RV Trade-In Secrets: How to Get the Best Deal on Your Upgrade

Travel trailer with arrow pointing to a larger 5th wheel camper. With text, "How to get the best deal on your upgrade."

The Truth about RV Trade-Ins

You’ve got an RV you love—but it’s time for an upgrade. The problem? Figuring out how to get the most value when you trade it in.

Maybe you’ve already been to a dealership and left feeling frustrated because their offer didn’t match what you thought your camper was worth. Or maybe you’re just overwhelmed by the whole process, unsure of what to expect or how to prepare. Sound familiar?

At Bish’s RV, we know how you feel. Trading in your RV shouldn’t be a guessing game or leave you wondering if you got shortchanged. After 36 years in the RV business, we’ve helped thousands of people upgrade their campers, and we know how to help you get the most for your trade.

This article pulls back the curtain on the trade-in process. We’ll let you in on the secrets RV dealers don’t usually share—like how trade values are really determined and what you can do to boost your camper’s worth.

By the time you’re done reading, you’ll know exactly how to prepare your RV trade-in — and have the confidence to get the best deal possible on your upgrade.

Are you considering trading-in your camper for an upgrade?
Find out how much it’s worth.

How Trade in Values are Determined

Why Trade-In Offers Might Seem Low

Tips to Get a Better Offer

How Bish’s Works to Get You the Most Money

Next Steps in Trading in Your Camper

Outgrowing your first RV? Trading in your camper can help you negotiate a better deal on an upgrade.

The Reality of RV Trade-In Values

When you trade in your RV, you might wonder how the dealer comes up with the value they’re offering. It can feel like a mystery, but here’s the inside scoop: trade-in values aren’t just pulled out of thin air. They’re based on three main factors:

Market Conditions – Think of it like supply and demand. When RVs are flying off the lot, trade-in values tend to be higher. When sales slow down, those values can dip.
NADA Wholesale Value – Dealers use the NADA Guide (short for the National Automobile Dealers Association) to look up your camper’s baseline value. It’s kind of like the Kelley Blue Book for RVs and serves as the starting point for your trade-in offer.
Your RV’s Condition – Clean, well-maintained RVs always fetch higher trade-in values. On the flip side, if it’s in rough shape or has damage, that’ll lower the offer.

two rvs- Rv on left is dirty and damaged, RV on right is clean and maintained

Two RVs brought in for a trade — which one do you think has a higher trade value?
Maintain your RV to get more money when you upgrade!

Why Dealers Can’t Offer Retail Prices

The value you’re told for your trade-in will almost always be less than what you might sell it for on your own.

Why? Because dealers have to spend money getting it ready for resale—cleaning, repairs, and making sure it’s in tip-top shape. Plus, they need to leave room for a reasonable profit.

At Bish’s RV, we’re upfront about all this because we want you to feel confident and informed when you trade in. Our goal is to give you a fair offer based on what your RV is truly worth, not just what’s convenient for us.

Considering an Upgrade?
Take the next step and start comparing floor plans and pricing.

Why Trade-Ins Might Seem Low

2 class A motorhomes with text, "Wholesale vs Retail"

Let’s be honest—seeing the trade-in offer for your RV can sometimes feel like a gut punch.

But here’s the insider truth: it’s not because dealers are trying to rip you off. There’s more going on behind the scenes than most people realize.

First, trade-in values are based on the wholesale value, not the retail price you’d see on a lot.

Wholesale is essentially what the RV is worth in its current condition, which is typically lower than what someone would pay for it once it’s cleaned up, repaired, and resold.

Second, dealerships have to cover costs before your RV is ready for its next adventure.

These costs include:

Repairs and Maintenance: Even well-maintained RVs often need new tires, resealed windows, or updated appliances.
Cleaning: Prepping your RV for resale often means hours of deep cleaning, inside and out.
Resale Costs: From marketing to inspections, dealerships put time and resources into finding the next owner.

On average, dealerships can spend anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000 getting a trade-in retail-ready.

That’s why the number you’re quoted is often lower than what you’d expect—those costs have to be factored in.

Josh the RV Nerd shares his insider knowledge on how to know what a used RV is worth.

It’s About Fairness, Not Lowballing

At Bish’s RV, we want to be clear about this: your trade-in offer is designed to be fair, not a lowball. We’re here to help you upgrade to your next camper and make the process as easy and transparent as possible.

Considering upgrading to a bunkhouse, but looking for a low-priced option?
Check out these affordable Bunkhouses with special low-pricing.

cta button- see clearance sale bunkhouse campers

👉 See all clearance sale campers now!

