If you are hoping to get away into the great outdoors but don’t exactly like the idea of roughing it, considering traveling with a home on wheels in the form of an RV. There are numerous types of RVs to choose from ranging from budget-friendly to high-end luxury.
For most individuals, the cost is often the deciding factor about which RV to purchase. The most inexpensive new RV’s are priced at just under $10,000, like the Jayco Jay Flight SLX Travel Trailer, while the most expensive RV’s can have a price tag of over $1 million, such as the Featherlite Vantare Platinum Plus. The average cost of a moderately priced RV is just over $100 thousand.
Here are the average prices by motorhome and travel trailer type.
| Average price of motorhomes and travel trailers | ||
|---|---|---|
| RV Type | Average New Price | Average Used Price |
| Class A Motorhome | $160,262 | $92,892.60 |
| Class B Motorhome | $122,249 | $84,771.14 |
| Class C Motorhome | $79,434.53 | $66,004.33 |
| Fifth Wheel Trailer | $48,836.93 | $31,503 |
| Travel Trailers 14' - 18' | $14,693.20 | $9,500 |
| Travel Trailers 18' - 22' | $14,672.73 | $13,500 |
| Travel Trailers 22' - 26' | $20,025.06 | $15,548.26 |
| Travel Trailers 26' - 30' | $24,322.22 | $18,425.40 |
| Travel Trailers 30' - 32' | $25,432 | $22,630.06 |
| Toy Haulers | $46,137.60 | $42,197 |
| Pop-Ups | $11,000 | $5,000 |
Be sure to check out each category to see how we got our averages.
Used RVs vary drastically in their pricing, especially if they are being sold by a private seller. You can, in most cases, expect to pay less for a used RV than a new one. However, a used RV could end up costing you more in the long run in the form of expensive repairs.
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Types of RV’s (or Motorhomes) and Prices
Motorhomes are usually the largest when it comes to RV’s. Unlike travel trailers, they do not have to be towed but have an engine and driving components attached. As one large moveable unit, they do have their positives but also a few drawbacks.
Motorhomes are commonly divided into classes based on weight; class A being the biggest and heaviest and class B being the smallest. Class C is a moderate in-between size and weight. Their price is typically determined by their class.
Below you will find a list of various types of motorhomes and RVs and there prices to help you get an idea of the range. These will be discussed in greater detail throughout the article.
- Newmar 2020 Dutch Star #4801
Price: $489,131
- 2020 Newell Coach P50 #1684
Price: $2,102,032.00
- 2019 RoadTrek Cs Adventurous
Price: $182,688.00
- Sportsmobile 4×4 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Vans (Conversion)
Price: $46,500.00
- Thor 2020 Quantum LF31
Price: $133,425.00
- 2019 Winnebago Minnie Winnie 31G
Price: $121,034
- 2015 Forest River Rockwood HW316TH
Price: 22,432
- Air Opus Pop-up Camper
Price: $18,999
- Rockwood Hard-Sided Pop-up by Forest River
Price $14,00-$17,00
- Jayco Hummingbird 17MBS
Price: $25,00
- Forest River R-Pod 191
Price: $20,000
- Keystone Montana
Price: $98,388.00
- Forest River Wildcat 290 RL
Price: $ 53,715
- 2019 Dutchmen Voltage Triton
Price: $66,744.00
- 2019 Cruiser Stryker 3116
Price: $59,177
Average Price For New And Used Class A Motorhomes
The average price for a new class A motorhome is $160,262. This average was determined by the new price of the top 15 selling class A motorhomes according to RV Trader. The average price for a used class A motorhome is $92,892.60. This average came from the first 15 used class A motorhomes made between 2009-2017 and with less than 70,000 miles.
Class A motorhomes are the biggest, usually including the most amenities and the largest amount of space. Often, driving a class A motorhome will be nothing like driving your daily vehicle due to their size and weight. These campers usually range from 29 feet to 45 feet.
A greater size means more space inside for eating, lounging, and sleeping. Most class A motorhomes can accommodate multiple people and have more than one sleeping area usually with at least a Queen sized mattress. Furthermore, they offer a full kitchen and full bathroom.
