There are a lot of factors to consider before buying an RV, and that can be overwhelming. However, industry experts like us can help make the process easier. We’re here to provide you with the RV buying tips you need in order to make the right decision for your travel lifestyle.
Different RV types
When it comes to RVs, there is no one-size-fits-all. Everyone has their unique travel goals, which means a potential buyer needs to browse the different RV types. Of course, the best way to gain a better understanding of travel preferences is to rent an RV and try it out for yourself! This is a great way to get a feel for operating a motorhome and familiarize yourself with the space. If you’re interested in towable trailers, it’s a good idea to do multiple in-person walkthroughs.
There are many different RV types to choose from, each offering something different for every traveler. The two main types of RVs are motorhomes and towable trailers. Motorhomes consist of Class A, Class B (or campervans), and Class C RVs. Towable trailers include 5th wheels, travel trailers, and toy haulers. Pop-up campers are also considered vehicles, as all 50 states require them to be registered.
Motorhomes are drivable RVs, offering both convenience and luxury. In most states, you don’t need a special driver’s license to operate a motorhome. However, if your vehicle weighs over 26,000 pounds, some states require a commercial driver’s license. Although you likely won’t need one, be sure to check in advance.
Towable trailers are the most popular type of RV, offering the greatest versatility. 5th wheels are the largest available RVs on the market. These are great options for families or people who plan to live on the road full-time and need the space. There are many different model types that range greatly in size. If you’re considering a trailer, make sure you know how much weight your tow vehicle can handle.
Choosing the right RV comes down to your travel goals and budget expectations. Each RV type has its own unique advantages and features. It’s up to you to decide what you want to prioritize. Ask yourself, what do you want to use your RV for? If you’re informed, you will be confident to choose the right option for your travel lifestyle.
New vs used RV
Before buying an RV, you will need to decide whether you want to buy new or used. A good place to start is reaching out to friends, members of RVing communities, or online forums for input from experienced RVers. There are benefits to buying both new and used, which is why you should carefully consider which would be best for you.
Buying a new RV off the dealer lot is exciting. Newer models come along with the latest technologies and amenities. Additionally, the vehicle has not been subject to any wear or malfunctions. If there happened to be some sort of defect, the manufacturer warranty would take care of it. However, new RVs are very expensive. Down payments are costly, and financing isn’t always the best option.
Buying used RVs is a popular option. They are more cost effective, as they lose value more slowly and the initial price is much lower than a new unit. There is always a chance that repairs will need to be addressed, but that is why you will go through the inspection process. Many RVers plan to resell their rig after putting some mileage into it, so this is important to consider as well. You want to get the most value out of your purchase.
RVs depreciate over time, but some models retain value better than others. If you don’t consider resale value while purchasing, this may lead to unnecessary financial losses down the road. Many factors contribute to resale value, such as manufacturer reliability, a transferable RV warranty, vehicle age, mileage, and condition.
RV features
Features and amenities are key considerations when buying an RV. You need to think about the things you can’t live without, versus features you’re unlikely to utilize. RVs are expensive, and you don’t want to spend a lot of money on an appliance you feel indifferent about.
It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of fancy features and upgrades, but purchasing more amenities than necessary can lead to overspending on equipment that will go unused. When deciding which features you want, you need to consider cost, utility, maintenance, space, resale value, and personal preference. When purchasing an RV, it’s crucial to balance excitement for fancy features with practicality and budget considerations.
A great way to explore different RVs is to visit RV shows where experts can walk you through details of various models. Moreover, consider creating a checklist of must-have features. This will help you determine your layout preferences as well, so you can feel confident when it’s time to purchase.
Budgeting for your RV purchase
As you are already aware, an RV is a significant financial investment. To help break things down and manage expectations, it’s a good idea to create an RV budget based on your goals. How frequently do you plan to travel? Will you be traveling full-time or seasonally? How much would you be willing to contribute to a down payment? These are the questions that will help you develop a clear budget.
