Is Getting a Camper Trailer Worth It?

The hashtag #vanlife is all over social media these days and over nine million households in the US own an RV. For some, investing in a camper trailer seems like the most affordable way to join the growing movement.

But, how much does a camper trailer cost? And what are all the costs involved with owning a camper trailer? 

This guide breaks down all the camper trailer costs and whether it is worth the money.

Types of Camper Trailer and Their Costs

First, you need to decide what type of camper trailer you want and would fit your needs. 

These are the most common types of camper trailers:

  • Teardrop trailers
  • Travel trailer
  • Pop-up trailer
  • Stand-up trailer
  • Airstream trailer

On the low-cost camper trailer end of the scale, prices start from around $5,000 for an older, simple teardrop trailer with a double bed. Teardrop campers are growing in popularity. They are cost-effective alternatives to fitted-out vans.

And they hold their value better than other trailers as they are low maintenance and easy to renovate.

But how much does a mid-range small camper trailer cost? Well, the camper trailers that most travelers will be looking at are around $10,000 – $15,000. This price point will get you a brand new model with a bed and a fold-out kitchenette on the back for outdoor dinners. 

There are even off-road camper trailers available at this price point, too.

The camper trailer cost of more expensive models varies. Airstreams that cost around $40,000 include a kitchen, bathroom, and a bed. But if money is no object, premium camper trailers can cost $60,000 – $100,000 and sometimes even higher.

Camper Trailer Registration Cost

Replacement license and camper trailer registration cost vary a lot between different states. In some states, depending on the weight and size of your camper trailer, you may not even need to register. You might only need to order another license plate.

Regardless, camper trailer registration is affordable. For example, in Illinois, the registration and license plate fee is around $100. And in states like Utah, where all RVs need registering, the total cost is around $150.

Camper Trailer Insurance Cost

You should 100% get insurance for your new RV because the insurance cost for a camper trailer is also inexpensive.

Here are some of the optional add-ons that camper trailer insurance can cover:

  • Roadside assistance
  • Personal contents
  • Replacement cost
  • Injury

The model and age of your camper trailer will also affect the overall cost. But for a $24,000 camper trailer with all the above options, you can expect to pay around $300 – $400 per year with deductibles. 

Camper Trailer Cost Considerations: Are They Worth It?

Camper trailer cost is one of the huge benefits of this type of RV. There are many affordable camper trailers out there and they are inexpensive to register and insure.

Plus, if you decide to upgrade to a van in the future, you have a good chance of recouping some of the upfront costs when you sell.

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