There is plenty of space to kick back and relax inside on the couches and chairs and watch your full-size TV. But there is also plenty of room outside with the addition of multiple awnings and maybe even an outdoor kitchenette or bar.
A class A motorhome really can be your home away from home, but it takes practice and experience to learn how to drive and maneuver it. Additionally, you will have to be selective about which campsites you choose as not all can accommodate such a big rig.
Some examples of a Class A Motorhome and pricing options include:
Newmar 2020 Dutch Star #4801
Price: $489,131
This motorhome is one of the best in its class. It offers luxury amenities and a variety of upgrades so you can customize your rig. Inside there is plenty of room thanks to the cathedral ceilings.
You can choose from many different floor plans and living room layout designs so that you can be comfortable while watching the retractable 50” LED television. The radiant tile will also help to make your house on wheels feel just as cozy as your permanent home.
Outside, relax under the power awning or host a get together with the help of the outdoor entertainment center. The motorhome features a 450-horsepower diesel engine by Cummins and 37, 40, or 43-foot floor plan.
2020 Newell Coach P50 #1684
Price: $2,102,032.00
The Newell Coach P50 is truly a luxury coach. This motorhome has copious amounts of space including four slide-out sleeping areas. The coach is outfitted with more than one 47” television as well as Wolf brand appliances and Corian counters in the kitchen.
The footprint of the motorhome is 45 feet in length with a few different floor plans available. A Cummins 650 horsepower engine powers the rig.
Class B Motorhomes
The average price for a new class B motorhome is $122,249. This average was determined by the new price of the top 15 selling class A motorhomes according to RV Trader. The average price for a used class B motorhome is $84,771. This average came from the first 15 used class A motorhomes made between 2009-2017 and with less than 70,000 miles.
Class B motorhomes are the smallest and least inexpensive. They are broken down into two categories, Class B and Class B+. Class B motorhomes are usually anywhere from 18 to 24 feet while B+ is slightly bigger.
Because of their small size, they are relatively affordable but Class B can lack the storage and space one would expect from a motorhome. Class B+ usually includes more amenities and therefore tend to be more popular. Class B is commonly referred to as “van campers” while B+ campers more closely resemble class A motorhomes.
Class B motorhomes may only have one designated sleeping space. They may include a pull-out couch but usually can only accommodate around three or four people. The kitchen and bath are modest, featuring only a wet bath.
Don’t expect too much storage either. However, these small accommodations are lighter, therefore, easier to drive, park, and are more cost-effective in terms of the purchase price and fuel.
Class B+ motorhomes are a bit bigger. Usually offering a little bit nicer of a kitchen and a bathroom/shower combination as opposed to the wet bath. They may also have more sleeping compartments and a greater sized storage area.
Class B and B+ motorhomes are great starter motorhomes or a good choice for those who don’t want to spend a lot. They still offer the convenience of a motorhome, just at smaller proportions.
Some examples of a Class B Motorhome and pricing options include:
2019 RoadTrek Cs Adventurous
Price: $182,688.00
Don’t let its campervan persona fool you, the inside is spacious and the van is equipped with plenty of windows for your viewing pleasure. The kitchen contains a two-burner stove, convection microwave, refrigerator, and the van has a 30-gallon tank for freshwater.
The RoadTrek also has a bathroom and home theater option. It can sleep three people simultaneously, though it can seat six and has a capacity of nine. An MBenz V6 engine provides 188 horsepower to help it cover all types of terrain.
Sportsmobile 4×4 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Vans (Conversion)
Price: $46,500.00
This van can be customized to suit a variety of needs and wants. The kitchen offers a single or double burner induction range as well as a convection microwave. The cabinetry comes in five different finishes and is made from a stronger material than most hardwoods (Corelight).
The bathroom also has optional upgrades such as toilet and shower type, sinks, and cabinetry and storage. Though compact they provide comfortable living space on a chassis equipped to take you into rugged terrain.
The Sportsmobile 4×4 contains a BlueTec V6 producing 188 horsepower.
Class C Motorhomes
The average price for a new class C motorhome is $79,434. This average was determined by the new price of the top 15 selling class A motorhomes according to RV Trader. The average price for a used class B motorhome is $66,004. This average came from the first 15 used class A motorhomes made between 2009-2017 and with less than 70,000 miles.
