The 7 Best Budget RVs for $20,000 or Less, Ranked
The 7 Best Budget RVs for $20,000 or Less, Ranked
When looking for the perfect RV, there are a lot of factors to consider, especially your budget.
And finding the right RV with the right price tag can be tough.
With that in mind, here are some of the best RVs for under $20,000.
Let’s check them out!
How Much Does the Average RV Cost?
According to TAXA, an RV manufacturer, RV prices can range between $10,000 and more than $150,000. Many factors affect prices, such as size, layout, class, and age. However, the average price, specifically for travel trailers, is between $10,000 and $60,000.
Pro Tip: Each class size of RV offers different benefits, but they also come with different price tags. Find the perfect RV for your budget by reading How Much Do RVs Cost?
What Kind of RV Can I Buy for a $20K Budget?
There are many options for RVs under $20,000. As stated before, prices depend on many factors. Although all these factors make determining a specific price for an RV complicated, having a lot of options means you should be able to find one that will suit your lifestyle as well as your budget.
However, you need to be aware that fifth wheels and mobile homes are likely not an option in this price range.
Many travel trailers fit within a $20,000 or less budget.
The Best RVs for a $20K or Less Budget
Although there are many options for RVs under $20K, here are some of our favorites. Join us as we take a deeper look at each one.
The Coachmen Freedom Express
Coachmen has multiple RVs in the Freedom Express line for various budgets. The most economical, and the smallest, is the Freedom Express Ultra Lite.
But even though the Coachman Freedom Express Lite is small, it packs some nice features. Amenities include a power awning with LED lighting, an exterior shower, room for a queen-size bed, and a winterizing kit that makes year-round RVing that much easier.
Jayco Jay Feather
The newest version of the Jayco Jay Feather is the Micro. The Jay Feather Micro is Jayco’s lightest travel trailer to date and weighs less than 4,500 pounds.
Even with its compact size, this little RV has a lot to offer. The Micro has all the essentials and some extras, including a fully-equipped kitchen, crack-proof flooring, and innovative technology that makes this one of the lightest and strongest RVs in the industry.
Dutchmen Aspen Trail
The Dutchmen Aspen Trail offers 82 inches of interior height in the main compartment and 72 inches in the slide-out. There’s an amazing kitchen with an under-mount stainless steel sink and seamless countertops.
The bedroom features a true 60 x 80-inch queen bed. Finally, the underbelly is fully enclosed, which helps weatherproof important systems such as water lines, and protects them from rough terrain or bumpy roads.
Forest River Rockwood Geo Pro
The Forest River Rockwood Geo Pro has all the amenities you could want in a size that’s perfect for our modern towing needs. More people are towing their RVs with SUVs, which has created a need for lighter, more easily towed RVs.
However, these RVs still need to supply all the comforts of the larger models. And the Rockwood Geo Pro RV doesn’t disappoint in style or budget. Even in its smaller size, it provides a comfortable kitchen with a cooktop and 12V refrigerator, solar capability, and a half bathroom with a shower and floor flushing toilet.
Keystone Hideout
The Keystone Hideout has a range of sizes from just over 21 feet to just under 40 feet, which makes it easier to find the right RV for you.
Features include a central vacuum system, ample storage in the kitchen with hidden pantries, and a 4G/LTE wifi prep that’s ready to connect to any major cell phone network.
Livin Lite Camplite
Though no longer in production, the Livin Lite Camplite is a great RV if you find it used. Bonus features include a kitchen with ample storage and an aluminum slide-out to increase living space.
A standard U-shaped dinette area is also included, which can actually be swapped for a sofa and folding table if that works better for you.
Forest River Flagstaff
Forest River’s Flagstaff line has multiple model options. One of the smallest, lightest, and best-priced options is the Flagstaff E-Pro.
At only about 20 feet and fewer than 3,500 pounds, the E-Pro is perfect if you’re planning on towing with a smaller, more economical SUV. Additional features include a Showermi$er Water Saver.
How to Find the Best Budget RVs
There are a lot of great locations to find an affordable RV. If smaller size is what you’re looking for, then buying new may be an option. You can work with a reputable dealer to find the RV that fits your life and budget.
Sometimes you can find a better price for a used RV. However, be careful when buying used. Check the manufacture date. An older RV may need repairs. Reading reviews can help you find a make and model that’s more reliable and narrow down your choices to a used RV you can trust for years to come.
Keep in Mind: It might be tempting to get an RV loan to pay for your dream home on wheels, but these are 5 Reasons to Avoid RV Loans.
