Do You Need to Buy a Camper or RV?

If you love to travel, you’ve probably entertained the idea of purchasing your very own camper or RV. However, these mobile living spaces each come with unique benefits and drawbacks. Here’s a look at what each brings to the table — along with a few factors to consider before you buy an RV or camper:
 
Deciding if an RV or camper fits your needs
 
When you’re considering an RV or a camper, you want to make sure you’re making an informed decision before you invest. First, consider the types of trips you take — if you primarily travel to cities or nearby destinations, you probably won’t get much mileage out of an RV or camper. However, if you dream of camping in remote locales, traveling with your pets, or simply want to avoid the hassle of dealing with hotels, an RV or camper may suit your needs. Second, campers and RVs also give a sense of privacy that a rented room can rarely match. Finally, ask yourself how often you’ll be able to use your camper or RV. If you’re a road trip enthusiast with a flexible lifestyle, you may be able to reap the savings of traveling with your own accommodations. But if you find yourself tied to a tight schedule or routine obligations, your chance to take extended road trips may be limited and your new toy could end up gathering dust.
 
Benefits and drawbacks of an RV
 
An RV, or Recreational Vehicle, is a combination of a living space and a motor vehicle. Sometimes called motorhomes, these models are driven like normal passenger cars, so you won’t need to worry about acquiring a separate truck to tow your home away from home. While this can be convenient, it’s important to remember even a small, basic RV can cost upwards of $50,000. Furthermore, RVs require routine maintenance, just like any other vehicle. However, an RV’s specialized design can lead to costlier repairs than you’d pay for a camper and its accompanying truck.
 
If you’re looking for luxury, an RV may be a better fit, as they often provide more creature comforts than trailers. Large Class A models offer amenities you won’t find in most campers, such as laundry facilities, additional storage space, and fully functional kitchens.
 
Also, bear in mind some RVs are much larger than other vehicles. This can pose challenges on the road and limit your ability to enter certain spaces. While small Class B and medium-sized Class C RVs maneuver much like standard passenger vehicles, large Class A RVs require skill and practice to manage, much like a semi truck. So unless you tow a standard passenger car behind your Class A RV, your RV will likely be your primary form of transportation on your trip. This can lead to inconveniences — for instance, you may have to park your vehicle in the lot of a big box store and walk to a fast food joint rather than simply going through the drive-thru.
 
Pros and cons of a camper
 
A camper is a type of trailer that attaches to a truck or SUV. Since it’s a modular unit, it costs less to purchase, insure, maintain, and repair a camper than it does an RV. If living space for a big group or family is a priority, you’ll be able to stretch your dollars further by choosing a camper. Campers also tend to depreciate less than RVs, so you may find yourself saving even more in the long run.
 
If you’re looking to explore the towns or attractions around your base camp, a trailer can provide flexibility that a large RV can’t match. Since a trailer can simply disconnect from your vehicle and remain at the campsite, you’ll be free to take your truck elsewhere to grab a bite or stock up on groceries.

Campers also come with drawbacks, such as significantly reducing your truck’s fuel economy. Depending on the size of your trailer, you may find yourself unable to access certain parking lots and facilities. And finally, keep in mind that trailers can be trickier to maneuver than a small- or medium-sized RV — but modern trucks offer many high-tech features to reduce the stress and guesswork that comes with towing.
 
Before committing to an RV or camper, consider renting one first in order to see what suits your lifestyle and recreational habits. A little experience and planning can help you find an optimal fit for your needs.