Average RV Costs [With 27 Examples] 2024
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It’s a great way to get around.
But, RVing can offer so much more!
Imagine your own bed, breakfast, meals and shower along for the ride – sounds fun!
But, as you ponder how it’ll be when you’re looking out on those scenic spots, it’s also most important to be considering at the cost too.
Today, we’re going to be looking at RV costs, including:
- Hidden costs you didn’t know about
- Examples & Comparisons
- The best budget-friendly RV
- Features to look out for
And so much more…
Buckle up your seatbelt and take a look at these must-know points before stepping on the gas.
Ready?
Let’s get started.
How Much Does An RV Cost? (27 Popular New RV Prices)
- Motor Homes 2 Go, Michigan – New 2020 Entegra Coach Anthem 44B Class A Motorhome: $550,404
- Motor Homes 2 Go, Michigan – New 2020 Entegra Coach Aspire 44R Class A Motorhome: $471,619
- Forest River Inc. Berkshire XLT Diesel 45A Class A Motorhome: $280,041+
- Motor Homes 2 Go, Michigan – New 2020 Jayco Alante 29F: $132,145
- Conejo Wholesale Auto & RV, California – New 2020 Winnebago ERA 70A 4X4 24ft Mercedes Turbo Diesel Sprinter Class B Motorhome: $123,990
- Conejo Wholesale Auto & RV, California – New 2020 Fleetwood Flair 29M Class A Motorhome: $89,990
- Motor Homes 2 Go, Michigan – New 2020 Gulf Stream BT Cruiser 5230 Class C Motorhome: $89,272
- Coachmen Leprechaun 240FS (450 Ford) Class C Motorhome: $68,700+
- Dutchmen Astoria 2513RLF Fifth-Wheel: $50,682
- Keystone Passport Express 239ML: $18,595
- 2019 Jayco Embark 37MB Class A Motorhome: $295,200+
- Thor Motor Coach Compass 24LP Class B Motorhome: $114,975
- 2015 Palomino PaloMini 177BH Travel Trailer: $10,000+
- Winnebago Cambria 27K Class C Motorhome: $129,394
- Northwood Arctic Fox 28-5C Fifth-Wheel: $42,985+
- Thor Motor Coach Outlaw 29J Class C Toy Hauler: $123,450
- Jayco Jay Sport 10SD Camper Trailer: $13,495+
- 2017 K-Z RV Connect C191RBT Travel Trailer: $20,402
- Thor Motor Coach Hurricane 35M Class A Motorhome: $144,675
- Prime Time RV LaCrosse 339BHD Travel Trailer: $46,727
- Heartland Bighorn BHTR 39 D Traveler: $49,999
- Winnebago Minnie Winnie 22M: $80,118+
- Thor Motor Coach Tuscany 45AT Class A Diesel Motorhome: $429,660
- Keystone Sprinter 312MLS Travel Trailer: $36,994+
- Optimum RV, Florida – New 2020 CrossRoads RV Volante 30EK Travel Trailer: $36,485
- Optimum RV, Florida – New 2020 Dutchmen RV Aspen Trail Travel Trailer: $15,738
- Starcraft Autumn Ridge Outfitter 17RD Travel Trailer: $11,999
The Different Types of RVs and Their Prices
It’s always a good idea to do your research since RVs come in many types and prices.
Take a look at these classes of RVs and their cost:
Class A Motorhomes
You might want to refresh your driving skills to cope with the extra length, weight, and heft of this motorhome.
This RV has more than enough space for the family – and room to relax and stretch your legs.
Some may be up to 45 feet long, with the shortest often around 25 feet.
A Class A motorhome will give everyone the room they need.
The tallest ceilings are ideal for taller passengers, allowing them to stand up straight even when inside the vehicle.
Yes, you read that right…
… there’s also plenty of storage for clothes, gear, equipment, food, and other essentials.
A full kitchen with a refrigerator, freezer, oven, stovetop, and microwave can fit inside – most have medium to full-size refrigerators, with a freezer compartment.
