The key to buying an RV is all about understanding the different types of RVs and how much they cost. But that’s not all. It also includes a list of things to consider when making your purchase, as well as the pros and cons of owning an RV.

Types and Costs of RVs

There are many different types of RVs on the market, from small campers to big luxury coaches. The two main categories of RVs are motorized and towable. But, within these two categories are many subcategories. Each has a unique cost and is targeted towards different groups. Typically, the Class A diesel motor coach buyer is not going to be the same person in the market for a pop-up camper. The interests and reasons for camping are very different for these two types of RV owners.

Note: Regardless of the type of RV you choose, this is not an inexpensive proposition. And every type of RV depreciates significantly once you take it off the lot. For that reason, we recommend you try before you buy with an RV rental. Companies like Outdoorsy are brokers between private owners and renters. They provide the online platform, standards, and insurance to give both parties peace of mind. But the great thing is by using private owners, there is a great chance you can find the type of RV you think you want to purchase on their platform. Most people don’t realize this but they even have many travel trailers and fifth wheels that the owner will DELIVER for you! That way even if you don’t have the truck yet, you can try it out. This will allow you to avoid a potentially costly mistake by first trying things out and seeing how you like it.

Motorized

There are many types of motorized RVs. Many of the different types, or classes, have both gas and diesel options. This even includes the smallest motorized RVs.

Gas vs. diesel motorhomes

There are pros and cons to both gas and diesel motorhomes. Gas motorhomes are generally cheaper to buy, but they can be more expensive to maintain. Diesel motorhomes are more expensive to buy, but they typically have the better fuel economy. The chassis is also built to last longer on a diesel motorhome. Diesel motorhomes will also be able to tow bigger vehicles and trailers and will generally have an easier time in the mountains.

Motorized RV Types

Motorhomes:

There are three main classes of motorhomes: Class A, Class B, and Class C.

Class A motorhomes are the largest and most expensive type. Often referred to as coaches, they are like a small house on wheels, and include a living area, kitchen, bedroom, and bathroom — sometimes more than one. Class A diesel motorhomes typically cost between $150,000 and $500,000 but can go into the millions of dollars for a custom diesel pusher. This price range includes a wide variety of RVs, from small to large and luxurious. Gas Class A motorhomes are more reasonable in price. They average between $90,000 and $200,000 depending on the size and features. 

Camper Vans, also known as Class B motorhomes, are smaller than Class A’s, but still include all the amenities of a home. While many use them for short trips, we know of several singles and couples living full-time in a Class B motorhome. If you get creative, even a family can utilize one comfortably, just check out the Tin Box Traveller’s tips on how to sleep in a camper van with children.

The typical cost for a Class B is between $60,000 and $200,000. There are many reasons why the price of these is just as high as a gas Class A. One is they are very popular right now. The other is that these are usually more labor intensive to build since the shell of the van is already in place rather than the manufacturer building the inside and then installing the walls around it, which is the case for most RVs.

A Class B+ RV is a type of motorhome that falls in between Class B and Class C RVs. It has the size and amenities of a Class B RV, but with a little more space. This makes it a good option for families or larger groups. These can range in price from $100,000 to $300,000. They are a little more roomy than a Class B and have more storage but can still fit into many spaces that a van or large truck would fit.

Class C motorhomes are the most affordable type of motorhome for families. A Class C motorhome will cost between $50,000 and $200,000. These are great for families since the dinette usually turns into a bed and there is usually another bed above the cab. Most have enough towing capability to be able to tow a small car to use when you get to your destination. 

A Super C RV is a type of Class C motorhome. It is larger than a regular Class C motorhome, and includes more amenities, such as a separate bedroom and living area. Super C RVs are a good option for families who want more space and comfort while traveling. Most of the models available are diesel-powered, so they are more expensive. These average about $250,000 to $300,000 in price. They have a lot of towing capability and are larger than a standard Class C motorhome.

