Does Camping World Buy Used Campers

If you’re looking to sell your RV, you might be asking yourself, does Camping World buy used campers? The short answer is yes, they do. This is a common first question for many owners ready to move on from their current rig. Understanding how the process works can help you decide if it’s the right path for you. Let’s look at what you need to know.

Camping World, as one of the largest RV retailers in the nation, has a established used RV buying program. They purchase pre-owned units both to resell on their own lots and to offer as trade-ins for customers buying new ones. This program is called “Sell Your RV,” and it’s designed to be a straightforward alternative to private sale. However, it’s not the only option, and knowing the details is key to a good experience.

How Camping World’s RV Purchase Program Works

The process is fairly streamlined. It starts with you providing information about your camper. You can do this online or by visiting a local Camping World location. Their goal is to make an offer quickly, often within 24 to 48 hours after an inspection.

Here’s a typical step-by-step breakdown:

Submit Your RV Details: You’ll fill out an online form with your RV’s make, model, year, mileage, condition, and features. Be as accurate as possible here.
Receive a Preliminary Offer: Based on your info, Camping World may give you an initial estimated offer. This is not a final price.
Schedule an In-Person Inspection: A certified inspector at a Camping World location will need to physically assess your RV. This is mandatory for a final offer.
Get Your Final Cash Offer: After the inspection, which checks mechanical, structural, and cosmetic condition, they will present a formal, written offer. This offer is usually good for a limited time, like 7 days.
Accept and Complete the Sale: If you accept, you’ll sign paperwork, provide the title, and receive payment. They often handle the paperwork, which is a big plus.

What Types of Campers Does Camping World Typically Buy?

Camping World is most interested in units they can easily resell. This generally means:

Popular brands (e.g., Winnebago, Forest River, Jayco, Airstream).
Models from the last 10-15 years, though exceptions exist for classics.
RVs in good to excellent mechanical and cosmetic shape.
Units with clear title and no major accidents or water damage.

They are less likely to make a competitive offer on very old campers, obscure brands, or those needing significant repairs. Their business model relies on turning inventory quickly.

Factors That Determine Your Camper’s Value

During the inspection, the appraiser looks at several key areas. Knowing these can help you understand their offer:

Age and Mileage: Newer models with lower mileage always command higher prices.
Overall Condition: This includes the engine, chassis, appliances, roof, and floor. Any signs of leaks or delamination drastically reduce value.
Market Demand: Some floorplans and brands are more sought-after than others in your region.
Seasonality: Prices can be higher in the spring and early summer when buying interest peaks.
Cleanliness and Upkeep: A well-maintained, spotless interior and exterior creates a strong positive impression.

The Pros of Selling Your Camper to Camping World

Choosing this route has several distinct advantages that appeal to many sellers.

Speed and Convenience: It’s much faster than a private sale. You can often complete the deal in a few days.
No Hassle of Listing: You avoid creating ads, fielding calls, and showing the RV to countless strangers.
Guaranteed Sale: Once you accept the offer, the sale is certain. No worrying about buyer financing falling through.
Paperwork Handled: They manage most of the title transfer and sale documentation, reducing your stress.
Trade-In Option: If you’re buying another RV from them, selling your old one becomes a seamless trade-in, which may have tax benefits depending on your state.

The Cons and Considerations

For all its convenience, there are trade-offs to be aware of. It’s not the perfect solution for everyone.

Lower Sale Price: This is the biggest drawback. Camping World’s offer will almost always be lower than what you could get in a private sale. They need to account for reconditioning, profit, and holding costs.
Limited Negotiation: Their offers are typically firm, with little room for haggling, especially on more common units.
Variable Offers by Location: The specific Camping World location and it’s current inventory needs can influence the offer. One store might want your model, another might not.
Inspection Required: You must get the RV to their location, which can be a problem if it’s not drivable.

How to Prepare Your Camper for Maximum Value

Even when selling to a dealer, presentation matters. A little effort can pay off. Here’s a quick checklist:

Deep Clean: Wash and wax the exterior. Thoroughly clean the interior, including carpets, upholstery, appliances, and windows. Don’t forget the awning.
Perform Minor Repairs: Fix small issues like a blown fuse, a sticking cabinet door, or a missing light cover. It shows you cared for the RV.
Gather All Documentation: Have your title, service records, manuals, and warranty info ready. A complete history is a valuable selling point.
Empty Personal Belongings: Remove all your stuff. This helps the appraiser see the space and makes it ready for resale.
Make Sure It’s Operational: Ensure the battery is charged, the engine starts easily, and all major systems (fridge, A/C, furnace) turn on.