You could even have a full bathroom with a sink, shower, and toilet. More luxurious models even have a bathtub or jacuzzi.
In a word, bougie!
Sleeping accommodations vary, as many manufacturers offer multiple floor plans, with custom options.
A modern-day Class A Motorhome has one or more slide-outs, plus great panoramic windows for the best views.
Perfect for the fam!
Even better…
It runs with the most powerful diesel engines.
In short, a Class A motorhome speaks of luxury and nothing less than expensive.
How can you beat that?
Here are some options for Class A Motorhomes:
1 – Thor Motor Coach Tuscany 45AT Class A Diesel Motorhome ($429,000)
This diesel motorhome is designed for people who want to travel in luxury. If you love “Glamping,” check this out.
2 – 2019 Jayco Embark 37MB Class A Motorhome ($295,200)
This large Class A Motorhome showcases an outdoor entertainment center, king-sized bed (sleeps up to 5), a 17” electric awning with LED Lights, an Insignia Sound Bar, and a built-in navigational system.
3 – Forest River Inc. Berkshire XLT Diesel 45A Class A Motorhome ($280,041)
This RV comes with many amenities, though it may require a special license endorsement depending on the state you live in.
4 – Thor Motor Coach Hurricane 35M Class A Motorhome ($144,600)
This Class A motorhome is available in multiple floor plans with multiple slide-outs.
Class B Motorhomes
This is the most lightweight of the three classes and comparable in size to most large travel trailers.
The limited space of these vehicles will not be an issue if you’re just a passenger or two on a road trip.
You may get a single queen-sized or king-sized bed and even a pull-out couch.
A few have bunk beds as standard, but most only offer them as an added feature. You’ll also have less storage space and fewer windows.
The kitchen nook will be smaller, and you may have to customize the floorplan for a shower or a toilet.
Some Class B Motorhomes have slide outs which increase the total floor space when parked up at a campsite or an RV park.
For the electrical system, Class B motorhomes have a 30 Amp system.
That said, out of the three classes, this is the cheapest you can get.
1 – Thor Motor Coach Compass 24LP Class B Motorhome ($114,000)
A stylish Class B Motorhome which includes custom options.
On the other hand…
Class C Motorhomes
There’s not as much space with Class C motorhomes. But, there may be an overhead bed and a second queen-sized or king-sized bed in the bedroom nook.
This weighs far less and the length of these motorhomes is often 24 feet. There’s decent storage…
…and…
… you can generally expect a couple of windows, but not as many as a Class A motorhome.
The kitchen and bathroom nooks are smaller than a Class A.
You may have to opt for fewer kitchen amenities.
It’s best to keep your passenger limit to two up to four people – depending on the brand of RV you choose.
Class C motorhomes are more expensive than a travel trailer or a Class B motorhome, but not as costly as Class A.
In short, you’ll be able to find one that’s circa six figures or under.
For example:
1 – Winnebago Cambria 27K Class C Motorhome ($129,000)
The Cambria has many features to consider and trim levels that can be tailored to your family’s needs.
2 – Thor Motor Coach Outlaw 29J Class C Toy Hauler ($123,000)
A rare blend of a motorhome that also pulls double duty as a toy hauler (if you prefer an ATV with you to camp).
3 – Winnebago Minnie Winnie 22M ($80,000+)r
This is a Class C Motorhome designed for quick setup.
4 – Coachmen Leprechaun 240FS (450 Ford) Class C Motorhome ($68,700)
This Class C motorhome is spacious enough to accommodate up to six people (with a built-in fireplace). Snazzy huh?
As if that’s not enough..
If you’re the type who enjoys camping in the great outdoors, then a travel trailer may be perfect for you.
Fifth-wheel trailers are the big brother of hard-sided travel trailers, with some as big as a class B motorhome.
They tend to have most of the features and amenities that you find in motorhomes.
These campers are large enough to include full-size kitchens, large beds, partial or full bathrooms, media areas, couches, and large windows.
