You won’t be able to bring usually more than one other person, maybe two extra passengers max.
You’ll have to forego a bathroom (maybe a small RV or trailer will have an outdoor shower, but that’s about it). Your kitchen might be outdoors. Most of your vehicles will be convertible to make up for the lack of space.
You’ll have to sleep on a smaller mattress and kiss goodbye any extra storage space.
Think carefully about whether you’d rather spend less money on an RV or trailer or have more space. You can’t have both!
On the flip side though, you may want to check your favorite campgrounds to see if there is a limit of how long your RV can be. You don’t want to be limited on what places you can go on vacations just because yours is too long. Sometimes, there are extra campground fees for extra long RV’s as well.
Materials
The level of craftsmanship is also something that you’ll pay for.
If you’re purchasing your RV or trailer through a reputable brand such as those we’ll cover in the next section, then craftsmanship is not something you have to worry about. It’s for that reason that your vehicle will cost somewhere in the five or six figures.
Airstream is a fantastic example of how materials and craftsmanship can drive up the price of a trailer or RV.
As you’ll recall, Airstream is a stickler for the materials used to construct the brand’s vehicles, always using aluminum cladding. This kind of poshness comes at a price!
The materials and build quality of your RV is everything. If there’s one area where you do not want to scrimp, it would be here.
Engine
This next factor only applies to Motorhomes, as most trailers are towable with a car, truck, or SUV (usually the latter two). Motorhomes have engines.
When researching motorhomes, you should look into the specifications of the engine. That alone will tell you a lot about the price.
Some RVs include a standard engine. The cost of your vehicle might be less compared to the same RV with an upgraded engine.
Included with an engine upgrade is usually a better chassis as well, and that certainly drives up the cost of your vehicle.
Layout
How many floor plan options does the trailer or RV offer? What kind of layout are we talking about here?
Is it extensive and configurable or is it static?
What kinds of features are available due to the layout design?
For instance, is there room for a full bathroom or just a toilet? Is the kitchen spacious or bare-bones? Is there extra storage room or space for a king-sized or queen-sized bed?
Depending on how you answer these questions, the cost of your RV or trailer will usually be higher or lower.
The more space and the more luxurious the layout, the more money you will be shelling out if you want to own that vehicle.
Amenities
Going hand-in-hand with the layout or floor plan of your RV is the amenities.
You expect your trailer or RV to have the basics, such as some kitchen fixtures and appliances, room for at least one mattress, a dinette, some cabinets or shelves, and perhaps a bathroom.
The RVs that go above and beyond with full bathrooms, gorgeous indoor kitchens, opulent textiles, HD TVs, blackout curtains, large beds, convertible dinettes, additional storage room, and the like are going to be the most expensive.
Customization Options
If yours is a high-end RV or camper, then you might have the option to customize your vehicle.
This is your way of putting your own personal stamp on it. Your RV is uniquely yours, but of course, this kind of customization typically comes at a price.
We say “typically” because it’s not always the case. For example, an RV or camper manufacturer that lets you select the exterior color of your vehicle, or the color of the interior cabinetry usually doesn’t charge extra for this.
If that isn’t true, then you should see a price when you make your selection.
Most customization options and extra packages that make your RV or camper even more enjoyable to use are not free.
Warranty
The last factor at play that determines what you’ll pay for your RV or camper is the warranty. Specifically, the duration and coverage of your warranty are important.
Most people think that when a manufacturer throws in a five-year, 10-year, or even a 15-year warranty that it’s due to how much money you’re spending. The warranty is like an act of goodwill for protecting your investment.
The warranty isn’t free, though. Part of the overall cost of your RV or camper is the cost of the warranty.
After all, an RV manufacturer is agreeing to fix issues with your vehicle as caused by craftsmanship defects for up to the next decade. It takes time, manpower, and money to repair your RV, so why should it cost you nothing?
That said, this is sort of a moot point anyway since it’s not like you can opt out of a camper or RV warranty.
