Buying your next, or first, RV is a huge undertaking. There are plenty of factors to consider, from price tags, features to personal preferences.
If you don’t think through the decision, chances are good that you’ll regret your choice.
So if you’re thinking about buying an RV, this guide will go through some important questions you need to ask yourself and help you understand the big picture of the investment.
Need a good place to start RV shopping? Check out our inventory at San Angelo RVs.
Consider the Type of Camping or Travel You’ll Do
Before you go RV hunting, first determine how you plan to use it. Will you be using your rig to adventure full-time? Do you plan on being a weekend warrior? Or will you be RV camping just a few weeks every year? Also, consider whether you want to spend significant time boondocking and exploring remote places.
Not all RVs are appropriate for frequent long-distance travel, and even fewer are built to withstand constant driving on rough roads. Another important factor is the type of climate you’ll be spending most of your time in.
Nailing down your travel needs will help you focus your search and find the ideal rig faster when you head to the market.
What Type of RV Do You Need?
If you’re buying an RV for the first time, you need to familiarize yourself with the different types of campers out there. Basically, they are grouped into two categories—motorhomes or towable.
Types of Motorhomes
Motorhomes are drivable RVs that have their own engine and transmission. They include:
- Class A Motorhomes – These massive RVs resemble a bus or semi-truck, with a length of 26 to 45 feet. They cost between $100,000 and $400,000, depending on the amenities.
- Class B Motorhomes – Also known as camper vans, they are built around a van chassis. They are the smallest of the motorized RVs, with a length of 15 to 26 feet. Prices start between $40,000 and $200,000.
- Class C Motorhomes – They are the middle ground between Class As and Bs. These RVs are built on a truck chassis and are recognizable by their over-cab sleeping/storage areas. Size ranges between 21 and 41 feet long. The price tag falls between $50,000 and $250,000.
Types of Towable RVs
Towable RVs are pulled behind your vehicle. They include:
- Travel Trailers – Often called a bumper-pull, this RV is towed by a bumper hitch that extends from the front of the trailer. They can fetch between $12,000 and $55,000.
- Fifth Wheels – It’s a larger type of travel trailer, except it connects to the tow vehicle via a gooseneck extension. The price tag is between $20,000 and 100,000.
- Toy Haulers – They’re massive travel trailers or fifth wheels that provide you a living area while also having the space to carry your outdoor toys, such as ATVs. Cost starts around $20,000 to $250,000.
- Pop-Up Campers – Also known as tent trailers or fold-out camper, they’re a type of RV that features extendable side sections that are collapsed during travel and storage. Expect to pay between $10,000 and $25,000.
- Tear Drop Campers – These are tiny and light RVs with a streamlined shape. They are quite affordable, with prices ranging between $5,000 and $20,000.
What Features are Important for You?
It’s essential to narrow down exactly what you need as opposed to what you want before you buy an RV. Create a wish list of the features that you would like to have, and put them in the order of importance. Here are the important features to consider:
- Space – Can the RV comfortably accommodate the people and pets that will accompany you? How much living and storage space does it offer?
- Bathroom – How important is a full bathroom for you? And what size do you want?
- Sleeping Arrangement – How many people can the RV sleep comfortably?
- Kitchen – Is the kitchen fitted with all essentials you need to store and prepare a family-size meal? That includes a fridge, stovetop, microwave, full sink, and dishwasher.
- Off-grid Capabilities – Do you need a rig fitted with features like solar power, water pumps, and larger holding tanks so you can boondock longer without hookups?
- Air Conditioning and Heating System – Pick a rig that can handle the climate you’ll be spending much time in. AC for hot weather travels, and a heating system and proper insulation for winter travel.
Try Out a Rental RV to Figure Out What You Need
If you are undecided whether buying a new RV is worth it or whether the rig you’re targeting is the best choice, consider renting an RV before you buy. Book a camper that has the same qualities you want.
Renting for a week or more will give you a feel for everything involved with RV ownership without committing to the investment. After a few different rentals, you’ll have some experience and know what features to prioritize, what’s nice to have, what you can live without, and which type of camper fits your desired travel lifestyle.
Should You Buy a New or Used RV?
Many aspiring RV owners struggle to decide whether to buy a new or used camper. A new RV will come with the latest features, zero mileage, and a full manufacturer warranty. The downside is new RVs are sometimes marked up and depreciate fast.
On the other hand, used RVs are a great option if you find a gently used camper with records showing the vehicle was well maintained. You’ll save a considerable amount of money, find a rig that you want that is no longer in production, and insurance will be cheaper. Many even come with upgrades that their previous owners did.
It’s always safer to buy used from a local dealership instead of a private buyer. If you opt for a private seller, insist upon a professional inspection. It’s also advisable to see a free and clear title before handing over any cash.
Other Important Costs to Consider
There are other costs associated with RV ownership. And these expenses depend on the rig you choose. Another consideration to keep in mind is that RVs can be likened to rolling houses in gale force winds when you travel with them. Minor things happen during transit like trim pieces coming loose and fittings rattling loose. So, before buying an RV, figure out whether you can afford the following expenses:
- Insurance – Depends on the type of motorhome or travel trailer, location, condition, and driving history.
- Maintenance and Repair – The more luxuries your rig has, the more it will cost to fix these features when and if they break.
- Fuel – Larger and heavier rigs will cost a lot more to fuel compared to smaller RVs.
- Towing – If you buy a pull behind, you’ll need to invest in the right tow vehicle and equipment.
- Storage – Bigger RVs are hard to park at home and typically cost more to store in storage facilities.
- Campgrounds – Most RV campgrounds charge between $30-$100 a night. Some RV parks have size and age restrictions, so keep that in mind when shopping for an RV.
- Registration Fees – Depends on the state you live in and the type and weight of the RV.
How to Pay for Your RV
How do I pay for my RV? This is one of the most important questions to ask before buying a motorhome or travel trailer. Since it’s a huge investment, you may need to borrow money to purchase an RV.
Many RV dealerships, whether local or national, offer financing options. Alternatively, you can fund the RV purchase through a bank loan or credit union. On average, RV loans have repayment terms between 10 to 15 years.
How to Save Money When Purchasing an RV
To get the best deal on an RV, use these tips:
- Visit local RV dealerships and shows to gather as much information as possible about the types, models, and prices of RVs you’re interested in.
- Search owners’ community forums and learn more about the specific model you want.
- Negotiate, and you could shave off a significant portion of the price tag.
- Take risks when asking for a better deal.
- Get pre-approved for an RV loan, so the dealer knows you’re serious and gives you the best rate and terms.
- Ensure the seller’s follow-up service package is favorable before committing.
- Buy a basic model and upgrade its features later.
- Buy before camping season or at the end of a quarter since dealers may lower prices to meet the sales quota for that period.
- Avoid buying a used RV on the coast, as these rigs die earlier than their inland counterparts due to water damage and salt.
- Be patient
Winding Down the RV Hunt
There are a lot of factors to consider when buying an RV in 2022. However, if you take your time to figure out your needs, talk to the right people, read reviews, ask questions on forums, and compare deals, the process will be smooth. In the end, you’ll make an informed decision, get an outstanding deal, and drive off with the perfect rig.
