Avoid These Mistakes When Buying An Rv Or Camper
Every year, dozens of new models of travel trailers, fifth wheels, toy haulers, and motor homes get on the market. Thus, when you want to buy an RV or camper, whether you have bought several RVs or it's your first time, there are numerous decisions you have to make due to the many options available.
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The more options you have, the higher your chances to make mistakes, especially if you're not experienced. So how do you ensure you don't choose the wrong RV or camper?
1. Choosing the wrong condition
Condition is an essential factor to consider when buying an RV. While getting a new recreational vehicle sounds more desirable, with value depreciation at 20% once you drive it off the lot and nearly 10% every year after purchase, it can be quite daunting to consider investing in something that's value constantly reduces. Nonetheless, purchasing a used RV has its challenges as well. You get it at a reduced price but may have to incur extra costs to make repairs and/or aesthetic improvements.
Allowing the first owner to take the significant depreciation hit can save you thousands of dollars down the line. New RVs have fresh-off-the-lot problems as well, including interior construction and chassis issues, which are usually seen during the first actual ride. By choosing a used RV, somebody else has already noticed and fixed those issues that arise with the first few trips.
2. Not checking the right size
Since RVs are big, you may assume that they can accommodate whatever you put inside. Carefully examine how you want to use your RV, where you intend to travel with it, and how your household size may change in the coming years. Also, consider the storage size you need. Ensure you buy an RV with adequate room for your camping gear, such as bikes. If possible, rent an RV the same size you plan to purchase. That in-person experience will help you determine if the RV will be correctly sized for your needs.
3. Overlooking towing specifications and width and height
With recreational vehicles that require towing- such as fifth wheels, trailers, and pop-ups- it's crucial to consider the vehicle's towing capacity and weight. When determining the weight of your RV, don't ignore the pounds added by items such as bedding and clothes, cookware and dishes, and other items. In addition, consider the width and height of the vehicle. You don't want to end up scraping a concrete underpass because your RV is relatively high or too wide to clear the way. Ensure you include the height of the antennae and other accessories when determining the overall height.
4. Taking ownership before inspecting
Buying a new camper offers you an opportunity to explore all the available options. If all checklist items aren't entirely fixed or are not what you expected, don't sign the documents and hold off picking the RV up or accepting delivery. The dealer will probably make corrections more quickly while it remains in their ownership.
5. Overlooking roadside assistance
Even if your automobile insurance coverage includes roadside assistance, it's less likely to cover towing of your recreational vehicle. When you buy insurance coverage for the camper itself, ask your insurance provider about your available options for roadside assistance.
6. Choosing an RV with several aftermarket modifications
With the emergence of the "van life" movement, most RV owners modify their vehicles to make them more aesthetically pleasing. Nevertheless, you should be cautious when choosing an RV with modifications like high roofs or different driver and passenger seats. These modifications are not as safe as those tried and tested by the original manufacturer. For example, removing the initial roof from an RV and adding a new higher top removes the metallic support beams that surround the passengers. In addition, most extended vehicles have a greater rollover risk, and making them taller makes that risk greater. While it can be tempting to drive a more aesthetically pleasing vehicle, safety should be a top priority when buying.
7. Thinking bigger is better
Since you will be spending a lot of time in your camper, you want to feel comfortable. Choosing a small RV can make traveling seem claustrophobic, but that doesn't imply you buy the largest RV available on the market. Don't choose a bigger vehicle than you need. The best RV experience is all about what happens outside the RV. A smaller RV will be easier to drive and park and faster to erect and tear down. In addition, most national and state parks have length limitations for camping, so have this in mind when picking the size for you.
RV or camper buying should be a calculated decision. It's a significant investment, and you can be fraught with errors if you don't do your due diligence. Avoid these common mistakes most RV buyers make, and you will have a better opportunity to enjoy your trips free of the disturbing knowledge that should've done better, and now you're paying the price.
Author: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice regarding health or finances. It is not intended to endorse any individual or company. This article is AI-generated and may contain inaccuracies or unreliable information. Readers should consult a qualified professional for personal advice.
