Research, Size, Storage, New vs Used, and Cost Considerations
In the market for an RV? While still in the “investigation phase”, that’s the time to think through the process of buying an RV. As with anything, there are good products and bad products. Good salespeople and unscrupulous salespeople. Here are a few considerations:
Have I done enough research?
Going out to the various RV lots is great fun IF your expectation is just to look around and kick a few tires. If you’re the type of person that can’t say “NO” to a pushy salesperson, you may want to do your online research before hitting the lots. (We think this is a good idea anyway.) If you spend the time to research your purchase prior to hitting the lot, you’ll find a plethora of resources available to help you. Camping World, RV Trader and Craigslist are awesome places to see local inventory and options. Other places to educate yourself include the Family Motor Coach Association (FMCA) and the many travel blogs out there. Here’s a list of the 100 Best RV Blogs for Motorhome Travel Enthusiasts.
Do I want a motorhome or a trailer?
An RV is a vehicle that combines transportation and temporary living quarters for travel, recreation and camping. Two main categories of RVs are motorhomes (motorized) and towables (towed behind the family car, van or pickup). – prvca.org
Once you make the decision, between a motor home or a towable, then it’s on to …
What size is right for me?
Image Credit: Mitch Barrie/ flickr
Size is an important factor; Not just for storage, but where will it sit when at the house for preparations, breakdowns, or cleaning. Does your driveway have an incline? If so, larger motorhomes and trailers may have issues with scraping and/or unhooking from the hitch. A flat area with a concrete pad is ideal. Just remember – size matters and biggest isn’t always best!
Where will I store my RV when it’s not in use?
If you’re lucky enough to have storage at home (especially indoor storage) – skip to the next question. But for most of us, we need to find a place to store our RV when it’s not being used. Most HOA regulations prohibit the storage of RV’s, boats, and the like – So you need an alternative place to store it. Storage rates vary depending on 2 main factors: Whether you want to store it indoors or outdoors AND the length of your RV.
Image Credit: MemoryCatcher / Pixabay
Should I Buy New or Used?
This is a very personal question, but one worth mentioning. In my opinion, it comes down to whether you trust the individual selling the used RV. The downside to buying used is that you may be buying someone else’s problem. Other issues include odors, outdated colors, and fix-it items.
There is an upside to buying used (if you trust the seller). Many, if not ALL new RV’s have minor adjustments that are made during the shakedown cruise. If you’re buying a used RV that will work to your advantage, having been broken-in and presumably ready-to-go. As in everything… Buyer beware!
Travels and/or camping in an RV can be fun for the whole family if you find the right piece of equipment for your individual needs. Make sure that you’re patient, that you’re working on your timeline (not the dealer’s), and that you’re dealing with someone you can trust. Happy camping!
Tips On Buying Your First RV – Welcome to the Club!
About “The Club”: First and foremost, there is a tremendous amount of camaraderie among RV and trailer campers. For example, when you pull into a national park or campground, you will regularly get approached to see if you’d like some help backing-in, leveling your rig, or just about anything. It’s a great feeling knowing there are lots of folks that were once rookie RV owners, and they’re happy to help out and share the knowledge.
RV Cost: How much is an RV in 2023?
Do your Homework
At first glance, calculating RV cost can seem daunting. With so many variations in design, manufacturers and even separate classes, there is much to decide.
The best path to take is to inform yourself of some very basic information about the different RV classes, and then begin dissecting the financial pros and cons in line with your particular needs. Equipping yourself with this level of information can easily transform a difficult decision into a pleasurable and rewarding experience.
Let’s start with defining the basic classes and then evaluate some of the potential and perhaps unforeseen costs of each choice.
Motorhomes
Motorhomes are the most convenient and luxurious form of travel since the occupants can enjoy the comforts of home while on the road. However, their large size can be difficult for some drivers.
Campsites can be a challenge to maneuver unless they are pull-through sites. Also, unless you tow another vehicle behind a motorhome, it is best to be prepared when you arrive on site. There are few things as inconvenient as settling into a site only to realize you forgot something important and have to leave with your RV for the nearest town store. Low gas mileage and high maintenance costs are a negative factor in this option.
