The Cheapest RV Motorhome in 2021

What Are the Cheapest New RVs in 2021?

If you’re anything like me, you’re a cheapskate who enjoys saving money. So naturally, you gravitate toward used things or second-hand items. Clothes, furniture, even used cars. But for me personally, something about a used RV doesn’t sit right. If I’m going to be living somewhere full time, I’d like to have a fresh space, not one inhabited by strangers. So if you don’t own a pickup truck capable of towing a fifth wheel trailer, what’s the cheapest new motorhome you can buy?

Coachman Freelander Class C RV | Coachman

The cheapest new RV is the Coachman Freelander 22XG

I’ll start with the good news: for the price, you’re getting a brand new, squeaky clean RV loaded with features. The bad news, however, is that there’s no such thing as a cheap RV. The Coachman Freelander 22XG has an estimated MSRP of $96,430. And yes, this is the cheapest full-sized RVs come.

The Coachman Freelander is a Class C RV, which features amenities such as a shower, a bathroom, a kitchen, and a living room. The Coachman Freelander has room for four or five people, depending on how intimate you’re willing to get. But every room in this RV is fitted with everything you’d ever need.

The bathroom has a shower, toilet, and sink. The kitchen is fitted with an oven, another sink, and cabinets galore. There are also plenty of cabinets that could fit a minifridge and an optional microwave that can be installed. There’s even a 32″ TV that can be hooked up to cable.

All of these features are standard on this brand-new RV. That makes it the cheapest fully enclosed motorhome possible. But if you’re willing to sacrifice a couple of features, while still purchasing a new RV, then you may want to consider a camper van.

The cheapest new camper van is the 2022 Pleasure-Way Tofino

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Camper vans are smaller and cheaper than full-sized RV, but typically sacrifice showers. The cheapest new Class B RV is no exception. The 2022 Pleasure-Way Tofino costs $78,650 new, but you’ll have to give up a shower and toilet. That means relying on campgrounds and rest stops in order to do your business.

The good news about camper vans is that they’re easier to maneuver and cheaper to run. And while you lose the bathroom, the Tofino is still loaded with standard features. There’s room to sleep four people, with a couch that converts to a queen-sized bed on the “ground floor” and another small bed in the popout tent. And the kitchen features a sink, a stove, and a refrigerator as standard.

There’s even an HVAC system onboard, with optional solar panels to power it. But maybe $78,650 is still too expensive for you (it is for me). This begs one more, sheer curiosity question: is it cheaper to buy a brand new truck and a brand new trailer than an RV or camper van?

Is it cheaper to buy a new truck and trailer than a new RV?

The 2021 Ram 1500 Classic Tradesman and the Jayco Flight SLX 7 Travel Trailer | Stellantis/Jayco

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The short answer is yes. As of writing this, the cheapest new truck is the 2022 Ram 1500 Classic, which is priced at $29,420. That’s for the base model, but throw $480 on top of that and you can equip it with the towing package. So at a total of $30,000, that leaves $48,650 for a nice, full-sized trailer. And because the Ram 1500 Classic base model can tow 4,350 lbs, the trailer has to weigh less than that.

Enter the 2022 Jayco Flight SLX 7. It weighs 4,150 lbs and costs just $26,267. That brings the grand total of a new truck and trailer to $56,267. And it features everything you’d need in a fully enclosed RV. The bathroom includes a shower and a separate toilet. The kitchen has a sink, stove, refrigerator, and microwave. And inside there’s a single queen-sized bed, and a couch big enough for one other person.

In truth, buying a new RV will never be cheap. So if you can get over the fact that a used RV has already been lived in, you’ll save a lot of money in the long run. Otherwise, start saving, and one day you’ll be able to own a brand new RV.

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What is the Cheapest Motorhome?

Often one of the biggest barriers to entry into the RV world is the cost of the motorhome itself, which can easily exceed $100,000 or more.

But not to worry, as there are actually many motorhomes that are far cheaper than this, which allow you to get into RVing, without breaking the bank.

But what is the cheapest motorhome?

We did some research and this is what we found out.

