Buying used RVs – as opposed to brand new models from a dealership – is a great way to avoid the immediate depreciation that occurs as soon as you drive the property (or tow it). The five best RVs factor in travel style, extravagance, and willingness to invest in your recreation.
2011 Jayco Aquila Super Lite HT – Fifth Wheel
Assuming you have a heavy duty truck with a fifth wheel tow hitch, the 2011 Jayco Eagle Super Lite HT is one of the best RVs for the money. With a curb weight of 1,435 pounds, but still offering a gross vehicle weight rating of 9,950 pounds, there’s a lot of room for the payload. Since Jayco is certified in green products, you know you won’t be breathing in toxic fumes from hairspray or glue. The National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) lists the suggested price at $32,120; The average retail price of a moderately used unit is actually $25,010, which makes these used RVs perfect for budget-conscious consumers hoping to find a new fifth wheel model without purchasing current year models.
1999 Holiday Rambler Imperial Series M-40 WDS – Motorhome Class
The Holiday Rambler has a solid reputation among RV enthusiasts. Having owned a Rambler myself, I can attest to the interiors and creature comforts that even the 1999 model offers. make it worthy NADA outlines that this model sold – new – for $228,916. Depending on mileage, wear and tear, and cosmetic specifications, the price for these used RVs now falls between $56,610 and $68,210. Measuring more than 40 feet in length and offering a queen-sized bed in the back, this is a great option for families with children.
2009 Gulf Stream Touring GX 2 – Class C Motorhome
Check out the 2009 River Bay Plus GX 2 by walking the dealer on YouTube. Note the two gaps, which add immense flexibility to the otherwise small 28-foot length. If you’re in the market to buy a used RV that will take you to some of the more difficult fishing spots, this smaller Class C motorhome is perfect. NADA explains that this Gulf Stream sold new for $96,311; used, it can look for prices ranging from $60,400 to $72,770.
2010 Viking M-2485 SST Legend – Pop-Up Camp Trailer
Don’t go for the shorter 12-foot version. 25.5 feet for example. You still need to be best friends with your travel companions – the 2010 Viking M-2485 SST Legend sleeps eight – with whom you’ll be close even when you’re gone. When sold new, the NADA stated the list price was $11,673. Two years later, it still falls between $8,520 and $10,260. Remember you also need a tow vehicle. Of course, if you’re splitting the cost for four couples, this used to be one of the best RVs to buy.
2008 Alpenlite Saratoga 935 – Truck Camper
Consumers don’t usually associate camper shells with RVs to buy used, but these deceptively small homes would definitely qualify as a home away from home. . The 2008 Alpenlite sold new, according to NADA, for $28,393. Used, it retails between $14,250 and $17,170. The bare-bones model measures in at nine feet in length, features a cab, features a side dinette, and offers a slide-out. (And yes, it has a toilet and shower).
