Motorhomes vs Travel Trailers: Comparing RV Costs

Before you buy an RV online, you have to decide which type of RV to purchase. Towable RVs are more popular than motorhomes with first-time RV buyers, primarily because towables offer greater selection at the low-end of the price scale. A camping family that is ready to move up to an RV can purchase a lightweight folding camping trailer (commonly called a pop-up) that can be pulled by their family car for a few thousand dollars, considerably less if purchased used on RVT.com.

While upscale amenities, multiple slides, premium interior and exterior construction features and other upgrades can equalize the price difference between travel trailers and motorhomes, it is the engine that is at the root of basic cost differentials. When you buy a motorhome, you’re buying as a single unit both living space and the expensive engine that moves it. When you buy a travel trailer, 5th wheel RV or truck camper,  you’re only purchasing the living space. You must provide the engine to tow it at additional cost. However, if you already own an appropriate RV tow vehicle (pickup truck or SUV) or purchase one used at a good price on RVT.com, you’re ahead of the game financially. You can put the money you would have spent on a tow vehicle toward upgrades and additional amenities in your new RV.

Next time: Comparing features