Skoolie

A skoolie RV is a type of RV that is made from a school bus. Skoolie RVs are popular among people who want to explore the great outdoors. They are also popular among people who want to live in an RV full-time.

Skoolie RVs offer the benefit of being able to design the interior of the vehicle in any way imaginable. Depending on the size of the school bus, there can be a lot of room to design an RV interior that is comfortable and spacious.

Skoolie RVs can be expensive to insure and maintain. It’s important to consider your budget when choosing a skoolie RV. Skoolie RVs are expensive to insure because they are made from a school bus. School buses are typically not designed for use as an RV, which can make it difficult to find an insurer.

Skoolies are made by converting a school bus into an RV. This can be done by purchasing a school bus and converting it yourself, or by hiring a professional to do the conversion for you.

If you want to convert a school bus yourself, there are a number of things you will need to do:

1. Remove the seats and flooring from the bus
2. Install a kitchen and bathroom area
3. Install a bed, seating area, and storage areas
4. Install electrical systems and appliances
5. Install a water system and plumbing

If you want to hire a professional to convert your school bus for you, there are a number of things you will need to consider, including:

1. The cost of conversion
2. The size and features of the finished RV
3. The availability of conversion professionals in your area

Above the cost of acquiring a school bus, you can expect to pay $20,000 to $30,000 in expenses to convert the interior into a livable space.

Non-Motorized RV Types

Towables are defined as RVs that are towed behind a vehicle, such as a car or truck. This includes travel trailers, pop-up campers, and fifth wheel trailers. Towables are generally smaller and less expensive than motorhomes. This lower cost is mainly  because they have no engine or other components required for being able to drive on its own. 

Travel Trailers

A travel trailer camper, also called a bumper pull, is a type of RV that is towed behind a car or truck. It is smaller and less expensive than a motorhome, and includes all the amenities of a regular camping trip, such as a bed, bathroom, and kitchenette. There are different types of travel trailers.

1. Traditional hard-sided trailers: Hard-sided trailers are the most durable type of travel trailer. They include a metal frame and walls, which makes them resistant to weather and pests. However, they are also the heaviest and most expensive type of travel trailer. The average cost of a travel trailer is anywhere between $11,000 and $80,000 depending on the type of trailer. 
2. A-frame trailers, which are small and lightweight. They are easy to tow, and can be set up in minutes. A-frame trailers are a good option for people who want a basic camping experience without all the bells and whistles. The typical cost of an A-frame travel trailer is between $10,000 and $50,000. However, this can vary depending on the features and amenities included.
3. Teardrop trailers are a type of travel trailer that is becoming more and more popular. They are small and lightweight, and can be towed by most vehicles. They also include a bed, kitchenette, and bathroom, making them a complete home away from home. Teardrop trailers are perfect for people who want to take their trailer on frequent trips. They are easy to store and transport, and can be set up in minutes. They are also very affordable, between $15,000 and $35,000, making them a great option for budget-conscious travelers.
4. Pop-ups are small RVs that fold down when they are not in use. They are less expensive than other types of RVs, but also less comfortable. People like the affordability of pop-ups. They are less expensive than other types of RVs, and they can be easily stored when they are not in use. You can expect to pay between $10,000 and $30,000 for a pop-up camper.

Fifth Wheels

A fifth wheel is a type of travel trailer that attaches to a special hitch in the bed of a pickup truck. Fifth-wheel RVs offer a lot of amenities and features that other types of RVs do not have. They are larger and more expensive than other types of travel trailers, but many people feel that the extra space and features are worth the price. 

Some of the most popular amenities in fifth wheel RVs include:

1. High ceilings compared to other towables and motorhomes.
2. A large living area with plenty of space for relaxing.
3. A well-equipped kitchen with a stove, oven, refrigerator, and dishwasher.
4. A spacious bedroom with a comfortable bed.
5. Multiple bathrooms with separate showers and toilets.

Typically, you can expect to pay between $50,000 and $150,000 for a fifth wheel RV.