The cheapest motorhome is the Gulf Stream Conquest 6237LE, which is a Class C motorhome that has an overall length of 24 feet and an average price of $60,000 new.

To find out more about the cheapest motorhome, as well as some other options if you’re looking for a budget-friendly motorhome, keep reading.

As we provide a full and in-depth review of the Gulf Stream Conquest 6237LE, as well as highlight other super affordable motorhomes.

The Cheapest Motorhome: Gulf Stream Conquest 6237LE

Quick Specs

Average Price : $60,000

Length : 24 Feet

Gross Vehicle Weight : 12,500 Pounds

Slide Outs : 0

Sleeping Capacity: 6

How Much is the Cheapest RV?

While there are several Class C motorhomes that are priced near $60,000, the motorhome with the distinction of being the cheapest is the Gulf Stream Conquest 6237LE, which has an average retail price of only $60,000.

General Overview

But just because the Gulf Stream Conquest 6237LE is the cheapest motorhome you can buy, don’t make the mistake of assuming that this motorhome is some stripped-down bare-bones RV.

As this motorhome from Gulf Stream is actually well equipped with everything you would need for a quick weekend getaway all the way up to full-time RV living.

Gulf Stream makes 17 different models of the Conquest but the smallest Conquest is the Conquest 6237LE, which has an overall length of just 24 feet.

In addition, the Conquest 6237LE is available with either the Ford E-350 chassis with a 7.3L V8 engine or the Chevy 3500 chassis with a 6.0L V8 engine.

But regardless of which chassis you go with, they both provide a nice ride and plenty of power to handle even the steepest of grades.

The floorplan is pretty standard for a small Class C and features a rear fixed bed on the camp side of the RV, a small 3-piece dry-bath, a mid galley kitchen, and a large four-person dinette booth.

And like most Class C motorhomes, this budget-friendly RV offers a lot of sleeping capacity thanks to its rear bed, overhead bunk, and convertible dinette table.

Best Motorhomes Under $50,000

While there are no new motorhomes priced below $50,000, if you’re willing to buy a used motorhome, there are many great RVs to choose from that are priced under $50,000.

2018 Winnebago Minnie Winnie 2201DS (Class C)

2018 Thor Motor Coach Four Winds 22B (Class C)

2015 Forest River FR3 30DS (Class A)

2015 Thor Motor Coach Axis 24.2 (Class A)

2013 Forest River Lexington 283TS (Class B+)

2019 Coachmen Leprechaun 23CB (Class C)

2016 Coachmen RV Freelander 27QB (Class C)

2016 Thor Motor Coach ACE 29.2 (Class A)

2014 Coachmen Concord 225LE (Class B+)

2017 Gulf Stream Conquest 6237 (Class C)

2015 Thor Motor Coach Vegas 24.1 (Class A)

2017 Thor Motor Coach Majestic 28A (Class C)

Best Motorhomes Under $25,000

While you might think that it would be difficult to find a motorhome under $25,000, there are actually many older motorhomes that are priced at or under $25,000.

When looking at older and used motorhomes though there are some things that you need to keep in mind.

To begin with, the older the motorhome is the more likely it will be that it will need ongoing repairs which can get expensive over time.

Secondly, any RV that’s older than 10 years will be difficult to finance, as banks will not typically loan on an RV older than 10 years.

And finally, while you should always have a motorhome inspected before you buy it, the older the RV gets the more important this becomes.

2007 Coachmen Mirada 348DS (Class A)

2006 Jayco Greyhawk (Class C)

2003 Forest River Sunseeker LE 2890DS (Class C)

2008 Holiday Rambler Arista 300 (Class A)

2005 Fleetwood Tioga 29V (Class C)

2007 Coachmen Freelander 31FXIS (Class C)

2003 Fleetwood Bounder 30P (Class A)

2006 Winnebago View 24J (Class B+)

2003 Thor Industries Hurricane 32R (Class A)

2003 Winnebago Adventure 33V (Class A)

What is the Cheapest Class of Motorhome?