You also get a few slide-outs.
Not only that…
In some states, you don’t need a special driver’s license endorsement for a fifth-wheel.
One of the most attractive things about a fifth-wheel camper is that you can park it, set it up as a home base.
Then you can use the tow vehicle to tour the surrounding area.
You can squeeze up to six adults in a trailer.
So, why not bring the whole family on your RV adventures with these campers:
5 – Dutchmen Astoria 2513RLF Fifth-Wheel Camper ($50,600)
This fifth wheel camper has an in-command remote operating system.
6 – Heartland Bighorn BHTR 39 D Traveler ($49,000)
The Bighorn is a camper designed for families who value their private space.
7 – Prime Time RV LaCrosse 339BHD Travel Trailer ($46,700)
LaCrosse offers pleasure-inducing convenience, as well as copious storage space and residential appeal.
8 – Northwood Arctic Fox 28-5C Fifth-Wheel ( $42,900)
This spacious five-wheel camper needs a full-size half-ton to one-ton pickup to tow it.
9 – Keystone Sprinter 312MLS Travel Trailer ($36,900+)
The sprinter offers a kitchen with 2 stools and expandable sleeping areas.
10 – 2017 K-Z RV Connect C191RBT Travel Trailer ($20,400)
This tow travel trailer is a great option for a small family who wants to travel in style.
11 – Keystone Passport Express 239ML ($18,595)
This bunkhouse travel trailer features a set of double bunk beds and a front bedroom with a built-in Murphy bed.
12 – Jayco Jay Sport 10SD Camper Trailer ($13,500)
This RV type is quite easy to tow and with a strong 5-year warranty.
13 – Starcraft Autumn Ridge Outfitter 17RD Travel Trailer ($11,900)
The Autumn Ridge offers a full bed, a convenient bathroom, and a fully-functional kitchen.
14 – Palomino PaloMini 177BH Travel Trailer ($10,000+)
This includes the basic amenities and a modest media station.
RV Ownership Costs (Hidden Costs of Owning an RV)
RV Ownership Costs (Hidden Costs of Owning an RV)
It’s always a sensible choice to invest in the best insurance for you and your trip.
It all depends on the type of policy you pre-select:
- Bodily injury liability
- Property damage liability
- Collision
- Comprehensive
- Uninsured motorist
- Underinsured motorist
- Medical payments
Which leads us to..
How much does an RV insurance cost?
Here are some sample premiums:
- Michigan median annual cost: $4,490
- Louisiana median annual premium: $2,912
- District of Columbia median annual cost: $2,570
- Texas median annual cost: $1,425
- Massachusetts median annual cost : $1,128
- Oregon median annual cost: $1,108
- North Carolina median annual cost: $860
- California premiums range from $800 on a Class C camper to over $4,000 for a Class A motorhome.
We’re not through yet…
Michigan has a mandatory personal injury protection (PIP) coverage, thus the most-expensive rate.
North Carolina has the cheapest average rate for motorhome insurance as stated above. Oregon is second to lowest for RV insurance rates statewide.
The insurance market in Massachusetts woo their consumers with reduced rates.
Listed below are the 3 best RV insurance companies:
- Good Sam: Best for specialized RV insurance
- The Hartford: Best repairs process
- Erie insurance: Customer favorite
Good Sam
Good Sam offers highly tailored policies for RV and motorhome owners.
Coverage options include collision, comprehensive, uninsured/underinsured motorist, liability, injury, full replacement cost, storage option, full-time RVer, emergency expense and personal effects.
The Hartford
The customers rated The Hartford as the best-repairs process, according to J.D. Power. The Hartford will let you take your RV to any shop of your choosing (24 h/day, 7 days/week) for repairs. The insurance covers a lifetime guarantee. Coverage options: Medical payments, collision damage, towing and labor costs, vehicle rental costs, injury, property damage.
Erie Insurance
Erie insurance received 5-star satisfaction ratings from customers. Erie can bundle an existing auto insurance policy and an RV insurance policy. Coverage options vary by location.
