A Complete Guide to RV Care

Did you know that 1 million Americans live in RVs and are labeled the 'modern nomads,' 'full-time RVers,' 'digital nomads,' or 'workampers'? And these Americans aren't doing this out of desperation or because of financial restraints. 

There are many viable reasons to quit the 'stick and brick' lifestyle, where you purchase a home (the old American dream) and live in it until you die. A lot of RVers say that they are happier and more satisfied with their life on the road. 

If this sounds like the ultimate dream, check out the article below on RV costs and start looking into building this RV lifestyle for yourself. 

Cost Changes Depending on the Type and Class of the RV

Before you start planning your RV lifestyle, you need to understand what kind of RV would suit your needs and desires best. Some people will need a luxurious RV to be comfortable without their homestead. Others are happy enough to have a smaller space that is minimal and covers their basic needs. 

Which category do you fall into? Have an in-depth conversation with your spouse or partner to figure out what kind of RV would suit you best. Some primary classes and types of RVs have been listed below with their average pricing.

Class A RVs

These are the largest drivable RVs on the market. They usually have a bus-like profile and are what you would consider a typical 'motorhome.' 

They come with extra storage and amenities, but that is reflected in the cost, as they are the most expensive RVs on the market. When purchased new, these might start at $50,000 or $100,000, but they can easily cost $800,000 to $1 million, depending on the amenities and luxuries included. 

Even if you purchase a used Class A RV, it can still cost $80,000 to $120,000 if the RV is from the past 5 years. If older, 15-25 years, you can find private sellers selling their RVs for $20,000 to $40,000.

Of course, you will want to do your research on the market and roam about various RV dealerships, and used RV lots, to find the perfect one for you. Also, don't hesitate to go out of state to find a cheaper or better deal.

Some typical amenities included with Class A RVs are:

• King-sized bedroom
• Large bathroom
• Air conditioning
• Lots of kitchen space
• A substantial living area with couches and a pull-out dining table
• And more

As you can see, if you have the budget for it, a Class A RV has to be the best option out there for full-time RVers. It will ensure you don't long for your 2000-square-foot home for even a single moment.

Class C RVs

The next in the lineup is a drivable Class C RV which is a bit smaller than the Class A and has fewer amenities included. In these RVs, you wouldn't have a separate bedroom, as there's no space for it. The sleeping area is placed over the cab (where the driving area would be). 

Of course, this doesn't mean that the sleeping space isn't as comfortable as possible. It just requires a bit more maneuvering to get to. And you will still have access to a small living area, bathroom, and a tiny kitchen. 

You can find new Class C RVs on the market for $50,000 to $100,000. This makes them quite affordable for the average motorhome buyer. 

You will also be pleased to know that Class C RVs have parts that are easily found and replaced, so that should save you money in the long run. 

If you want a used Class C RV, then you can look to pay $35,000 to $70,000 if it's from the past 5 years or $20,000 for a much older model. Make sure to scour the online or Facebook marketplaces to find private sellers, as they are more amenable to negotiating and can give you better deals.

Class B RVs

This is the smallest drivable RV available on the market. They look like a large van and come with a smaller space and fewer amenities. Of course, this translates into lower costs as well. 

Interestingly enough, there are some luxury Class B RVs out there that are built on the Mercedes Benz frames. These can be as expensive as the Class A RVs. 

If you are a first-time RVer and want to try out life on the road to see if its suits you, then a Class B RV is a great option for you. You wouldn't want to spend hundreds of thousands of dollars on purchasing an expensive RV and then realize that you or your spouse hates being on the road 24/7 and wants to go back to a brick-and-mortar home.

The cost of a Class B RV varies greatly depending on the features that you choose. They range from $80,000 to $100,000 and can be as expensive as $150,000, depending on the amenities included. 

A used Class B RV for a newer model can start from $30,000, and the older models can be as cheap as $10,000 to $15,000! That's why these are considered a great starter model for new RV users. 

You can always upgrade to a more expensive model once you feel comfortable on the road.

Fifth Wheels

These are towable RVs, which means that you need special towing equipment and a towing vehicle to roam about the lands with them. Because they aren't motor-driven, they are much more affordable. 

They also have plenty of storage space and lots of amenities onboard, like a king or queen-sized bed, a full kitchen, a large bathroom, air conditioning, and even extra beds for guests or kids. Some even have two bathrooms on board!

That's why Fifth Wheels are perfect for families on the road, especially ones with younger children, as it gives them that extra space to play in. There are also many different styles of Fifth Wheels, so you have more options to choose from.

As these Fifth Wheels are the largest of the towable options and the most customizable, they can range quite a bit in pricing as well. A basic model can cost $35,000 to $60,000. And a higher-end model can be as expensive as $150,000.

A used Fifth Wheel ranges from $30,000 to $120,000, depending on the amenities included. Since Fifth Wheels lose 20% of their value in the first year, you will want to purchase used rather than new if you find a good deal.

Travel Trailers

The smallest of the towable RVs are the travel trailers. If you already have a truck or SUV, you are ready to purchase and use these RVs. These RVs connect to the bumper of your vehicle, so they are easy to install and remove.

They are a great option for new RV users and families who wish to have a bit of freedom to move around during their summer vacation. They cost $25,000 to $35,000 if they are new. A pop-up camper can be as cheap as $15,000. 

A used travel trailer costs between $20,000 to $30,000 and a used pop-up camper is $10,000 to $15,000.

Other RV Costs to Consider

There are some additional costs to consider when purchasing and using an RV. Some of them are highlighted below.

Taxes

You will have to pay sales tax on the RV you purchase, depending on the state.

It's easy enough to get a loan to purchase an RV. You don't have to pay cash for them unless you wish to. And you can roll the sales tax into the loan if you would prefer it that way.

Insurance

Some of the higher-end RV models are quite expensive, and thus, you will need to have insurance upon them. This way, you won't have to worry about it too much when it comes to repairing or replacing the RV.

Operating Expenses

Motorhomes aren't the most fuel-efficient vehicles out there, so you will need to account for high fuel costs whenever driving around in them. Their mileage ranges on average from 7 to 14 mpg. 

Other RV cost items to budget for:

• Propane for your heater
• Campground fees
• Oil changes
• Consistent maintenance and repairs

A huge moving home like an RV will need constant attention and care, so make sure you spend some time each week going through your RV to make sure nothing's broken or needs repair. 

Accessories

If you are purchasing a used RV, you will want to do some upgrades to it to make sure it is suitable for your needs. You will also need to account in your budget for some accessories, like leveling blocks, LED lights, window awnings, or any upgrades that might be necessary (new kitchen faucets?). 

RV Costs Will Vary Quite a Bit Depending on Your Choices

In conclusion, depending on the amenities, accessories, and type of RV chosen, your RV costs will be quite different. 

If you are interested in keeping your expensive new RV in tip-top shape, you will want to undertake the help of an RV detailing company like Fiberglass WorX. We can wash, wax, and restore your RV, so it looks and feels like it came off the dealership lot today.