In early May, Black Book released its quarterly commentary for the second quarter in 2026.
Wholesale RV Auction Values
“Wholesale RV values continued to normalize in early 2026, with market conditions reflecting a more balanced relationship between supply and demand. Motorhome pricing softened modestly, while towables experienced more noticeable declines, particularly among entry-level and older units. Higher financing costs and shifting consumer priorities have contributed to more deliberate purchasing behavior, though steady activity in the used market and improving dealer inventory conditions have helped support overall transaction volume. Looking ahead, market performance is expected to remain influenced by production discipline, inventory alignment and evolving buyer preferences in a higher-rate environment,” said Amber Powell, director, vehicle management & specialty markets, at Black Book.
Motorhome Value Trends
Motorhome wholesale values continued to ease into Q1 2026, with average prices trending down from late 2025 levels and settling near the low-$60,000 range, Black Book said. Market conditions remain stable but increasingly segmented, with affordability playing a larger role in buyer decision-making. Larger Class A motorhomes continue to face the most pressure due to higher price points, while Class B units remain relatively resilient, supported by their versatility and lifestyle appeal. Class C motorhomes have shown steady demand, benefiting from broader accessibility and appeal among first-time and value-oriented buyers. Auction activity indicates that outcomes are increasingly influenced by unit-specific factors such as condition, mileage and feature content, rather than broad market shifts.
Travel Trailer & Fifth Wheel Value Trends
Towable RV values, including travel trailers and fifth wheels, continued to trend downward into Q1 2026 as the market worked through elevated inventory levels. While towables remain the most accessible segment, buyer behavior has become more selective, particularly in the entry-level space, Black Book said. Travel trailers continue to face the greatest pressure due to higher supply and price sensitivity, while fifth wheels have demonstrated relative stability, supported by more experienced buyers and higher-content configurations. Overall, pricing trends reflect a continued rebalancing process, with values increasingly tied to condition, age and product positioning rather than broad demand shifts.
Industry Highlights
- Early 2026 shipment data reflected improving alignment between production and retail demand, as manufacturers continued to moderate output following elevated inventory levels in prior years. This more measured approach is helping stabilize dealer pipelines and reduce volatility across both motorized and towable segments heading into the spring selling season.
- Motorized RVs showed relative strength to start the year, with Class B and Class C models benefiting from sustained interest in smaller, more versatile units. These products continue to appeal to a broader range of buyers, including first-time owners and those prioritizing flexibility, drivability and lower overall ownership costs, Black Book said.
- Used RV market activity remained a key driver of retail performance, providing accessible entry points for cost-conscious buyers and supporting overall transaction volume. Stronger used demand has also helped dealers manage aging inventory and maintain healthier inventory turns.
- Dealer inventory conditions continued to improve, as ongoing adjustments in wholesale shipments and steady retail activity have brought inventory levels closer to historical norms. This has reduced reliance on aggressive discounting and allowed for more consistent pricing strategies across many segments.
- Fifth wheels and higher-content towables maintained relative resilience, with buyers continuing to favor larger, feature-rich units that offer enhanced comfort and amenities. This trend reflects a shift toward higher-quality purchases even as overall affordability remains a consideration.
- Younger and first-time buyers remain an important source of demand, supported by sustained interest in outdoor recreation and experiential travel. These buyers tend to prioritize usability, value and flexibility, influencing product mix and feature development across the industry.
- Product innovation and diversification remain active, with manufacturers investing in new features, lightweight materials and alternative power concepts. These efforts are helping broaden the appeal of RV ownership while positioning the industry for longer-term evolution and regulatory considerations.
- Camping and outdoor travel participation remains structurally elevated, continuing to exceed pre-pandemic levels and supporting long-term demand fundamentals. This sustained engagement provides a stable foundation for RV sales, rentals, service and aftermarket activity across the broader ecosystem.
