Tag: RV Buying Tips

RVs offer endless adventures with camping, road trips, and get-togethers with family and friends. Choosing the right vehicle for you might be tricky at first, especially with so many RVs on the marketplace. It’s important to know the basics of researching and buying an RV, consider how you plan to use your vehicle, and keep an eye on the market (you might find a better deal on an RV during the off-season). To help you make the best purchase decision among all the available options, RV Trader is sharing six ways to compare listings when buying RVs online.

1. Compare RV Listings by Vehicle Type

Are you familiar with all the different types of RVs that are available on the marketplace? Do your research and get an overview of the different recreational vehicles, which have various features and designs. RVs can be motorized or towable, which requires you to consider the towing capacity of your current vehicles. RVs differ by size and length, amenities, and storage space. You should consider how you’ll use your vehicle, how far you’re going to be driving, and how many passengers you’ll have in your vehicle. For example, if you’re planning to take a long trip for several months with the whole family, you might want to look at listings for large Class A motorhomes for sale.

2. Compare RV Listings by Price

You can set the parameters of your search and narrow down your results right away by looking for vehicles by price. Know what your vehicle budget is and how much you’re willing to spend. On the RV Trader marketplace, you can find vehicles exclusively by price range, setting a minimum and maximum amount on your search filter. This will also give you a better idea of the general market value for vehicles. Once you get a feel for the marketplace prices, compare the prices on listings that appeal to you, and consider the vehicle’s value for the listing. Keep in mind that you may be able to negotiate with the seller to lower the price on a vehicle, so you can search for vehicles that may be priced slightly higher on the marketplace.

3. Compare New and Used RV Listings

You should take into consideration the benefits of buying a used RV when you compare listings. With a new vehicle you’ll get the best version of that model on the market with the latest design features and technology, along with less risk of immediate maintenance and upkeep needs. However, you can expect to spend less money when you buy used RVs for sale. A new vehicle will depreciate much faster during the first year or two of ownership than most used RVs that have been around for several years. If you’re looking for a hands-on project that involves fixing up and personalizing a vehicle, a used RV may be the way to go. Just make sure when you reach out to a buyer that you get some clarity on the vehicle’s maintenance history and repair needs.

4. Compare RV Listings by Description

When you’re searching through RV listings, the seller should have an informative and transparent description of the vehicle. While vehicle type, category, make, model, trim, year, new vs used, and price will all be immediate giveaways, there should be more info on these details when comparing listings:

• Length
• Fuel Type
• Mileage
• Floorplan
• Sleeping Capacity
• Slideouts
• Vehicle Weight
• Add-Ons

The listing should have plenty of photos and videos of the vehicle at all angles, and with the vehicle in action on the road or campsite. If it’s used, the description should give you a better idea of any defects or flaws the vehicle might have, like dents and dings. 

When you create a MyTrader account, use the “Saved Search” feature to easily compare all the listings you like. This also makes it easy to set popular search filters to find more vehicles and add or remove vehicles on your list as you shop.

5. Compare RV Listings by Dealer or Private Seller

Provide some direction with your search by deciding whether you want to compare listings from dealers or private sellers. Before you reach out to a dealer or private seller on a specific listing, make a list of questions regarding vehicle specifics so you’re getting an RV with the exact features you want. Dealers are your reputable local experts when it comes to selling RVs. Plus, you might get exclusive deals or warranties on vehicles that aren’t offered by private sellers. However, with a private seller, you might find a unique vehicle on the market that you wouldn’t find from a dealer and get a better price, especially if you can negotiate on the cost. When you compare listings, you may notice the benefits of online reviews in your search, as customers can give feedback on dealers and private sellers and the shopping experience they provide.

6. Compare RV Listings by Location

Location is an important factor when searching for your next RV. Ask yourself how far you’re willing to go to find your next vehicle, noting that it may cost more money the further you travel to get your vehicle back home. You can compare listings that are local by searching based on how close an RV is to your location by mileage. You will have a greater selection to choose from if you expand your search further and look for vehicles nationwide. Look at the listing and see if there’s a delivery option. It will be one more fee to consider, but it may be worth the price and less of a pain than transporting the vehicle yourself.

