RV Prices May Be Heading North with Tariffs

A New Curveball for the RV World

Just when RVers were starting to catch a break—fuel prices stabilizing, campgrounds filling up with spring travelers, and more folks chasing the freedom of the open road—here comes a new twist: tariffs.

Now, I know “tariffs” sounds like one of those things that’s probably important but doesn’t feel all that relevant… until it is.

As a full-time RV family, we monitor the things that might impact our lifestyle, not just for ourselves but also for the thousands of others considering this way of life or already navigating it.

Recently, there’s been a growing buzz about how these new tariffs could raise RV prices, as well as the cost of parts and repairs.

We’re not here to sound the alarm. But we are here to share what’s going on, how it could affect you (whether you’re already traveling or still shopping for your first rig), and what we’re personally thinking about as this all unfolds.

Let’s dig into what’s really happening—and why it matters more than you might think.

What’s Actually Happening With These Tariffs?

If you’ve been hearing the word “tariffs” tossed around the news lately and immediately zoned out—no judgment. But here’s why this time, it might actually matter to you as an RVer.

In short, a tariff is a tax placed on goods brought into the U.S. from other countries. It’s meant to either raise money for the government or encourage companies to manufacture things closer to home. The catch? Those extra costs almost always trickle down to us, the consumers.

Right now, the U.S. is in the middle of what many are calling a full-on trade war. President Trump has announced a series of new tariffs, some of which are already in effect and others still on pause—but the main takeaway is this: goods coming in from China, Mexico, and Canada are facing significant price hikes. You can read about some of these changes in more detail in this RV News coverage.

To put it into perspective:

• Tariffs on Chinese goods have shot up to 125%.
  
• New tariffs on aluminum and steel, used in RV frames and components, are now at 25%.
  
• Car parts, electronics, furniture, even power stations and batteries? All included.
  
• And the small stuff that used to sneak in tariff-free if it cost under $800? That’s now getting taxed, too.

So, whether you’re buying something small off Amazon for your RV or planning a more significant purchase like an upgraded tow vehicle or solar setup, those price tags may be creeping up.

And while some of these changes are still shifting by the week (or even the day), one thing is clear: the ripple effect is coming.

Why Should RVers Care?

At first glance, it might seem like tariffs are more of a Wall Street issue than a “what’s parked in your driveway” issue. But if you RV—or plan to—this could hit closer to home than you think.

Here’s the thing: even though most RVs are built in the U.S., many of the parts that go into them are not. Components like water pumps, solar inverters, stabilizers, steps, awnings, appliances, wiring harnesses, and plumbing fittings often come from places like China, Mexico, or Canada.

With tariffs now jacking up the cost of many of those imports—some by over 100%—manufacturers and suppliers are already bracing for impact. One example? Michigan-based Stromberg Carlson Products reported that their latest shipping container cost 30% more than the last… and the next one will jump by 145%.

What does that mean for you?

• If you’re already an RVer, expect price increases on parts, accessories, and repairs—especially for anything imported or made with aluminum or steel.
  
• If you’re a DIYer or weekend upgrader, you might notice a jump in prices for that new tongue jack, portable power bank, or slide topper you’ve been eyeing.
  
• If you’re shopping for your first RV, the ripple effect could hit dealer lots later this year, with higher sticker prices on new inventory.

Bottom line: even if you’re not shopping for a brand-new rig, the cost of staying on the road might start inching up.

What It Means for Current RV Owners

If you already own an RV, you’re not immune to the effects of these new tariffs, but you might still have time to get ahead of them.

The biggest shifts will likely show up in repair costs, parts availability, and upgrade pricing.

Let’s break it down:

• Repairs may get more expensive. If your slide motor, water heater, or steps break mid-trip, replacement parts might now cost more, and take longer to get. Shops may also raise their rates if their parts suppliers pass along higher prices.
  