Image by peterolthof via flickr
Class A
These are the RVs most people notice traveling down the road with their shining chrome and exquisite paint jobs. Inside, these vehicles are better equipped than many site-built homes and can offer better amenities than some high-end hotel resorts. Class A motorhomes typically have the most room and storage of any other class of RV, but it all comes at a premium price. Expect to pay $80,000-$120,000 for a used model from the last five or ten years. The average price of a new Class A motorhome ranges from $95,000 to $120,000 and up.
Image via Wikipedia
Class B
If you want some of the luxuries of Class A, but are looking for a little less expensive option, or something much easier to drive, you might consider the Class B. They are typically the smaller of the motorhome classes and as such do not offer as much space but can be a good solution for the more agile motorhome buyer.
These vehicles drive similar to any normal van and can achieve much easier access to tight camping spots. The cost of a new Class B motorhome typically falls below that of Class A. Expect to pay $40,000-$80,000 for a used model from the last five or ten years. The average price of a new Class B motorhome, on average, ranges from $85,000 – $165,000.
Motorhome Class C ~ Image Credit: Tony DiGirolamo / flickr
Class C
The Class C motorhome is somewhere between the Class A and Class B. They are typically larger and roomier than the Class B, but smaller and less spacious than the Class A. As you would imagine, the maneuverability factor also falls somewhere between the other two classes as well. Expect to pay at least $60,000 for a good used model from the last five or ten years. The average price of a new Class C motorhome ranges from $75,000 – $90,000.
Image by Larry & Teddy Page via flickr
Fifth Wheel
Fifth wheels are trailers that are towed behind vehicles equipped with a specialty hitch that is smaller, but similar to the type of hitch found on 18-wheelers. The main benefit of this type of hitch is that they allow for greater weight which can accommodate larger trailers.
Due to this advantage, fifth wheel campers are generally more spacious because part of the trailer can reside over the bed of the tow vehicle, which of course limits such transport to pickups or flatbed style trucks.
Additional living space is achieved through slide-outs that can be noticeably larger than those found on a travel trailer. Another advantage is that due to this type of hitch, control of the trailer – both on the road and in maneuvering into a campsite – is much more stable and manageable. You can expect to pay between $36,000 to $135,000 for a fifth-wheel trailer depending on the age, size, condition and amenities.
The costs associated with a fifth wheel often accompany the fact that these trailers, due to their extra weight, require the utility of a more powerful tow vehicle than the remainder of the trailer category.
Travel Trailer
The travel trailer typically connects to a tow vehicle with the typical ball hitch making tow vehicle options quite a bit more versatile than the fifth wheel. There is a huge variety in the size of travel trailers that can accommodate just about any particular desire.
However, it is absolutely essential that you choose the appropriate tow vehicle for your trailer. Due to the smaller hitch and weight distribution, travel trailers can become very unstable at higher speeds depending on the vehicle pulling it. You can find several new models for less than $10,000. Used can be found for less, with pricing dependent on the age, size, condition and amenities.
Pop-Up
Of all the trailer RV options, the pop-up camper is typically the lightest and thus requires the least powerful tow vehicle of all the options. The compactness of the trailer when in travel mode makes them very easy to pull and maneuver into campsites.
Once on location, the canvas or vinyl tent portion of the camper is raised, and the beds slide out. There is a surprising amount of room in these small campers but be smart. The pop-up is not much more than that, a tent on wheels. You shouldn’t camp in extreme cold or extreme heat unless your particular model is adequately equipped.
It’s also not the safest option when camping in remote areas with large predators such as bears or big cats since the canvas or vinyl tent is not much of a deterrent. Pop-up campers’ MSRP is between $9,000 to $30,000 on average. Used can be found for less, with pricing dependent on the age, size, condition and amenities.
Gillfoto, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Truck Bed Camper
If you own a nice-sized pickup truck and don’t want to tow it behind a motorhome or use it to tow a trailer, the bed camper could be just the choice you’re looking for. Technology has come a long way in recent years and the amount of space in truck bed campers may just surprise you.