Toy Haulers 

Toy haulers are becoming more and more popular. They are designed specifically for people who want to take their toys with them on trips. Toy haulers include a large cargo area, which is perfect for storing motorcycles, ATVs, or other recreational vehicles. They are also larger and more expensive than other types of travel trailers.

Toy haulers can cost anywhere between $10,000 and $300,000. They can be fifth wheels or traditional bumper pull towables. There are also a couple of motorized toy haulers.

Truck campers

A truck camper is a small RV that attaches to the back of a pickup truck. They are generally less expensive than other types of RVs, and are good for short trips.

Standard benefits:

– Low cost

– Portable

– Easy to store

Emotional benefits:

– Get closer to nature

• Feel the wind in your hair

Truck campers have become more popular in the last few years. They can be as high as $60,000. You also need a truck that is capable of carrying the camper as well as several after-market parts needed to hold the camper securely in place and beef-up the suspension.

Overland Vehicles

Overland vehicles are off-road vehicles that can be used as RVs. They are also popular among people who want to explore the great outdoors. Overland vehicles can be divided into two categories: hard-shell overland vehicles and soft-shell overland vehicles.

Hard-shell overland vehicles are more expensive than soft-shell overland vehicles, but they offer a lot of features and amenities that soft-shell overland vehicles do not have. Hard-shell overland vehicles are typically made from sturdy materials like aluminum or fiberglass, which makes them resistant to scratches and dents. They also include a variety of features, such as:

1. A large cargo area for storing gear
2. A powerful engine that can handle difficult terrain
3. A high level of insulation, which keeps the vehicle cool in summer and warm in winter

Soft-shell overland vehicles are less expensive than hard-shell overland vehicles, but they do not offer as many features and amenities. Soft-shell overland vehicles are made from lightweight materials like canvas or nylon, which makes them easy to transport and store. They also include a variety of features, such as:

1. A large cargo area for storing gear
2. A powerful engine that can handle difficult terrain
3. A high level of insulation, which keeps the vehicle cool in summer and warm in winter

Overland vehicles will also come with solar, batteries, generators, and adequate water storage to keep you off-grid for long periods of time. The price range is fairly wide. They can cost anywhere from $48,000 to more than $500,000 depending on the size and amenities. .

Conclusion

If you are considering buying an RV, now is the time to do it! RVs are becoming more and more popular. There are a variety of different types of RVs on the market, each with its own set of benefits and drawbacks. It is important to consider what you need in an RV before making a purchase. If you want a basic camping experience without all the bells and whistles, then an A-frame trailer may be right for you. If you have a large family or group, a fifth wheel or class C may be a better option. If you want the most durable and luxurious RV possible, then a diesel motorhome would be the best option as long as you have the budget to pay for it. Toyhaulers are perfect for people who want to take their toys with them on trips, while pop-ups are good for people who are looking for an affordable RV option. You can find an RV that fits your needs and budget, and you can be on the road in no time.

In the next article in this series, we will discuss what you should consider when shopping for an RV as well as choosing the best RV for your situation.

Other articles we’ve written on this topic include:

Should I Buy New or Used

True Cost of Financing an RV

Other Costs of RV Ownership

A Bunkhouse RV might just be exactly what your traveling family needs. Whether you choose a bunkhouse motorhome,  fifth wheel or travel trailer, you’ll have all the room you need. Even better, you don’t have to give up your favorite comforts from home to make room for sleeping space — no more converting the dinette to a bed, then trying to work around a sleeping teenage when you’re ready for breakfast. And bunkhouses provide amazing storage opportunities during the day. In this article we’ll share the features of bunkhouse RVs and some great modifications that will help you get even more from the space. 

WHY CHOOSE A BUNKHOUSE RV

Obviously the main feature of a bunkhouse RV is the bunk beds. Sometimes the bunks are in a separate room with a door, in other floor plans they are behind a curtain, and especially in motorhomes, they are built into the hallway. The great thing is that there are so many different RV bunkhouse manufacturers, you can choose the right bunkhouse motorhome, fifth wheel, or travel trailer suits your budget and personal preferences. 

