Is it Better to Buy a New or Used Camper?

When it comes to starting your RV life, one of the biggest decisions you'll face is: should you buy a new or used camper? The choice between a brand-new RV and a pre-owned camper can affect everything from your travel experience to your budget and maintenance expectations.

Buying a new camper offers peace of mind with warranties and the latest features. On the other hand, to buy a used RV often means a significantly lower upfront cost and slower depreciation. But is one option truly better than the other? Let’s break it down.

What to Know Before Buying a Camper?

Before you buy a new or used camper, it’s essential to evaluate your lifestyle and needs. Here are the key considerations:

• Budget – How much are you ready to invest?
• How often you’ll travel – Will you use it for occasional weekend trips or full-time RV living?
• Parking/storage space – Do you have a place to keep your camper when not in use?
• Number of travelers – Solo nomad, couple, or a family?
• Travel style – Remote boondocking vs. RV parks with hookups
• Seasonality – Planning for all-year use or just summer getaways?

Is it worth buying a camper if you only plan to use it a few times a year? Consider renting an RV first to test the waters before you commit.

Types of Campers

There are several types of recreational vehicles to choose from, depending on your travel habits and needs:

• Camper Van (Class B) – Compact, agile, perfect for digital nomads and solo travelers. Ideal for living in a camper full-time. (Try: Rover Mercedes Sprinter Conversion – a premium van optimized for full-time RV living with comfort and durability).
• Motorhome (Class A or C) – Larger and more spacious, better for families or long-term travelers who want home-like amenities.
• Travel Trailer – Towable, offering more flexibility. Great for those who already own a truck.
• Pop-Up Camper – Lightweight, budget-friendly, and perfect for weekend adventurers.
• Truck Campers – Mounted on pickup trucks; a good option for off-road enthusiasts.

Each type caters to a different lifestyle. The best camper is the one that best suits your travel style, budget, and needs.

How Much Does a Camper Cost?

The cost of buying a camper varies widely:

New RVs:

• Class B Camper Vans: $80,000–$200,000+
• Class A Motorhomes: $150,000–$500,000+
• Travel Trailers: $15,000–$60,000+

Used RVs:

• Camper Vans: $30,000–$100,000
• Motorhomes: $50,000–$250,000
• Travel Trailers: $8,000–$40,000

Don’t forget the hidden costs:

• Registration and taxes
• Insurance (see: insure your new RV)
• Add-on features (solar panels, Wi-Fi, etc.)
• Routine maintenance
• Inspection before purchase
• Initial setup (kitchenware, linens, etc.)

Pros and Cons of Buying a New vs. Used Campervan

Here’s a breakdown of the main advantages and disadvantages:

Buying a used RV saves money but may carry risk. Buying a new RV offers assurance but comes at a price.

What to Look for When Buying a Used Camper?

Here’s your ultimate used RV buying guide to avoid regrets:

Inspect for:

• Rust (especially undercarriage and joints)
• Signs of water damage (soft spots, stains, musty smells)
• Proper seals around windows and roof
• Functioning electrical systems and lighting
• Plumbing and water systems (leaks, water pressure)
• HVAC system (heating/AC)
• Insulation quality
• History of repairs (ask for records from the previous owner)
• Age of tires and batteries
• Mileage and engine condition (if motorized)

Worried about buying a used camper? Rover Vans offers new, fully inspected, and customizable vans with premium materials like Baltic birch and aluminum framing — low maintenance and built to last.

You may also like: Is Buying a Camper Worth It?

Camper Maintenance Costs – What to Expect

Annual camper maintenance varies by type and usage:

• Oil & filter changes (motorhomes): $100–$300/year
• Tires: $600–$2,000 every 4–6 years
• Battery replacement: $100–$800 every few years
• Winterization: $100–$200
• Roof resealing: $150–$500
• Repairs (appliances, plumbing): $200–$1,000+

Budget around $1,000–$2,000 per year for maintenance. A used motorhome may require more frequent repairs than a new model.

How to Finance a Camper Purchase?

You can buy an RV using several financial methods:

• RV Loan – Offered by banks or dealerships
• Leasing – Less common but available through some dealers
• Personal Loan – Unsecured loans with flexible terms
• Cash Payment – Avoids interest but requires upfront capital

Remember the ROI: You could save money on hotels, flights, and rentals — especially if you're embracing RV full-time.

Which Campervan Brands Are the Best?

Here are some top campervan and RV brands:

• Winnebago – Reliable, widely available. Great for families. Mid-high price range.
• Hymer – German engineering, quality build. Ideal for couples or solo travelers.
• Thor Motor Coach – Affordable and accessible across the U.S. Large variety of models.
• Adria – European styling with smart layouts. Good for extended travel.
• VW California – Classic style. Great for short trips and light travelers.
• Knaus – Durable build and modern interiors. Harder to find in the U.S.
• Mercedes Marco Polo – Luxury compact vans.
• Ford Transit Campervans – Versatile and popular base for custom builds. Affordable and widely supported with parts and service.

Looking for a premium custom van? Rover Vans builds on the Mercedes Sprinter chassis — one of the most durable and reliable campervan bases on the market.

Conclusion

So, should you buy a used RV or a new one? It all depends on your priorities, travel goals, and budget.

Choose new if you want peace of mind, full manufacturer warranties, and access to the latest technology and comfort features. A brand-new RV is like a new car — you drive it off the lot knowing it’s in perfect condition.

Choose used if you’re on a budget, want to avoid major depreciation, and don’t mind doing a bit of homework before making your purchase. The used RV market offers a wide variety of models and layouts — often at half the price of a new one.

Whether you decide to buy a used camper or invest in a new RV, what matters most is that the vehicle supports your vision of life on the road. Do your research, inspect carefully, and take it for a test before buying — so you don’t end up with a lemon. Make an informed decision — and enjoy the ride!