by The Great Outdoors RV | Sep 21, 2021 | Blog | 0 comments
Whether you’re camping for the weekend, visiting a national park, or taking time off to travel across the country, a motorhome or camper will make you feel as if you’re living in luxury. In comparison to roughing it with a tent and sleeping bag, traveling in a motorhome or camper trailer may significantly improve your comfort and enjoyment of your summer trips. Purchasing a motorhome or camper is, without question, an investment. So, before you take out your wallet or sign on the dotted line, it’s a good idea to compare a camper vs motorhome to determine which is best for your needs.
THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A CAMPER VS MOTORHOME
Recreational vehicles include a wide variety of vehicles but are most often associated with motorhomes. These vehicles are powered by their own engines and do not need the assistance of another vehicle. They are classified according to their size (Class A, Class B, or Class C) and each has its own unique advantages.
Meanwhile, campers are smaller sleeping quarters that must be towed with the appropriate vehicle. Fifth-wheel trailers (which connect to the bed of a vehicle rather than a hitch), pop-up or folding campers, and truck campers affectionately known as camper shells are all different types of campers.
BENEFITS OF OWNING A CAMPER
Campers are significantly more affordable than their RV/motorhome counterparts, typically costing between thousands less. The likelihood of finding a pre-owned one in excellent condition at a lower price point is significantly higher than the motorhome resale market, which is much more competitive. Campers also need less maintenance and are usually more cost-effective when it comes to insurance, parking costs, and campground fees than other modes of transportation. When not in use, campers are simpler to store because of their compact size.
DISADVANTAGES OF OWNING A CAMPER
While campers provide a more pleasant atmosphere than your typical tent and sleeping bag, there is a learning curve involved in getting them ready for use. This is particularly true for pop-up and folding campers. Compared to their RV counterparts, most travel trailers aren’t nearly as glamorous in terms of square footage and amenities.
Also required is the possession or access to a vehicle capable of pulling a camper, whether that vehicle is a heavy-duty, powerful truck that can tow a fifth-wheel trailer or a car that has a hitch and is rated to tow your particular camper.
ADVANTAGES OF OWNING A MOTORHOME
The most significant advantage of having an RV is the convenience it provides. RVs/motorhomes have a motor (as the name implies) so you don’t need to tow it. The process of setting up your RV and having it ready to travel to your next location takes much less time and work than hauling a camper. With their large living spaces, RVs can accommodate a lerger number of people, allowing you to bring your whole family along on your next trip or even throw a casual dinner party with other visitors at your park with relative ease.
As a bonus advantage: a motorhome RV that meets the IRS’s definition of a house may be claimed as a second residence for tax purposes.
DISADVANTAGES OF OWNING A MOTORHOME
Even experienced drivers may find driving an RV stressful due to its size. Many trips are required before owners are totally confident driving along the highway and securely entering your campground. Larger RVs need more gasoline and can be quite expensive to drive long distances. While some RVs get a better gas economy than pickups or SUVs pulling a trailer, you’ll still need a hefty fuel budget.
The main disadvantage of buying an RV/motorhome is the price. A class A motorhome may cost between $50,000 and $200,000 and some go beyond that. There are usually financing options available, but such a large purchase needs careful planning. Then there’s the annual cost of insurance and upkeep. Plus, some HOAs and communities don’t allow RVs to park on the street for long periods, so you’ll need to check into any guidelines to follow or locate alternate storage.
SHOP THE GREAT OUTDOORS RV INVENTORY
You should base your decision on a variety of criteria when comparing a camper vs motorhome. This includes who will be staying in the camper or motorhome, how frequently it will be used, how often you intend to stay in each place, how many different rooms are required, how much time you plan to spend traveling, and your budget.
Providing the finest RV buying experience in the business is our ultimate aim for all of our customers. We are dedicated to providing the top inventory, values, and service available. Shop our inventory online or visit us at:
The Great Outdoors RV
11521 21st St.Greeley, CO 80634
