What Should I Buy to Live In: Camper or RV?

homelesslongisland
Dec 22, 2025
3 min read

Short Summary

Choosing between a camper and an RV for full-time living depends on your budget, travel style, and space needs—campers offer affordability and mobility for adventurers, while RVs provide luxury and comfort for longer stays. 1 (https://www.noovolife.com/blog/rv-or-camper/) 2 (https://thevansmith.com/blogs/beginners-guide-to-the-vanlife/rv-vs-camper-what-is-the-difference-between-them)

What Should I Buy to Live In: Camper or RV?

What should I buy to live in and what are the pros and cons between a camper and an RV? For full-time living, opt for a camper (like a campervan, pop-up, or truck camper) if you prioritize low costs, easy driving, and off-grid freedom—ideal for solo travelers or minimalists exploring remote spots. Choose an RV (motorhome like Class A, B, or C) for spacious home-like amenities if you travel with family, stay longer at campsites, and value comfort over frequent moves.

1 (https://www.noovolife.com/blog/rv-or-camper/

2 (https://thevansmith.com/blogs/beginners-guide-to-the-vanlife/rv-vs-camper-what-is-the-difference-between-them) 3 (https://escapecampervans.com/blog/traveling-campervan-vs-rv/

Campers typically cost $10,000–$180,000, run on better fuel efficiency (up to 19 mpg), and need no towing vehicle for van styles, making them simpler for daily living.

1 (https://www.noovolife.com/blog/rv-or-camper/

2 (https://thevansmith.com/blogs/beginners-guide-to-the-vanlife/rv-vs-camper-what-is-the-difference-between-them

4 (https://www.cinderstravels.com/van-life-or-rv-life/ RVs range $50,000–$500,000+, average 10 mpg, but offer full kitchens, bathrooms, and slide-outs without setup hassles.

2 https://thevansmith.com/blogs/beginners-guide-to-the-vanlife/rv-vs-camper-what-is-the-difference-between-them

3 (https://escapecampervans.com/blog/traveling-campervan-vs-rv/

6 (https://www.compassselfstorage.com/blog/should-i-buy-an-rv-or-a-camper-trailer/

Key Differences and Pros/Cons Comparison

Here's a side-by-side breakdown of pros and cons for living in a camper vs. RV:

Camper Pros (Trailers/Vans)

Cost: Lower upfront price ($10K–$180K) and significantly cheaper fuel and maintenance costs.
Size & Driving: Compact and easy to drive, park, or take off-road; achieves better fuel efficiency (approx. 19 mpg).
Maintenance: Simpler systems that are often DIY-friendly; trailers have no engine to maintain.
Lifestyle Fit: Excellent for off-grid living (solar/tanks) and spontaneous travel to remote areas.

Camper Cons (Trailers/Vans)

Cost: Offers fewer luxury upgrades and high-end finishes compared to motorhomes.
Size & Driving: Limited living space and more basic amenities; may require converting seating areas into beds.
Maintenance: Often relies on external facilities or campground bathhouses due to smaller internal systems.
Lifestyle Fit: Many models lack a full bathroom; space must be constantly rearranged for different uses.

Motorhome Pros

Cost: Spacious interiors often featuring premium luxury upgrades and high-end materials.
Size & Driving: Significantly more room, including full kitchens, bathrooms, and slide-outs for extra width.
Maintenance: Fully self-contained systems; offers the ability to tow an extra car for local travel.
Lifestyle Fit: Provides a home-like experience with amenities like large TVs and AC; ideal for extended stays.

Motorhome Cons

Cost: High purchase price ($50K–$500K+) with expensive ongoing fuel, insurance, and registration costs.
Size & Driving: Harder to maneuver in traffic; sensitive to high winds; poor fuel economy (averaging 10 mpg).
Maintenance: Complex mechanical and living systems often require specialized dealership service.
Lifestyle Fit: Less flexible for parking; frequently requires full hookups at campgrounds to operate all features.