RV Ownership vs. Rental Cost Calculator
Compare the annual costs of buying versus renting an RV to determine which option makes more financial sense for your travel plans.
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Want to hit the road in an RV but don’t know where to start looking? You’re not alone. Thousands of people search every month for the best place to find an RV-whether they want to buy one outright or rent it for a weekend getaway. The problem isn’t lack of options. It’s too many, and most are cluttered with fake listings, hidden fees, or outdated photos. The right website cuts through the noise and gives you real deals from real sellers or rental companies.
RV Trader: The Largest Marketplace in the U.S. and Canada
If you’re serious about buying an RV, RV Trader is the first place you should check. It’s not just big-it’s the biggest. With over 100,000 active listings, it covers everything from budget used travel trailers to luxury Class A motorhomes. Sellers range from private owners to certified dealers, and every listing includes verified photos, detailed specs, and real VIN checks. You can filter by price, mileage, year, and even whether the unit has a generator or slide-outs. Many listings also include inspection reports and service history, which is rare on other sites.
RV Trader doesn’t just list vehicles. It gives you tools to compare prices across regions. For example, a 2020 Forest River Wildwood might cost $45,000 in Florida but $38,000 in Ohio. That kind of insight can save you thousands. The site also has a built-in financing calculator and connects you with local RV inspectors. It’s not free-dealers pay to list-but that means fewer scams. Private sellers are vetted too, and most listings come with a return policy if something’s misrepresented.
Facebook Marketplace: The Hidden Gem for Bargains
Most people think Facebook Marketplace is for old couches and broken microwaves. But in 2026, it’s one of the top sources for finding affordable, privately owned RVs. Why? Because owners who’ve upgraded or changed plans don’t want to pay dealer fees. They list directly, often below market value. You’ll find everything from a 2012 Winnebago with 60,000 miles to a restored 1990s camper van.
The catch? You have to be careful. There’s no built-in inspection service or warranty. But here’s how to make it work: always ask for the VIN and run it through the NHTSA database. Request recent maintenance receipts. Meet in a public place with a mechanic on standby. And never pay without a signed bill of sale. Many buyers on Facebook Marketplace have saved $10,000-$20,000 compared to dealerships. The key is patience and persistence. Search weekly. Set up alerts for your ideal model. Respond fast-good deals disappear in hours.
Camplify: Australia’s Top RV Rental Platform
If you’re not ready to buy, or you just want to test-drive life on the road, Camplify is the best place in Australia to rent an RV. It’s not a marketplace for sales-it’s a peer-to-peer rental network, like Airbnb for motorhomes. Over 5,000 owners list their vehicles here, from compact campervans to 4WD off-road rigs. Every rental includes insurance, 24/7 roadside assistance, and a detailed orientation video. You can filter by pet-friendly, wheelchair-accessible, or even solar-powered units.
What makes Camplify stand out is transparency. You see real reviews from past renters-not just star ratings, but photos of the interior, notes on water tank capacity, and honest feedback about the fridge or shower. One user rented a 2021 Jayco out of Melbourne and wrote: “The owner included a full grocery starter pack and a map of free camping spots. I didn’t need to buy a single thing.” That kind of detail saves stress and money.
Prices start at $80 per night for a small van and go up to $350 for a luxury Class C. There’s a 10% service fee, but it’s worth it for the safety net. Most rentals require a clean driving record and a credit card hold, but no deposit upfront. For first-timers, this is the safest way to get behind the wheel of an RV.
Autotrader: Reliable for New and Used RVs
Autotrader is better known for cars, but its RV section is growing fast. It pulls listings from hundreds of certified dealers across the U.S. and Canada. Unlike RV Trader, Autotrader doesn’t allow private sellers to list directly-only licensed dealers. That means fewer scams, but also fewer bargains. You won’t find a $15,000 camper van from a retiree here.
What you get instead is consistency. Every listing includes a Carfax-style vehicle history report, a 100-point inspection checklist, and a 7-day money-back guarantee. Dealers are required to disclose flood damage, frame rust, or prior accidents. If you’re buying your first RV and want peace of mind, Autotrader is the safest bet. It’s also the only site where you can compare financing rates side-by-side from multiple lenders.
One downside: inventory moves fast. If you see a 2023 Thor Axis under $50,000, act within 24 hours. Dealers update prices daily based on demand. But the trade-off is worth it-you walk away with a warranty, service records, and a clear title.
Craigslist: Proceed With Caution
Craigslist still has RV listings. But in 2026, it’s the riskiest option. Listings are often outdated, and scammers have gotten smarter. Fake photos, stolen VINs, and “I’ll ship it to you” scams are common. You’ll find a few good deals, but they’re buried under dozens of traps.