Registration and Taxes
RVs should be registered in the state you have permanent residence in. The type of registration you need to buy will vary by state.
The following states register RVs just like cars:
- Alaska
- Arkansas
- California
- Florida ( slide-in truck campers do not need titles)
- Indiana
- Nebraska
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- New Mexico
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Virginia
- Wyoming
- Wisconsin
The registration fee of the following states are based on..
The size of the RV:
- Connecticut
- Minnesota
- New York
- Ohio
- Wisconsin
- Tennessee
The weight of the RV:
- Alabama
- Hawaii (the steps that must be taken to register the vehicle will vary by county)
- Illinois
- Kentucky
- Washington, D.C
- Washington
The type of fuel used and the length of the RV:
- Vermont
The size and weight of the RV:
- Arizona
- Colorado (empty weight)
The age and weight of the RV:
- Kansas
But wait – there’s more,
in Alabama…
Travel trailers that are more than 20 and 35 years old do not have to be registered.
Alaska
The cost varies depending on the county you reside in.
Delaware
RVs and motorhomes must be registered and they must pass safety and emissions tests. Vehicles weighing less than 5,000 pounds only cost $40 to register and vehicles weighing over 5,000 pounds cost an additional $6.40 per thousand pounds over 5,000.
If your camper weighs 6,000 pounds, you’ll pay $46.40 to register it.
Georgia
RVs and motorhomes must pass a vehicle inspection and you’ll have to stump up for a title fee of $18.
Idaho
RVs must be registered and the pricing changes based on the value of the RV as well as the type of RV that you own. Visit https://itd.idaho.gov//itddmv/ for up-to-date information on your RV or motorhome’s fee.
Illinois
RVs that weigh less than 8,000 pounds cost $78 to register and RVs that weigh between 8,001 and 10,000 pounds cost $90 to register. Any RVs weighing more than 10,000 pounds cost $102 to register.
Indiana
It costs $29.35 to register an RV.
Iowa
RVs and campers are registered in the county you reside in. Fees vary based on the type of RV, the RV’s weight, and the county that you live in.
Kansas
The RV isn’t considered an RV until it meets certain criteria set by the state. You’ll also need to pay a property tax based on the value of the RV.
Maryland
Anything under 3,700 pounds costs $135 to register and anything over 3,700 pounds costs $187 to register.
Massachusetts
Motorhomes are registered like cars and campers are registered like trailers. If the camper is less than 3,000 pounds, you won’t have to register it.
Michigan
RVs and motorhomes must be registered and the cost varies based on the type of vehicle you own.
Mississippi
If the RV was manufactured prior to 2000, you’ll not need a title.
Missouri
You’ll need to pay a $32.50 fee to register it.
Montana
RVs and motorhomes must be registered each year. However, RVs that are older than 11 years can be permanently registered. Registration fees vary based on how old the motorhome is.
- Under 2 years old: $282.50.
- 2 to under 5 years old: $224.25.
- 5 to under 8 years old: $132.50.
- 8 years old or older: $97.50.
- 11 years old or older (permanent registration): $237.50.
Nevada
RVs and motorhomes are registered and fees vary based on the weight of the vehicle, the age of the vehicle, the vehicle’s MSRP, and the county you reside in.
New Hampshire
Motorhomes and RVs need to be registered and fees are based on the type of RV you are registering.
New Jersey
A pop-up camper or trailer weighing less than 2,500 pounds does not need a title but does need to be registered. All RVs and motorhomes are registered and the fees change based on the year it was manufactured and its weight.
North Carolina
RVs and motorhomes must be registered.
Oklahoma
Motorhomes and RVs need to be registered.
Oregon
Motorhomes are registered like cars but campers are registered as a separate entity. Small, single-axle campers are registered differently than larger ones.
Pennsylvania
Motorhomes and RVs can be registered for the year or seasonally. Regular registration is similar to registering a car. Seasonal registration is also similar but fees are prorated.
