2025 Guide to Camper Van Financing

Looking to finance a camper van in 2025? Here's what you need to know:

• Costs: New camper vans range from $80,000 to $200,000+, while used models cost $30,000 to $90,000. DIY conversions can cost $20,000 to $80,000.
• Loan Types:
  • Secured RV Loans: Use the van as collateral, offering lower interest rates (5.99%–7.5% for top credit) and longer terms (up to 20 years).
  • Unsecured Personal Loans: No collateral required but higher rates (7%–36%) and shorter terms (3–7 years).
• 2025 Interest Rates: Secured loans for excellent credit start around 5.99%–7.45%, while personal loans average 12.24%.
• Eligibility: Credit scores of 600+ are typically required. Down payments range from 10%–20%. Debt-to-income ratios under 45% improve approval chances.
• Key Considerations: Longer terms reduce monthly payments but increase total interest. Used vans or DIY projects may require unsecured loans.

Pro Tip: Compare banks, credit unions, and dealer financing to find the best rates. Use online calculators to estimate monthly payments and total costs.

Ready to hit the road? Let’s dive into the details.

Main Financing Options for Camper Vans

RV Loans from Banks and Credit Unions

If you're considering financing a camper van, RV loans are one of the most common options. These loans are secured, meaning your camper van serves as collateral, which allows lenders to offer longer repayment terms and lower interest rates compared to unsecured loans. As of 2025, loan terms can stretch from 10 to 20 years (up to 240 months for higher loan amounts), with the lender placing a lien on the vehicle's title. Interest rates depend heavily on your credit score:

• Excellent credit (720–850): Rates around 9.05%
• Good credit (680–719): Rates near 11.86%
• Fair credit (640–679): Rates about 14.09%
• Poor credit (below 640): Rates starting at 16.19% or higher

Some lenders advertise rates as low as 5.99% to 7.25% for highly qualified applicants, but these offers are typically reserved for borrowers with top-tier credit.

Most RV lenders require a down payment of 10%–20%, though specialty finance companies like Good Sam Finance Center sometimes offer zero-down programs, particularly for loans under $70,000. However, these zero-down options are often limited to borrowers with credit scores above 680. Loan amounts usually start at $10,000 to $15,000, and the vehicle must typically meet certain criteria, such as being titled as an RV or motorhome. Class B and B+ motorhomes and professionally converted vans that comply with RV certification standards generally qualify, but cargo vans or DIY conversions without proper RV status are excluded.

Unsecured Personal Loans

For those who own a non-RV-certified van or are tackling a DIY camper conversion, unsecured personal loans are a flexible alternative. These loans don't require collateral, which makes them ideal for financing used cargo vans or covering the cost of conversion materials and labor. However, since there's no collateral involved, interest rates tend to be higher, and repayment terms are shorter.

As of December 2025, the average APR for personal loans was approximately 12.24%. Rates can range from under 7% for borrowers with excellent credit to nearly 36% for those with subprime credit. Loan terms typically span 2 to 7 years, which results in higher monthly payments but allows you to pay off the loan faster.

One major advantage of personal loans is that they keep your vehicle title free of liens, making it easier to sell or refinance the van in the future. If traditional banks or personal lenders don’t offer what you’re looking for, dealership and builder financing might be worth exploring.

Dealership and Builder Financing

Many RV dealerships and van conversion companies simplify the buying process by offering financing directly at the point of sale. This option is convenient and often includes perks like zero-down payment plans or reduced APRs for qualified buyers. These loans function similarly to secured RV loans, using the vehicle as collateral and offering repayment terms that can extend up to 20 years. For example, First Citizens Bank advertises RV rates starting at 6.19% APR for 5-year terms, while Hudson Valley Credit Union offers rates beginning at 7.25% APR for terms as long as 20 years.

A major benefit of dealership financing is the ability to bundle taxes, fees, and even accessories into the loan. Some lenders will finance up to 125% of the vehicle's purchase price to cover these extras, though this can increase the total interest paid over time. However, dealership financing may not always provide the best rates. Dealers sometimes add markups to interest rates or include expensive add-ons, so it’s wise to get pre-approved through a bank or credit union first. This pre-approval can serve as a benchmark to negotiate better terms with the dealer. Additionally, specialty lenders like Good Sam offer financing for private-party RV purchases, which is especially helpful if you’re buying a used camper van from an individual seller.

