In 2024, the demand for new mobile homes (MHs) increased by 25.6%, and more than 97% of this segment is made up of dacha trailers. The average price of such transport is 655 thousand rubles. In March and April, there was also an increase in purchases of used mobile homes in Russia by 13.3%. Why are mobile homes becoming more and more popular among young people?
The charm of freedom offers new opportunities for young travelers, as the cost of air tickets and hotels can become a serious obstacle to free tourism in Russia.
MHs open up unique opportunities for young travelers to explore new places, thanks to this format of movement, you can significantly save on the cost of flights and hotels. Despite the higher upfront costs, mobile homes offer significant benefits such as freedom of movement, flexibility and independence in route planning. According to Rosstat, the greatest interest in MHs and dacha trailers is shown by young people aged 25 to 34 years (88%) and families of four people (84%). These groups prefer to skimp on hotels and rental accommodation when travelling, making mobile homes a particularly attractive option. Their mobility and economy allow you to freely explore new territories and plan routes without worrying about expensive housing.
In order for the MH to last a long time, it is important to store it correctly – in specialized parking lots or in the garage to protect against adverse weather conditions and frosts in winter. Regular maintenance, including condition checks, cleaning of the body and support of heating and power systems, must also be carried out to ensure the reliability and durability of the MH
In the secondary market, mini-trailers cost an average of about 300 thousand rubles, while middle-class trailers will cost from 500 to 600 thousand. The main differences between them are in size, level of comfort and equipment. Mini trailers are usually compact and fit 2-3 people. They are often used for short trips and usually include small sleeping areas, a kitchen and storage shelves. Middle-class trailers are more spacious and can comfortably accommodate 4-5 people. They are often equipped with amenities such as a kitchen, bathroom, storage cabinets and a seating area.
New drop trailers of domestic production cost from 600 thousand rubles. Drops are a type of round, drop-shaped trailer often used for camping and traveling. They are usually designed for 2-3 people and are small in size, making them easier to transport and store.
If we talk about new domestic dacha trailers for 4 people, their cost starts at 1.5 million rubles, while imported models cost from 2 million rubles. These campers offer a higher level of comfort and functionality compared to mini trailers and drops. Such MHs are often equipped with everything necessary for comfortable living: a full-fledged kitchen, toilet, shower and sleeping places. At the same time, modern technologies, such as autonomous power supply and solar panels, make it possible to maintain comfort in them even in remote regions.
Thus, a variety of trailer options make MHs an affordable solution for many people seeking freedom of movement and independence.
Another form of mobile housing is also gaining momentum in Russia – houses on barges. It’s a unique way to live and travel, especially for water lovers. Like MHs, they provide freedom of movement and the ability to explore different places without being tied to one location. The trend is particularly appealing to young people seeking a lifestyle that combines adventure with comfort. Building a house on a barge with an area of about 60 square meters can cost about 600 thousand rubles, plus additional finishing costs, which can range from 200 thousand rubles or more.
Heating and comfort in a mobile home are also important aspects that need to be factored. The heating of a mobile dwelling can be implemented in various ways, and its cost depends on the method and equipment chosen. Gas heaters are one of the most common options. They require regular maintenance and security measures. The cost of gas heaters ranges from 10,000 to 50,000 rubles, and monthly gas costs range from 900 to 3,000 rubles, depending on consumption and gas price. Electric heaters are popular in places with access to electricity, due to their safety and ease of operation. For those who travel frequently or are in remote areas, diesel heaters are suitable – they are more powerful and reliable, but also more expensive. The cost of equipment varies: gas heaters – from 10,000 to 50,000 rubles, electric heaters – from 5,000 to 20,000 rubles, diesel heaters – from 30,000 to 100,000 rubles and more. Heating your mobile home can be beneficial for frequent trips during the cold season, but it’s important to consider fuel or electricity costs and maintenance costs.
Also, modern barge houses require effective heating systems, as they are often in conditions of high humidity and changing temperatures. Similar solutions can be used here: gas, electric and diesel heaters. However, it is important to note that systems such as water heaters or infrared heaters can be used on barges. The average monthly cost of heating houses on barges can vary from 1,500 to 4,000 rubles, depending on the application of a particular type of heating and operating conditions.
Investments in heating a mobile home can be justified with frequent trips during the cold season. New mobile homes with installed heating systems cost from 4 to 5 million rubles, while used ones cost from 600 thousand to 2 million rubles. When choosing a heating system, it is important to consider frequency of use, availability of fuel or electricity, as well as personal preferences and budget.
Mobile dwellings, whether it’s a road-trip mobile home or a water-lover’s barge house, are changing travel perceptions and housing. They allow people to live more freely, combining the comfort of permanent housing with the flexibility to move.
By Alexey Tuzov, independent expert in the transport industry