Are you considering purchasing an RV? We get it. The thought definitely has its appeals: freedom, flexibility, slower pace. Don't forget the convenience of having a comfortable bed to sleep in instead of having to fork up more money for a hotel stay.
Before you purchase an RV, here are a few things you should consider.
Before making any significant financial decision, you should ask yourself a number of questions.
- How much are you willing to spend on an RV? Going into this blindly -- or any situation for that matter -- is never a good idea. Do you research on prices and amenities first.
- How many people will I need to fit? RVs are specially designed to fit a specific amount of people. You don't want it to get too crammed inside the RV, so before you make your purchase, know how many people will be coming along with you on your journey.
- Where do I want to camp? Whether you're considering private campgrounds or going to more scenic destinations i.e. national parks, do your research and find out what appeals most to you and your loved ones. If you fancy more secluded, remote areas, perhaps a smaller RV is something you should consider as an option.
- What will I bring along and how much storage will I need? Do you see yourself towing a vehicle with your RV? What about bicycles or picnic tables? Are you a fan of ATVs? Before purchasing, you'll want to make a list of everything you'll be bringing with you on your trip. This way, you'll know what size RV you'll need to purchase. This can also help you figure out your budgeting.
- What amenities do you want to have? RVS can be basic or they can be rather luxurious. Some have refrigerators, bathrooms with showers, flat-screen TVs and even king-size beds. Remember, the more amenities you want, the more it'll cost you.
- Do you want to drive or tow your RV? RVs are either motorized or towable.
Motorized RVs require you to drive them. They are categorized into 3 different categories.
Class A: These RVs look more like buses, typically have six wheels, and can range anywhere from 21 to 43 feet long. They can have private bedrooms, separate livingareas, kitchens, and more. Because they have all of these features, they do tend to be on the pricier side.
Class B: Smaller than Class A RVs, these modes of transportation and living may be easier to drive for those familiar with minivans or SUVs. They can also sleep up to four people.
Class C: These are distinguishable from the other two classes because they have an overhang above the roof of the driver's cab. These are usually between 25 to 35 feet in length.
Towable
These types of RVs can be attached to the back of your vehicle. While some are heavy-duty, others can be lighter and easier to transport. Figure out how much your truck can haul first before making your purchase.
- Travel trailers: These come in a wide variety of sizes, configurations and prices. They are versatile and can be a popular option for new and experienced RV users.
- Fifth wheel trailers: You'll need a truck with a fifth whell hitch to be able to use these.
- Pop-up campers: These lightweight trailers fold open and closed. If you sleep in them, you'll feel more like you're sleeping inside a tent. Offering less amenities than the others, they fall in the lower price categories and can fit between 4 and 8 people.
- Sport utility haulers: These are great because they give you the ability to take your "toys" with you. Anything from storage for ATVs and golf carts as well as including a full kitchen, bathroom and living areas.