Our Not So Perfect Life takes you on a tour of their Keystone Cougar 364 BHL Fifth Wheel with separate bunkhouse bedroom.

Here’s a tour of one of our favorite travel trailers with bunks, the Grand Design Transcend Xplor 265BH. Nicole and Daniel of Somewhere Down South travel in one with two teenage boys who are over 6’ tall.

And don’t worry if you don’t find the perfect bunkhouse for your needs. You can always modify it. Check out the video below with a clever mod to take one bunk out and open up the space for an only child. 

No matter which type of bunkhouse RV you choose, the initial allure is the bunks that provide enough sleeping space to comfortably bring the whole family on your next RV trip. But bunkhouse RVs are not all about bunk beds! Today’s bunkhouse travel trailers, fifth-wheels, and motorhomes include a variety of amenities that make your RV experience more enjoyable and help you feel like you have a home away from home.

OTHER KEY FEATURES 

When it comes to selecting the bunkhouse RV that fits your family’s unique needs, you can choose from many styles and models. From travel trailers and fifth wheels to toy haulers and motorhomes, there is something for everyone. 

Consider your RV travel style and how you plan to use the space and what activities you enjoy. Do you have a growing family and need an option that provides space for the whole family on your weekend getaways? Or are you a family that plans to travel full-time and needs separate room for the kids? In these cases, a fifth wheel or travel trailer bunkhouse with slide-outs and a separate room with the bunks may fit the bill. If you’re an adventure loving group and spend your days mountain biking or kayaking, then a toy hauler bunkhouse RV may be the best choice for you.

We’re partial to Northwood Manufacturing — we have their Arctic Fox 27-5L Fifth Wheel. But if you’re looking for a bunk model, they have two: the Nash 24-B Travel Trailer and the Nash 29-S. 

Regardless of which type of RV, here are a few other options to consider: 

• Outdoor Kitchen – This is one of those features that you either love or hate. We personally don’t cook outside often — we gave away our grill after a year on the road because we never used it. However, there are many RV families really want an outdoor kitchen. It’s a great way to enlarge your space by prepping your meals, cooking, and dining outside. Outdoor kitchens come in many configurations and features including: sink, counter space, refrigerator, and attached grill or cooktop. 
• Dual Entry Door – This feature is often overlooked, but if you have children that are going to be playing on the beach or running through the woods, it might be nice to have another door near a bathroom for them to access and get cleaned up without dragging sand or dirt though the living area of your RV.
• Extra bathroom – Depending on the size of your family and the style of camping you do, an extra bathroom may really come in handy. On the other hand, I have a friend who converted her half bath to a storage closet. It all depends on your camping needs and RV travel preferences. 

BUNKHOUSE RV STORAGE TIPS 

As previously mentioned bunkhouse campers are ideal for family camping adventures because they feature bunk-bed style sleeping which maximizes the space in your camper. Bunkhouse floorpans are often mindful of storage. During the day and on travel days, you can use the bunks themselves for storing your gear and supplies. There are also many simple modifications you can do to make the most of your small space. 

Check out these fabulous storage ideas from Someday Down South. They installed drawers in the closet and hanging organizers on the rails.

If you have younger children, you know that keeping all the toys and clothing can be tricky to keep organized. Watch the video below to see how Deziree keeps it all together.

https://youtu.be/Lz2k5bePMHU

We have many other organization and storage tips for every space in your RV.

We hope this article gave you some ideas for choosing the right RV bunkhouse. Remember, the first step is to consider your needs now and how they might change over time. For example, will your camping family be growing – perhaps with kids, grandkids, or friends? Will it be shrinking as children going off to college? Or will it stay the same over the length of time you plan to own the RV? These are important factors that will have an impact on your RV choice and your budget.

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