Class C Motorhomes, somewhat counterintuitively, is a compromise between classes A and B. They usually range from 30 to 33 feet long and aren’t too big or too small. They can resemble a van camper but provide extra room and Class A type luxuries inside.
The cabin over the driving area offers extra sleeping space. They usually have more than one sleeping area that does not include a pull-out couch. The kitchen and bathroom won’t be spacious but will be larger than a Class B motorhome.
Class C motorhomes provide more windows than a Class B or B+ motorhome and have the added benefit of a bit more storage. Because of their smaller size than a Class A motorhome, the driving learning curve shouldn’t be as steep.
Some examples of a Class C Motorhome and pricing options include:
Thor 2020 Quantum LF31
Price: $133,425.00
This motorhome is similar to a campervan but contains a few upgrades and considerably more room inside. The kitchen features a refrigerator with icemaker, a 2 burner gas cooktop, convection microwave oven, and cabinetry with solid wood cabinet doors.
There are three sleeping areas, one with a queen bed, one with a set of bunk beds, and an over cabin sleeping space. In addition to the kitchen, there is also a living room space with a sofa and a 40” television. A 32” inch exterior television is available as well.
It is built on a Ford E-450 chassis with a Ford 6.8L Triton V10 engine.
2019 Winnebago Minnie Winnie 31G
Price: $121,034
This 32 ft 9inch motorhome sleeps eight and like its class B counterparts offers a bunk over the cab for additional room. The kitchen features three burners as well as a sink, refrigerator, and pantry. The main bedroom has a queen-sized bed, a chest of drawers, a wardrobe, and room for another television.
The bathroom is spacious with a sink, toilet, and 32” x 32” shower. The living room contains a sofa bed, dinette, and television. The Triton V10 engine provides 305 horsepower. The 208-liter fuel tank means you won’t have to worry about stopping for gas frequently as you head out with you and seven members of your family or friends.
Types of Travel Trailers and Prices
| Fifth Wheel Trailer | $48,836.93 | $31,503 |
|---|---|---|
| Travel Trailers 14' - 18' | $14,693.20 | $9,500 |
| Travel Trailers 18' - 22' | $14,672.73 | $13,500 |
| Travel Trailers 22' - 26' | $20,025.06 | $15,548.26 |
| Travel Trailers 26' - 30' | $24,322.22 | $18,425.40 |
| Travel Trailers 30' - 32' | $25,432 | $22,630.06 |
| Toy Haulers | $46,137.60 | $42,197 |
| Pop-Ups | $11,000 | $5,000 |
Travel trailers are characterized by their need of a towing vehicle, usually a truck or in rare cases a car. Unlike RVs or campers, they are unable to drive on their own and must use a hitch to connect to a vehicle.
Travel trailers can be small or large and composed of various materials. One of the longest travel trailers, the Dutchmen Aspen Trail travel trailer, is 39 feet in length and sleeps ten. Pop-up campers or tent camping trailers are typically the lightest and smallest.
Travel trailers can range anywhere from ten feet to forty feet and from 1,100 pounds to 12,000 pounds. Large fifth wheels and toy haulers must be pulled by a truck while tent campers can be towed by a car.
Pop-up campers
Pop-up campers, also known as expanding or folding travel trailers, or tent trailers are the lightest, shortest, and narrowest. They fold down and become compact for towing.
The weight range is seven hundred to four thousand pounds and the length from eight feet to sixteen feet. They can be as narrow as four feet in height when compacted.
The walls and roof are collapsible and built from tent-like mesh or hard composite. The sides of pop-up campers expand not only upwards but outwards to form compartments.
Some people enjoy pop-up campers because of the tent-like experience without having to sleep on the ground.
Due to their weight, some of the lightest pop-up campers can be towed by a car instead of a truck or SUV. No matter the type of vehicle towing or pop-up camper both must be outfitted with a hitch and ball hitch receiver.
Pop-up campers are an excellent choice for people who camp infrequently and do so in the warmer or more moderate months. Because of their size they often do not have many amenities, usually lacking a bathroom and kitchen.
With time pop-up campers may show signs of wear and tear. Their joints and canvas or mesh materials may become worn and need to be replaced.
