Guide
Motorhome vs Travel Trailer: Key Differences, By the Numbers
A motorhome is one vehicle you drive; a travel trailer is towed by a separate truck or SUV. Travel trailers usually cost much less and leave your vehicle free for day trips, while motorhomes are quicker to set up and easier for passengers on the road. In our catalog the typical verified manufacturer price is $240,000 for a motorhome and $42,000 for a travel trailer.
| Motorhome | Travel trailer | |
|---|---|---|
| Models in our catalog | 624 (23 makers) | 1749 (17 makers) |
| Typical length | 31′ 5″ | 28′ 6″ |
| Length range | 17′ 9″–45′ | 12′ 5″–44′ |
| Typical height | 12′ 2″ | 10′ 10″ |
| Typical dry weight | 22,700 lb | 5,740 lb |
| Typical GVWR | 14,500 lb | 7,550 lb |
| Typical sleeping capacity | 4 | 6 |
| Typical fresh / gray / black tanks | 50 / 40 / 39 gal | 44 / 39 / 34 gal |
| Typical manufacturer price | $240,000 | $42,000 |
| Median dealer discount off sticker | 24% | 30% |
Typical = median of published manufacturer specs (newest model year per model). Prices are manufacturer starting or MSRP figures where verified (often base prices); dealer discounts compare current listings with each listing’s own sticker MSRP.
Key differences
Cost
Travel trailers generally cost far less up front, especially if you already own a capable tow vehicle. Motorhomes include an engine and chassis, which adds purchase price and maintenance.
On the road and at camp
With a motorhome you pull in, level and you’re done; passengers can reach the fridge and bathroom at stops without unhitching. A travel trailer takes longer to hitch, level and set up.
Getting around at camp
Once a travel trailer is parked, you have your truck or SUV for errands and sightseeing. Many motorhome owners tow a small car for the same reason.
Maintenance
A motorhome needs engine and chassis service as well as RV maintenance. A trailer needs RV maintenance plus tires, bearings and brakes; the tow vehicle is serviced separately.
Size
In our catalog the typical motorhome is 31′ 5″ and the typical travel trailer is 28′ 6″, but a trailer plus its tow vehicle makes a longer rig overall.
Motorhome: pros & cons
Pros
- Fast setup and easy travel days
- Passengers have access to the living area at stops
- One vehicle to drive, no hitching
Cons
- Higher purchase and maintenance costs
- You may need to tow a car for local trips
- If the engine needs repair, your RV is in the shop too
Travel trailer: pros & cons
Pros
- Much lower price
- Your tow vehicle stays free at camp
- Huge range of sizes and layouts
Cons
- Hitching and towing take practice
- Needs a capable tow vehicle
- Longer overall rig
Which should you choose?
Choose a motorhome if…
- You want quick, easy travel days
- You move often on long trips
- You don’t want to tow
Choose a travel trailer if…
- You want to spend less
- You already have a capable truck or SUV
- You stay put and explore from camp
A typical example of each
Common questions
Is a motorhome or travel trailer cheaper?
Travel trailers are usually much cheaper. In our catalog the typical verified manufacturer price is $42,000 for a travel trailer versus $240,000 for a motorhome, before dealer discounts.
Can passengers ride in a travel trailer?
No. Passengers must ride in the tow vehicle; riding in a moving trailer isn’t safe and is illegal in many places. In a motorhome, passengers stay belted in seats designed for travel.
Is it easier to drive a motorhome or tow a trailer?
Many people find a smaller motorhome easier, since there’s no hitching or backing a trailer. Large motorhomes and large trailers both take practice.
More RV comparison guides
Catalog figures update automatically as models are added: currently 624 motorhomes and 1749 travel trailers from manufacturer specifications.