Purchasing a Scamp trailer involves a baseline factory price starting around $17,000 to $30,000+ depending on the model size and layout, but total ownership expenses also require budgeting for factory delivery fees, custom options, mandatory registration, and ongoing maintenance to keep the iconic lightweight fiberglass camper road-ready.
Understanding the Scamp Trailer Pricing Structure
When evaluating the cost of a Scamp trailer, buyers must look past the initial sticker price. Scamp trailers are uniquely manufactured by Built-to-Order operations in Backus, Minnesota, meaning they are sold factory-direct rather than through traditional nationwide dealership networks. This direct-to-consumer model impacts the final pricing structure significantly.
The pricing ecosystem is divided into three distinct model variants: the 13-foot, the 16-foot, and the 19-foot fifth-wheel. Each model comes with standard features, but buyers frequently add packages or individual upgrades that shift the total cost upward. Understanding how base models scale with custom configurations helps buyers secure an accurate budget before placing a deposit with the manufacturer.
Furthermore, because of their all-fiberglass construction and legendary retention of resale value, the used market commands prices that often rival or exceed original purchase prices if the trailer is in high-demand condition. Buyers must weigh the wait times of a factory-direct order against the immediate availability and historical depreciation curves of pre-owned units.
Base Prices Across Scamp Trailer Models
Scamp currently offers three foundational models. Each satisfies different towing capacities and living space requirements, scaling upward in price as square footage and structural complexity increase.
- Scamp 13-Foot Standard/Deluxe: Starting around $17,000 to $21,000, this compact unit is lightweight enough to be towed by many standard sedans and crossover SUVs. It lacks a bathroom in its base layout, focusing purely on a bed, small dinette, and kitchenette.
- Scamp 16-Foot Standard/Deluxe: Ranging from $22,000 to $27,000, the 16-foot model introduces options for a wet bath, a larger front sofa that converts into bunks, and a more spacious rear dinette area.
- Scamp 19-Foot Fifth-Wheel: Priced from $27,000 to $33,000+, this flagship model requires a pickup truck equipped with a fifth-wheel hitch. It provides a loft bed over the truck bed, a full bathroom, a large lounge area, and significantly more interior headroom.
Essential Factory Add-Ons and Custom Options
The factory base price covers the fundamental fiberglass shell, chassis, tires, basic cabinetry, and primary appliances. However, most buyers customize their builds with factory-installed packages and individual components that enhance off-grid capabilities and comfort.
| Option / Package | Estimated Cost Range | Description & Utility |
|---|---|---|
| Factory Deluxe Wood Package (Oak or Birch) | $2,000 - $4,000 | Replaces the standard marine-grade carpeting wall covering and gray cabinet doors with fine wood cabinetry. |
| Roof-Mounted Air Conditioning | $1,200 - $1,800 | Essential for hot-weather camping; requires shore power or a heavy-duty portable generator to run. |
| Group 24 or 31 Deep Cycle Battery & Box | $250 - $500 | Powers interior LED lights, water pump, and furnace fan when dry camping. |
| Factory Installed Solar Package | $600 - $1,500 | Roof-mounted panels and charge controllers for sustained off-grid electrical supply. |
| Factory Toilet / Wet Bath (16ft & 19ft models) | $1,500 - $3,000 | Integrated marine toilet and shower setup, requiring black and gray water holding tanks. |
| Factory Propane Furnace | $800 - $1,200 | Forced-air heating system for extended-season and cold-weather camping trips. |
| Factory Awning | $800 - $1,200 | Manual roll-out patio awning for exterior shade and weather protection. |
Hidden Costs of Buying and Owning a Scamp
The financial commitment of owning a Scamp trailer extends beyond the invoice provided by the factory. Buyers must account for logistical and administrative expenses that arise before the trailer ever touches a campground.
Factory Delivery versus Factory Pickup
Scamp does not ship trailers to individual homes or third-party dealers. Buyers must either drive to the factory in Backus, Minnesota, to pick up their unit in person or hire a commercial transport broker.
- Factory Pickup: Involves the cost of fuel, lodging, and travel time to Minnesota. Many owners turn this into their maiden voyage home.
- Professional Delivery: Hiring a transport service to tow the trailer from Minnesota to your driveway typically costs between $1.50 to $3.00 per loaded mile, adding $1,000 to $3,500+ depending on geographic distance.
