What To Know When Buying a Recreational Vehicle

Is the RV Lifestyle for You?

There’s nothing worse than making a big purchase and regretting it. Think carefully about whether a recreational vehicle would fit your lifestyle and whether you will have the time to use it. Buying an RV is regarded as extravagant, and you don’t want to have buyer’s remorse.

What Are the Costs of Owning an RV?

Like any other motor vehicle, an RV requires regular maintenance to run smoothly. Depending on where you park it, there will be a cost for RV parks, campgrounds, and off-site locations.

If you are towing your RV, you’ll need to buy a trailer or a vehicle that can handle towing it. You’ll also have to consider insurance and other costs on the road, such as gas, food, and perks like satellite TV, internet, and streaming services.

What Type of Recreational Vehicle Suits Your Needs?

There are various RVs, from pop-up campers to those that fit in the truck bed and fully equipped motorhomes. Take note of your budget, the space you need, and how often you will use the RV before committing.

Should You Buy New or Used?

Buying a used or brand-new RV is up to you. Purchasing a new recreational vehicle means fewer maintenance issues with a warranty from the manufacturer. However, the value tends to depreciate faster. Buying a used RV can be a good deal and save you a lot of money, but they also can have higher maintenance costs.

Who Should You Buy it From?

RV shows and dealers are the best places to buy a recreational vehicle since they are operated by those who know the lifestyle and can better answer your questions. There are also excellent RV buying and selling websites like Camping World, eBay, and RV Trader that can help you find your perfect vehicle. You can contact the manufacturer directly if you already know the brand you like.

When Is The Best Time to Buy an RV?

The best time to buy a recreational vehicle is when you know exactly what you are looking for. Check out the RV’s floor plan, fuel economy, and livability to ensure it fits your budget and lifestyle. It’s best to list all the amenities you need, such as storage and appliances. Once you know what you want, you can start looking for the perfect RV for you and your family. Knowing the type of RV, the brand, and the layout you prefer will help you make the right decision.

What Type of RV Should You Buy?

When you start researching recreational vehicles, you will first notice that there are many types to choose from. Below are the different kinds of RVs available:

• Motorhomes are drivable vehicles with living quarters that offer kitchens, sleeping areas, bathrooms, couches, dinettes, and more. These are great for those who want their vehicle and camper combined together. They are perfect for long-distance driving and are easy for overnight stays. However, motorhomes are the most expensive type of RV due to the combined living quarters and vehicle/engine.
• Travel trailers are living spaces on a trailer frame. They include living quarters that offer sleeping areas, a kitchen, a bathroom, AC and heat, a refrigerator, storage, and more. Travel trailers are less expensive than motorhomes because they don’t have an engine and must be towed.
• Pop-up campers are a combination of a tent and a travel trailer. They are the least expensive camper and the easiest to store and tow. They typically have two beds, a small kitchen with cabinets, a small refrigerator, and a heater. A pop-up camper can also include an AC unit, a small bathroom, and a slide-out third bed. They can be easily pulled with almost any vehicle with towing capabilities and be stored in a backyard or driveway.
• Hybrid travel trailers are between a pop-up camper and a hard-sided travel trailer. They are equipped with a queen-size bed that slides out of the front. The hybrid is less expensive, lighter, and shorter than a regular travel trailer. They are also much lighter and easier to tow.
• Micro Campers are built on a 4×8 trailer frame or smaller. They are meant for solo travelers or couples and will sleep 1-2 people max. Most micro campers have a bed, refrigerator, electric hookups, and a heater. Some may have a kitchen and an AC unit.
• Truck Bed Campers, also known as cab-overs or slide-ins, are popular in some regions of the country but less common than travel trailers. These campers can be mounted on a vehicle and removed easily. They include a sleeping area, bathrooms, AC, kitchen, stoves, and furnace. Truck campers are great for up to two people who do a lot of traveling.
• 5th-Wheel Campers are the largest and most luxurious campers because of how they are towed. They have a gooseneck at the front that comes over the truck’s bed and attaches to the center of the bed. The 5th-wheel campers are designed for two people with extra guest beds. These are perfect for couples looking for a fun weekend getaway or traveling the country.