Comparing RV listings doesn’t have to be a chore; in fact, it can be really exciting! This is your chance to see what vehicles are out there, and which one could end up parked in your driveway at home. If you’re ready to start searching for your next new or used RV, be sure to check out all the listings on the nationwide marketplace RVTrader.com.

Shopping for a new or used RV for sale, and trying to find the right vehicle for your needs and hobbies, can be an exciting yet overwhelming experience. When considering all your options on the marketplace, online reviews can be a big help when it comes to narrowing down your choices, as they provide reliable feedback on vehicles and sellers. Here are RV Trader’s five benefits of online reviews when buying an RV.

1. Get a Better Idea of What the RV Offers

With so many different types of RVs, including various makes and models with different features that seem like they change every year, online reviews can help you keep up with the market. Reviews can give you valuable insight on what a specific vehicle offers, helping you determine if it’s something that will complement your RV lifestyle. For example, reviews can give you more details on a vehicle’s space, features and accessories, mileage and fuel capacity, technology, camping features, maintenance requirements, long term reliability, and more. Beyond listing descriptions that give you the basic info on what a vehicle offers, you’ll get more details based on an RVer’s experience with these features, and all the pros and cons.

2. Understand All the RV’s Features and Add-Ons

There’s plenty to consider before buying an RV, and reviews go into further detail on the usefulness with the endless number of accessories and add-ons that come with an RV. They can also point out the additional items that you may need to purchase, which is important when you set your budget and know how much you’re willing to spend on your vehicle. While a salesperson may try to talk up these features, reviews can provide feedback on how necessary these bonus components are for the RV. Plus, you can break down whether you may need these accessories and add-ons based on how you’re using your vehicle. For example, you may or may not need the latest sound system or driving technology, items for towing, awning and camping add-ons, and so on.

3. Compare RV Models with Online Reviews

Online reviews help you narrow down your selection on the marketplace, making it easy to compare RV models. And with a few models of RVs in mind, reviews can help you pick out the vehicle that’s right for you. You’ll get personal recommendations from customers on a specific model that are worth serious consideration when shopping, rather than just all the rundown of the model’s most attractive features from a salesperson. And even if you’re flexible with shopping preferences and up for purchasing any type of RV, the more reviews you read can make a specific RV model seem like a more obvious choice over competing brands with positive reviews. 

4. Get Feedback on RV Dealerships

Not only will you get more details on different RVs on the market from customers, online reviews also provide insight on RV dealerships. Sites like RV Insider provide feedback on thousands of RVs and personal shopping experiences with dealerships. This is helpful when determining where you should purchase your RV based on price, quality of selection, customer service, financing, communication with the seller, and special sales offers. Online reviews can tell you if a dealer has been reliable and trustworthy, or if you should avoid them and look somewhere else for your RV.

5. Online Reviews Provide Unique RV Insights

For the most part, online reviews will give you honest opinions on RVs based on personal experiences. Whether you’re looking for travel trailers, larger motorhomes, or another RV, reviews aren’t going to shy away from telling you what’s great or terrible with a make or model. However, it is important to note that you shouldn’t rely solely on a single online review to make your purchasing decision.

There are lots of factors to consider when buying an RV and, with online anonymity, there is a chance that you’ll encounter exaggerated reviews from users with an axe to grind against certain brands or dealers. Instead of letting one bad review influence your decision, look for common themes in ratings and comments. It’s one thing if a single dissatisfied customer puts a particular RV model “on blast,” but another if every user reports the same bad experience.

Find the RV you’re after with the help of online reviews. While your final decision shouldn’t be based exclusively on the comments from other shoppers, they should be worth considering when comparing different RVs on the market, and learning exactly what a model has to offer. When you’re ready to purchase your next new or used RV, be sure to see all the nationwide listings on the online marketplace at RVTrader.com.

