Renting vs Buying an RV: Costs, Pros, and What to Consider
TL;DR Renting an RV is cheaper short-term and flexible for beginners, while buying costs more upfront but pays off for frequent travel with freedom, customization, and long-term value.
Many aspiring RVers find themselves in a predicament before they even begin. Should they rent or buy an RV?
The answer really comes down to how you plan to use it. For some travelers, renting offers flexibility and low commitment. For others, buying opens the door to spontaneous trips and long-term savings.
In this guide, we’ll break down renting vs buying an RV, including real cost comparisons, lifestyle considerations, and everything you need to know to make the right choice.
How Much Does It Cost to Rent an RV?
One of the most common questions new travelers ask is: How much does it cost to rent an RV?
The answer depends on the type of RV, rental duration, and season.
Average RV Rental Costs
Here’s a general breakdown of how much to rent an RV:
| RV Type | Average Cost Per Night |
|---|---|
| Travel Trailer | $75 – $150 |
| Class B Camper Van | $150 – $250 |
| Class C Motorhome | $175 – $300 |
| Class A Motorhome | $300 – $500+ |
Prices tend to be higher:
- In the summer months
- During holidays
- Near popular destinations
Lower rates are often available in the off-season.
Additional RV Rental Costs
When calculating how much it costs to rent an RV, don’t forget these extras:
- Mileage fees (often $0.35–$0.75 per mile)
- Cleaning fees
- Insurance coverage
- Generator usage fees
- Delivery/setup fees (optional)
A 5-night trip can easily cost $1,000–$2,500+, depending on your choices.
How Much Does It Cost to Buy an RV?
Buying an RV requires a much larger upfront investment—but it changes how you travel long-term.
Average RV Purchase Prices
| RV Type | Average Cost (New) |
|---|---|
| Travel Trailer | $10,000 – $60,000 |
| Fifth Wheel | $40,000 – $80,000+ |
| Class B Van | $80,000 – $165,000 |
| Class C Motorhome | $85,000 – $155,000 |
| Class A Motorhome | $100,000 – $500,000+ |
Source: Bish's RVs
Used RVs can cost significantly less, making ownership more accessible.
Additional Ownership Costs
When comparing renting vs buying an RV, ownership includes ongoing expenses:
- Insurance: $500–$2,000/year
- Maintenance: $500–$3,000+/year
- Storage: $50–$250/month
- Fuel costs
- Campground or overnight stays
While buying is more expensive upfront, frequent travelers often find it pays off over time.
Renting vs Buying an RV: Key Differences
Let’s break down the core differences.
1. Upfront Cost
- Renting: Low initial cost
- Buying: High upfront investment
If you're just getting started, renting is often the easier entry point, but costs really add up for long trips.
2. Flexibility
- Renting: Try different RV types
- Buying: Full control and availability
Owning allows you to travel whenever you want—no reservations required.
3. Long-Term Value
- Renting: Pay per trip
- Buying: Pay once (plus ongoing costs)
If you travel frequently, buying can become more cost-effective over time.
4. Maintenance Responsibility
- Renting: Handled by owner or rental company
- Buying: Your responsibility
Ownership requires time, effort, and budgeting for repairs.
When Renting an RV Makes Sense
Renting is ideal in several situations.
- You’re New to RVing: If you’re unsure whether RV travel is right for you, renting allows you to test the experience without making a big financial commitment.
- You Travel Occasionally: If you only take 1–2 trips per year, renting may be more cost-effective than ownership.
- You Want to Try Different RV Types: Renting allows you to experiment with different RV types to help you decide what you like best.
- You Don’t Want Maintenance Responsibility: You don’t have to worry about repairs, storage, or long term upkeep
When Buying an RV Makes Sense
Buying an RV is often the better choice for frequent travelers.
- You Travel Often: If you take multiple trips per year, ownership is usually more economical.
- You Want Travel Flexibility: RV trips can be spontaneous, and you don’t have to deal with rental logistics.
- You Prefer Customization: When you own an RV, you can renovate and decorate it to your needs
- You’re Considering RVing Full-Time: If you’re planning on living in an RV full-time, or going on an extensive trip, buying is almost always the best option.
Cost Comparison: Renting vs Buying an RV
Let’s compare a simple scenario.
Renting Example:
- $200/night × 20 nights/year = $4,000 annually
Buying Example:
- $60,000 RV financed over time
- ~$5,000–$8,000/year including expenses
In this example, buying may offer more value for semi-frequent travelers who want a larger RV to travel in after a few years. For RVers who want a used travel trailer or fifth wheel, the financial benefits of buying will be visible right away.
Hidden Costs to Consider
Regardless of your choice, there are additional costs to keep in mind.
Fuel
RV fuel efficiency varies widely:
- Motorhomes: 6–10 MPG
- Towable RVs: Depends on tow vehicle
Campgrounds & Overnight Stays
Nightly costs vary:
- Campgrounds: $30–$100+
- Alternative stays: Often lower cost
Mixing travel styles can help manage expenses.
Supplies & Gear
Both renters and owners need:
- Kitchen supplies
- Bedding
- Outdoor gear
Bonus: Check our RV Packing List for more detailed recommendations on what you pack for an RV trip.
How Harvest Hosts Fits Into Both Options
Whether you rent or buy, Harvest Hosts enhances the RV experience.Members can stay overnight at:
- Farms
- Wineries
- Breweries
- Museums
- Attractions
Benefits include:
- Unique travel experiences
- No camping fees for one night stays; support your Host instead
- Flexible travel options
Harvest Hosts Membership is known to pay for itself in just a few stays (compared to the cost of staying at a campground), so this can even be financially beneficial for RVers who rent an RV for one week a year. For owners, it reduces travel costs significantly.
Pros and Cons of Renting an RV
Pros:
- Lower upfront cost
- No maintenance responsibility
- Flexibility to try different RVs
Cons:
- Costs add up over time
- Limited availability during peak season
- Mileage and usage restrictions
Pros and Cons of Buying an RV
Pros:
- Travel anytime
- Long-term cost savings
- Customization options
Cons:
- High upfront cost
- Ongoing maintenance
- Storage requirements
FAQ: Renting vs Buying an RV
Final Thoughts: Which Option Is Right for You?
When comparing renting vs buying an RV, the best choice depends on your travel habits, budget, and lifestyle.
- If you’re new or travel occasionally → Renting makes sense
- If you travel often or want flexibility → Buying may be worth it
Understanding how much it costs to rent an RV and the long-term costs of ownership helps you make a more informed decision.
No matter which path you choose, RV travel offers something unique: The freedom to explore on your own terms.
If you’ve decided to buy an RV, check out our Guide to Buying an RV to find detailed advice on choosing the right kind of RV for you.
