Three tips to help you choose between a trailer and a motorhome

1) Start with the vehicle you already own

All recreational vehicles (RVs) fall into two big camps: motorized units like motorhomes (Classes A, B and C) and towable units like trailers (including conventional trailers, fifth wheels and pop-ups).

A motorhome is a self-contained home on wheels, with living space and driving cabin all in one. You hop in, turn the key, and go. A trailer, on the other hand, has no engine—it needs to be hitched to another vehicle.

So the first question is simple: Can your current car, SUV or truck handle towing the trailer you’re eyeing? Overloading it could be dangerous and illegal. You’ll find towing capacity info in your owner’s manual. If it can’t do the job, are you ready to upgrade your vehicle? Or would it be smarter to go with a motorhome that doesn’t require towing at all?

2) Know your budget and your limits

There’s no sugar-coating it: motorhomes cost more than trailers. A lot more. The price can vary depending on class, features, whether it’s new or used, and how luxurious you want to go. Class A motorhomes, for example, are the biggest and most high-end, with generous living space and full amenities.

If you’re on a tighter budget, a used RV (motorhome or trailer) could be a smart move. Just make sure to do a thorough inspection and check maintenance records.

Keep in mind: motorhomes also cost more to maintain. They have engines, transmissions and other mechanical parts that trailers don’t. And regardless of your choice, don’t forget the other expenses that come with RV ownership: maintenance, storage, and insurance, to name a few.

Before you fall in love with that gleaming home on wheels, crunch the numbers. A simple budget plan now can save you headaches later.

3) Think about how you actually want to travel

Vanlife, trailers, motorhomes—each brings its own flavour of freedom. What’s yours?

If you’re into spontaneity and off-the-grid escapes, vanlife might be your jam. Converted vans offer mobility, stealth, and simplicity. You can pull over nearly anywhere, stay self-sufficient, and soak in the wild. But it takes planning, flexibility, and a taste for minimalism.

For those who prefer to settle into a campsite for several days and explore nearby towns with a car, a trailer offers the best of both worlds. It gives you a cozy basecamp, plus the freedom to unhook and roam. Just make sure the campground has essentials like electricity, water and access to washrooms.

Want to change scenery often without too much setup each time? A motorhome makes it easy. You can hit the road and move from one spot to the next without the hassle of hitching, unhitching, or repacking. It’s a smooth, all-in-one experience. It’s convenient and comfortable.

Whichever style of travel speaks to you, the roads of Quebec (and beyond) are ready to be explored.

Don’t forget your auto insurance! It’s your travel safety net.

Whether you’re heading out for a weekend getaway or a months-long cross-country trip, the right RV is only part of the plan. Leisure vehicle and RV insurance is the other.

Motorhome insurance

In Quebec, you’re legally required to carry at least $50,000 in civil liability coverage for your motorhome. Most insurers recommend $1 million, or $2 million if you plan to drive into the U.S. You can also add full coverage for collision, fire, theft, and vandalism, no matter how old your vehicle is. Look for policies that include Collision and Upset  and All Perils Except Collision coverage.

Trailer insurance

Since trailers are towed and not driven, the insurance works a bit differently, but it’s no less important. Your trailer is still vulnerable to road hazards, just like your car.

Make sure you have liability coverage of $1 million or $2 million, and consider adding coverage for collision, fire, theft, or vandalism, especially if your trailer is less than 20 years old, whether it’s a pop-up, a traditional trailer or a fifth wheel.

The key is to get a policy tailored to the type of RV you own. Optional add-ons may also be worth exploring. iA Auto and Home Insurance even offers bundle discounts if you combine your car, home, and RV insurance. Call 1-866-650-4689 to learn more.

Also worth a read: 3 steps to get your RV ready for summer