Be careful when purchasing an affordable RV option to find one that still offers a quality experience for your travel needs.
Should You Buy a Budget RV?
When looking for an RV, price should always be an important factor. You want to get the right RV for your lifestyle but also need to make sure that it’s a price you can afford. Although having a nice RV is great, the stress of a payment that’s too high is often not worth it.
However, you should always be careful that your “good deal” isn’t actually something with poor craftsmanship or that’s too old to be sound. Make sure when looking that you’re buying something sustainable and reliable.
Do you have any tips for finding a cheaper RV?
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The 6 Cheapest New Class B RVs You Can Buy in 2022
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Even the cheapest class B RVs on the market can be the most expensive models per square foot.
However, despite the cost, class B RVs continue to be one of the most highly sought-after types of RVs for the unique perks that accompany their price tag.
They are self-contained, easy to maneuver, and can park nearly anywhere a standard vehicle can fit. With a class B RV, travelers gain versatility and flexibility unparalleled to other RVs.
Class B RVs are more sturdy, cheaper on gas, and have few restrictions on where they can travel than other RVs, but tend to have the highest price per square foot compared to other RVs on the market. The cheapest new class B RVs on the market start at over $80,000, while the cheapest class B+ RVs start at $100,000.
As an increasing number of people look to road travel and alternative lifestyles, class B RVs are experiencing an influx of interested buyers from all demographics and financial standings.
To help you start shopping for your next vehicle, we’ve put together this guide to introduce you to the best and cheapest new class B RVs on the market.
What is a Class B Motorhome?
Class B motorhomes, also known as camper vans, are a type of recreational vehicle that merges the practicality and ease of a van with the comforts and amenities of an RV.
Class B RVs are sturdier and more compact than class A or class C RVs, increasing both their safety rating and their maneuverability.
Class B vs Class B+
There are two types of RVs – class B and class B+. Class B+ models are usually over 20 feet long and walk the line between class B and class C RVs.
They commonly include features such as full bathrooms and additional storage and sleeping spaces.
However, they also use more gas and are not ideal for stealth camping. Any full camper van is classified as a class B RV, even if it only has a bed along with a small kitchen space and some storage.
Common add-ons for small campers include portable toilets and outdoor showers. Some campers may also have a pop-top roof to facilitate standing in the van while parked.
Luxury class B campers tend to be built into a larger van chassis and come with more features.
Most will have a wet bath that includes a toilet, sink and shower in one contained space, as well as enough headroom to stand up comfortably.
Class B RVs are built into a solid truck or van chassis and average 16-19 feet long. Class B+ RVs take these vehicles up a notch to something that’s between a class B and a class C RV.
These motorhomes are still built into a solid chassis, but at an average of 23 feet long, they are larger than standard class B RVs.
This extra square space is commonly used to extend the bathroom area. Class B+ RVs often have a dry bath with a shower that’s separate from the toilet as well as more storage and potentially more sleeping space than other class B RVs.
The price of a new class B RV can be anywhere from around $60,000 to upward of $300,000.
It’s a big price range that’s largely dependent on the category of class B RV that you choose as well as its make, model, and brand. Let’s take a look at some of the cheapest new class B RVs on the market.
Here Are the 6 Cheapest New Class B and Class B+ Motorhomes You Can Buy Right Now
Even the cheapest new class B RVs on the market have a lot to offer, and choosing the right one largely comes down to figuring out how you plan to use the vehicle.
While those that enjoy spending their time outdoors and engaging in various sports and activities may desire more cargo room, those who love RVs for the ability to travel in comfort may choose a model with more amenities.
1. 2022 Thor Motor Coach Rize 18M
MSRP: $84,375
Thor Motor Coach Rize 18M class B motorhome is the cheapest new RV on our list at a suggested retail price of $84,375.
It’s built into a sturdy RAM Promaster® chassis, and although it doesn’t offer any features that particularly make it stand out, it has everything you need in a fully contained camper.
The 2022 Thor Motor Coach Rize is just shy of 18 feet long, making it easy to navigate and maneuver.
However, it still has all of the basic features you could want regardless of if you’re camping somewhere with hook-ups, planning to boondock, or stealthing in the city.
Some of the notable features in this class B RV include:
A keyless entry system
Leatherette swivel captain chairs
An electric awning
Large opening side windows
An overhead microwave oven
An Onan® RV QG 2800 gas generator
A screen door in the entryway
12V electric refrigerator
Single roof air conditioner
Solar Charge Controller with a 190W Solar Panel
Two burner gas cooktop with a glass cover
Rear door bike rack (optional)
This class B RV comfortably sleeps two and can transport up to four people. It has both form and function, and as one of the cheapest new class B RVs on the market, it is perfect for those who want it all.
