Almost 31,000 people bought an RV in May 2023 alone. An RV is a great way to vacation or even to live. You have the freedom to go where you want when you want.
However, buying the wrong RV can ruin your plans. Keep reading to learn about 5 errors in buying RVs and how to avoid them.
Table Of Contents
1. Not Doing Enough Research
Doing your research is essential before you buy an RV. Talking to other RV owners is a good place to start. You can also find many resources online.
Look at reviews of the RV you’re thinking of purchasing. Be sure to look for the exact make, model, and year. Manufacturers can make significant changes from one year to the next.
Comparing RV costs is also important. Pricing tools like the Kelley Blue Book can tell you the average sale price for the types of RVs you’re considering. RV-specific marketplaces as well as sites like Facebook and Craigslist can help you find the fair market price.
2. Choosing the Wrong RV Dealer
Researching the RV dealer is just as important as researching the RV. Recommendations and reviews can help you decide if you want to work with a dealer or not.
Be sure to look at their service and warranty reviews. RV dealers are notorious for poor service. Finding the right local RV shop will improve your entire ownership experience.
3. Buying the Wrong Size RV
Many people buy an RV that’s too big or too small. Larger RVs are harder to maneuver. You’re more limited in the types of camping sites you can use.
On the other hand, an RV that’s too small can make your experience less enjoyable. You may not have enough room to store your belongings or comfortably carry your passengers.
Renting different sizes and types of RVs before you buy can help you avoid this mistake.
4. Paying Too Much
Like a car, a new RV loses significant value as soon as you drive it off the dealer’s lot. You can save money by buying a gently-used RV. Visit the Leisureland used RVs section to see how much you could save.
You may think you’re avoiding problems when you buy new. In fact, new RVs can have as many problems or more as used ones. If you choose an RV that’s a couple of years old, the first owner may have fixed these issues.
You can also save money by buying from the right dealer. Doing research online will show you which dealers have the best prices. If your local RV shop won’t negotiate, go to one that is more competitive.
5. Not Getting an RV Inspection
Even if you’re considering a new RV, you should get an inspection before you buy. An independent RV expert will tell you about problems that may not be easy to see.
An independent inspection could save you thousands of dollars in repairs. It can also help you negotiate the price of the RV. You can find an inspector through the National Recreational Vehicle Inspectors Association (NRVIA).
Avoid These Errors in Buying RVs
You can avoid common errors in buying RVs. Researching the RV you want to buy, as well as the dealership, will give you a good start. Research and even renting a few RVs will help you find the right model.
You can save money by choosing a used RV. Be sure to get an inspection, though. You’ll be on your way to enjoying the RV life!
For more ways to travel better, check out the rest of our articles.