Motorhomes vs Travel Trailers: How to Choose
Motorhomes vs Travel Trailers: How to Choose
Posted on August 30, 2022
There are many aspects to consider when you purchase an RV or a trailer. Each has its advantages and disadvantages. Choosing between motorhomes vs. trailers takes some research to ensure that you’ve covered all your family’s needs. We’ve listed some important factors to make this decision a bit easier for you.
Consider the Cost Difference
RVs are much more expensive than trailers. RVs can cost hundreds of thousands. If you own a powerful truck, purchasing a trailer will be cheaper than an RV. However, if you don’t have either, purchasing a trailer and a truck could end up costing you more.
Driving and Convenience
Some drivers find it easier to drive motorhomes vs. travel trailers. Here, it all boils down to your personal preferences. Trailers can sway during heavy winds, and RVs seem awkward for some drivers to keep to the road. However, these days RVs are so technologically advanced that it can feel like you’re driving an SUV instead of a very large RV.
Another factor to consider is whether your family enjoys the RV driving experience. Passengers have access to the television, the bathroom, and comfy couches when driving on long excursions. In a trailer, there aren’t such comforts. When the trailer is in motion, nobody can relax in it. Passengers must pack their snacks and food in the truck or SUV before leaving for their destination.
Children and Pets
If you have small children, you may want to consider getting a trailer. Children are much safer travelling in car seats than in RVs. RVs have seat belts on couches and in the dinette, but car seats in a truck are still the safest option. However, the positives are that the RV provides potty breaks for the kids without interfering with your travel plans. Kids can also access cold drinks and snacks.
If you’re planning to take your pets along on your camping trip, you may want to consider an RV. In an RV, pets can move around freely and have access to water and food without being cramped up in a truck or SUV.
Set Up and Maintenance
Setting up camp is the same with an RV and a trailer. However, an RV is too large to go into the nearest town to pick up some odds and ends. You also need to unhook the sewage, electricity, and water if you want to take it somewhere, and it’s too big to quickly take into town to get a few odds and ends. You need to tow a smaller vehicle along to do this. Taking a trailer and unhooking it means having your truck or SUV at your disposal to travel around.
Motorhomes require maintenance to ensure that they run smoothly. Trailers don’t have engines, so maintaining them will cost you less. Owners have to consider the upkeep costs of both before making a purchase.