2. 2022 Pleasure-Way Tofino
MSRP: $85,150
For a suggested retail price of $85,150, the 2022 Pleasure-Way Tofino makes an excellent choice for anyone needing an adventure vehicle.
Built into a Ram Promaster® 1500 Van chassis that only measures 17 feet 9 inches long (541 cm), the 2022 Pleasure-Way Tofino has few limitations on where it can take you.
One of the things that’s not included in this class B RV is a bathroom, but it’s done intentionally to create an entire 70 cubic feet of cargo room.
This is a vehicle for travelers who want to bring lots of equipment and gear and who are willing to give up some creature comforts to do so.
Aside from a bathroom, this RV still has many features that make it a great travel vehicle. It has a manual sofa with two lap belts that can function as passenger seating.
In addition to the two front seats, these allow 4 people to travel in this RV. The pop-top roof also lifts to create an overhead sleeping space big enough for two.
This space comes with a 2” thick mattress, USB charging ports, lighting controls, and zippered vents.
Other features in the 2022 Pleasure-Way Tofino include the following:
Two 100Ah lithium coach batteries
2000-watt inverter
Multiplex wiring
Touchscreen control panel with remote and real-time amperage meter
Rear cargo storage
Stove
Stainless steel sink
AC/DC refrigerator
Laminate countertop
Other possible optional features of this class B RV include solar panels, a roof rack, and door screens.
3. Winnebago Solis Pocket
MSRP: Starting at $99,566The Winnebago Solis Pocket is perfect for anyone who works remotely and wants to travel throughout the year.
It’s built into a RAM® Promaster® chassis and has a suggested retail price that starts just under $100,000.
It measures 17 feet 11 inches in length, features all basic amenities, and emphasizes an efficient space that can be adjusted to your needs.
The stand-out feature of the galley of this class B RV is the convertible dinette that has an adjustable or removable table and can be transformed into a sofa, a daybed or a love seat.
It also has a 3-point seat belt on both benches, allowing for four people to travel in this RV.
It also has swivel cab seats and plenty of storage options for small and large gear.
This class B RV doesn’t have a bathroom, but it does come with a portable toilet that can be stored under the dinette.
What it does have that makes this model unique is a fillable and exchangeable 20-pound propane cylinder, a feature usually not found in class B RVs.
This facilitates the included Truma® VarioHeat™ system that can be used while traveling in cold climates.
Other features found in the Winnebago Solis Pocket include:
Stainless-steel sink
Two-burner cooktop
Forward-facing refrigerator
Exterior table
High platform Murphy+
Storage enough for two bikes with L-track mounted tie-downs to hold gear in place.
Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment (MOLLE) panels for small items
Winnebago continues to be a major player in the RV industry with its 2022 Solis Pocket. This class B RV covers all of your basic needs while offering an adjustable space that can be used for work and play.
Cheapest Class B+ RV
With class B+ RVs, you get space and amenities that more closely resemble those of a class C RV.
The average length of class B+ RVs is over 20 feet, they often feature a dry bath, and some may even come with extendable slides.
Although they are not ideal for use in cities and other densely packed areas, they are still easier to maneuver than other types of motorhomes while offering more comforts than standard class B RVs.
4. 2022 Gulf Stream BTouring Cruiser 5210
MSRP $110,573
The 2022 Gulf Stream BTouring Cruiser 5210 is the cheapest model of this line at a suggested retail price of $110,573.
It is built into a Ford E350 chassis and measures 22 feet 6 inches long. The main difference that the size of this vehicle offers compared to standard class B RVs is a full dry bath.
It also has ample storage and head space as well as a 25,000 BTU furnace for those who wish to travel in colder months.
Other features found in the 2022 Gulf Stream BTouring Cruiser 5210 include:
3-Burner Range with Oven
6.0 cu. ft. Two-Door Refrigerator/Freezer
Microwave and Power Vent Hood
In-Dash Air Conditioner
IRD Dual Battery Charging System
Basement Storage
The 5210 is the cheapest of six different 2022 Gulf Stream BTouring Cruiser models. Other models also include up to two slides for more spacious living and sleeping areas.
5. 2022 Thor Motor Coach Gemini 23TE
MSRP: $137,850
The 2022 Thor Motor Coach Gemini 23TE comes with an assortment of features that makes it stand out.