The benefit of a seasonal registration is that you’ll save some money when you’re not using it.
Texas
RVs and motorhomes are registered and prices vary depending on the vehicle and the county it is being registered in.
Utah
Utah requires motorhomes and RVs to be registered and the fees are based on the estimated value of the motorhome or RV. You’ll need to pay 1.5% or 1% of the fair market value of your motorhome or RV. The 1% applies to motorhomes and small to medium-sized campers. The 1.5% applies to vessels longer than 31 feet.
Taxes and Legalities?
The good news is, there’s room for manoeuvre.
Yes, you read that right..
Depending on your situation and state, you can qualify for some tax deductions on your RV such as the following:
- RV As A Second Home
- The Tax Reform Bill Removes The Tax Benefit For Towable RVs
- RV Sales Tax Deduction
- Tax Deductions For Business Expenses
- Tax Benefits For Renting Out Your RV
Professional advice: Do check with a tax specialist or accountant to find out where and how your RV can save money from your taxes.
Utilities Bill
We all know RVing isn’t cheap.
Before getting too excited about your trip, ask yourself first: What’s My Budget?
Look At:
- Gas
- Insurance
- RV storage
- Towing Equipment
- Propane
- Maintenance
- Repairs/service
- Furnishing a camper
- RV Cover
By knowing these ahead of time, you won’t have any unexpected expenses ruining your budget.
Let’s dig deeper,
And talk about the common repairs that many RV owners face.
Since many of these repairs are universal and necessary, it is best to know the average costs.
Refrigerator replacement
A refrigerator in an RV makes family meals possible without breaking the bank.
The common RV repairs for the refrigerator differs based on the size of the unit. A fridge in a pop-up will be smaller than a fifth-wheel or travel trailer.
Think of options… you may have a smaller or a full-sized refrigerator.
Average cost: $600-$3,500
Air Conditioning Units
During the hot summer days and nights, an AC is a life-saver. Annual maintenance of the unit is of the essence to keep it running. Cracks, bends and leaks are the most common repairs.
Average cost: $600-$3,500
Fresh Water System
Make sure you can shower, wash dishes, and prepare food by keeping your water system running smoothly. Maintain your blue tank in excellent condition at all times to avoid calcium build-up.
How?
Draining when required, keeping mold away, and ensuring that the tank is not leaking.
Average Cost: $200-$900
Waste System
The tank needs to be emptied and cleaned regularly to avoid build-up.
The last thing you want to face on the highway is a faulty black tank.
Always check both water tanks so that you can maintain and repair them when required.
Average Cost: $400-$3,400
Slide-Out Rooms
Since these rooms have moving parts, they are more likely to risk wear and tear from the other parts. Regular attention to seals and mechanical mechanisms will keep your camping season at its peak.
Average Cost: $500-$1,700
And that’s just one side of the story…
After paying a bundle for acquiring the RV itself, keeping it full on gas or diesel might be the most expensive part. This could be your biggest expense at several hundred dollars a month depending on how much you like to travel. Even the smallest RVs are large, heavy vehicles. Thus, it takes a lot of power to move all that weight down the road.
How much does it cost in gas to drive an RV?
The cost of gas varies depending on what part of the country (or county) you’re in. The cost also fluctuates with the market. Going lower when the commodity is doing well and going higher when it’s harder to come by.
If you’re traveling in a Class A or Class C motorhome, you’re probably looking at less than 15 miles to the gallon.
How much gas does an RV hold?
It is annoying to have to keep stopping for gas, right?
Given how much fuel they burn, make sure your RVs is capable of holding a decent amount – according to the mileage you expect to run.
Here’s an average breakdown of each class:
Class A RVs
These RVs tend to have the largest gas tanks. They range from about 70 to over 100 gallons, with some holding as much as 150!
Class C RVs
Class C RVs still need a lot of gas, but their tanks tend to be a bit smaller. You can expect the rig to hold somewhere between about 30 and 70 gallons.
