First time RV buyers often find the experience to be daunting. By nature motor homes, fifth wheels and travel trailers are as complicated as a new home purchase and at the same time potentially as dodgy as a used car to buy. First time buyers also sometimes find themselves dazzled by the neat gadgets and functions of an RV which can cloud their judgment. Falling in love with a fifth wheel or travel trailer for less than practical reasons can lead to buying the wrong one or paying too much.
It is important to avoid being dazzled. Fortunately this is relatively easy to do. Sit down and a make a list of the things that are important to you in an RV before heading out to the RV lot or visiting an RV sales website like RVSaveALot.com. Even if you are unfamiliar with RVs just think about what you expect out of your new purchase. How do you want to use and what sort of trips do you plan to take with it? How long will you be gone? What appliances or storage will you need for a weekend trips, month long trips or however long you plan to live in it? What will you want to do with your evenings and down-time? Is it important that you have a satellite TV or some other form of entertainment? Decide what is necessary to you and how you want to live on the road. Only when you have made you list should you start looking for the RV that solve these problems. If you wait until you know exactly what you want then you will be in more of a practical mindset comes time to start shopping for an RV.
Now that you know what you want its time to decide where you want your RV, travel trailer, or fifth wheel to be new or used. The advantages and disadvantages are about the same as those with a car. Used RVs are often a better value but new models come with no wear and tear. New models usually come with better warranties and repair agreements. With both motor homes and travel trailers there are a lot of things that can break down from tail lights to facets to the bedroom light making used RVs more likely to have hidden problems. While a car only has three or four major systems RVs have everything from a suspension system to a shower and a full electrical system to the structural issues of a rolling house that must be considered. If you decide to buy a used RV it is best to find one for sale from a reputable business. Make sure that you always bring an experienced RVer you trust along who can help you look for potential problems.
Once you've found the vehicle you want it is time to stop and consider the extra costs. Figure out want taxes, registration fees, insurance, etc. that you will have to pay. Also factor in any repairs or extras you hope to add to it. Make sure that it is road worthy with good tires and, in the case of motor homes, an engine that is in good shape. Also make sure that you understand what maintenance and upkeep costs you will face. Anything and everything that will add to the expense of the vehicle should be considered as part of the sticker price.
Choosing your first RV is an exciting time. Make sure that you take the time and deliberation to make the right choice. It is a decision you will have to live with - and in - for some time to come.