Built into a Ford Transit chassis, this class B RV measures 23 feet 7 inches long.
Despite its large size, Thor Motor Coach has included the right features to make this RV easy to handle and maneuver.
It comes with all-wheel drive (AWD) system as well as a rear-view mirror with a back-up monitor.
It also comes with the Ford® Safety Systems, which include:
Lane Departure Warning
Pre-Collision Assist
Auto High Beam Headlights
Tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS)
AdvanceTrac® with RSC®
Hill Start Assist
Rain Sensing Windshield Wipers
Other unique features included in this class B+ RV are a 100-watt Solar Panel with Controller, exterior LP connection, and a tankless water heater.
It has a two-burner gas stove with electric start, an Onan® RV QG 4000 Gas Generator, single door refrigerator, and a 19000 BTU furnace.
The 2022 Thor Motor Coach Gemini 23TE can also come with the following optional features:
12-volt attic fan with cover in bedroom
Full-body paint package with Protective Mask IPO Partial-Paint on HD-MAX® Exterior Graphics Package
Single, high-output roof air conditioner IPO standard air conditioner
Thor Motor Coaches never slack on features. The 2022 Thor Motor Coach Gemini 23TE is the perfect all-season and all-terrain vehicle for those who also want comfort and convenience.
6. 2022 LEISURE TRAVEL WONDER 24RTB
MSRP: $144,129
At 24 feet 9 inches long, the 2022 Leisure Travel Wonder 24RTB is the largest Class B+ model on our list.
It’s built into a Ford Transit 350 HD chassis and features a full-sized bathroom and a full kitchen, as well as two separate entertainment locations and an exterior pass-through storage compartment with a bicycle/cargo slide.
Other highlights of the 2022 Leisure Travel Wonder 24RTB include the following:
Convertible twin beds
Swing-away dinette
Countertop extension
Two-door three-way
Separated bath
Pass-through storage
Pull-out pantry
Bluetooth soundbar with Blu-Ray player
Ford SYNC®3 radio with navigation and Bluetooth
Electric awning with LED lights
The 2022 Leisure Travel Wonder 24RTB offers the best in comfort and usability. It has all of the amenities needed to lounge indoors, but enough storage room to bring all of your essential outdoor gear.
Other Cheap Class B RVs on the Market
If even the cheapest new class B RVs on the market are still out of your price range, there are several other ways to find more affordable options. These include:
Renting an RV
Buying a used RV
Building a camper van out of a van chassis
Choosing not to buy a new vehicle may mean giving up some of the fancy bells and whistles, but it can also save a lot of money upfront.
In addition you’ll find models that are no longer being made on the used market for prices that are tens of thousands of dollars cheaper than even the cheapest new class B RVs.
Rent a Class B RV for Your Travels
Between the popularity of RV road travel and lodging options like Airbnb, it is no surprise that it is now possible to rent a class B RV.
RVs can be rented from dealerships or private owners, and they offer an affordable alternative to a traditional vacation.
The average cost to rent a class B RV is $100-$200/night for vehicles that are 10+ years old, and $200-$350/night for vehicles less than 10 years old.
Renting an RV is a great option for anyone not ready to commit to purchasing an RV by letting you pay for only the days you use it and saving money in the long run.
Buy a Used Class B RV
Buying a used class B RV is one of the easiest and cheapest ways to find an affordable camper van.
Depending on your price range, you can find anything from old and high-mileage vans that can cost under $10,000 to newer vans sold by owners looking to upgrade.
When you’re on the market for a used RV, remember that Being smart while shopping for a used class B RV can also benefit you in finding the best and cheapest deal. Some helpful tips in educating yourself before buying include:
Do your research
Understand what you’re looking for
Shop around
Determine a fair value
Buy in the Autumn or Winter months, after the peak travel season has ended
Ask questions and inspect the vehicle before buying
While it’s easy to get excited about hitting the open road, and it might become tempting to find the first RV you look at, remember that being selective can save you money and lead you to finding the perfect vehicle for your travels.
Build Your Own Camper Van
New custom class B RVs can easily cost over $100,000, but the rise in the popularity of camper vans has led to some creative alternatives.
A great way to save money while still getting your perfect van is to buy a van chassis and build the camper part yourself.
Whether you’re a skilled crafts(wo)man or a novice using platforms like YouTube to build your RV one step at a time, the resources necessary to build your own camper van are available and abundant.
Especially since #vanlife popularized the alternative road travel lifestyle, a simple internet search will lead to countless resources on how to build a camper van with any amenities you may desire.
