A citation RV is a recreational vehicle made by the Citation brand, typically a travel trailer or motorhome designed for camping and road trips

Citation RVs are manufactured by a company that produces mid-range recreational vehicles sold through RV dealerships across the United States. These vehicles come in different styles — most commonly travel trailers (which you tow behind a vehicle) and Class C motorhomes (which you drive like a truck). They are built to sleep multiple people, include a kitchen and bathroom, and allow you to camp at RV parks or on private land.

If you own a Citation RV or are thinking about buying one, you will encounter the term "citation" when looking at the vehicle's title, registration, insurance documents, or when talking to a dealer or mechanic. Understanding what this brand means and how it fits into the broader RV market can help you make decisions about purchase, maintenance, and resale.

Key Takeaways

  • Citation RVs are travel trailers and motorhomes built by a specific manufacturer and sold through RV dealerships, not a government program or financial product.
  • Travel trailers require a tow vehicle and a hitch setup, while Citation motorhomes are self-contained and you drive them directly.
  • Financing a Citation RV typically involves an RV loan from a bank or credit union, which works differently than a car loan because RVs depreciate more slowly and loans run longer.
  • Insurance for a Citation RV costs more than car insurance and covers the structure, contents, and liability if someone is injured on the vehicle.
  • Resale value depends on the model year, condition, and whether it is a travel trailer or motorhome, and you can sell it privately or trade it to a dealer.

Travel trailers versus motorhomes: which Citation style you might own

Citation makes both travel trailers and motorhomes, and the difference matters for how you use the vehicle and what it costs to own. A travel trailer is towed behind your personal vehicle — your truck, SUV, or car — using a hitch. You unhitch it at the campground and leave it there while you use your vehicle to drive around. A motorhome, by contrast, is a self-contained vehicle you drive yourself. Citation motorhomes are usually Class C models, meaning they are built on a truck chassis and sleep four to eight people.

Travel trailers are generally less expensive upfront than motorhomes, but you need a vehicle capable of towing them — which may mean buying or upgrading a truck. Motorhomes cost more but do not require a separate tow vehicle. Both types include sleeping areas, a kitchen with a stove and refrigerator, a bathroom with a toilet and shower, and storage for camping gear. The choice depends on your budget, how often you plan to camp, and whether you already own a suitable tow vehicle.

How financing a Citation RV differs from a car loan

If you are buying a Citation RV with borrowed money, you will take out an RV loan, not a car loan. RV loans work differently in several ways. First, they run longer — typically 10 to 20 years instead of 5 to 7 years for a car. Second, the interest rate is usually higher because RVs depreciate more slowly than cars, which means the lender takes on more risk. Third, you will need a down payment, often 10 to 20 percent of the purchase price, though some dealers offer zero-down promotions.

Banks, credit unions, and RV-specific lenders all offer RV loans. Credit unions often have lower rates than banks if you are a member. The loan is secured by the RV itself, meaning if you stop making payments, the lender can repossess it. Before you explore, check your credit score — a higher score gets you a lower rate. You can get pre-approved for a loan before you go to the dealership, which gives you negotiating power and tells you exactly how much you can spend.

Insurance requirements and costs for Citation RVs

RV insurance is separate from car insurance and covers more than a standard auto policy. It protects the structure and contents of the RV (your appliances, furniture, and belongings inside), covers liability if someone is injured on the vehicle, and includes roadside information specific to RVs. Some policies also cover the cost of a hotel if your RV breaks down far from home.

Insurance costs vary based on the RV's age, size, value, and your driving record. A new Citation travel trailer might cost $150 to $300 per year to insure, while a motorhome could run $400 to $800 annually. If you finance the RV, your lender will require you to carry full coverage (collision and comprehensive) until the loan is paid off. Once you own it outright, you can choose a lower level of coverage, though that is not recommended if the RV still has significant value.

Maintenance and repair costs you should expect

Citation RVs require regular maintenance just like any vehicle. Travel trailers need less frequent service because they have no engine, but they do need the brakes, tires, and hitch inspected annually. The plumbing, water heater, and appliances inside also need occasional repair. Motorhomes require engine maintenance — oil changes, filter replacements, and transmission service — on top of the systems inside.

Repair costs depend on what breaks. A straightforward fix like replacing a water heater element might cost $200 to $400. A major engine repair on a motorhome could run $1,500 to $5,000. Many Citation owners budget $500 to $1,000 per year for maintenance and repairs, especially as the vehicle ages. Finding an RV-certified mechanic is important because not all mechanics are trained to work on RV systems like propane appliances and slide-outs.

Buying a used Citation RV and what to inspect

Used Citation RVs are sold through dealerships, private sellers, and online marketplaces. Prices vary widely based on age, mileage (for motorhomes), condition, and whether it is a travel trailer or motorhome. A 10-year-old travel trailer might sell for $8,000 to $15,000, while a similar-age motorhome could be $20,000 to $40,000. Before you buy, have an independent RV inspector examine it — this costs $300 to $500 but can reveal hidden problems that could cost thousands to fix.

Key things to check include the roof for leaks or soft spots, the plumbing and water systems for corrosion or damage, the appliances to confirm they work, the tires for age and wear, and the engine (on motorhomes) for signs of overheating or oil leaks. Ask the seller for maintenance records and the RV's history. If the RV has been in storage for a long time, budget extra money for getting systems back in working order before you camp in it.

Selling or trading in your Citation RV

When you are ready to sell, you have two main options: sell it privately or trade it to a dealer. Private sales usually get you a higher price because you cut out the dealer's markup, but you handle advertising, showing the RV, and paperwork yourself. Trading it to a dealer is faster and simpler — you drive in, they appraise it, and you walk out with a check or credit toward a new purchase — but you will receive less money.

The resale value of a Citation RV depends on its age, condition, mileage (for motorhomes), and current market demand. RVs hold their value better than cars, but they do depreciate. A five-year-old Citation travel trailer might retain 60 to 70 percent of its original price, while a motorhome might retain 50 to 65 percent. Before you list it, clean it thoroughly, make minor repairs, and take clear photos of the interior and exterior. Price it competitively by checking what similar models are selling for in your region.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I live in a Citation RV full-time?

Yes, many people live in Citation RVs year-round. You will need to handle mail forwarding, establish residency for taxes and vehicle registration, and find RV parks or private land that allow long-term stays. Utilities and campground fees will be your main ongoing costs, and you should winterize the RV if you camp in cold climates.

What is the difference between a Citation and other RV brands?

Citation is a mid-range brand — less expensive than luxury brands like Airstream or Winnebago, but more established than some budget brands. Quality and features vary by model year. The best way to compare is to look at specific models side by side, read owner reviews, and have any used RV inspected before purchase.

Do I need a special driver's license to drive a Citation motorhome?

It depends on the motorhome's weight. Most Citation Class C motorhomes weigh under 26,000 pounds and do not require a commercial driver's license. Check your state's regulations and the RV's gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) on the door jamb. Some states require additional endorsements for larger RVs.

How do I find parts and service for a Citation RV?

RV dealerships that sell Citation models usually stock parts and offer service. You can also order parts online from RV-specific suppliers. For service, look for shops certified to work on RVs — they understand systems like propane, water tanks, and slide-outs that regular mechanics may not be trained on.

What happens if my Citation RV is damaged in an accident?

Your insurance will cover the damage up to your policy limits, minus your deductible. Report the accident to your insurance company right away. If the RV is totaled, the insurance company will pay you the actual cash value, which may be less than what you owe if you are still financing it.