Class B RVs and Sleeper Vans
Sleeper vans, Class B motor coaches and other small drivable RVs have much smaller tanks than Class A and Class C rigs. Expect to see about 25 gallons of capacity.
Travel Trailers and Towables
Travel trailers and towables are dependent on the power of the vehicle that’s towing them. Thus, in this case, make sure to look into the tank capacity of your tow vehicle. Most trucks tend to hold between 15 and 30 gallons.
Want more on gas mileage and cost?
Head over to TopNotchOutdoor’s Motorhome Gas Mileage Ultimate Guide: [NEW RESEARCH] 2020.
Storing Your RV
RV storage depends on the location and amenities of a certain facility. Some facilities will have gravel lots while others, a paved parking lot.
Outdoor storage can start as low as $30 to $50 a month, but could go as high as $60 to $100 or more. The cost correlates with the size of your RV. So, a Class A motorhome would cost more than a Class B or small trailer.
Indoor storage will always cost a bit more for convenience. For unheated indoor storage, rates start around $50 to $125 or more. A heated RV storage can cost anywhere from $100 to $450 a month (for winter). Again, prices will correlate with the size of your RV, as well as by the amenities offered.
Some facilities offer premium services which will lead to higher rates. Valet parking, battery charging, and sewage dumping are among these services.
But here’s the kicker..
If you’re trying to cut down on expenses,
Here’s a list of 7 places you may be able to park your RV for free:
- Schools
- Churches
- Truck stops
- Rest Areas
- Car repairs shops
- Walmart stores
- Casinos
Towing Equipment
Do-it-yourself towing includes options such as a tow bar, tow dolly or car trailer. Whatever method is used, the towing equipment must have the maximum towing capacity and must fit with the correct trailer hitch.
Turns out…
Tow bars start at $30-$60 for lightweight models (emergency use). For rugged models, it’s going to be more like $80 -$250. For permanent installation of a heavy-duty model, $400-$2,100 or more.
A tow dolly (car dolly) is a mini-trailer that raises the front wheels of the towed vehicle off the ground. These cost $1,000-$4,500. Tow dolly rental costs $40-$60 a day.
An open model with no roof or solid sides can cost $2,000-$10,000 or more. This is a car trailer which lifts the entire vehicle up on a wheeled trailer. An enclosed car trailer (solid walls and roof, typically with a rear ramp) can be $6,000-$20,000 or more. Renting a car trailer can cost $65-$200 or more a day, depending on the size and type of trailer, and the number of days rented.
A standard trailer hitch can cost $50-$700 (depending on materials, towing capacity and ball size). Including installation, it could average up to $200-$500. A fifth-wheel hitch (using a king pin and mounted in the pickup bed) can cost $500-$2,500.
A gooseneck hitch (a ball receiver mounted in a truck bed) can cost $200-$800 or more.
Add A Laundromat in RV For Washing
Not all rigs have space for laundry and a Laundromat would make a big dent on your cargo.
Not mentioning its capacity of around 990 pounds, it’s viable to set up a compact washer/dryer unit.
These handy appliances have multiple wash-and-dry cycles built into the same machine and only take up very little space.
Check out some compact washer/dryer units and set up the most convenient laundry experience for you.
Refuelling Regularly With Propane Gas
Good news!
Filling stations are now located all over the country, including gas stations and truck stops.
A refillable 30-pound propane tank costs between $80 and $100 (via Camping World ). At a refilling station, propane tank refill costs between $2.50 and $4.00 a gallon.
How often you refill your tank depends on your usage.
Major warning, though:
It’s always best to consult a local employee or propane specialist with questions on how to figure out the setup for the refill station.
Maintenance
Maintenance is the key.
Depending on the wear and tear of your RV, maintenance cost varies.
According to Mobile Homes Parts Store, RVers said they spent between $500 and $1,000 a year on maintenance costs. Others spent several thousand dollars a year.
Read these handy tips while you’re at it:
- Inspect the roof seals and seams of your RV
- Tighten your RV’s wheel lug nuts and check tire pressure.