Tips for Saving Money When Buying a Camper or RV
Now that you’ve seen how much an RV or camper may cost per the examples above, you might be mentally doing calculation after calculation trying to figure out how you can afford it.
The following tips will make buying an RV or camper easier.
Skip the Customization Options
As we made clear earlier, customizing your RV or camper sure is sweet. However, it’s also costly.
You can save hundreds to thousands of dollars by choosing standard RV packages and foregoing any customization features that you absolutely don’t need.
It’s one thing if you want to get a few extra charging stations installed in your RV, as that shouldn’t be too costly.
Adding three televisions to your camper if it doesn’t already have them is likely going to be too expensive.
Shop For Used RVs to Save Some Big Bucks
If the cost of a new RV or camper is still too much for you financially even if you forego customization options, then you might want to consider a used vehicle instead.
How much a used camper or RV will cost is at the discretion of the seller but buying used is typically a good way to save thousands of dollars.
The newer the camper is, the closer to its sticker price the used vehicle will be, so don’t be afraid to go a few years back when shopping for RVs.
Just don’t go too far, as an RV from 15 or 20 years ago is going to be predisposed to a lot more problems at its age.
When you find a used RV that catches your eye, don’t rely solely on the photos and videos the seller posted. You need to inspect the vehicle and take it for a test drive. That’s the only way to be confident in your decision.
If a seller doesn’t allow for inspections or test drives, then don’t work with them!
On inspection day, be sure to check out the vehicle inside and out and top and bottom. Try every light switch, stand on every floorboard, and turn the steering wheel every which way.
You need to go through every last part of the RV or camper and test it. Leave no stone unturned.
Don’t forget to give the undercarriage a thorough look. If something bad is lurking under there, the seller will never tell you.
You might wish to pay for a professional inspection just to make sure you didn’t miss anything.
If the RV or camper passes that professional inspection as well as your sniff test, you still don’t want to sign any paperwork or accept the keys until you have the title.
The title is proof of ownership, and without it, you could be driving away with a stolen vehicle!
Wait for a Sale
RV and camper sales are admittedly few and far between, but they do happen. Don’t just check the manufacturer, but your local dealer as well. You just might hit paydirt!
Know How Much You Want to Spend on an RV, and Stick with it
We saved what is arguably the most important tip for last.
You cannot buy a new or used RV without a budget. You just can’t. You’ll end up overspending, possibly by thousands or tens of thousands of dollars.
Decide whether you want an RV or a trailer first. Then narrow down your options, such as a class A RV or a toy hauler trailer.
Then research manufacturers and select a handful of vehicles that interest you. Write down all the prices and average them.
Look up how much the same vehicle costs new. Again, write down all the prices and average them.
Based on how much money you can afford to spend on an RV or camper, you can now decide if your vehicle will be new or used.
Remember to include miscellaneous fees with your budgeting such as taxes, shipping, transport, and more.
Rent Instead of Buy
Before making such a huge purchase, you may want to consider renting an RV to experience the the RV lifestyle.
Examples of How Much are RVs
How Much are Pop-up Campers?
Aliner Expedition
Pop Up Campers are great if you don’t have a lot of space for a trailer. Pop Up Campers can easily be folded up at a moment’s notice while still allowing you the comforts of home.
Price: New: $28,000
Pop- Up Camper – Rockwood A213HW High Wall
Price: New: $25,000
Used: $15,900
Related Reading: Pop-Up Trailer Buyer’s Guide: Know Before You Buy!
How Much are Teardrop Trailers?
Teardrop Trailers are really cool. They’re super lightweight and offer just enough space for you and your significant other to spend the night away together. These trailers are also well known for the small carbon footprint they leave behind for the environment.
Little Guy Max – Teardrop Trailer
Price: Around $40,000
Used: $30,000
Timberleaf Teardrop Trailer
Description: The perk behind purchasing one of the Timberleaf is not only that it is fully insulated, but extremely lightweight. The Timberleaf Classic claims a totally unique design to make your trailer stand out.