For those who don’t want to do the work themselves, there are also lots of great van conversion companies available to help you get the camper van of your dreams.
Choose The Cheapest Class B RVs on the Market
Class B RVs come in many shapes and sizes, and their cost reflects just that.
Whether you’re ready to spend upwards of $80,000 for a brand-new vehicle or you’d rather rent, buy used, or build your own van, the variety of options makes it easy to find a class B RV that’s right for nearly any need and budget.
4 Affordable RVs That Don't Skimp on Quality
Owning a motorhome is the dream of many travelers, but modern life sometimes seems too busy to make that dream come true. Furthermore, there is the perception that RVs are too expensive to buy and maintain, turning people away from the idea. Of course, an RV rental is always an option, but having to go through the process of booking an RV, and hoping for availability, can add a layer of stress you can absolutely avoid.
That's why it's worth looking into purchasing a used but affordable RV. Such vehicles can help bring your motorhome dreams to life, but like with any big purchase, it's smart to do your homework first.
How To Choose an Affordable RV
First things first: As you begin your search for an affordable RV, you're probably wondering, “What is the best RV for the money?” This is understandable, since even at great prices it still represents a huge investment. If you're going to spend a lot, you want to get a lot. Ultimately, that starting question can only be answered by you. So, what do you need to know, before you buy an RV for a life on the road?
You need to consider what your needs are, especially in terms of RV size and capacity. If your travel party is usually just two people, you probably don't need a 30-footer; a 20-footer might do. If you're planning on road trips with friends or immediate family, you'll want something a bit bigger. Consider, also, that RV floor plans can differ from vehicle to vehicle, so you may be able to pick up a smaller affordable RV that nevertheless seems bigger on the inside than other, actually larger RVs.
Affordable RVs for Sale from Cruise America
Those in the market for an affordable RV need to have a look at the vehicles for sale from Cruise America. These "pre-loved" RVs have seen a few things, making them revered veterans of the road. They will get you from Point A to Point Z and everywhere in between. Buying a pre-loved RV can offer considerable cost savings over newer models, so check out what's available and see what's right for you!
Your First RV: Thor Majestic 23A
If you're dipping your toes into affordable RV ownership for the first time, then the 25-foot Thor Majestic 23A is an ideal starter vehicle for you. Units in the U.S. include a power generator, with other amenities like air conditioning, a fresh water toilet, a gas cooktop, refrigerator, and shower some of the other selling points. The Majestic 23A can sleep up to six people, so grab your family and friends and get on the road.
Size and Style: Thor Majestic 28A
Another option for a family-friendly affordable RV is the 30-foot Thor Majestic 28A. A family of four could fit comfortably into a 28A, with plenty of space still left over for storage or walking around, even counting the Queen bed! The standard amenities in this traditional motorhome are similar to those in other Thor RVs, with a generator, air conditioning, gas stove, fridge, shower, and microwave. This 7-sleeper is great for cross-country trips.
Compact Choice: Thor Majestic 19G
The 20-foot long Thor Majestic 19G is small in stature and capacity, but big on amenities. While this compact, affordable RV only sleeps 3 (and is probably better-suited to a travel party of two), you still have access to a shower, fresh water toilet, microwave, fridge, and generator. For retirees who want to explore, or those embarking on regional RV tours, the Thor Majestic 19G is a solid option for cozy campground nights.
Affordable RV Alternative: Lance 650 Truck Camper
The Lance 650 Truck Camper was made specifically for those with half-ton trucks (gotta have 5 or 6-foot beds!) who hear the call of the open road. Some folks want an affordable RV experience without an actual RV, and the Lance 650 truck camper fits the bill perfectly. You get air conditioning, a gas cooktop, refrigerator, and fresh water toilet smack dab on the back of your truck with this three-sleeper camper.
Remember: Affordable RV Floor Plans Vary!
As you search for an affordable RV, it's worth keeping in mind that floor plans can differ based on the preferences of previous owners. If one model of RV doesn't seem to fit your needs, don't give up –– have a look at another of the same model, which might have a plan that's perfect for you!
Cruise America Has an Affordable RV for You!
Now that you've seen some affordable RV options, and know what is the best RV for the money for you, it's time to take the next step –– and it's a big one. It's time to get in touch with Cruise America.
With a selection of pre-loved RVs in various floor plans that can get you on the road and wherever you want to go, Cruise America is the choice of many seasoned RV travelers. Contact Cruise America today to find an affordable RV to jump start your dream of traveling the USA in your very own fantastic motorhome!
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