Some models even offer the option to extend legs down to the ground allowing you to pull the truck out for various excursions away from camp. Lower end truck campers can cost around $4000 and range upward to $50,000 or more, depending on the age, condition and amenities.
After You Pick Your RV
The costs don’t end when you choose the particular RV that meets your needs and requirements. Depending on how well equipped your choice is, there may be necessary additional items to acquire.
Accessories
Typical accessories include a generator or Solar Power / Lithium Batteries, storage cover, potable water hoses, propane tanks, and a multitude of outdoor equipment such as stoves, grills, chairs, and awnings. Many of the new higher-end models will come well equipped, but as the price goes down so do the added accessories.
Storage
In addition, if you don’t have room in your garage or on your own property, you will need to add a monthly storage fee to the list. If you aren’t buying with cash, you must also pay to finance your purchase.
Insurance
Unfortunately, the total RV cost will be more than the initial RV price. You should also factor in insurance to your decision process. The cost of insurance is typically in line with the value and type of the RV you choose.
Sales Tax
Let’s also not forget that your local government gets its share of the sale price through sales tax as annual fees. In most states, they come in the form of registration and inspections. These costs are of course dependent upon the type of RV you choose. The government exempts some of the smaller and lighter options from the inspection fees. It is important, however, to do the research in your area to determine what is required.
Operating Costs
Operating costs cannot be overlooked. A beautiful new RV is only a good investment if it can be used as often as possible, or if you rent it out when you aren’t using it. Due to the amount invested in this type of purchase, the less you use it or rent it, the less valuable your choice may be.
Want to try before you buy? Rent your RV first!
On the other hand, if you aren’t smart with where and how you use it, your RV cost can add up through high camping fees, excessive fuel costs, as well as maintenance and upkeep.
If after you find these options too expensive, there’s another option. There are some great RV rental options out there. For example, companies like RVshare.com connect renters with private owners similar to Airbnb.
By renting an RV for your outing, you can avoid the huge initial investment as well as the many additional costs of storing and maintaining it. You simply choose when you want to escape to the great outdoors, reserve the RV of your choice, and pick it up.
Resources
- Camping World (https://www.campingworld.com/): Camping World is a leading retailer of RVs, RV accessories, and outdoor gear. Their website offers a wide variety of products and services for RV enthusiasts, making it an excellent resource for researching and purchasing RVs and related items.
- RV Trader (https://www.rvtrader.com/): RV Trader is an online marketplace specializing in new and used RVs. The site allows users to search for RVs based on various criteria such as type, make, model, and price range, making it a useful tool for comparing different options and finding the perfect RV for your needs.
- Family Motor Coach Association (FMCA) (https://www.fmca.com/): FMCA is a membership-based organization dedicated to supporting and enhancing the RV lifestyle. Their website offers a wealth of resources, including RVing tips, travel information, and exclusive member benefits, making it a valuable resource for RV owners and enthusiasts.
- RVshare (https://rvshare.com/): RVshare is a peer-to-peer RV rental platform that connects RV owners with individuals looking to rent RVs for vacations or other trips. Renting an RV through RVshare is a great way to try out different types of RVs before making a purchase and also offers a flexible option for those who do not wish to invest in owning an RV.
- RV Cost Guide (https://www.rvingplanet.com/blog/rv-cost-guide/): The RV Cost Guide by RVing Planet is an informative resource that provides a comprehensive breakdown of RV costs, including purchase prices, financing, insurance, and operating expenses. This guide is helpful for those considering an RV purchase and looking to understand the various costs associated with RV ownership.
In conclusion, buying an RV can be an exciting but complex process. By leveraging the resources provided by websites like Camping World, RV Trader, FMCA, RVshare, and RV Cost Guide, you can make an informed decision that best suits your needs and preferences. Take the time to research, compare options, and even try renting an RV before making a purchase to ensure a satisfying and enjoyable RV experience. Happy camping!