The cheapest class of motorhome is a Class C motorhome, which has a low-end price range between $60,000 and $70,000.

As pretty much every RV manufacturer from Forest River to Thor makes a basic small Class C motorhome that you can buy new between $60,000 and $70,000.

While in comparison the cheapest Class A will cost between $75,000 and $85,000 and the cheapest Class B will cost between $80,000 and $90,000.

The reason why Class C motorhomes are cheaper compared to the other types of motorhomes is due to their construction and design.

To begin with, standard Class C motorhomes are typically built on mass-produced affordable truck chassis such as the Ford E-350 or the Ford E-450.

In addition, Class C motorhomes also use very affordable and basic construction methods, as well as cheaper building materials for their construction.

Often using common stick frame construction and cheaper materials such as plywood, MDF board, luan, vinyl, and fiberglass.

What is the Cheapest Class C Motorhome?

The Class C motorhome is the cheapest type of motorhome you can buy and gives you the most bang for your buck when it comes to space and comfort while RVing.

And the best way to illustrate this point is by taking a look at the two cheapest class C RVs that you can buy today.

Gulf Stream Conquest 6237LE

Quick Specs

Average Price : $60,000

Length : 24 Feet

Gross Vehicle Weight : 12,500 Pounds

Slide Outs : 0

Sleeping Capacity: 6

The cheapest Class C motorhome you can buy is the Gulf Stream Conquest 6237LE, which has an average retail price of $60,000.

Which not only makes this RV the cheapest Class C RV you can buy but also the cheapest motorhome you can buy period.

But despite its budget-friendly price, this small motorhome is still well equipped and has many of the same features you would find on more expensive motorhomes including a large power awning, 4.0 kW Onan Generator, 13,500 BTU ducted air conditioner, stainless steel appliances, and upgraded LED lighting.

Thor Motor Coach Four Winds 22E (Runner Up)

Quick Specs

Average Price : $65,000

Length : 24 Feet or 24 Feet 6 Inches (Depending on Chassis)

Gross Vehicle Weight : 12,300 Pounds or 12,500 Pounds (Depending on Chassis)

Slide Outs : 0

Sleeping Capacity: 6

The popular Thor Motor Coach Four Winds 22E comes in a close second compared to the cheapest Class C RV, with an average price of just $65,000 new.

Making it another great choice if you’re looking for a small and affordable Class C RV that can easily fit the whole family.

As this Class C motorhome from Thor Motor Coach can comfortably sleep 6 campers at a time thanks to its multiple sleeping locations throughout the coach.

In addition, much like the Conquest 6237LE the Four Winds 22E is available in either the Ford E-350 or the Chevy 3500 chassis which their respective V8 engines.

And this is not the only similarity that these two affordable Class C RVs share.

As they actually have many similarities in common including similar floorplans, the same sleeping capacities, and the same general gross vehicle weight.

What is the Cheapest Class A Motorhome?

While Class C RVs can be over 36 feet long, because they’re built on a truck chassis, they do have their size limitations.

Which is why so many RVers opt for the Class A motorhome when they’re looking for a larger RV.

As Class A RVs are built on the much larger bus chassis, come in much longer lengths, and generally have more interior space compared to Class C RVs.

But just because Class A motorhomes are generally larger, that doesn’t mean you have to spend a fortune.

As there are actually many affordable Class A motorhomes on the road today including one that’s priced below $80,000.

Coachmen Pursuit 27XPS

Quick Specs

Average Price : $75,000

Length : 29 Feet

Gross Vehicle Weight : 16,000 Pounds

Slide Outs : 0

Sleeping Capacity: 6

The cheapest Class A motorhome you can buy is the Coachmen Pursuit 27XPS which has an average price of just $75,000.

Which is pretty amazing, considering most Class A motorhomes cost well over $100,000 and often over $200,000 for the larger and more well-appointed models.

While the Coachmen Pursuit 27XPS motorhome is never going to be confused for a luxurious Class A motorhome, as it lacks most high-end features such as a premium chassis, slide-outs, and a luxurious interior.

You do get a lot of bang for your buck with this super affordable Class A motorhome from Coachmen.