Use Craigslist only if you’re local and willing to do your homework. Always meet in person. Bring a friend. Test the water heater, fridge, and propane system. Check the tires for dry rot. Ask for the title and match the VIN to the registration. If the seller won’t let you take it to a mechanic, walk away. It’s not worth the risk unless you’re experienced.
RVshare: Best for Long-Term Rentals and Seasonal Use
If you’re planning a three-month road trip or need a mobile home while renovating your house, RVshare is the top choice. It’s similar to Camplify but focused on longer rentals-weeks to months. Owners offer discounts for extended stays, and many include free delivery to your starting point.
RVshare has a strong reputation for handling disputes. If the RV breaks down, their support team arranges repairs and even provides a replacement vehicle if needed. The platform also lets you book with flexible cancellation policies. One user rented a 2022 Coachmen Freelander for six months to travel from Alaska to Florida and paid only $1,200 per month, including insurance and maintenance.
It’s not cheap, but for long-term use, it’s often cheaper than renting an apartment or paying for storage. Plus, you get the freedom to move whenever you want.
How to Choose the Right Site for You
Here’s a quick guide:
- Buy new or used with confidence? Go with Autotrader or RV Trader.
- Want the lowest price and don’t mind risk? Try Facebook Marketplace-but only if you know what to look for.
- Just want to test RV life? Use Camplify (Australia) or RVshare (U.S./Canada).
- Planning a long trip? RVshare offers the best long-term deals.
- Avoid Craigslist unless you’re an expert.
Don’t rush. Spend a week comparing listings. Talk to owners. Read reviews. Check the same model on multiple sites. Prices vary wildly depending on location, season, and condition. A 2018 Thor Hurricane might be $65,000 in California but $52,000 in Texas. That’s not a typo-it’s the market.
Red Flags to Watch For
No matter where you look, avoid these warning signs:
- Photos that look like stock images or were taken in a studio
- Prices way below market value (if it’s too good to be true, it is)
- Sellers who refuse video calls or in-person meetings
- Requests to pay via wire transfer, gift cards, or cryptocurrency
- No VIN or title available
- Claims of “no inspections needed” or “sold as-is, no returns”
If you see any of these, close the tab. Walk away. There are plenty of legitimate options out there. You don’t need to take risks.
Final Tip: Know Your Budget Before You Start
RVs aren’t just about the purchase price. Factor in:
- Insurance ($300-$1,500/year)
- Registration and state fees ($50-$300/year)
- Storage (if you don’t have space at home: $50-$150/month)
- Maintenance (brakes, tires, seals, propane system: $1,000-$3,000/year)
- Campground fees (average $30-$60/night)
Many buyers forget these costs and end up overwhelmed. Set a total monthly budget before you even start browsing. That way, you won’t fall in love with a $70,000 rig only to realize you can’t afford to run it.
What is the best website to buy an RV in Australia?
In Australia, Camplify is the top platform for renting RVs, but if you want to buy, check out RV Trader and Facebook Marketplace. Local dealers on Facebook often list used motorhomes at lower prices than dealerships. Always verify the VIN, check service history, and get an independent inspection before paying.
Is it cheaper to rent or buy an RV?
Renting is cheaper if you use an RV less than 4-6 weeks a year. Buying makes sense if you plan to use it regularly, travel long-term, or need a mobile home. A $40,000 RV paid off over 5 years costs about $150/month plus maintenance. Renting the same unit for 6 weeks a year at $100/day adds up to $4,200-more than the monthly cost of ownership. But if you only use it once a year, renting saves you thousands.
Can you trust RV Trader listings?
Yes, RV Trader is one of the most reliable sites because it vets dealers and requires detailed listings. Private sellers are also screened. Most listings include VIN verification, service records, and real photos. Always request a pre-purchase inspection, even if the seller claims the RV is in perfect condition. No listing replaces a hands-on check.
What should I look for in an RV before buying?
Check for water damage around windows and roof seams, rust on the frame, and cracks in the chassis. Test all appliances: fridge, stove, water pump, and heater. Inspect the tires for dry rot and check the brake fluid. Look for mold or musty smells-signs of hidden leaks. Ask for maintenance logs and proof of winterization if it’s been stored. If possible, bring a mechanic or RV technician with you.
Are there any free RV listing sites?
Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist are free to use for buyers. But free doesn’t mean safe. RV Trader and Autotrader have paid listings, but they offer more protection. Camplify and RVshare charge renters a service fee, but that includes insurance and support. Free sites require more caution-don’t skip the inspection or verification steps.