Costs, Terms, and Eligibility in 2025

Standard Loan Structures and Terms

When considering camper van financing in 2025, it's important to understand how these loans are structured. Camper van loans are fixed-rate installment loans, meaning the principal, APR, and monthly payments remain consistent throughout the loan term. Unlike typical auto loans, which generally max out at 72 to 84 months, camper van loans often offer much longer terms - ranging from 120 to 240 months. While longer terms can make monthly payments more manageable, they also increase the total interest you'll pay over the life of the loan.

Credit and Income Requirements

Your credit score plays a major role in determining both your loan approval and the interest rate you'll qualify for. Most lenders look for a minimum score of around 600, though some specialized RV financing companies may work with scores as low as 550. That said, borrowers with scores below 680 may face certain limits. For example, Good Sam limits loans to $50,000 for applicants with credit scores under 680, even though they advertise zero-down financing for stronger credit profiles up to $70,000. On the other hand, lenders like Trident Funding offer competitive rates - starting at 6.99% APR for 240-month loans - to borrowers with excellent credit. For those with scores in the 600–639 range, rates can climb to around 17.95% APR.

In addition to your credit score, lenders will review your income and employment history. They typically require documentation such as pay stubs, W-2s, or tax returns. Another key factor is your debt-to-income ratio (DTI), which lenders prefer to see at 40–45% or lower. Some credit unions are even stricter, favoring DTIs in the mid-30% range. Reducing your existing debt before applying can help improve both your DTI and your overall creditworthiness.

Calculating Total Costs and Monthly Payments

To estimate your monthly payments, you'll need four main factors: the loan amount, the APR, the loan term (in months), and your down payment. Online calculators and payment tables can help you see how these variables affect your monthly costs. Down payments typically range from 10% to 20%, but don’t forget to account for additional expenses like taxes, registration fees, and insurance. Rolling these extra costs into your loan will increase the total interest you pay. Taking the time to carefully plan and calculate these expenses ensures you're making an informed choice about your financing options.

Financing options for your camper van conversion

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How to Choose and Manage Camper Van Financing

Matching Financing to Your Goals and Budget

Start by identifying how you plan to use your camper van - whether it’s for full-time living, travel adventures, rentals, or even as part of a content creation business. This decision will guide everything from the type of van you choose to the financing options that make the most sense for your situation.

Next, take a realistic look at the costs. Break down annual expenses like loan payments, insurance, registration, maintenance, storage, campground fees, and fuel. Divide this total by 12 to estimate your monthly costs. Make sure these expenses fit comfortably within your income. Online loan calculators can help you test different loan amounts and terms to find a monthly payment that works alongside your other costs. If the numbers don’t add up, consider a used van or a DIY conversion to keep the purchase price low, leaving room in your budget for unexpected repairs. This budgeting approach ensures you’re prepared to evaluate financing options effectively.

Comparing Your Financing Options

Not all financing options are created equal, and each comes with its own set of trade-offs. Here’s a breakdown:

• RV Loans: Offered by banks and credit unions, these loans often come with moderate interest rates (6–12% for qualified borrowers) and long repayment terms - up to 15 or even 20 years. However, they require the vehicle as collateral and are usually limited to newer vans.
• Unsecured Personal Loans: These loans don’t require collateral and typically offer faster approval. However, they come with higher interest rates and shorter terms, usually capped at around seven years.
• Builder or Dealer Financing: This option bundles the cost of the van chassis and its conversion into one package. While it may include promotional rates, the total cost is often higher, and you’ll have fewer lender options.
• Home Equity Loans or HELOCs: These loans often provide the lowest interest rates but require you to use your home as collateral, which adds significant risk if repayment becomes an issue.

To choose the right financing, consider whether your van will be titled and insured as an RV. If so, RV loans tend to offer better rates for those with strong credit. Review your credit score - borrowers with scores above 720 are more likely to secure favorable terms, while those with fair or poor credit might need to explore unsecured loans or dealer financing, which can be more expensive. Also, think about how long you plan to keep the van. For short-term or uncertain plans, opting for shorter-term financing or a smaller loan helps reduce long-term financial risks, even if it means higher monthly payments.