As this base model Class A motorhome comes standard with a power patio awning, backup monitor, reclining swivel pilot seats, privacy pleated shades, upgraded linoleum flooring throughout, 4.0 kW Onan Generator, 100 Watt Solar Panel, 30,000 BTU Furnace, 15,000 BTU AC, and LED lighting throughout.

Thor Motor Coach AXIS 24.1 (Runner Up)

Quick Specs

Average Price : $85,000

Length : 25 Feet 6 Inches

Gross Vehicle Weight : 12,500 Pounds

Slide Outs : 1

Sleeping Capacity: 5

The second cheapest Class A motorhome you can buy is the Thor Motor Coach AXIS 24.1, which has an average price of $85,000.

This Class A motorhome from Thor is also the shortest Class A RV you can buy.

As this compact Class A has an overall length of only 25 feet 6 inches, not including the rear ladder.

And thanks to the small size of this budget-friendly Class A motorhome, it also has one of the more unique floorplans and designs.

As this motorhome from Thor has two twin beds in the rear that can be converted into one large king as opposed to the standard queen and a large sofa with a removable pedestal table instead of the more traditional dinette booth.

This budget-friendly Class A motorhome also has a unique sweeping front windshield in order to help with aerodynamics and improve gas mileage.

And has an 8,000-pound tow capacity, allowing you to tow a wide variety of vehicles behind the motorhome including a small horse trailer.

What is the Cheapest Class B Motorhome?

While you might assume that Class B motorhomes, which are small campervans built on either the Mercedes Sprinter, RAM Promaster, or Ford Transit chassis, would be the cheapest due to their size, in actuality, they are often the most expensive type of motorhome you can buy.

As new Class B motorhomes start at $80,000 and quickly go up from there before topping out at well over $200,000.

But the cheapest Class B motorhome you can buy is actually two different Class B RVs, as they both have the same average price.

Winnebago Solis 59P

Quick Specs

Average Price : $80,000

Length : 19 Feet 9 Inches

Gross Vehicle Weight : 8,900 Pounds

Slide Outs : 0

Sleeping Capacity: 4

One of the cheapest Class B motorhomes on the market today is the Winnebago Solis 59P, which has an average price of $80,000.

This unique Class B motorhome also has a 4 person sleeping capacity, thanks to its pop-top design, which creates an upper loft space, large enough for two people to sleep.

Making this Class B RV from Winnebago perfect for families that need the additional sleeping space but still want to keep their RV small and compact.

The Winnebago Solis 59P is also completely self-contained and has everything you would need for a weekend getaway including a small wet bath, a fully equipped kitchen, and seating for four.

Thor Motor Coach Tellaro 20LT

Quick Specs

Average Price : $80,000

Length : 20 Feet 11 Inches (without Ladder)

Gross Vehicle Weight : 9,350 Pounds

Slide Outs : 0

Sleeping Capacity: 2

The other cheapest Class B motorhome on the market today is the Thor Motor Coach Tellerao 20LT, which also has an average price of $80,000 as well.

This Class B motorhome also has one of the most common floorplans you will find in a Class B RV, with a small kitchenette right when you walk in, swivel-mounted driver and passenger seats, twin beds on either side that can be converted into one large sleeping space, and a rear wet bath.

The Thor Motor Coach Tellaro 20LT is also built on the RAM Promaster chassis, which is the most popular chassis for Class B RVs and is equipped with a 3.6L V6 engine that is capable of producing 280HP and 260 lb-ft of torque.

Want to know what the average cost of a small motorhome is? If so check out our article “How Much Does a Small Motorhome Cost? (15 Examples)“.

Jason Kidd Jason is an avid lover of RVs and the RV lifestyle. He is both a writer and editor for RV Owner HQ and has been RVing and camping for over 20 years.

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The Cheapest RV Motorhome in 2021

The Cheapest RV Motorhome in 2021

The words “motorhome” and “cheap” don’t normally go hand in hand. Some of the most luxurious models can cost over a million dollars.