Overall, pop-up campers are small and light travel trailers that can be hauled by a car. They are perfect for those who like to get into nature and don’t want to sleep on the ground.
Some examples of pop-up campers and pricing options include:
2015 Forest River Rockwood HW316TH
Price: 22,432
This pop-up camper has plenty of room but weighs not quite 3700lbs so it can be pulled by a few types of crossover vehicles. Both ends extend to provide two separate sleeping spaces. Unlike most pop-ups it has a full kitchen replete with a microwave, burners, sink, and mini-fridge. There is also a dinette eating area.
The bathroom includes a shower and the entire unit is equipped with multiple storage spaces. This is a pop-up camper that offers amenities typically only seen with motorhomes and fifth wheels.
Air Opus Pop-up Camper
Price: $18,999
This is a very light camper weighing only 1557lbs. But inside it has an electric heater, a gas stove, refrigerator, a dinette, and even seating. Unlike traditional pop-ups, this camper pops into position at the push of a button in about 90 seconds.
The flat-top can be outfitted with a roof rack to haul your toys and gear. When assembled the roof of the camper provides eight-foot ceilings replete with skylights. When you are ready to head out the camper will “deflate” in about the same time it took to pop-up.
Rockwood Hard-Sided Pop-up by Forest River
Price $14,00-$17,00
This is a quaint looking pop-up that takes on the form of a house. It offers a kitchen with a stove and microwave in addition to a bathroom with a shower and toilet. The A-frame is simple to set up and features hard walls instead of the typical mesh.
Like the Air Opus, it can include a mount to haul all your gear and outdoor toys. Inside some floor plans come with a dinette and flip-up bed, even a micro-cabinet for storage. Outside you can find additional storage and you even have the option to upgrade to include a gas grill.
Lightweight RVs
Lightweight RVs are the next level up from pop-up campers. When someone says “travel trailer” they are usually referring to a lightweight RV. A lightweight RV is a container home built on top of a standard trailer frame.
A lightweight RV may be a small teardrop-shaped trailer or even a traditional-looking fiberglass RV, possibly a classic AirStream. As they come in a variety of shapes, lengths, weights, and optional amenities, lots of trailers fall into this category.
Typically, they have at least one designated area for sleeping, cooking and eating, and a bathroom. They may have their own water tank, a living room, and pop-out areas for additional room.
They use a ball hitch to attach to the towing vehicle. Some may be small and light but almost all cannot be towed by a car, requiring a truck, SUV, or van.
Lightweight RVs do not collapse and take the compact form of pop-up trailers. Therefore, their height and length can make them hard to maneuver and tow. This is especially true when it comes to backing up or driving in reverse.
Lightweight RVs are a more affordable option when compared to a full-size RV. They still include many different amenities to keep you comfortable while on the road.
Some examples of lightweight RVs and pricing options include:
Jayco Hummingbird 17MBS
Price: $25,000
This travel trailer won’t break the bank. It has many popular amenities including a dry bath, a murphy bed, a corner kitchen, and even storage in the form of a linen closet.
This trailer is just over 19 feet long but seems quite spacious.
Forest River R-Pod 191
Price: $20,000
This trailer has one slide out and is 20 feet in length. It can sleep four with twin beds and a convertible dinette. There is a bathroom and a small kitchen inside.
Outside you can choose from additional storage space or an exterior kitchen with a dry sink and a dual burner cooking area. Their 10th-anniversary edition offers some modern and retro decor as this trailer is a longtime favorite of many.
Fifth Wheels
Fifth wheel travel trailers are large, coming in at twenty-two to forty feet and seven thousand to twenty thousand pounds. They rarely lack common amenities and even include storage space.
Fifth-wheel trailers have a gooseneck attachment instead of the standard ball hitch. The vehicle which you are hitching the trailer to must have a coupling attachment placed in the bed. Therefore, the vehicle must have an open or flatbed.
A gooseneck connector does have advantages. It more evenly distributing the weight and not overloading your rear suspension. This offering better dynamics and an increased turning radius.
Because of their need for a sizeable flat or open bed towing vehicle, fifth wheels work best for those who already have a truck or feel comfortable investing in one as they plan to frequently haul their travel trailer.