Price: $16,650-$26,050
Worth the Price? Yes!
Related Reading: 9 Perfect Teardrop Trailers Under $1,500 lbs.
How Much Are Airstream RVs?
Airstream Flying Cloud
Price: New: $101,875-$132,625
Description: When taking a look at the Airstream website, one will be given the option to look at the floor plan for the various Airstreams floorplans.
For a further look at what Airstreams have to offer and their prices, click here.
How Much are Travel Trailers?
Travel trailers are actually my favorite type of RV for a couple of reasons. First, you are able to park it at your campsite and still have a vehicle to drive around in without having to disconnect all your electrical, water, and dump hook-ups. Plus, unlike a motorhome, you don’t have an extra engine to deal with.
I also prefer them over fifth wheels because you don’t need to purchase a big expensive truck if you don’t want to.
Travel trailers vary quite a bit on size, so that’s why you are going to see such a difference in prices. On average you’re going to be spending anywhere from $20,000 to $75,000 on a new travel trailer. Let’s look at a popular model and see what it has to offer.
Jay Feather Travel Trailer
Jayco is a popular RV manufacturer that is loved by many RVers. The Jay Feather comes equipted with Climate Shield ultimate weather protection to withstand temperatures from 0 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
This particular model comes in many different floorplans depending on your needs and wants as a family. If you have children traveling with you then the Jay Feather 24 bunkhouse floorplan is great. In total, this RV has one queen-sized bed and then the double bunks in the rear, plus a table that can fold down into another bed.
Unloaded vehicle weight comes in at 5,900 pounds, which is not too heavy at all for larger SUVs and trucks.
Price New: $41,078
Price Used: $23,000-$32,000
To see and learn about other Travel Trailer Make and Models, click the link!
How Much are Toy Hauler Trailers?
These trailers are pretty much the same thing as a Fifth Wheel with one minor exception – they have a huge garage.
With one of these, you can basically haul just about anything you want, whether that be a Motorcycle, an ATV, or even a Snowmobile. Depending on the size of your garage, your Toy Hauler can haul it all.
Eclipse Attitude Wide Lite 28iBG Toy Hauler Travel Trailer –
Price: New: $60,000-$78,000
Used: $45,000
Description: If a person were to check out the inside of this Toy Hauler, they would find a garage of 17ft.!
This Trailer also comes with its own separate bedroom area with a queen bed and storage space below the mattress. Included also is a separate, yet spacious bathroom area, and a kitchenette with a mounted TV.
Worth the Price? Yes!
Fuzion 424 Front Porch Triple Air Fifth Wheel Toy Hauler Fifth Wheel
Price: New MRSP: $100,000
Used: $70,000
Description:Just as the other Fuzion Toy Hauler above, this model claims a 12 and a half foot garage.
The Fuzion 424 has a carrying capacity of 3140 lbs. It also includes an optional side patio, and optional SolarFlex Solar Package.
One can also connect to Bluetooth audio with this particular model.
Visit Keystone RV to get a better look at the floor plan for this vehicle.
Worth the Price? Yes!
How Much are Fifth Wheels (RV):
Fifth Wheels are something to consider before you go and buy an entire motorhome. With a Fifth Wheel, one has the option of attaching a tractor or another trailer with the hitch on the back.
Further Reading: What is a Fifth Wheel?
Forest River Cardinal Luxury 3750BKX Fifth Wheel
Price: New: $93,000
Used:$68,000 – $75,000
Description: The Cardinal luxury 3750BKX won Rv Pro “Best of Show” for the year 2019.
Featured in this model is a large kitchen area with plenty of counter space, alongside a living area, with a master bedroom that includes a king size mattress.
The holding tanks on this model vary in size. The grey water tank being the biggest at holding 80 gallons total.
Worth the Price? Yes!
Heartland Big Country 3902 FL Fifth Wheel
Price: New: $120,000
Used: $68,999-$75,000
Description: Just like the Primetime Crusade mentioned above, the Big Country 3902 FL includes a similar setup in the living area with 3 sets of theater seats and a built in entertainment system with fireplace.
