2024 Lance 850 Limited vs 2025 Palomino Backpack HS-800

Detailed Comparison

Two noteworthy RVs face off: the 2024 Lance 850 Limited and the 2025 Palomino Backpack HS-800. From dimensions to amenities, here's the full breakdown.

In terms of footprint, the Lance 850 Limited stretches 10.5 ft while the Palomino Backpack HS-800 spans 6.5 ft. Weight-wise, the Palomino Backpack HS-800 is the lighter rig at 2,200 lbs versus 2,700 lbs.

Capacity-wise, expect to sleep 4 in the Lance 850 Limited versus 3 in the Palomino Backpack HS-800. With 1 and 0 slide-outs respectively, the parked floor plans differ significantly.

Tank capacities are a key off-grid consideration. The Lance 850 Limited carries 13 gal of fresh water, 29 gal gray, and 6 gal black. The Palomino Backpack HS-800 offers 21 gal fresh, 15 gal gray, and 25 gal black. The Palomino Backpack HS-800 has the edge for extended dry camping.

Budget-wise, the Palomino Backpack HS-800 is listed at $17,000 compared to $17,000 for the Lance 850 Limited.

For occasional getaways, the more affordable and nimble option usually makes the most sense. For two travelers seeking comfort without excess, the smaller footprint often wins.

Both options have earned their place in the market. Your trip style and budget should be the final tiebreakers.

When it comes to water management, tank capacity plays a major role in how long you can stay off the grid. The 2025 Palomino Backpack HS-800 carries 21 gallons of fresh water versus 13 gallons in the 2024 Lance 850 Limited, providing an extra 8 gallons for longer boondocking stays. Gray water capacity favors the 2024 Lance 850 Limited at 29 gallons versus 15 gallons, which directly affects how often you need to find a dump station. The 2025 Palomino Backpack HS-800 also leads in black water capacity with 25 gallons compared to 6 gallons, an important consideration for families or full-time travelers.

Electrical systems are increasingly important as RVers rely on more electronics and appliances. The 2024 Lance 850 Limited includes 150W of factory-installed solar, while the 2025 Palomino Backpack HS-800 does not come with solar as standard equipment. The 2025 Palomino Backpack HS-800's 1500W inverter can handle heavier loads than the 500W inverter in the other unit, which matters if you plan to run a microwave, coffee maker, or hair dryer without shore power.

For solo travelers and couples who value maneuverability, the 2025 Palomino Backpack HS-800 with its more compact footprint will be easier to navigate through tight campgrounds and mountain passes. Families with children should lean toward the 2024 Lance 850 Limited, which sleeps up to 4 and provides more flexibility for overnight guests. Full-time RVers who spend extended periods off-grid will benefit most from the 2024 Lance 850 Limited's power setup and the 2025 Palomino Backpack HS-800's water reserves, as these directly impact daily comfort and independence from hookups. Weekend warriors and seasonal campers who primarily stay at full-hookup campgrounds may find that the differences in tank sizes and power systems matter less, allowing them to focus on floor plan preference and overall comfort instead.

Both models carry the same $17,000 MSRP, so the buying decision comes down purely to features, floor plan preference, and brand loyalty rather than budget constraints. It is also worth considering that Lance and Palomino have different dealer networks and warranty programs, which can significantly impact your long-term ownership experience and resale value down the road.