Besides additional cabin space extending over the gooseneck attachment, fifth wheels can include a greater amount of amenities. They usually include bathrooms, kitchens, small refrigerators, dining tables, and more than one sleeping unit.
If you are a frequent camper and enjoy your typical day to day accommodations, then a fifth wheel may be the ideal travel trailer for you.
Some examples of fifth wheels and pricing options include:
Keystone Montana
Price: $98,388.00
This fifth wheel is a favorite of those who enjoy RVing. With four slide outs, it can sleep six and accommodate a king-size bed. The 48” wide shower even has a seat. The unit includes luxury items like a fireplace, a coat closet, and power theater seating in addition to the couches.
This trailer is truly a very spacious home away from home.
Forest River Wildcat 290 RL
Price: $ 53,715
This is a spacious fifth wheel of quality construction but not too pricey, perfect for those just getting into the RV lifestyle. There are three slide outs, an awning, and room to sleep six. The kitchen has a decent size fridge, a three burner stove, an oven, and a dinette.
The bedrooms offer one king-size bed, one queen, and two convertible beds. There is plenty of room to move about inside and sit back and relax.
Toy Haulers
Toy haulers closely resemble fifth wheels but include extra storage space for hauling gear and toys. These trailers are divided into two spaces, the forward compartment for living and the back for storage.
Havings either a ball hitch attachment or a gooseneck connector they will need a sizable towing vehicle. These trailers are often eighteen to forty feet in length and three thousand to ten thousand pounds. Most include retractable awnings, increasing the size of the campers footprint when fully extended.
Toy haulers garage space can accommodate snowmobiles, ATV’s, and dirt bikes as well as other sports items like kayaks. Their sturdy and foldable doors can do double duty as a loading ramp. Toy haulers are your home and garage all wrapped into one movable unit.
Having your garage space attached to your living space does have a downside in that it decreases your living space. Although the trailer will usually be the size of a standard fifth wheel your living space may be considerably less.
For some, the benefits of a slightly cramped living area outweigh the costs. If you are an outdoor enthusiast or adrenaline junkie then there is nothing better than being able to bring all of your gear and have a space to turn in for the night.
Some examples of toy haulers and pricing options include:
2019 Dutchmen Voltage Triton
Price: $66,744.00
This 36-foot trailer has a 15.5-foot garage and plenty of living space amenities. The living area boasts sofas, recliners, a tabletop, and a power bunk. The kitchen offers an L-shaped counter area with a two basin stainless steel sink.
There is a bathroom and bedroom complete with wardrobes and a queen-sized bed. This trailer provides plenty of garage with amazing living space accommodations.
2019 Cruiser Stryker 3116
Price: $59,177
This toy hauler has enough garage space to keep the adrenaline junkie happy and enough living space to keep their fellow campers satisfied. It has a 16-foot garage but also a living room area with a couch and two recliners, a kitchen area and dinette, and a bedroom that fits a king-size bed.
There is also a bathroom complete with sink, toilet, and shower. There are multiple storage compartments throughout the unit in the form of real hardwood cabinetry. A freshwater tank holds a little over 100 gallons. This toy hauler offers the best of both worlds.
Why Might the Prices Vary?
Availability. Not all RV types are widely available. Some come from large manufacturers and are regularly produced and held on lots while others come from smaller manufacturers. If the RV you are hoping for is not widely available it will likely cost more. Also, if the RV you are searching for is a limited edition or special model that will cost you more as well.
Production Date and Age. Like automobiles, the age and production year will affect the cost. Brand new model year RVs are going to be the most expensive. Older models will cost less. However, be careful purchasing too old of an RV. You want to be sure that it is still in good working order, can be serviced, and that you will be able to find replacement parts.
Upgrades. RVs can come with a variety of upgrades and optional features, especially luxury class A models. If you want a solar panel, large LED TV, or California king size bed it will cost you extra. Not to mention the interior design of your RV as you can customize everything from the flooring to the countertops to the curtains. Most of the prices you see will be baseline or base model prices with no extra upgrades.
