There are almost 11 million American families that own RVs, with 1 million people living in them full-time.
The rise of tiny living has millennials collecting campers in droves. Drawn to the freedom of the road and the freedom from a mortgage payment, buying an RV is becoming a rite of passage for 30-somethings.
Are you dreaming of owning an RV and traveling the open road? Consider these five things before buying a recreational vehicle.
1. It Takes Time to Make the Right Decision
Don’t rush into a decision you’ll regret later. Take your time. It can take a year or more to decide on the right RV for your family.
Second only to your home, your home on wheels might be the most expensive purchase you ever make. Treat the experience like you’d treat the home buying experience. Tour different models.
Pay attention to plumbing and the water pump. Make sure the quality of cabinetry is in line with the price. The layout is important, but it’s easier to adjust your movement through the vehicle than it is to make up for shoddy workmanship.
2. Your Vacation Plans Matter
There are different recreational vehicles for different levels of interest. How do you intend to use your RV?
If you want a luxury camping experience chock-full of amenities and all the creature comforts of home, you’ll want a Class A Motorhome. A camper van, built on a full-size van chassis, is enough for regular, extended camping trips.
Buying a travel trailer or pop-up trailer might be all you need for a more authentic camping experience. These smaller, towable campers can sleep up to six people.
3. It’s Not a One-Time Investment
While you’ll spend thousands of dollars and sometimes hundreds of thousands when you buy a camper. Gas, maintenance, and replacement parts can be expensive.
Make sure to have a yearly budget for upkeep. You’ll want to inspect exterior seals every year. Regular car maintenance applies, like brake checks and oil changes, but you’ll also have to service your propane tank.
RV repair shops can be hard to find. It’s not a bad idea to buy from a dealer with a service department, like certain Fresno RV dealers.
4. You’re Tapping into a Whole Community
Owning an RV opens you up to an entire community. As you begin to frequent favorite campsites, you’ll develop a camaraderie with like-minded travelers.
You can join an RV club to take advantage of inclusive events and perks like camping discounts and roadside assistance.
5. You’ll Have to Figure out Where to Park It
When you’re not traipsing around the country, you’ll have to figure out what to do with your RV.
Your property may not be zoned to house a full-time full-size RV, which means you’ll have to pay to park it somewhere.
Look for a storage facility that provides protection from the elements. Extended exposure to direct sunlight can wear out tires and finishes.
Are You Thinking of Buying an RV?
Delving into RV life is a unique commitment. It will change your vacations and your circle of friends. Buying an RV takes time and planning, but it can bring a rewarding lifestyle change.
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