Buying an RV for the First Time Tips

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Last Updated on October 23, 2024 by Paul Clayton

Buying an RV for the First Time Tips

Have you finally decided to embark on your RV lifestyle dream? Are you planning to turn that dream into reality but are a bit lost on how to do so or where to start? Venturing into RV ownership can be exciting yet intimidating, especially for first-time buyers.

Our comprehensive guide on buying an RV for the first time tips are designed to streamline this process and make it less overwhelming.

RVing may seem like a fun and exciting thing to try. It is, but it also has some challenges, and you must be ready to face them. The first challenge you will face when you decide on your journey is buying an RV for the first time.

This might seem easy, but with the sheer number of RV brands, models, types, and options today, choosing the right one that fits your needs and preferences can be daunting. But remember, things are always hard initially, so embrace yourself.

In this article, we will provide useful tips for buying an RV for the first time. You should always refer to them when you feel lost, as they will assist you in this confusing process. Hopefully, by the end, you will have an overall idea of how to get yourself a good deal.

Keep on reading!

Tips For Buying an RV For the First Time

Undoubtedly, there are different steps when making a large purchase. The last thing you want to do is rush to your buyer and then regret your purchasing choice, which you will now have to live with for the next few years.

Why? You didn’t take the time to consider different aspects and factors that can alter and shape your purchasing choice.

With the expanding RV industry, you have more choices than ever before. That’s why you must take your time and research the best way possible.

You will need to consider your needs and purposes, your budget, and the additional costs this lifestyle brings, among other things. The more you have answers to your questions, the better your purchasing choice will be.

You may also like: What is the best time of year to buy a travel trailer? 7 Tips For Getting a Bargain

As you go through this list of tips, you might find yourself answering some easily, and others might take longer to figure out. In both cases, take your time and make the right choice.

1. Define why you need an RV

The first step you will want to work on in this process is defining and determining your purpose. This is one of the essential factors to consider. The purpose of buying an RV can be a significant determinant of other factors that come along the way.

Therefore, a narrowed and precise purpose can give you some points to quickly answer other points in this list. Ask yourself these questions:

• Are you planning to live in your RV for an extended period?
• Is it just for weekend getaways?
• Will you be traveling around for long distances in your RV?
• Will you be living there with your family? How many members are in your family?
• Are you planning to host your friends there in the future

People purchase an RV for different reasons, and based on your purchasing reason, you can determine your needs.

2. What kind of RV do you want?

Know that you have decided and determined your purposes and reasons for buying an RV; you need to think about what type of RV will make sense for you. There are different RV categories that you need to choose from:

• Class A: This category is ideal for living full-time there; it is suitable for many people and usually resembles huge buses towing a small vehicle at the back.
• Class B: This category is also suitable for up to 6 people. Its vans are affordable, and their size depends on the owner’s preferences. The oversized ones come with slide-outs.
• Class C: An RV is constructed in this category on a pickup truck frame.
• Fifth Wheels: Huge touring vans
• Travel trailers are smaller than the Fifth wheels yet still oversized.

Based on this, you must choose between two main kinds of RVs: drivable and towable RVs. Drivable RVs are usually motor homes or camper vans and fall under Class A, B, and C.

Towable RVs are trailers that you connect to your tow vehicle. They fall under the travel-trailers, fifth wheels, and pickup campers classes.

3. What brand do you want? 

After you choose an RV suitable for your purposes, research your brand. You want to look for a decent and reliable RV brand signature.

There are plenty of brands there. Some have been on the market for a year, and others have just launched with their new features and models. Don’t be swayed by fancy features and get lost in them; if possible, you will want to get something that will last you a lifetime.

Also, remember no brand is perfect. Each has its pros and cons. With time, and after doing good research you will find yourself driven to a certain brand.

4. Consider the size, weight, and type if you go with a towable RV trailer

It is essential to know what kind of camper you will tow at the back end of your vehicle. You have to consider both their weight and size carefully. In some state and city parks, the size of your overall RV matters, and they even place size restrictions.

The width, length, and height are important determinants when towing and parking your RV. Weight-wise, your vehicle won’t be able to tow an overweight camper.

Your vehicle’s weight restriction should not be exceeded. You must check how much weight your car hitch can handle. Therefore, make sure you know your vehicle’s requirements before you purchase.

5. Keep in mind additional costs and list them down

After all, it is just not about you buying an RV only; you have to consider the additional costs that come with it. Planning and listing these costs will help you determine how much you will spend on eventually buying your RV. Check out some of the expenses that you need to keep in mind:

1. Insurance: Depending on your option, the RV insurance prices differ accordingly. You can find further details about RV insurance here.
2. Maintenance: Our RV will face different road and weather conditions while living your RV’s life. Therefore, you must check it regularly to ensure it is in good condition. Some maintenance can be quite costly, but not as much as the cost of house maintenance.
3. Storage: Depending on which area of the country you are in, storing your RV can be either cheap or expensive. However, if you can store it on your property, you are good to go.
4. Camping Fees: Your plan will come with an associated price depending on your purposes each year, where you will be heading, or where you will be staying.

Determine how much it will cost to camp or park in your destination areas. If they are not free, you should schedule ahead of time. However, if you stay in one location and not move around frequently, you can spend less money.