• Upgrades and accessories could jump in price. Planning to install a solar system, swap out your RV fridge, or add a new hitch? Many of these items include components from overseas. If you’ve had something on your RV wish list, it might be worth checking prices sooner rather than later.
  
• Online deals may shrink. For the past couple of years, buying parts online often meant better deals than what dealers could offer. But now that eCommerce suppliers are also being hit with tariffs, that price gap is closing fast. Don’t be surprised if your go-to Amazon find suddenly costs $30 more.

That said, RVers are a resourceful bunch. If you can plan ahead, shop smart, and stay flexible, you can still keep your rig road-ready without breaking the bank. But this might be the season to stock up on a few essentials—before the next price jump hits.

What About Buying an RV in 2025?

If you’re in the market for your first RV—or thinking about upgrading—this year might feel like a bit of a gamble. And honestly, you’re not wrong. The RV Industry Association (RVIA) has been monitoring the situation closely and advocating for the industry. 

With manufacturers facing higher costs on imported parts and materials (especially steel, aluminum, and anything electronic), it’s likely that new RV prices will creep up as 2025 models roll out. Some industry insiders are already warning of 10%–25% increases depending on the type of RV and the brand.

But here’s the nuance most headlines miss: many dealers stocked up on inventory before these tariffs hit. So if you’re shopping now—or soon—you may still find RVs priced at pre-tariff levels sitting on lots. Once those units sell through, though, the newer stock could reflect the rising costs.

A few things to keep in mind:

• Ask when the RV was manufactured or delivered. Older inventory may offer better pricing.
  
• Don’t overlook gently used RVs. With new unit prices rising, the used market might get even more competitive, and a smart buy now could save you a chunk of change.
  
• If you’re financing, even small price bumps can add up over time in monthly payments.

We’re not here to say “buy now or regret it forever,” but we are saying: if you’ve been on the fence and your ideal setup is available at a fair price today… it might not be a bad time to make a move.

Bigger Picture — RVing Isn’t Going Anywhere

Let’s zoom out for a second.

Yes, tariffs might nudge prices higher. Yes, some parts may take longer to ship. But here’s the good news: RVs aren’t going away. And neither are the people who love them.

Whether it’s a weekend getaway, a long-haul trip out west, or a full-time life on the road like ours, the reasons people choose this lifestyle haven’t changed. 

In fact, when the economy gets uncertain, RVing can actually become more appealing because it offers flexibility, control, and the freedom to adjust your lifestyle to fit your budget.

Don’t want to fly this summer? Take the rig.
Need to save on housing? Make your RV home.
Trying to slow down, see the country, and spend more time with the people who matter? There’s no better way to do it.

RVers are used to adapting. We know how to reroute, repurpose, and rethink when something unexpected pops up—and this tariff situation is no different. It might make some things trickier, but it doesn’t change why we do this.

We’re still out here. We’re still exploring. And we’re still loving the lifestyle—bumps and all.

A Time to Watch, Plan, and Pivot (If Needed)

As full-time RVers, we’ve learned that curveballs are part of the journey—weather delays, flat tires, campground cancellations… and now, maybe tariffs.

The truth is, no one knows exactly how this will all play out. Some price increases might be small and temporary. Others might stick around longer. But if you’re living the RV life—or thinking about jumping in—it’s worth staying informed and being intentional about your next steps.

That could mean:

• Picking up a few spare parts before prices rise
  
• Taking a closer look at the used inventory if you’re RV shopping
  
• Budgeting ahead for future upgrades or repairs

Most of all, it means staying flexible. Because if RV life teaches you anything, it’s how to pivot when the road changes—and find beauty in the detours.

We’ll keep sharing what we’re seeing, and we’d love to hear from you, too. Have you noticed prices going up? Are local dealers talking about parts delays? 

Drop us a comment — we’re all in this together. In the meantime, you can follow updates through trusted sources like RV News, Go RVing, or the RV Industry Association.

Let’s keep rolling.