A good start is making estimations in each spending category. Create a budget for monthly loan payments, factor in the cost of repairs or extended warranty, and budget your trips. This will take some work, but ultimately having solid budget expectations will allow you to better review your options when it comes to which RV to buy.
RV inspection checklist
Before buying an RV—especially if it’s used—your vehicle will need to undergo inspection. Don’t spend any money until a certified RV inspector has thoroughly reviewed your vehicle and provided a clean bill of health. The inspection process is intended to root out any unresolved repair concerns so those can be addressed. The new owner will not be on hook for any unexpected maintenance issues.
To complete a thorough inspection, your licensed RV inspector should review the following components. For a more detailed checklist about each item, you can check out the guide from RV Blogger. Here is an RV inspection checklist that can be used for both motorhomes and towable trailers, new or used:
Systems
- RV Engine and generator
- Electrical systems
- Water lines
- Holding tanks
- Propane
Exterior
- Exterior shell
- Air conditioning unit
- Slide-outs
- Hitch
- Underbelly
- Wheels
- Leveling jacks
Interior
- Furniture
- Appliances and electronics
- Cabinetry
- Flooring
- Walls
- Windows
- Ceiling
- Dashboard
- Storage Bay
RV manufacturers will complete the inspection process before their rigs are transported to a dealership. Additionally, good RV dealers will conduct their own inspections when the vehicle arrives on the lot and before the buyer leaves the lot. To ensure your new rig is in good working order, work with a dealer who takes precautionary measures.
If you’re buying a used RV, you may need to acquire inspection details from the seller or hire a certified RV inspector yourself. Or, if you are planning to buy an extended warranty, some warranty companies will send an inspector to your location. You will be able to sign your warranty contract as soon as the policy administrator receives proof that your vehicle is in good working condition.
How much will RV dealers come down on price
Negotiating prices can be difficult. However, you may be able to sway your dealer. How much they are willing to come down on price depends on a few factors. These include market demand, inventory age, manufacturer incentives, dealer policies, and time of year. Of course, your negotiation skills may influence the final price.
Units that have been sitting on the lot longer may be offered at discounted prices, and dealers may be more willing to bring price down. However, some dealers may have strict policies and offer more fixed pricing. A dealer may also be receiving sales incentives from certain manufacturers, meaning they may be more eager to sell those models. Additionally, pricing may be more negotiable during slow seasons when dealers are more likely to be over inventory. Research your local dealers in advance and ask them these questions.
Best time to buy an RV
There is no universal best time to buy an RV, but there are certainly advantageous times to buy. As stated in the previous section, dealers may be more willing to negotiate during slower sales months. If dealers are over inventory and there isn’t enough demand, prices will go down. This tends to happen during the winter months when traveling slows, but before the new year when prices go up. You can check out the RV Industry Association to keep an eye on RV sales trends and projections.
Additionally, it’s a good idea to check sales and discounts around major traveling holidays. Keep an eye on sales around Memorial Day, Labor Day, and the Fourth of July. Even though they take place during the peak travel season, dealers are eager to draw potential buyers in.
Common pitfalls in RV purchasing
It’s important to know the common pitfalls in RV purchasing so that you know how to avoid them! Being diligent in your research will arm you with the knowledge you need to prevent any of these common mistakes.
Look beyond the initial price. You need to consider factors such as campground costs, fuel prices, repair costs, interest rates, insurance, and extended warranties. However, you don’t want to just buy the cheapest available RV. Budget out your monthly expenses accordingly so you know what to expect.
Another mistake is neglecting RV weight and size. If you are planning on buying a trailer, it’s essential to know your vehicle’s towing capacity. Also, the larger your vehicle, the less accessible routes become. If you’re looking to navigate remote mountainous terrain, a massive 5th wheel probably is not the right choice.
