An RV loan is a secured or unsecured installment loan used to purchase a recreational vehicle — including motorhomes, travel trailers, fifth wheels, and camper vans. In 2026, RV loan rates start around 6% APR for well-qualified borrowers and extend to 25% or more for those with poor credit.
RV loan rates in 2026 range from 6%–25% APR. Most buyers with good credit can expect rates of 7%–12% depending on the lender, loan amount, and RV age. Loan terms run 5–20 years, with 10–15 years being most common for mid-size purchases.
How RV Loans Work
An RV loan works similarly to an auto loan. You borrow a lump sum to purchase the RV, then repay the loan in fixed monthly installments over the loan term. The RV itself typically serves as collateral — meaning the lender can repossess the vehicle if you default.
Key features:
- Fixed interest rate: Most RV loans have fixed rates, so your payment stays the same
- Secured: The RV is collateral (reduces the lender’s risk and your rate)
- Long terms available: Unlike car loans (typically 3–7 years), RV loans can run up to 20 years
- Down payment required: Usually 10%–20% of the purchase price
RV Loan Rates by Credit Score (2026 Estimates)
| Credit score range | Estimated APR range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 780+ (Exceptional) | 5.5%–7.5% | Best rates from credit unions and banks |
| 720–779 (Very good) | 6.5%–9.5% | Competitive rates widely available |
| 680–719 (Good) | 8.5%–13.0% | Shop multiple lenders |
| 620–679 (Fair) | 12.0%–18.0% | Limited options; credit union preferred |
| 580–619 (Poor) | 16.0%–25.0%+ | Requires strong down payment |
| Below 580 | May be declined | Consider saving more; improve credit first |
Types of RV Loans
Secured RV Loans
The RV serves as collateral. This is the standard structure and typically offers lower rates. Works for motorhomes, fifth wheels, and travel trailers.
Unsecured Personal Loans for RVs
For smaller or older RVs that don’t qualify as collateral (many lenders won’t finance RVs older than 10–15 years), a personal loan may be the only option. Rates are generally higher (8%–36% APR), but no collateral is required.
Manufacturer and Dealer Financing
RV dealerships often partner with lenders and may offer promotional rates on new models. Always compare dealer rates with direct lender quotes before accepting — dealer financing often includes markup.
Where to Get an RV Loan
| Lender type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Credit union | Typically lowest rates; flexible underwriting | Must be a member; local availability |
| Bank | Established relationships | Often stricter; rates may be higher than credit unions |
| Online lenders (LightStream, SoFi) | Fast, competitive for strong credit | Require good to excellent credit |
| RV specialty lenders (Essex Credit, Lyon Financial) | High amounts, long terms | Primarily for newer units |
| Dealer financing | Convenient, sometimes promotional rates | Often higher rates; less transparency |
Sample Monthly Payments (2026)
$30,000 RV loan:
| Term | Rate 7% APR | Rate 10% APR | Rate 15% APR |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 years | $594/mo | $638/mo | $714/mo |
| 10 years | $348/mo | $397/mo | $484/mo |
| 15 years | $270/mo | $322/mo | $420/mo |
$50,000 RV loan:
| Term | Rate 7% APR | Rate 10% APR | Rate 15% APR |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 years | $581/mo | $661/mo | $807/mo |
| 15 years | $449/mo | $537/mo | $700/mo |
| 20 years | $387/mo | $483/mo | $658/mo |
What Lenders Look at When Approving an RV Loan
- Credit score and report — the most important factor
- Debt-to-income ratio — most lenders cap at 43%; aim for under 36%
- Down payment — 10%–20% is standard
- Income stability — consistent employment or documented alternative income
- RV details — age (typically no older than 10–15 years), mileage, condition, and value
- Loan-to-value ratio — lenders typically won’t lend more than 110%–120% of the RV’s book value
Tips to Get the Best RV Loan Rate
- Shop at least 3 lenders before committing — rates vary significantly
- Get pre-qualified first (soft pull only) to see your likely rate without hurting your score
- Put more down — a 20% down payment often unlocks better rates and shorter terms
- Improve your credit before applying — even moving from 680 to 720 can save 2%–3% APR
- Consider a shorter term — a 10-year loan is cheaper than a 15-year loan even if your payment is higher
- Avoid dealer financing without comparing it to direct lender quotes
RV Loan vs. Personal Loan
| Factor | RV loan (secured) | Personal loan (unsecured) |
|---|---|---|
| Rate | Lower (collateral reduces risk) | Higher |
| Max term | Up to 20 years | Typically 2–7 years |
| Max amount | $500,000+ | $100,000 (most lenders) |
| Collateral required | Yes (the RV) | No |
| Best for | Newer, higher-value RVs | Older or lower-value RVs |
Related reading:
- How to qualify for an RV loan
- Typical RV loan terms
- Should you buy or rent an RV?
- Secured vs. unsecured loans explained
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