- Check your RV’s batteries.
- Keep the wastewater system in good condition.
- Keep your RV’s brakes maintained.
- Clean and treat your RV’s slide outs and seals.
- Change your RV’s oil.
- Replace the air, fuel, coolant, and hydraulic filters in your RV.
- Keep your RV’s awning maintained.
- Make sure the electrical connection from your RV to your tow vehicle is working.
Not only that…
Here are some recommended maintenance intervals:
All RVs
Bring your RV to your dealer or mechanic every 12 months for the following maintenance procedures: roof AC service, RV appliance service, RV battery service, premium RV and generator service.
All RV roof and body sealant should also be inspected for signs of deterioration.
In addition to those yearly suggestions, we also recommend that you have slides and jacks serviced every 3-4 months.
Motorhome-Specific Maintenance Intervals
Experts recommend that all motorhomes have coolant service and tire rotation every 12 months.
Diesel motorhomes also require annual Aqua-Hot service and air dryer service. On the other hand, engine and oil filter service is determined based on mileage.
Towable-Specific Maintenance Intervals
Additional needs like RV brake and axle service are recommended to be checked every 12 months for ensuring proper brake operation. This covers travel trailers, fifth wheels and pop-up campers.
Furnish The Camper:
Industrial, tropical, lush, minimalist?
How do you want your camper to look?
Expect to spend extra money if you want to make your RV feel like a home away from home.
Storage, lighting, appliances, furniture – the list goes on…
Shop around for a variety of chairs. Budget-friendly options spend around $400 and $1,000 or more for luxurious options. Remote slide and swivel, power lumbar, adjustable arms, heated seats, and even built-in massage are just some of the features.
Sleeper sofas make great convertible pieces of RV furniture. Transform your living space into a guest bedroom while maintaining a sense of privacy. Sleeper sofas customized for RVs cost over $1,000, but you can find some for as low as $500 (with handy storage compartments).
Plan for the look and always consider your budget.
Or if you prefer to DIY, then go for it!
Cover Them In a Protective Sheet
If humans need sunblock, then RVs need a protective sheet.
The point of a recreational vehicle is to be out on the open road. So, the easiest way to protect your investment is with a cover.
RV cover wishlist?
- Perfect fit
- Provide protection
- Water-resistant
- And some more ideal features to keep in mind
A cover for a travel trailer runs between $250 and $450 (RV Covers). Meanwhile, a cover for a fifth wheel camper runs from $510 to $570.
What Other Factors Influence RV Price Other Than Size?
Various factors can affect the cost of the RV, namely:
- Manufacturer reputation
- Availability
- Floorplan
These factors will help you identify all of the available options within your budget.
Manufacturer Reputation
Brands use their reputation and popularity to boost prices. Established companies take pride in their quality and dependability.
Thor Motor Coach, Keystone, or Jayco – the bigger the manufacturer, the higher the price.
Starcraft, Heartland – the smaller the company, the lower the price.
Get the picture?
Availability
Let’s take an RV brand that only sells its vehicles exclusively to a certain market.
If you buy an RV from that manufacturer, expect to pay more since the vehicle is not as widely available.
Point is, some RVs may be more widely available than others.
Floorplan
The more space there is in your RV, the more money you’ll pay for it – the general layout can have a major impact on the price.
Having the basics such as a bed, a small kitchen, and a shower works fine for those who like it simple.
But, others prefer to have a home away from home and want to travel in a three-bedroom RV.
You might be wondering:
How much does a 3-bedroom RV cost?
3-bedroom RVs can cost between $45,000 and $200,000. Used models also range between $20,000 and $25,000 (depending on the condition).
Let’s take a look at these 3-bedroom selections:
1. Coachmen Apex Ultra-Lite Travel Trailer 300BHS
The 300BHS floor plan has a smaller 3-bedroom option.
The 8′ wide trailer offers a queen bed, a 30 x 74 bunk, and a smaller bunk overhead as well. This trailer can sleep up to ten people.