1. Utilities: Depending on the different options and features available in your RV, you need to consider essential utilities like water, electricity, gas, and the internet, especially if you are working remotely.
2. Fuel is one of the biggest expenses that you should consider, especially if you move around quite frequently. While traveling, you should also consider the prices of road, bridge, and tunnel tolls.
3. Taxes: some states might charge you local taxes once you buy your first RV. Depending on your state, determine what kind of taxes and registration fees you must consider and add to your list.

6. Study your budget and determine how you are going to pay for it

After you have reviewed the different factors that can add up to your overall costs, it is time for you to decide on your budget and determine how much you will spend on it and how you will do so.

It is good for you if you have already determined to pay in cash. However, you should consider one if you don’t have cash and need an alternative plan. You can choose an RV financing plan.

If you were to choose an RV financing plan, you have to keep a couple of things in mind. RVs have a shorter payoff rate than vehicles, and they are usually paid off within 15 years. Remember, the longer it is, the more you have to pay.

7. Attend an RV show and know our RV worth

An RV show can be a good way to become familiar with some RV companies, owners, and brands. The shows usually display different brands and RV model options for people to see.

This will help those interested to know more about that model and the manufacturer company. Not only that, but also about its price worth. You don’t have to purchase on the spot; you can only go there to look at what is being displayed and what could please your eyes and meet your needs and preferences.

Try to get as much information and details as possible and take notes. This is your chance to understand better what you want to consider when buying your RV.

8. Connect with other RV owners

Knowing other people’s expertise and experience in the RV industry can help you understand different things about RV brands, lifestyles, and other essential tips to consider.

Try to network with other RV owners, especially those with the same purposes and preferences. Ask them about the goods and beds you need to consider.

Trust me, RVers are always excited to share their experiences and advantages with other interested people. Therefore, don’t be afraid to ask questions. You can also join online forums and discussions that can help you learn more details and information.

9. Schedule your purchase

Good deals are always available during the winter and fall seasons or at the beginning of the season when old models RVs are displayed at an affordable price.

10. Locate your store dealers and visit

Try to visit your brand’s different manufacturers and dealerships in the area; you don’t have to buy from the first you visit. Check at least 4 to 5 stores before deciding on one. This will help you get a better deal every time.

Some of them will provide better and more affordable warranties than others. Just try not to restrict yourself to one only and take whatever they offer. Also, while you are in it, make sure to compare the different interest rates each of them imposes, especially if they are offering financial plans themselves.

11. Be careful of hidden expenses

Once the dealer contacts you and convinces you to buy their product, he will add additional payments you haven’t considered in your budget. Whether you are aware of this or not, these charges, once they add up, become a good amount of money.

Therefore, try not to get too excited and forget to ask if any extra fees will be paid once you purchase your RV. Asking ahead of time can help you understand whether your budget will allow it and dispute them with the dealer.

12. Your bargaining skills will become your ally

It is good to get a discount and a better offer. You should never accept the first price the dealer offers you. Because he knows you want some discounts at a certain point, he is offering a higher price range just in case.

If you are not very good at bargaining, here are some tips that you can consider:

• Always start by asking how much it costs and act surprised when you hear our dealer’s price tag.
• Ask him what the best deal is and if you can get discounts. Try to compare the deals with other shops, emphasizing how good the deals are.
• Try to purchase either at the end of the month or the year’s end. You will be surprised at the great deals they offer since they usually want to close the sale at that time.
• Acting rudely and ignorantly with your salesperson will not get you the good deal you want. Try always to be friendly and likable; you will see how interested they are in doing business with you.
• Have a look around at different dealerships before you decide on one. Visiting different dealerships will give you leverage, as none want to lose you to their competitors. Mention other great deals you have encountered at other shops and convince them you are here because you are looking for an exceptional deal.
• If you are buying a used RV, get a full examination. This will allow you to identify the different problem areas with your RV, which can help you get a better deal if you use them as a bargaining tool.

Is RV Easy To Maintain?

Is RV easy to maintain? The answer largely depends on the owner’s diligence with routine maintenance. Like any vehicle, an RV will inevitably require some repairs, but staying proactive with regular upkeep can keep these to a minimum. Standard RV maintenance encompasses regular oil changes, crucial for maintaining the engine’s smooth operation.

While an RV might demand more attention than your average car, it can remain in optimal condition for years with consistent care and servicing. Therefore, an RV is relatively easy to maintain with a disciplined approach.

Conclusion

Investing in an RV can be complex, especially if it’s your first time. Some essential tips for buying an RV for the first time are to define your budget. This will give you a clear idea of what you can afford without straining your finances. Secondly, determine the type of RV that suits your travel needs and budget. Consider factors such as size, layout, and amenities.

Another critical point to ponder is whether to buy a new or used RV. Each option has its pros and cons, so weigh them carefully. A new RV may have modern features, but it’s often more expensive and depreciates quickly. On the other hand, a used RV can be budget-friendly but may require more maintenance.

Remember to calculate the total cost of ownership, including insurance, fuel, and maintenance costs. Always research thoroughly before making a decision. Explore different makes and models, read reviews, and seek advice from experienced RV owners. Before finalizing the purchase, inspect the RV thoroughly for any damage, wear, or potential issues that might lead to costly repairs in the future.

These tips should guide you toward making a well-informed decision when buying an RV for the first time.

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