How Much Does it Cost to Wrap an RV? 60 Variables Compared
To quickly and inexpensively change your RV appearance, a vinyl wrap is the way to go. Here is what it costs to wrap an RV: all sizes and classes compared.
“RV wrap pricing can run anywhere from about $1,000 to $10,000 or even more.” (Source) The cost of wrapping RVs depends on the type of wrap used, the size, and even the shape of the RV. You also have flexibility when it comes to how much of the RV you want to be wrapped, and your desired style.
RV wraps are a vinyl film that can bring any pop of color or design to an RV. While painting an RV is an option, wrapping it is definitely the cheapest option, depending on what size the RV is.
Although wrapping may seem to be a little expensive, we`ll talk more about the pros, cons, and other factors throughout this article.
Wrap Costs for Different RV Sizes
While the cost of wraps depends on the size of your trailer or coach, the size of the wraps is also a factor to include.
There are typically three different options when it comes time to make a decision as to how much of your RV to wrap:
- Half,
- Three-Quarters, and
- Full
This is an important decision to make, especially if there is only a small design to be included, or if the wrap needs to cover the entire length.
There are three main groupings of RVs that are typically wrapped, and their estimated prices are all included.
According to RVing Know How, the prices for these RV wraps are:
Class A Motorhomes
| RV Size | Half Wrap | 3/4 Wrap | Full Wrap |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20 ft | $1600 | $2400 | $3200 |
| 24 ft | $1900 | $2900 | $3800 |
| 28 ft | $2200 | $3400 | $4500 |
| 32 ft | $2500 | $3800 | $5000 |
| 36 ft | $2900 | $4300 | $5800 |
| 40 ft | $3200 | $4800 | $6400 |
Class B or Class C Motorhomes
| RV Size | Half Wrap | 3/4 Wrap | Full Wrap |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16 ft | $1000 | $1500 | $2000 |
| 20 ft | $1250 | $1800 | $2500 |
| 24 ft | $1500 | $2250 | $3000 |
| 28 ft | $1750 | $2600 | $3500 |
| 32 ft | $2000 | $3200 | $4000 |
| 36 ft | $2250 | $3500 | $4500 |
A Travel Trailer Camper / Toy Hauler
| RV Size | Half Wrap | 3/4 Wrap | Full Wrap |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12 ft | $850 | $1300 | $1700 |
| 16 ft | $1100 | $1700 | $2300 |
| 20 ft | $1400 | $2000 | $2900 |
| 24 ft | $1700 | $2600 | $3500 |
| 28 ft | $2000 | $3000 | $4000 |
| 32 ft | $2300 | $3400 | $4600 |
| 36 ft | $2600 | $3900 | $5200 |
| 40 ft | $2900 | $4300 | $5750 |
Although most auto shops may have different prices depending on their labor, quality and services, these are just a few estimations for the wraps.
These numbers give a great example as to what you can generally expect when figuring out what kind of wrap is needed for an RV and even approximately how much you should plan on budgeting.
RV Wrapping Vs. Painting
Much like wrapping, the cost of painting an RV depends on the:
- Size
- Shape
- Type of paint
- Paint brand
- Color
How much does it cost to paint a 40-foot motorhome?
“Estimates for a quality paint job for a 40-foot motorhome, including clear coat coverings, are in the $30,000-$35,000 range.” – RV-N-Style
While pricing is a big factor in choosing between wraps and paints, longevity and even appearance can be just as important.
- RV wraps usually last about 4 years, maybe longer depending on the maintenance and whether or not it is cared for properly.
- Wraps allow for easy RV personalization and do not damage the original paint, which prevents it from chipping and helps it maintain its lifespan.
- Another big advantage of wrapping an RV is that if the wrap gets damaged during repairs, that section can be easily replaced.
- Whereas if a painted RV gets damaged, a much larger section would need to be painted so the colors match, and it could even require more extensive care.
Painting an RV would leave it open to the many forces of nature such as debris, or any bad weather which can severely damage the paint job.
Having a wrap on your RV acts like a protective shield from these dangerous items, which can help the RV remain looking clean and like new. A wrap can even preserve the RV’s resale value.
With wrapping an RV, there are many more pros than there are cons.
6 Pros of Wrapping an RV
RV wrapping is much less expensive than a paint job, lasts longer, and saves more money in the case of any damage or damage-inducing objects around your RV.
- Less expensive
- Durability
- Resale value increases
- Design options are nearly limitless
- Preserves your RV’s longevity, and
- Protects from damages
As previously stated, wrapping the RV can lead to selling it at a higher price than initially thought, or in some cases, even at a higher price than it was bought for.
Many people are looking for different styles to suit them, so having a personalized RV could truly bring something special to the table.
2 Cons of RV Wrapping
It is no question that wrapping an RV is the absolute best option here.
- Requires additional investment after the purchase of your RV
- Doesn’t last as long as a paint job
While yes, it may feel a little pricey, it is a bargain compared to the price of getting a paint job – not to mention the multiple other paint jobs needed in case of an accident or any damages from flying rocks or wayward branches.
Wrapping can bring in a special element to an RV that a simple paint job just cannot do, and may even attract more buyers who value that same special element as well.
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More reading: How much does it cost to install RV hookups?
6 Tips for RV Wrapping
Before deciding whether to wrap or paint, all aspects must be planned out. Pricing is a big factor in this, but having good durability is one of the most important considerations for both the RV and especially the person inside of it – You!
- Talk with a consultant first. They can always give the best insight as to which way to go for your particular RV and even how to go about it.
- Have the designer print out a sample. This step is very important, much like when tattoo artists show the drawing before they begin tattooing. Getting a wrap put on and being dissatisfied with the way it looks will cost you not only the initial amount, but also the amount needed for removing the wrap and could leave you either frustrated or unable to complete the project due to low funds.
- Do research! While this article is considered research, always getting in contact with professionals and even other RV owners who have been through the process, could help you get an inside opinion as to what the best option is for you.
- Come up with a design you will enjoy for years to come. Do not decide on a wrap on a whim. While something such as flowers may seem popular and interesting, it does not necessarily mean you will still love it in a couple of years. Find something you enjoy looking at and decide carefully.
- Insist on brand name wraps such as 3M or Avery Dennison. Replicas of these brands may be less expensive to install but will not provide the same, good quality.
- Decide on what category of wrap you would like. Cast vinyl is repositionable and better with conforming while Calendared vinyl is thicker and has a more aggressive adhesive.
More reading: How much wind can an RV withstand? (Moving and Parked)
Will You Wrap Your RV?
Between wrapping and painting, getting a wrap is most definitely the way to go.
There is an RV wrap for everyone to enjoy, so do not be afraid to go out there and get something you will enjoy much more than a simple paint job.
In the end, wrapping an RV would be the best option when considering in price, resale value, exterior, and even protection for potential damages your RV may face.