If you are on a budget but still want to get a motorhome in 2021, you are in luck.

Today we’re sharing the perfect budget-friendly motorhome for you. And, keep in mind, we’re using the word cheap to signify price, not quality.

Meet the Coachmen Freelander 22XG

The Coachmen Freelander is a compact motorhome with a lot to offer. At only 24’3” it is easy to navigate on your journey and allows you to fit into most campgrounds.

This motorhome features 2 queen-sized beds plus a dinette that converts to a bed, giving plenty of sleeping room for the family. The Coachmen Freelander 22XG has a 15’ awning perfect for extending your living area at your campsite.

With a 55-gallon fuel capacity, this unit is ready for adventure.

Pro Tip: The other benefit of the Coachmen Freelander is that it’s great for boondocking adventures. Here are our 21 favorite boondocking sites (many are a perfect fit for this unit).

How Much Does It Cost?

The MSRP for the 2021 Coachmen Freelander 22XG is $88,067.00.

Keep in mind, it is common to find this unit on dealer lots for around $65,000, but prices will vary from one dealership to another. The MSRP is an artificial number.

Be sure to shop around to find the right deal for you. The current trend in RV sales is not in the buyer’s favor. Visiting multiple dealers will almost always find you a better deal.

What We Like About The Coachmen Freeelander

There is a lot to like about the Coachmen Freelander 22XG. While many features make this a great unit, we’ve picked a few of our favorite aspects of this motorhome. Let’s see why this is a top pick for us when it comes to an affordable motorhome.

It Has A Back Door

It may not seem like much, but having an additional door on the back can be a useful tool. This back door makes it easy to slide large items in for transport. At 5 feet in height, it can even be used to load up toys such as bikes or even a kayak!

Large Refrigerator

Because this RV has enough room to sleep 6, you need plenty of room for your food. The Coachmen Freelander 22XG boasts an impressive 12-volt refrigerator with 10 cubic feet of space. Not only is the refrigerator functional, but the modern double door style will also make you feel right at home.

Murphy Style Bed

Remember that useful back door for loading up your toys? They need a place to go once you get them in the door. In this unique floorplan, the murphy style residential queen bed locks in place during transit giving your toys a place to be secured.

While parked at a campsite the bed can be in the upright position to allow for extra floor space for the family to spread out. This comes in handy for those rainy days!

Ford Or Chevy Chassis Available

Another unique feature of this RV is the option of either a Ford or Chevy chassis. Normally you just get whatever the manufacturer happened to choose for that model, not here!

You get to choose based on your preferences. The Coachmen Freelander 22XG provides a choice of a Ford F350 or Chevy 4500.

What We Don’t Like

No RV is perfect, they all have aspects that could be improved. Here are a few areas that we feel this RV falls short. Only you can decide if they are deal-breakers or not.

No Slides

When your RV is only 24’ including the cab, you need all of the space you can get. With a lack of slides, those 24’ can feel even tighter. Ideally, at a minimum we’d like to see at least one slide which would expand the living area, giving you precious additional floor space.

If we are really pushing it, we’d love to also see the bed on a slide, which would make the bedroom feel more residential.

Awkward Toilet Placement

With the way the toilet is placed in the bathroom, you almost have to walk around it to get to the sink and shower.

In smaller rigs such as this one, there is not a lot of space to work with, but it would be nice if the bathroom was reconfigured in a way that allowed the toilet to not feel so in the way.

Tiny Kitchen

With the lack of a slide in the living area, the kitchen in the Coachmen Freelander 22XG leaves a bit to be desired. There isn’t a lot of space for many extras in the kitchen.

While the large refrigerator is nice, it makes up a bulk of the tiny space allotted to the kitchen. There is virtually no counter space, making it difficult to prepare meals.

Pro Tip: Here are a few kitchen storage hacks for small RVs.

The Cheapest Motorhome, Yes or No

For those looking to keep the cost on the lower end, the Coachmen Freelander 22XG can be a great option. While it doesn’t have a lot of the fancy features the more expensive units have, it does check off a lot of boxes. Could you see yourself traveling in this unit?

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