The trailer may seem small at 34′ and 6,000 pounds, but it has more than enough room and even an outdoor kitchen and double slides for more room.
The Coachmen Apex Ultra-Lite Travel Trailer 300BHS costs approximately $35,000.
2. Forest River – Cherokee 274DBH
This trailer may seem small from the outside but it offers some serious space on the inside.
It can sleep up to ten people and features two double beds, one queen-size bed, and two convertible sofa beds.
The main bedroom has two sliding entry doors and two wardrobes allow for easy storage on either side of the bed.
The Cherokee Forest River 274DBH averages around $25,000 for a used model on sites like Rvtrader.com.
3. Prime Time RV LaCrosse 339BHD Travel Trailer
The Prime Time LaCrosse 339BHD RV offers enough bedroom space to sleep up to 10 people.
There are two bunk beds, one queen-size bed, and extra three convertible sofa beds.
At 37 ft long and 7,709 lbs, this RV will cost on average $46,700.
4. Forest River Berkshire XLT Diesel 45A Class A Motorhome
Three-bedroom-living in this Class A motorhome has a set of bunk beds that feature its own 22″ LED TV for each bunk bed.
This RV allows sleeping space for up to 7 people.
Two full bathrooms are available and a total of four slide outs.
The master suite has a large king-size bed and a ceiling fan above.
Speaking of luxury, theater seating and an electric fireplace? Yes!
This luxurious RV carries quite the price tag and averages at $280,041.
5. Thor Motor Coach Hurricane 35M Class A Motorhome
The Thor Hurricane 35M Class A RV has many different floor plans.
The 35M floor plan offers three bedrooms, including an over-cab bed. It can sleep a maximum of 8 people. There is one full-size bed, one king-size bed in the master suite, and two convertible sofa beds.
It has two separate bathrooms and plenty of closet space.
Plus, a power-retractable awning for outdoor pleasure.
The average cost of this RV is $144,600.
6. Coachmen Chaparral 371MBRB Fifth-Wheel RV
The Coachmen Chaparral 371MBRB fifth-wheel RV can sleep up to 12 people.
The RV spans 42 ft long and weighs 12,543 pounds.
There is one bunk bed, two double beds, one queen-size bed, and three convertible sofa beds.
This Coachmen fifth-wheel also has two bathrooms.
Comfort in this fifth-wheel RV will carry an average cost of $40,000.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is owning an RV cost-effective?
Many people look to RV as a getaway to cut their expenses and be debt-free. And guess what? Once you start shopping around, you notice RV prices aren’t exactly… low.
What else, you ask?
Well, the cost of insurance, vehicle registration, regular maintenance – it’s a total package.
The value of an RV depreciates over time, by the way.
So, is it cost-effective? That depends completely on how you use it and your viewpoint.
How much does it cost to stay in an RV park for a month?
Overnight campsite and RV park fees range from $30 to $50 per night or more – that’s $900 to $1,500 per month.
What is the best month to buy an RV?
RVs are seasonal buys.
During the spring and summer months, people want to go camping and feel good about buying a motorhome. Hence the scaled-up RV prices due to high demand.
Fall and winter are much slower months for RV dealerships.
Demand is much less.
On a lighter note, though, dealerships, salespeople, and even private sellers will look for ways to get sales.
Discounts and incentives bonanza!
Can you negotiate RV prices?
Yes. Absolutely. Good negotiation skills could lead to a great discount!
Can you save money living in an RV?
Many variables can affect how much you’ll be able to save but YOU are the most important of these variables because it’s your decisions that will determine if this type of change is financially beneficial.
Conclusion: RV Costs
What’s not to love with an RV? Really?
Homey feeling? Check.
The liberation of an open road? Check.
What more could you ask for?
But the truth is, they can also rack up a serious price tag.
Do yourself a favor and consider all these factors before going on a joy ride aboard your RV.
Then, you’ll understand that forewarned is forarmed.
And there’ll be no nasty surprises when you stick with TopNotch!
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