Financing Option	Pros	Cons	Best For
RV Loans (Banks/Credit Unions)	Lower interest rates; long repayment terms (up to 15–20 years)	Requires good credit; age restrictions on vans; possible prepayment fees	Full-time vanlife or buyers with strong credit
Unsecured Personal Loans	No collateral required; quick approval	Higher interest rates; shorter terms; lower borrowing limits	DIY builds under $50,000 or buyers without equity
Builder/Dealer Financing	Convenient, one-stop process	Higher overall cost; limited lender options	Buyers prioritizing convenience
Home Equity Loans/HELOCs	Lowest interest rates	Home is collateral; risk of foreclosure	Buyers with substantial home equity

Lowering Interest Costs and Managing Risks

Once you’ve compared financing options, focus on strategies to minimize interest and handle risks. Start by shopping around - reach out to at least three types of lenders, including banks, credit unions, and builder or dealer programs. Prequalify where possible to secure the best available interest rate. Opt for the shortest loan term you can manage comfortably. While longer terms lower monthly payments, they also increase the total interest paid over time. A larger down payment - 10–20% or more - can significantly reduce both your monthly payments and overall interest costs.

If your credit needs improvement, take steps to boost it before applying. Pay down revolving debt, resolve any outstanding delinquencies, and avoid hard credit inquiries for three to twelve months. Building a savings fund for a down payment and gathering documents like W-2s, 1099s, or business financials (if self-employed) will also strengthen your loan application. Once you’ve secured financing, consider making extra payments on the principal if your loan allows it without penalties - this can shorten the loan term and save you money in the long run.

Finally, stay mindful of potential risks. Camper vans depreciate, and your financial situation or travel plans may shift. Keep a financial cushion for unexpected repairs, insurance hikes, or changes in lifestyle. If you’re financing a custom build or an older van, confirm with your lender that it qualifies as collateral and check that you can insure it at a reasonable rate. For additional resources, Nomad Adjacent (https://nomadadjacent.com) offers helpful tools, market data, and community insights to guide your financing and ownership decisions.

Camper Van Financing and Alternative Living Plans

Camper Vans as Alternative Dwellings

Camper vans aren't just about travel - they can also serve as an alternative to traditional housing. Financing a camper van might help reduce fixed housing costs compared to paying rent or a mortgage in expensive U.S. cities. Instead of juggling separate bills for rent and utilities, these expenses can be consolidated into a single monthly payment for the van, along with associated costs like campground fees, parking, and insurance. Plus, since a camper van doubles as your home and your vehicle, it naturally promotes a simpler, more minimalist lifestyle.

That said, camper van loans often come with shorter terms and higher interest rates compared to home mortgages. Even with excellent credit, interest rates in late 2025 are expected to range between 6% and 12%, which could mean higher monthly payments despite financing a smaller overall amount. Many buyers turn to RV-style loans through banks, credit unions, or specialized lenders. These loans often come with terms stretching up to 15–20 years and require smaller down payments, making the van life dream more attainable for those without large savings.

Before diving into full-time van living, it’s important to check local regulations about overnight parking and residency. Additionally, lenders and insurers may require the van to meet certain criteria - like having a fixed bed, cooking facilities, and a bathroom setup - to classify it as a full-time dwelling. Be sure to budget for all monthly costs, including fuel, maintenance, and insurance, to avoid surprises.

Camper Vans as Investments

While camper vans depreciate like any other vehicle, they can still be a source of income if rented out wisely. Many owners finance a van and use rental platforms to offset their loan payments and upkeep costs. During peak seasons, it’s possible to cover 50–100% of loan payments, with some owners earning thousands in rental income.

To make this work, consider factors like your average nightly rental rate, seasonal occupancy, monthly expenses, and the need for a reserve fund to handle unexpected repairs or vacancies. Be sure to confirm whether your loan and insurance policies allow for commercial or rental use, as some may have restrictions. For those looking to expand, some owners diversify by incorporating multiple camper vans, RVs, or tiny homes into their portfolio. This approach balances personal use with rental income potential but comes with risks like accelerated depreciation, renter damage, and vacant periods.

Using Nomad Adjacent as a Resource

For anyone interested in non-traditional living options, Nomad Adjacent is a go-to resource. They specialize in buying and selling alternative dwellings like converted camper vans, RVs, tiny homes, container homes, and movable cabins. Their map-based search tool makes it easier to find local listings, which can help cut down on transportation costs and simplify lender requirements.