Although we’ve already gone over RV inspections, we want to emphasize their importance. Do not skip the inspection process! This can be a costly mistake. Check for water damage, mechanical issues, and overall function before you buy. You will want to avoid any unpleasant surprises after you’ve already paid for your rig.
This may seem obvious, but that’s why it’s important to include; if you’re buying a motorhome, make sure you test drive it. Motorhomes feel very different to drive from your average everyday vehicle. Motorhomes, especially Class As, are very large and more challenging to maneuver. First and foremost, you’ll want to make sure you’ll be comfortable operating it.
Another pitfall is failing to consider parking and storage ahead of time. You will need to know how you plan to properly store your RV while it is not in use. Improper storage can lead to unnecessary damage—or towing costs. Homeowners’ association policies, local parking ordinances, and long-term storage costs may all impact your decision.
Ultimately, the biggest mistake people make in RV purchasing is not doing enough research. Avoiding these pitfalls requires careful consideration, thorough research, and a clear understanding of your needs and budget. Seeking RV buying tips from fellow RVers and reputable industry representatives will help you make an informed financial decision.
Best RV warranties
When you’re considering purchasing an RV, you need to decide whether you’ll invest in an extended warranty. This will help you with the budgeting process and give you a better idea of overall costs of RV ownership. RV extended warranties, also called extended service contracts, are contracts designed to save people money on repair costs. They provide coverage in the event that an RV suffers an unexpected breakdown.
The best RV warranties will come from reputable providers. You can purchase an extended warranty from either an RV dealer or warranty broker. When you’re buying a new RV from the dealer, they will typically offer you a basic extended warranty plan. The dealer warranty is good for people who prefer convenience.
An RV warranty broker specializes in extended service contracts. Not only will a broker provide specialized knowledge, but they will typically offer more coverage options, a broader range of services, longer terms, varied deductibles, and customer service that extends beyond the initial sign-up process. Working with a warranty company will provide more customized coverage.
Wholesale Warranties is a top provider of RV extended warranties direct to consumer. With an in-house claims support team, Wholesale Warranties offers information and support from the initial quote to the end of your term.
FAQs
What is the best month to buy a RV?
The best month to buy an RV will depend on your specific circumstances and the deals available in your area. There are certain things to look out for. For instance, holiday sales often present good deals. Additionally, it’s a good idea to check prices during the off-peak seasons and end-of-season sales. Late fall and winter months may give you better negotiation power.
Does the age of an RV matter?
RV age and mileage are important things to consider if you’re thinking about buying a used unit. Be sure to research reliable, reputable manufacturers and the lifespans of their vehicles. Keep in mind that the older an RV is, the more likely it is to suffer unexpected failures. However, your used rig may still qualify for an RV extended warranty. Investing in a trustworthy RV Warranty can extend the lifetime of your RV. Get a free quote today.
What is the average lifespan of an RV?
How long an RV lasts depends on several factors. Generally, a well-maintained vehicle could last for many years. Some RV enthusiasts might keep their vehicles in good condition for 20 years or more, while others often sell or trade their RV in for newer models after just a few years. It’s essential to follow regular maintenance schedules, address any issues promptly, and store the RV properly during periods of non-use to maximize its lifespan.
What is the average RV payment?
Prices and monthly payments vary depending on the RV model type. According to Home Guide, towable trailer cost averages anywhere from $20,000 to $100,000. Motorhomes are generally more expensive, costing between $50,000 and $600,000. However, some luxury motorhomes can cost up to $2,000,000. Average monthly payments will vary as a result. Free RV loan calculators are available online to get a better idea of what your monthly payments will look like.
What to look for when buying an RV?
When buying an RV, there are several key factors to consider before making a decision. These include RV type, features, floor plan, vehicle condition, mechanical inspection, towing capacity, budget, resale value, manufacturer reputation, and a test drive or walkthrough. Buying an RV can feel overwhelming, but understanding the importance of each factor, taking your time to research, and addressing each consideration one at a time will help you immensely throughout the buying process.
