At your age, nothing is permanent though it might feel that way. You need to have an "exit strategy" along with your dream. You've received good info already. Knowing all I know now, with your goal of traveling the US, I'd get a van. Here's an article about a stealth camper:
Stealth Living ArticleI'd also spend a month reading up everything on
Expedition Portal - which is far more suitable for young travelers.
Recommendations:
* Truck with camper shell, bedrug and a roll mattress from Ikea - well within your budget. Con - little headroom.
* Van - better for stealth camping. More roomy inside depending on config. Still well within budget. Can even go with a minivan if wanted to - gas mileage anyone?
* SUV with teardrop - a bit cramped but more options.
* SUV with Casita/Burro style camper - still aerodynamic and decent mileage.
* Motorhome - at your price range - it can be done - but you need to be handy. Can you work a wrench? Your water pump goes out - can you deal with it? Can you take on a job like replacing a thermistor in a refrigerator? If you have to "have it done" every time something goes wrong - you WILL be bankrupt.
I vote for van but early to mid -1990s motorhomes are out there for you. Expect 8 miles per gallon and constant tinkering.
PM me any time. You will have so much fun if you give yourself leverage against spending a lot of time and money on maintenance and repairs.