Before purchasing, you can browse free listings on their platform to get a sense of realistic budget expectations and loan amounts before reaching out to lenders. Once you own a camper van, keeping an eye on similar listings can help you track its market value compared to your remaining loan balance. This information can guide decisions like whether to accelerate loan payments or adjust insurance coverage. And if you decide to move on - whether upgrading to a different setup, transitioning to a tiny home, or settling down - you can list your financed van on Nomad Adjacent to increase visibility and potentially speed up the sale process while managing depreciation risks.

Conclusion

In 2025, financing a camper van typically starts with interest rates around 6–7% APR for those with strong credit, while lower credit scores may see rates climb into the mid-teens. While longer loan terms can make monthly payments more manageable, they also increase the total interest paid over time. Whether you choose a secured RV loan from a credit union, an unsecured personal loan, or dealer financing, it's crucial to look beyond the monthly payment and assess the full cost of the loan. This ensures your financing choice aligns with how you plan to use the van.

Before signing on the dotted line, take a moment to define your goals, check your credit score, and get prequalified with at least two lenders. Loan calculators can be a valuable tool for comparing options. For instance, financing a $50,000 van at 7% APR over 10 years will result in significantly less total interest compared to a loan at 12–14% APR. Opting for a shorter loan term may further reduce total interest, even if it means higher monthly payments. Don’t forget to account for additional expenses like insurance, maintenance, fuel, and campground or parking fees. While these aren't included in the loan, they can have a big impact on your monthly budget.

For more tips and market data on alternative living options, check out Nomad Adjacent.

Financing a camper van isn’t just a one-time transaction - it’s part of a larger journey toward mobility and minimalist living. Take the time to shop around, plan for unexpected costs, and avoid borrowing more than you need for unnecessary upgrades. With thoughtful preparation, financing can help you embrace van life without putting your financial stability at risk.

FAQs

What are the advantages and disadvantages of using a secured RV loan versus an unsecured personal loan to finance a camper van?

When it comes to financing a camper van, you’ll typically choose between secured RV loans and unsecured personal loans, each with its own set of pros and cons.

Secured RV loans often come with lower interest rates because they’re backed by collateral - in this case, the camper van itself. The downside? If you can’t keep up with payments, the lender can repossess the vehicle. These loans might also require a larger down payment and tend to have stricter credit requirements, making them a bit harder to qualify for.

On the flip side, unsecured personal loans don’t require any collateral, so your camper van isn’t at risk if you default. However, this added flexibility usually comes with higher interest rates and shorter repayment terms. That said, they’re often a quicker and simpler option, especially if you have a strong credit history.

The best choice for you will depend on your financial situation, credit score, and whether you’re okay with putting your camper van up as collateral.

What steps can I take to qualify for a camper van loan with a lower interest rate?

To boost your chances of snagging a camper van loan with a lower interest rate, it helps to focus on a few smart strategies:

• Work on your credit score: Lenders tend to offer better rates to borrowers with strong credit. Pay off debts, stay on top of payments, and double-check your credit report for any mistakes that could drag your score down.
• Increase your down payment: The more you can put down upfront, the less you’ll need to borrow. Plus, a larger down payment signals to lenders that you’re financially prepared, which might lead to better terms.
• Compare lenders: Don’t settle for the first offer you get. Check out banks, credit unions, and companies that specialize in RV or camper van financing. You might be surprised by the differences in rates and conditions.
• Look into pre-approval: Pre-approval streamlines the buying process and gives you a clearer picture of the rates you can expect, making it easier to budget.

These steps can help you secure a loan that makes your camper van dreams a reality - without breaking the bank.

What should I think about when deciding to finance a new, used, or DIY camper van?

When you're financing a camper van, it's important to weigh factors like the age, condition, and maintenance costs. A brand-new van might offer perks like lower financing rates and warranties, but it comes with a higher price tag. On the other hand, a used van could save you money upfront, though you might face more frequent repair bills. If you're eyeing a DIY build, you'll enjoy complete customization, but keep in mind that these often don't qualify for traditional financing and usually lack warranties.

Also, think about your budget, lifestyle, and long-term plans. For instance, if you're planning to hit the road often, investing in a reliable new or certified used van could help you avoid surprise repair costs. If making the van uniquely yours is a priority, a DIY project might be worth the compromises. Don't forget to factor in how quickly you want to pay off the loan and how that aligns with your broader financial goals.

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