Are you thinking of buying an RV? Not all RVs are created equal, and not all brands are worth the investment. Our team of experts has reviewed and analyzed the top RV brands on the market to help you make an informed purchasing decision. In this article, we will provide an extensive analysis of the best and worst RV brands to consider in 2023.
What RV Brands to Stay Away From?
Before we delve into the best RV brands, let’s start with the ones you should stay away from:
1. Thor Motor Coach
Thor Motor Coach, also known as TMC, has a poor reputation among RV enthusiasts. Many owners have complained about poor workmanship and structural defects. One owner on RV Insider commented, “I have never seen such poor workmanship! The slide-out pulls away from the wall while traveling, and the cabinet doors do not close.”
2. Keystone RV
Keystone RV has a mixed reputation among RVers. While some swear by their Keystone models, many have had quality control issues and poor customer service. One Keystone owner on RV Insider stated, “The overall quality of the trailer is lacking. I have had numerous issues with the shower leaking, the slide not working, and water leaks.”
3. Forest River
While Forest River offers a wide range of RVs, they have had numerous customer complaints regarding poor quality control and warranty issues. A Forest River owner on RV Insider said, “We had numerous warranty issues, and it took months for them to fix them. The workmanship is shoddy, and we had numerous leaks.”
What Type of RV Depreciates the Most?
RVs are not just expensive to purchase, they can also depreciate quickly. Here are the types of RVs that depreciate the most:
1. Motorhomes
Motorhomes are the most expensive type of RV, and they depreciate quickly. On average, a motorhome will depreciate by about 21% in the first year, and up to 45% by the third year.
2. Travel Trailers
Travel trailers are the most popular type of RV, but they also depreciate quickly. On average, a travel trailer will depreciate by about 20% in the first year, and up to 35% by the third year.
3. Fifth Wheels
Fifth wheels are large and luxurious, but they also depreciate quickly. On average, a fifth wheel will depreciate by about 18% in the first year, and up to 30% by the third year.
What Is the Longest Lasting RV?
If you want an RV that will last for years, choose one of these brands:
1. Airstream
Airstream is known for its iconic aluminum travel trailers, which have a timeless design and durable construction. Airstreams are built to last for decades, with many models from the 1950s and 1960s still on the road today.
2. Winnebago
Winnebago is a well-respected RV brand that has been building quality motorhomes and travel trailers for over 60 years. Their RVs are known for their durability and longevity, with many models still in use after 20 or 30 years.
3. Grand Design
Grand Design is a newer RV brand, but they have quickly made a name for themselves with their high-quality construction and attention to detail. Their RVs are built to withstand the rigors of the road, with features like all-weather insulation, heavy-duty axles, and reinforced frames.
Pros and Cons of the Top RV Brands
Here is a breakdown of the pros and cons of the top RV brands:
1. Airstream
- Pros: Durable construction, timeless design, great resale value.
- Cons: Expensive, limited floor plans.
2. Winnebago
- Pros: Longevity, reputation for quality, reasonable pricing.
- Cons: Can be expensive, some models may have quality issues.
3. Grand Design
- Pros: High-quality construction, attention to detail, reasonable pricing.
- Cons: Limited models, not as widely available.
Conclusion
Choosing the right RV brand can make all the difference in your camping experience. While there are certainly brands to avoid, there are also some great options out there that will last for years. Consider factors like depreciation, durability, and construction quality when making your decision. Our team hopes that this article has provided valuable information to help you make an informed decision when selecting an RV.
References
- RV Insider. https://www.rvinsider.com/
- RV Pro. https://www.rvpro.com/
- Camper Report. https://camperreport.com/