However, this model features a bedroom with its own master bath and half bath.
Worth the Price? Yes!
How Much are Class C Motorhomes?
Class C motorhomes are distinct in that they aren’t quite like a Class B and Class A motorhome because of their overhead sleeping compartment above the dashboard and driver.
Related Reading: 21 Pros and Cons of a Class C RV
Winnebago Minnie Winnie 31D –
Price: New: $106,000
Used: $73,999-$81,000
Description: Featuring one queen size bed plus an extra overhead bed for guests this distinct model holds about 7 people at one time.
The inside of this model seems to be relatively small by featuring a smaller kitchen and dining area. It also contains just one master bathroom in the entire unit. But has a freshwater holding tank capacity of about 44 gallons total.
Yet, the exterior contains a storage space of about 95 Cubic feet. altogether.
Worth the Price? Yes, the price is reasonable for such a small motorhome. A person would be getting exactly what they paid for with this nice model.
Forest River Forester 2291S Motorhome
Price: New: $107,100
Used:$60,000-$84,999
Description: This specific motorhome is nice because it gives you some options. On the inside, you have the option of setting up an extra bunk OR and entertainment center. You may also consider setting up a TV in the bedroom since you have room for it.
You also have the option of setting up another TV on the exterior.
Worth the Price? Yes!
Jayco Greyhawk Prestige 29MVP –
Price: New: $129,000
Used: $109,000
Description: This Motorhome comes with a panoramic front window that includes a power shade. The Motorhome also features an easy operation legless dinette table and solid surface counter tops. Also included is a limited two-year warranty.
Worth the Price? Yes!
Cost of Class B Motorhomes
Class B Motorhomes are generally known for being the cheapest option when picking between a Class C, Class B, or Class A Motorhome. They do not offer a lot of space, but still include all of the essentials like a kitchen and bathroom that one may need throughout one’s camping experience.
Winnebago Travato 59G
Price: New: $112,907
Used: $80,000
Description: Visit the Winnebago Website to take a look at some of the Key Features offered on this model at this time.
Offered by Winnebago is plenty of space, including space for an extra bed in the living area if need be. Features such as radio, and a reliable tank monitoring system are just some of the perks of owning this model.
Airstream Interstate Grand Tour EXT
Price: New: $173,194
Used: $100,000
Description: Airstream brags that these are some of the best models on the market. Boasting both quality and safety for their partnership with Mercedes-Benz.
This model also claims a smooth ride on the road and a luxury kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom area among other features.
Worth the Price? No, while it’s good to be comfortable, especially when camping out, this particular model just hasn’t caught my eye as much as the other two. The exterior, however, is rather attractive.
Cost of Class A Motorhomes
Class A Motorhomes generally have the most amount of storage space out of any of the choices of Motorhomes. They are also the most luxurious of the three. If comfort is your thing, a Class A Motorhome may be the way to go.
Related Reading: 21 Pros and Cons of Class A Motorhomes
Thor Palazzo Class A Motorhome 33.2
Price: New: $253,850
Used: $191,000
Description: A really nice feature of the Thor Palazzo is its automatic generator start. This model also features a great Solar Charging System as well.
The layout for this motorhome is great, giving a person plenty of space to camp out and relax. Buying this motorhome will also give a person access to a washer and dryer when need is – a really needed feature for motorhomes.
Worth the Price? Yes!
Overall Impressions on How Much are RVs
In all reality, prices are going to vary depending on 3 main factors.
- Type of RV/Camper
- Manufacturer
- New or Used
Whatever your needs may be, look for something reasonable that falls within your price range.
Winnebago, Forest River, and Jayco all come the most highly recommended with the most reasonable prices and best quality overall. I would recommend you consider purchasing an RV or Camper from one of these three brands.
Visit our RV Camping Page for More Great Content!
