How Much Do RVs Really Cost To Own?

Checking out new RV models at different shows is a great way to decide on your next rig. But before you ever commit to buying a new RV you should understand the real cost of RV ownership for that model.

Whether your plans include a towable, motorhome, truck bed camper, or simple pop-up tent, there will always be repairs and maintenance expenses. Cost of ownership for RVs varies among models, but in general this infographic by Wholesale Warranties does a good job at showing what you can expect.

Infographic by Wholesale Warranties

Determining the cost of ownership

Comparing cost of ownership is a hot topic with RVers and you’ll find endless debates about which RV costs more to maintain. The problem is there is no exact science to determine cost of ownership since that depends on things like:

• The RV’s age
• How it was maintained by the previous owner
• What type of materials and appliances the manufacturer used
• How often the RV was driven or towed
• The number of people and pets who lived in it

Even brand new RVs have problems that usually appear exactly one day after the manufacturer’s warranty expires!

Can you pay for RV repairs?

Keeping an emergency repairs savings account is a wise idea. For many RVers, the addition of an extended warranty brings extra peace of mind on the road.

• An extended warranty usually goes beyond what a manufacturer will cover even when their warranty is still in force.
• You can get an extended warranty on new or used RVs.
• The warranty contract can be for anywhere from two to seven years.
• Deductibles usually start at around $100–and any repairs after that usually cost you nothing.

Extended warranties are a wise choice for RVers who know nothing about repairs–or ones who just don’t want to deal with fixing things. For your best selection of warranties, contact a broker like Wholesale Warranties. They can match you up with the right RV warranty policy for your budget and lifestyle.

This post is sponsored by Wholesale Warranties and the Social Knowledge Online Community Network. We only share information we feel is relevant to our readers.

Rene Agredano

Often called “The O.G. of full-time RVing,” Rene Agredano and her husband Jim Nelson hit the road in a fifth wheel trailer in 2007, after their dog Jerry lost a leg to terminal cancer. Sixteen years later they are still traveling and sharing their nomadic adventures at LiveWorkDream. As a self-employed wordsmith, Rene shares her expertise for many RV industry videos, publications such as the Escapees RV Club Magazine, and has authored numerous books, including the Essential RVing Guide to National Parks, and  Income Anywhere, a guide to earning money on the road. She has been featured in global media outlets including the PBS documentary “NATURE: Why We Love Cats and Dogs,” The Guardian Sunday Edition, and the Dan Pink book Free Agent Nation.