Optional Floor Plans. Many RVs come with various floor plans. They can allow you to customize your space based on your wants and needs. You can choose a small floor plan or a large one. You can choose one with a spacious living room or one with a large sleeping area to accommodate a king-size mattress. Each different floor plan you choose will cause the price to fluctuate.
The Reputation of the Manufacturer. Some RV manufacturers are more reputable than others. If you are purchasing your RV from a well-known brand name producer than you can expect to pay a bit more. Still, they may be able to offer you more incentives and deals. A small, less well-known manufacturer may be cheaper but may also offer a smaller selection.
Previous Owners. You can indeed buy an RV used, and it will usually cost you less. Just be careful that it doesn’t end up costing you more in the long run in the form of repairs. Make sure you know the RVs history and be sure you are getting a fair price.
The Pros and Cons of All the Listed Types of RVs
Pop Up
Pros
- Least costly
- Lightweight and maneuverable
- Can be hauled by a car as well as a truck, SUV, or van
- Easy to set up
- Closely resembles the tent atmosphere
Cons
- Lack of certain accommodations (kitchen, bathroom, etc)
- Little protection from elements, not much insulation or climate control
- Overtime fabric paneling and joints may need replacing
Lightweight RV
Pros
- Better climate control than a popup
- Usually has a bathroom, kitchen, and more
- Large selection of sizes, weights, and shapes
- Little to no setup required
Cons
- Will likely need a truck or SUV to haul
- Can be difficult to maneuver and may not fit into all campsites or spaces
- Takes practice and skill to tow and maneuver
- Hard to back up or drive in reverse
Fifth Wheel
Pros
- Gooseneck connector is often better for the trailer and tow vehicle
- Provides a large living area and many amenities
- Has storage
Cons
- Requires a large truck with an open bed or flatbed
- Big in weight, length, and height
- Takes practice and skill to pull and maneuver
- Toy Hauler
Pros
- Living space and garage space all in one
- Has ramp for loading toys
- Plenty of storage
Cons
- The living area is cramped due to shared space with garage/storage
- Living space is in close proximity to garage leading to fumes or leaks
- Loading the back with numerous items may throw off trailer balance and towing capabilities
Class A Motorhomes
Pros
- Lots of amenities
- A great deal of space inside and out
- Can accommodate a large number of people
- Can be upgraded with luxury features
Cons
- Hard to drive and maneuver
- Won’t fit in all campsite spaces
- Costly
Class B Motorhomes
Pros
- Can fit and go almost anywhere
- Still includes a kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping area
- Easy to drive and maneuver
- Affordable
- Fuel efficient
Cons
- Can’t accommodate many people
- May only have one or two sleeping areas
- Wet bath and likely a small kitchen
- Lack of windows and storage
Class C Motorhomes
Pros
- Has a bath/shower combination
- Has more than one sleeping area
- Slightly more storage, windows, and sleeping spaces than a class B or B+
- More affordable and maneuverable than a class A
Cons
- Can’t accommodate as many people
- Lacks some kitchen amenities
- Does not usually have a living room space or lounge area
What Type of RV Should You Choose?
The type of RV you choose is largely dependent on your budget. However, there are a few other factors that come into play.
How many people you want to accommodate is important. Most RV’s and trailers provide the sleeping capacity within their specifications. You also want to think about how much space you need inside for living purposes. Do you have little kids who need a bit more room or is it just you and your partner?
Amenities are also important. Some individuals do not mind having a toilet and shower combo while others would prefer a dry bath. Kitchens and their amenities such as a stove, microwave, and fridge can also vary greatly from motorhome to motorhome or trailer to trailer.
If you are thinking about getting a trailer you need to consider your vehicle and its towing capacity. If you would prefer a motorhome you should think about your driving abilities and the motorhomes length, width, and height.
Finally, you should determine where you frequently like to camp. Will you need a more rugged rig or can you get by with a standard or luxury model.
There are many different elements to selecting a motorhome or trailer. You will need to decide which factors are most important to you.
A World Beyond Tent Camping
Navigating choosing an RV can be complex. The prices range from affordable used rigs to costly luxury motorhomes. Whether you are buying a used or new RV there are various sellers including small dealerships, large brand name lots, and private sellers. You should research each RV thoroughly and carefully outline your wants and non-negotiables before purchasing.
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