Tips to Maximize Your Trade

Want to squeeze every last dollar out of your trade-in? Here are some dealer-approved insider tips to make sure you get the most value possible for your RV.

1. Clean It Like You’re Selling It

This is the easiest way to instantly boost your RV’s value. A clean RV shows pride of ownership and makes it clear to dealers that it’s been well taken care of.

Inside: Scrub the floors, wipe down surfaces, and make sure there’s no dust, grime, or funky odors. Don’t forget the bathroom and kitchen!
Outside: Wash and wax the exterior, clean the windows, and make it shine. A little elbow grease here can mean hundreds (or even thousands) more in your trade offer.

Team work makes the dream work — and clean work makes your trade in more valuable!

2. Fix Small Issues

Dealers will deduct repair costs from your trade-in value. Fixing small problems yourself—like resealing windows, tightening loose latches, or replacing light bulbs—can save you money in the long run.

3. Inspect the Seals

This one’s a big deal. Leaky seals or signs of water damage are red flags for dealers. Check all your window, roof, and door seals for cracks or softness. If they’re worn, reseal them before bringing your RV in.

Water Damage will bring your RV’s value down. Check the seals several times a year to keep water out and your camper’s value high.

4. Know Your RV’s Ballpark Value

Before heading to the dealership, do a little homework. Use tools like the J.D. Power Guide to get an idea of your RV’s retail value. While it won’t tell you the exact trade-in offer, it’ll help you set realistic expectations.

PRO TIP: the trade-in value is typically around 10-12% below the low retail value listed.

Learn how to find your camper’s Wholesale value.

5. Gather Your Paperwork

Service records, maintenance receipts, and manuals show dealers that your RV has been well cared for. The more history you can provide, the better your chances of a stronger offer.

Insider Tip: Presentation Matters

Think about how your RV will look when the dealer inspects it.

A clean, well-presented camper is much more appealing than one that looks like it’s been through the wringer. Even small details like airing it out or adding a touch of air freshener can make a difference.

By following these tips, you’ll walk into the dealership with confidence—and the best shot at getting top dollar for your trade.

How Bish’s Works to Get You a Fair Trade-In Deal

guy thinking, a think bubble of RV outside of Bish's RV
Text, "Is Bish's Right for Me"

Trading in your RV can feel like stepping into the unknown—but it doesn’t have to. At Bish’s RV, we believe the process should be simple, fair, and transparent.

1. 36 Years of Expertise

We’ve been in the RV business for over three decades, helping thousands of people upgrade their campers. We know the trade-in process inside and out, and we’re here to share that knowledge with you—not use it against you.

2. No Games, Just Fair Offers

We don’t believe in lowballing or playing pricing games. When we give you a trade-in value, it’s based on real factors like market conditions, your RV’s condition, and the NADA Guide. We want you to understand how we got to that number so you can feel confident about your deal.

3. We Want Your RV to Shine

Our goal isn’t just to take your RV off your hands—it’s to match it with the right buyer. That’s why we put in the effort to ensure your trade-in is resold in top-notch condition, giving another family the chance to enjoy it as much as you have.

banner with RV on mountain road with text, "Bish's will give you max value for trade"

4. We’re Here to Help You Upgrade

Whether you’re looking for more space, new features, or just a change of scenery, we’re committed to helping you find the RV that fits your lifestyle. Your trade-in is just the first step toward making your next adventure a reality.

5. Extras That Add Value to Your Upgrade

When you trade in your RV with Bish’s, you get more than just a fair offer—you get extras to keep your next camper in great shape and its value high:

A Free Year of RVFix: Nationwide service protection to keep your RV in top condition and make sure you’re covered if issues arise.
Free Annual Inspections: These ensure your RV stays problem-free, helping you enjoy more adventures and maintain a high trade-in value in the future.

At Bish’s RV, it’s not just about the numbers—it’s about making sure you feel good about the process from start to finish. We’re here to help you move forward with your trade-in with confidence,

Trading in your camper at Bish’s gives you more than money for your trade — you get lots of extras that add 1,000s of dollars of value to your trade, like RVFIX.

Your Upgrade Starts Here

Truck towing Grand Design Imagine on city Street

No more guessing! You now understand the factors that determine trade-in values, know how to boost your RV’s worth, and can walk into a dealership prepared and confident.

At Bish’s RV, we’ve been helping people upgrade their RVs for 36 years. Our expertise makes the process simple, transparent, and fair.

We’ve seen it all, and we know how to help you get the most for your trade while finding the perfect camper for your next adventure.

Your future starts now. Whether you’re dreaming of an RV with more space, better features, or just a fresh start, we’re here to help you get there.