Exploring Your Alternative Selling Options

It’s smart to compare Camping World’s offer with other avenues. The best choice depends on your priorities: maximum money or maximum convenience.

Private Party Sale

Selling directly to another individual will almost always yield the highest sale price. The downsides are the time, effort, and potential security risks involved. You’ll need to create compelling listings, negotiate, and handle all paperwork yourself.

Other RV Dealers

Don’t stop at just one dealer. Get quotes from other local RV dealerships. Some smaller, independent lots might specialize in your type of camper and offer a better price. It never hurts to shop your RV around.

Online RV Buyers

Companies like RVT.com, RVTrader, and even specialized online buyers offer a hybrid model. They often provide a quick cash offer and handle pickup, but the price may fall between a dealer lowball and a private sale high. Their convenience is a major factor.

Consignment

With consignment, you leave your RV at a dealership that sells it for you for a fee (usually a percentage). You get more than a direct dealer buyout but less than a private sale, without doing the selling work yourself. It’s a good middle-ground if you’re not in a huge rush.

Making the Final Decision: Is It Right For You?

So, should you sell your camper to Camping World? Ask yourself these questions:

Is getting the absolute top dollar my main goal, or is a fast, easy sale more important?
Am I willing to deal with the work and uncertainty of a private sale?
Is my RV in a condition that would attract a private buyer quickly, or does it need work a dealer would handle?
Am I planning to purchase a new RV from Camping World, making a trade-in advantageous?

If your answers lean toward convenience, speed, and certainty, then Camping World’s program is a strong contender. If maximizing profit is your top priority, you should seriously consider the private sale route, even with its extra effort.

Step-by-Step Guide to Getting a Camping World Offer

If you’ve decided to proceed, here is exactly what to do:

Visit the Camping World website and find the “Sell Your RV” or “We Buy RVs” page.
Complete the online valuation form with meticulous detail. Use good photos that show the true condition.
Wait for their initial contact, usually an email or call with a preliminary number and next steps.
Schedule the in-person appraisal at your nearest participating location. Be punctual.
Be present during the inspection if possible, so you can point out recent upgrades or maintenance.
Review the final written offer carefully. Ask questions if anything is unclear.
Either accept the offer and proceed to closing, or politely decline and explore your other options.

FAQs About Selling a Camper to Camping World

Does Camping World buy used travel trailers?

Yes, absolutely. They buy all types of RVs, including travel trailers, fifth wheels, motorhomes, and camper vans. The process is the same regardless of the type.

Will Camping World buy my RV if I don’t buy from them?

Yes. You can sell your RV to Camping World outright without purchasing anything from them. This is called a “straight buy” or “outright purchase.”

How long does the Camping World RV buying process take?

From initial online submission to cash in hand, it can often be completed within a week, assuming your RV is ready and you agree to their offer. The inspection itself usually takes an hour or two.

What paperwork do I need to sell my camper to Camping World?

You will need the vehicle’s clear title (free of liens), your government-issued ID, and possibly maintenance records. If there is a lien, you’ll need contact information for the lienholder to coordinate payoff.

Does Camping World buy old campers?

It depends on the condition and marketability. Very old campers (e.g., 20+ years) in poor condition are unlikely to receive an offer. However, well-maintained vintage or classic models in good shape might be of interest, especially to certain locations.

Can I negotiate the offer from Camping World?

There is typically little room for negotiation, as their offers are based on standardized market data. However, if you have competing offers from other dealers or documentation of recent high-value repairs, it doesn’t hurt to present them politely.

What if my RV isn’t running?

Camping World generally requires the RV to be drivable and able to be brought to their location for inspection. If it’s not running, your options become much more limited, and they may decline to make an offer or give a very low one to account for transport and major repairs.

Final Thoughts

So, does Camping World buy used campers? They certainly do, and for the right seller, their program offers a legitimate and hassle-free solution. The key is to go in with realistic expectations. Understand that your are trading potential profit for convenience and speed. Do your homework, prepare your RV, and get multiple offers if you can. This way, you can make an informed choice that aligns with your goals and get the best possible outcome for selling your home-on-wheels. Remember, knowing all your options puts you in the drivers seat, even if you choose the easiest route.