We’ve been cooped up for months. Now, we are contending with summer sans festivals, fairs, sporting events, and concerts. Pent-up and ready to pop, we’re in desperate need of a vacation.
Alas, planning a vacation during a pandemic is like marching through a sandy beach in 6-inch stilettos. Aside from health concerns, there are travel restrictions, crowds, closures, mandatory quarantines, mask requirements, and confined capsules otherwise known as airplanes to contend with which may be why many are opting for the open road aboard a rolling abode.
With so many models, brands, sizes, and amenities to choose from, it can be difficult to know which RV is right for you and your family. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or upgrading your unit, this article will help guide you through the process of purchasing an RV.
What to Consider When Buying an RV
There are 5 major factors to nail down before you can really start looking to buy an RV.
1. Budget
How much do you have to spend on your RV?
Will you be financing your RV?
How much are you willing to spend on fuel, maintenance, and insurance costs?
Do you want to buy a new or pre-owned RV?
2. Use
How often and for how long do you plan to use your RV?
What type of camping will you be doing? Weekend warrior or long-term? State and national park campgrounds or RV resorts?
3. Size
How many people do you need to sleep?
How much storage do you require?
Will campsites you plan to use accept your vehicle length?
4. Towing
What size of rig are you comfortable driving or towing?
What is the tow rating of your tow vehicle? You’ll want to stay well within this limit or consider upgrading your tow vehicle.
Will you tow a car behind your motorhome (4-wheels down or dolly)?
5. Features
What features are necessities?
What features are nice-to-haves?
Where to Buy an RV
Regardless of where you live in the US or Canada, there are many options for purchasing a new or pre-owned RV.
1. RV Shows
Each year, recreational vehicle associations and RV dealers put on RV shows throughout the United States and Canada. The largest consumer RV Shows take place in Tampa, Florida in January, Hershey, Pennsylvania in September, and Pomona, California in October. At these shows you will find hundreds of RVs for sale and booths packed with RV accessories.
With many RV dealers in one place, you can check out the hundreds of RV models of all different types and sizes. There is something for every budget.
2. RV dealers
If you missed the RV shows, weren’t ready to buy, or plan to special order a unit, dealers are a great option. They’ll have a selection of new and pre-owned RVs. Different dealerships carry different brands and models of RVs and they may offer different incentives. It’s a good idea to check a few different dealerships out, especially if you’re not certain on which RV you want.
3. Private Sales
If you’re looking for a pre-owned RV, check out what is available in private sales. Be aware, though, that you may be buying someone else’s problem. A vehicle inspection is recommended.
Advice on Buying an RV
Always do your research on the brand, model, and seller. Not all manufacturers and RV dealers are created equal.
Don’t be afraid to walk away if a seller makes you feel uncomfortable or is showing you units above your price range or not what you really want.
Best of luck with your buying journey and your next adventures!
In the interests of full disclosure, we currently own a 2019 Dutch Star diesel pusher. This is our fifth Newmar motorhome and Midtown RV in Penticton, British Columbia, is our trusted dealer.
Worth Pondering…
Dreaming, after all, is a form of planning.
—Gloria Steinem