Other RV Expenses to be Aware of
Once you’ve decided on a particular RV to purchase, other expenses will naturally come along with owning one. When asking yourself, “How much is an RV?” you have to be sure to factor is ALL expenses.
Only some of these will be 100% necessary but will ensure the longevity of your new home on wheels.
Let’s look at what else you’ll be spending your money on.
- RV Storage Facility: If lucky, you’ll have the space to store your RV on your property. If you have an HOA, check with them before parking your camper in front/side of the house. Many HOAs will not allow any RV/trailer to be stored at your house for more than a few days. That said, if you can’t keep it at your home, you’ll need to look for a storage facility. These can range in price; I’ve found anywhere from $50 to $250 is about what you’ll pay, depending on the facility. Whether the facility is on dirt or concrete, covered or uncovered, behind a security gate, and cameras will all play a role in how much you pay.
- RV Covers: Although RV covers can be a pain to put on and take off, they will significantly protect your RV from the elements. They will help prevent corrosion and rust, protect your RV seals for longer, reduce fading from the sun, and also help prevent leaks from rain. To read more about RV covers, click here.
- Tire Covers: Just as an RV cover protects your RV, tire covers will protect and prolong the life of your tires. When purchasing covers, be sure to get water- and UV-resistant ones. This is going to help prevent cracks and damage on those tires. We recommend purchasing new RV tires every 2-3 years. Believe me, you don’t want to be in the middle of your long drive and have a tire or two blow on you. I had it happen to me, and it was a nightmare.
- Re-caulking Your RV Seems: This next purchase isn’t so much a huge expense as it is time-consuming, but it’s essential. Every six months check all your seems on the RV, including the roof and around the windows, doors, and storage compartments. Anytime you see a crack, scrape it off and reseal it with caulking. To read what type of caulk is best for your RV, click here!
- RV Insurance: Different types of insurance policies are available to you depending on how much coverage you are looking for. I’ve had insurance that only covered me while it was in use, and I paid about $120 a year. This would not cover anything that happens to the RV while it sits in storage. If you were looking for a policy that covered it at all times, you’d be looking at around $600 and up a year. And again, the type of RV you have and the purchase price will significantly affect these numbers. To read about insurance costs, click here.
- Registration Fees: Registration fees are going to depend on what state you live in. When I was in California, my travel trailer was over $200 a year, now it is under $40 yearly in Tennessee.
- Dump Hoses and Connectors: An ugly part of RVing is the sewage dumping. Ensure you have everything you need, including hoses, connectors, gloves, a clean water hose, and a big box to put it all in.
- Drinking Hose and Filter: A separate clean hose for drinking water is a must. I always suggest purchasing a water filter to put on the hose to purify the water coming from the campground. Otherwise, I would never drink that water. To learn more about RV water filters and how often to replace them, click here!
- Leveling Blocks and Bubble Level: When parking your RV while camping, it is essential to level out. Leveling blocks and a bubble level will help you with this.
- Generator: A generator is typically only necessary if you plan on going dry camping, meaning you are not hooked up to any electricity from the campground. I use and love the 2200i Honda Generator; here’s why.
- Campground Cost: The price per night of the campground you choose will vary quite a bit depending on whether it’s state-owned or private and its location. I’ve spent as little as $30 to as high as $180 a night in the gulf. To read more about average RV campground rates, click here.
There you have it. The most important items you will need to purchase after you buy your RV. There are obviously a lot of items you can buy and probably will, from kitchen utensils, chairs/tables, activities, and much more. But those things are a lot more fun to spend your money on.
Final Thoughts
RVs and campers are not the cheapest vehicles on the road by any stretch of the imagination. That said, some manufacturers are less costly than others, including Winnebago, Jayco, and Forest River. These brands don’t sacrifice quality for cost either.
We hope this article helps you choose your next RV or camper!
We recently moved from across the country town our travel trailer. It was a long trip and if I have to do it again I would definitely choose to use a transport company like this one on the A-1 Auto Transport site.