Motorized or Towable RV? Put another way, Motor Home or Travel Trailer? This is one of the big questions many people ponder over before investing in an RV. As well they should; there are so many things to think about or consider. Let’s begin.
Cost – Motor Home or Travel Trailer
Generally, the cost of a motor home will be more than a towable when age, size, etc. are taken into consideration. Additionally the cost of insuring and licensing a motor home is going to be substantially more in most states.
Another consideration is resale value. Whether new or used, a great resource to check the value of an RV is NADA. Also, Craigslist will give you a good idea of what the market will bear versus what the guide says it should cost.
And a final cost is your tow vehicle. If you don’t already have a truck capable of towing the size of trailer you are looking at, then a new truck is in your future. Don’t forget the associated cost like the hitch, towing assembly, brake control, etc.
How will the RV be used?
An advantage of a motor home is that they are easier to drive than pulling a something behind your vehicle. You can also have people ride with you in the RV which, depending on your RVing style or destination it may be preferable.
Also if it is your plan to travel around when you reach your destination, you either need to tow a vehicle
On the other hand if you prefer to tow (5th wheel, trailer, toy hauler) then consider these things. You must hook up
Also that it is against the law to have people ride in a trailer, 5th wheel, etc. So if you travel with more than 4-5 people the other parties may have to follow in a separate vehicle. That in itself can be an expensive option because instead of owning a smaller fuel economy vehicle you must invest in a far less fuel-efficient vehicle for your daily travels at home and while out RVing.
If you couple that added expense to the cost of the trailer you may find that buying a motor home may be the right route to go.
Other Considerations in Choosing the Right RV
Of course there are so many considerations when choosing a motor home or travel trailer. These include Resale, Storage, Insurance, Maintenance, and your Tow Vehicle. Each of these have their own set of costs, benefits, and drawbacks. Just like purchasing your first home, your RV purchase should be well thought out so as to insure a the stress free RV lifestyle you were looking for.
The whole idea is to choose what works right for you. If a motorized unit is best based on your homework, then that is they way you should go. In closing, it is important that you do your homework before you make a purchase so that after the purchase you don’t regret the decision you made.
