Purchasing an RV can be an exciting experience, especially when it’s your first time. However, before you jump into buying one, there are several things you need to consider to ensure you make the right choice. In this blog post, we’ll go over some of the most important things to keep in mind when purchasing an RV for the first time.
1. Your Budget: The first and foremost thing to consider when buying an RV is your budget. RVs can range from a few thousand dollars to hundreds of thousands of dollars. Knowing how much you can afford will help you narrow down your options and ensure that you don’t overspend. There is a lot that goes into setting your budget, so we break down how to set your RV buying budget in more detail in another post here.
2. Your Needs: There are may types of RVs available including motorhomes, travel trailers, fifth wheels, and more. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages. Before you buy an RV, think about what you’ll be using it for, how many people will be using it, and what amenities are necessary. For example, if you’re planning on traveling solo or with a partner, a small motorhome or travel trailer might be suitable. However, if you’re traveling with a large family, you’ll need something with more storage and sleeping space.
3. Your Tow Vehicle: If you’re planning on purchasing a travel trailer or fifth wheel, you’ll need to ensure that your tow vehicle can handle the weight, safely. Before you buy an RV, make sure to check your vehicle’s towing capacity and compare it to the RV’s weight while also keeping in mind the added weight of cargo, especially water and fuel as those can add up quickly. You’ll also want to consider the kind of hitch, brake controls, and other tow accessories you may need to purchase and ensure you have an well-trained installer.
4. The RV’s Condition: Whether you’re buying a new or used RV, it’s essential to check its condition thoroughly. Take a look at the roof, tires, brakes, electrical, gas, and plumbing systems. If you’re not confident in your ability to evaluate an RV’s condition, consider hiring a professional RV inspector or purchase from a dealer who offers pre-delivery inspections, or PDIs, and walk-throughs with trained RV service technicians. Pre-delivery inspections ensure that the RV is good working condition and walk-throughs give you a chance to ask questions about best practices, maintenance, and how to operate your RV properly.
5. The RV’s Size: The size of the RV can impact where you can camp and how easy it is to maneuver. Larger RVs can be challenging to navigate through tight spaces, while smaller ones may not offer enough space for your needs. If you plan to camp in more mountainous areas or older state parks, shorter RVs with fewer slides might be best. Curvy roads and RV slots that were often built in the 1950s and 1960s in these areas make it a challenge to navigate tight spots around trees or have adequate space for deep opposing slideouts. However, larger units offer more interior space and can include features like generators, more fresh water capacity, and additional air conditioners to name a few.
6. The RV’s Storage: Another consideration when purchasing an RV is storage. Think about where you’ll store the RV when you’re not using it. If you don’t have a dedicated storage area, you’ll need to find a suitable location, which can impact your budget. If you plan to store your RV at home, be sure to check that there are no restrictions in your county or with your neighborhood HOA.
7. The RV’s Warranty: Finally consider the RV’s warranty. New RVs come with a factory warranty, but used ones typically do not. Make sure to ask about the RVs warranty and what it covers. You can also purchase extended warranties on new and used RVs with varying terms and deductibles, so but sure to ask your dealer or financing organization about your options when purchasing your RV.
In conclusion, purchasing an RV is a significant investment, and it’s essential to consider all factors before making a decision. By taking into account your budget, needs, tow vehicle, the RV’s condition, size, storage, and warranty, you can ensure that you make the right choice and enjoy your RV for years to come.
