No matter what type of camper or trailer you’re in the market for, you likely have many, many options. This is true even if you’re looking for the cheapest camper and have less than $25,000 in your budget. You can find numerous pre-loved versions in this price range—and potentially for significantly less. And there may even be a couple of brand-new options, depending on the size, make, model, and vintage.
While budget is often the top consideration, it’s also important to look at the condition as well as the weight, durability, and features. Your budget constraints can be both a pro and a con. For instance, you may not get the dream cheapest camper with every bell and whistle. But let’s face it, just about any camper can provide greater comfort, protection, and warmth than tossing your sleeping bag on the cold, hard ground. As a bonus, having a budget helps narrow down options, so your search isn’t so overwhelming.
One of the best ways to protect your budget is to look at pre-owned options. You can often find great deals on campers and trailers that are only a few years old or that have only been used only a handful of times. If you’re the DIY type, you can also find vintage options you can redo with your own style, flare, and preferences. Or, you can find ones that have been fully renovated with innovative styles and features you find appealing.
You may be able to find good options from dealers as well as online or in person from private sellers. Do, however, use caution and due diligence to ensure you are, in fact, getting a good deal and avoiding scams. It’s worth being cautious before making any purchase, especially for one as big as this.
Know what you’re getting into and check out reviews from dealers and online sellers. To protect yourself from online scams:
The average price for a used camper varies (a lot) depending on the location, type, make, model, year, trim package, floorplan, and more. Like used cars, some models are highly sought after and can thus demand a higher price. Some are less well-known and can provide better options at a more affordable price. And unfortunately, campers and trailers have gained significant popularity since the pandemic, pushing prices up significantly in the last few years.
Even if you’re looking for newer models, you still have options. Here are some popular affordable trailers that can sell for under $25,000 (again, depending on the year, model, and features):
Other top choices for the cheapest campers include:
Again, don’t forget to consider used travel trailers. You can often find options with very few miles or uses that you can get for significantly less. And if you are willing and able to do some maintenance and repairs yourself, you can save even more.
Many people enjoy the camping experience so much, they upgrade to larger, more luxurious options after a few years. Or they trade up (larger) or down (smaller) as their family transitions over the years. Just make sure you check out the cheaper trailers well to ensure they’ve been well cared for and properly stored.
While you can find used cheap campers on Facebook Marketplace, Offer-up, Craig’s list, and others from private sellers, there are a range of places that list new and used trailers, including:
Before you buy, first:
Most important, enjoy the process and your investment! No matter how expensive or cheap your camper is, you’re bound to have amazing adventures and meet fantastic people on the road and around the campsite.