RVs offer one of the most unique ways of traveling. They provide the comfort and safety of your own home along with the ability to visit new and exciting places. In 2020, RV travel experienced a boom. People sought a safe way to travel, which caused RV sales to hit an all-time high. You may be thinking of purchasing an RV for yourself and hitting the open road, which is why FMCA has laid out a few things you should consider before taking the leap and buying an RV.

Renting

One thing you may want to consider before taking the plunge of purchasing an RV is renting one or even renting several different types of RVs. This is a great way to not only figure out if the RV lifestyle is for you, but also to explore which type of RV best fits you. Take time to figure out the RV type and floor plan that best suits your personality, travel needs, wants, desires, and future travel plans. If you need more information about the different types of RVs that are available, check out our previous article, Which RV is Right for Me? 

New or Used

So, you’ve made it this far. You’ve tried it out, you enjoy the RV lifestyle, and you’re pretty sure that buying an RV is the right choice for you. Logically, the next step in the process would be to weigh the pros and cons of buying a new or used RV. These pros and cons can be different for each individual, similar to figuring out which RV is right for you, but many are cut and dry. 

For example, one pro to purchasing a brand-new RV is that it won’t have wear and tear like you will find with a pre-owned RV. A con to purchasing a new RV is the RV’s automatic depreciation. Unlike your sticks-and-bricks home, RVs don’t appreciate upon purchase; rather, they depreciate in value very similar to a car. Also consider that a used RV could come with more upfront costs for maintenance or repairs, while a new RV should come with a manufacturer’s warranty and less costs upfront for maintenance and repairs. 

While making your list of pros and cons, make sure to do your research through trusted RV marketplaces and dealers. RVTrader.com allows you to browse over 200,000 new and used RVs for sale nationwide, including all your favorite makes and models.

Overall RV Cost

Some of the important things you will want to consider budgeting for before purchasing your RV are general costs associated with RV ownership. These include RV insurance, taxes, and license plates that are part of the upfront cost when purchasing. Also planning ahead for regular maintenance and upkeep, such as oil changes, tire rotations and tuneups, would be smart because they can be costly.

Though we shouldn’t stop there. Let’s consider things like towing equipment, which applies to towable RVs and also can apply to motorhomes if you want to take along a smaller vehicle. Then there’s fuel, which you obviously need to get your RV from point A to point B, whether towable or drivable. It’s a big expense you should not overlook adding into the budget. Next, you have campsite costs, laundry expenses if you don’t have a washer and/or dryer on board, propane for your appliances, tolls you may have to pay along the way, storage if you aren’t using your RV year-round, and so much more. So, be prepared to sit down and write out a solid budget for travel expenses and then plan for the unexpected as best you can.

Take Your Time

Keep in mind that this is a big decision to make, very similar to buying a house, and it should not be taken lightly. Take your time to decide, and do your due diligence and research. 

RVs are very similar to cars with respect to their VIN number. You can look up the RV’s VIN number with VehicleHistory.com or use the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to look up detailed recall information, and both are free to use. Make sure you do a thorough walk-through and close inspection of the RV, whether you’re buying new or used. You can find many helpful checklists online to use. You may also want to reach out to avid RVers and RV professionals with any questions you might have, which can be done through RV club forums like the FMCA Forums.

No matter what type of RV you end up buying, new or used, by doing your research and taking your time in making the decision, you’ll be prepared and have a better understanding of what to expect in the end. And, now that you know what to consider before buying an RV, begin your search on the nationwide inventory of new and used models on RVTrader.com.

FMCA educates, equips, and empowers RV owners in their journey to creating, experiencing, and benefiting from the outdoor lifestyle they dream of and deserve. FMCA is your ally to the outdoor lifestyle you love and enjoy.

If you’re new to the RV world, it can be hard to figure out which RV suits your needs, and the market can be overwhelming with information. With so many different types of RVs, it’s a challenge to know where to start your search. To help you out, RV Trader and FMCA are breaking down all the options of RVs available when shopping on the marketplace.

