Hopping into a Recreational Vehicle (RV) and riding away in comfort and glee, meandering through various places with freedom – this is a dream not many can resist. According to the Recreational Vehicle Association, over 10 million households own an RV of some sort.
Here’s the shocker: while RVs are typically associated with retirees and people at the twilight of their working life, there is a boon of these vehicles among the young. A CNBC report showed that millennials are pushing sales of RV to record highs.
From a sense of adventure, a vacation get-away to finding an alternative living option, there are many reasons for which people opt for an RV or a motorhome. Buying this kind of vehicle is perhaps one of the biggest financial decisions you will ever make. Before you take the plunge, make sure you consider these five points.
Be Clear on Your Motives
Knowing the reason for which you are purchasing the RV can make a world of difference. Are you looking for a vacation home or do you want to move out of your house entirely to live and work from an RV?
Not all RVs are created equal. Class A RVs are high-end and luxurious. These are motorhomes or large buses that have dining, living, and bathroom space. They have a robust body with large windows and an extensive space for family activities.
Class B RV, on the other hand, has fewer facilities and less space, but it is more affordable. It usually consists of a sleeping area and a place to cook but may not come with a washroom. Class C RVs are a compromise between Class A and B and make for a comfortable and affordable living. Finally, there is a range of towable vehicles that includes travel trailers, 5th wheel trailers, folding trailers, and tent trailers. They are often a popular option for renters. You also want to consider other items you may need like rv covers for example.
Depending on your reason for wanting an RV, you can go for any of these options.
Conduct Extensive Research
Don’t let any salesman harangue you into buying an RV when you haven’t conducted in-depth research yourself. Taking advantage of RV communities can help you make the right decision. There’s nothing like talking to someone who owns or has owned an RV before. Their experiences, insights, and advice will help you get on the right track.
You are certain to miss a few things if you rush through your buying decision. Go through listings on various sites and take your time to compare options from various dealers. For instance, if you are looking to purchase a motorhome, a good motorhome dealer will have an in-house team that is dedicated to helping you do your research and pick out the right choice.
Inspect an RV Before Buying
While this point may seem like a no-brainer, there are so many who gloss over this important point only to regret it a few years down the line.
That is why it is a good idea – especially if you are settling for a second-hand vehicle – to go along with a trusted mechanic who is well-versed in RVs to thoroughly inspect the RV you are considering and to make recommendations. Look out for wears and tears, layout, storage capacity, plumbing works, insurance, warranty, etc. Put special attention at the sleeping area and the mattress itself for signs of severe use and need of a new and probably custom rv bed replacement.
The Last Rung on the Ladder
Purchasing an RV, whether used or brand new is not a simple task. Considering the enormous investment that you need to make in buying an RV, it is imperative that you take your time to meticulously consider all the options before making a buying decision.