Registration, Titling, and Taxes
Because Scamp trailers are motor vehicles, state departments of motor vehicles require formal registration and titling. Buyers must pay local sales tax based on their home jurisdiction at the time of registration, alongside annual license plate fees. Depending on the state, these initial administrative fees can add 5% to 10% of the total purchase price.
Insurance Premiums
Securing specialized RV insurance is mandatory if you finance the trailer and highly recommended regardless. Comprehensive and collision coverage for a Scamp typically ranges from $300 to $700 annually, depending on your driving record, storage location, and agreed-upon total loss replacement value.
Comparing New Factory-Direct vs. Used Scamp Trailers
Purchasing a brand-new Scamp grants you a factory warranty, custom-selected interior configurations, and pristine components. However, waiting lists can span several months. Conversely, the secondary market offers immediate ownership, but requires careful inspection for structural integrity and water intrusion.
- New Scamp Pros: Full factory warranty, customizable layouts, zero previous wear, pristine axle and suspension system.
- New Scamp Cons: Higher financial outlay, potential wait time for production slots, delivery or travel logistics to Minnesota.
- Used Scamp Pros: Immediate availability, lower initial price barrier, often includes aftermarket upgrades (upgraded mattresses, extra solar, dual propane tanks).
- Used Scamp Cons: No factory warranty, risk of hidden water damage or frame rust, high competition driving up used prices near original retail value.
Step-by-Step Guide to Budgeting Your Scamp Purchase
- Determine the Exact Layout: Assess whether a 13-foot, 16-foot, or 19-foot model fits your family size, storage space, and towing vehicle capabilities.
- Calculate Towing Requirements: Verify your vehicle's payload and towing capacities. If your current vehicle cannot handle the tongue and gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), budget for a vehicle upgrade.
- Select Desired Options: Visit the official Scamp Trailers website configuration tool to estimate the total factory cost including taxes and mandatory fees.
- Account for Transit Logistics: Calculate whether driving to Minnesota or hiring a transport company aligns better with your schedule and budget.
- Establish an Upgrades Fund: Reserve an extra $500 to $1,500 for post-purchase accessories such as leveling blocks, specialized water hoses, tongue locks, and bedding.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a brand new Scamp trailer cost?
Brand new Scamp trailers generally range from $17,000 for a bare-bones 13-foot model up to $33,000+ for a fully loaded 19-foot fifth-wheel. Adding custom packages, deluxe wood finishes, and off-grid solar will push the final build toward the higher end of that spectrum.
Do Scamp trailers hold their resale value?
Yes, Scamp trailers retain their resale value exceptionally well compared to conventional stick-and-tin RVs. Due to their molded fiberglass shell design, which resists wood rot and leaks, older well-maintained models frequently sell on the secondary market for close to what their original owners paid.
Can my current vehicle tow a Scamp trailer?
The 13-foot Scamp weighs roughly 1,200 to 1,500 pounds dry, making it towable by many small SUVs and crossover vehicles. The 16-foot and 19-foot models require significantly higher towing capacities and proper hitch configurations, with the 19-foot fifth-wheel strictly requiring a pickup truck.
Why doesn't Scamp sell through traditional RV dealerships?
Scamp operates on a direct-to-consumer factory-built model out of Minnesota. By eliminating dealer middlemen and franchise markups, they maintain strict quality control and pass direct cost savings on to the consumer, though it requires buyers to handle pickup or private freight arrangements.
What maintenance costs should I expect annually?
Annual maintenance costs for a Scamp are relatively low, typically ranging from $150 to $400 for wheel bearing repacking, tire inspection, propane system checks, and winterization supplies. The molded fiberglass exterior requires minimal upkeep aside from occasional washing and UV waxing.
Conclusion and Next Steps
Investing in a Scamp trailer requires careful financial planning that accounts for base manufacturing prices, transit logistics, custom options, and ongoing registration fees. Because these lightweight fiberglass campers offer unmatched durability and high resale value, approaching the purchase with a clear, comprehensive budget ensures you get the exact layout and features you need for years of reliable outdoor adventures. To begin your journey, visit the official Scamp Trailers manufacturer platform to review current production schedules and configure your ideal build.