Categories of RVs

At the broadest level, RVs can be divided into two categories: motorized and non-motorized. Motorized RVs have an engine and can be driven, while non-motorized RVs need to be pulled by a vehicle. Both motorized and non-motorized RVs come in a wide range of sizes and with varied sleeping arrangements, amenities, and storage options. We’re taking a look at the three motorized RV options—Class A, Class B, and Class C—and three non-motorized options: fifth-wheel, travel trailer, and pop-up/expandable trailer. Plus, we’re offering a glimpse at toy haulers, which are available in both motorized and non-motorized options. 

Motorhomes/Motorized RVs

1. Class A Motorhomes

Class A Motorhomes are very luxurious, offering all the amenities of home on the road. This includes full-size kitchen appliances, washer and dryer options, and sizable bathrooms. They typically can sleep six to eight people depending on bunk and slideout options, which increase both the sleeping and living areas. 

As the largest type of RV you can drive, Class A vehicles are usually 21 to 45 feet in length. They’re built on the same frame as a bus or commercial truck, allowing the raised living quarters to offer a wealth of undercarriage storage. They can run on either gasoline or diesel. Diesel-engine motorhomes are commonly referred to as diesel pushers since the engine is usually in the rear of the RV and pushes the motorhome down the road, though some diesel-powered motorhomes do have front engines.

2. Class B Motorhomes

Class B Motorhomes, also known as camper vans, are often built with van or panel-truck chassis and have extra headroom for standing and moving around inside the cab. They range in length from 16 to 21 feet and can sleep up to four people. These smaller RVs are often built with off-road adventure in mind, and many come equipped with an auxiliary generator for boondocking. But don’t be fooled by the compact body, because there is no wasted space here. Each square inch is strategically used to make the most of the space available. Plus, you don’t lose any of your at-home luxuries, as many of them have a small galley kitchen and bathroom.

3. Class C Motorhomes

Class C Motorhomes are midsized motorized RVs that offer a wide variety of designs. The Class C can be compact, full-sized, or super-sized, and also have gasoline and diesel options. Class C chassis manufacturers include Chevy, Ford, and Mercedes-Benz, which means most Class Cs can be fixed in any repair shop. They range in length from 25 to 30 feet, while most have at least one slideout to increase living space. Their distinct over-the-cab design provides more room for beds or storage, and they can sleep up to eight people depending on floor plan.

Towable/Non-Motorized RVs

4. Fifth-Wheels

Fifth-Wheels are the largest and most spacious option of towable trailers. These large RVs can sleep up to eight people, have higher ceilings for more headspace, taller cabinets, and can have up to six slideouts, which offer a substantial amount of living and storage space. 

Ranging in length from 21 to 40 feet, fifth-wheels need to be pulled by large trucks that have a special hitch located in the bed of the truck. This helps center and distribute most of the RV’s weight over the rear axle of the truck. Because of their distinctive towing system, the front overhang usually houses a bedroom. However, in some of the newer models, you can find living rooms and kitchens in that spot. Many fifth-wheels are equipped with auto-leveling systems for easier setup at the RV site.

5. Travel Trailers

Travel Trailers, also known as bumper-pulls, are some of the most popular non-motorized RVs, and they are easy to set up. There are plenty of different floor plans to choose from that fit almost any budget. With a wide range in length options, from 13 to 40 feet, travel trailers range from teardrop trailers to a house on wheels. They can sleep up to 10 people, generally have two or more beds, and often include bunk options. Larger travel trailers have slideout options to increase living or sleeping space. 

6. Pop-Up/Expandable Trailers

Pop-Up/Expandable Trailers allow you to feel a little closer to nature than your typical RV, as they mimic the feeling of sleeping in a tent with soft siding and screens on all sides of the trailer. These trailers can offer expandable sections in the living room and soft-sided pop-out beds. They include a small kitchen, breakfast nook, and storage space, while some even have a toilet and shower. Pop-up trailers can sleep up to seven people and are easy to store.

Toy Hauler – Motorized or Non-Motorized

7. Toy Haulers

True to their name, Toy Hauler RVs offer lots of room to haul your off-road toys in a garage-like storage area in the back of the RV. They come with rugged flooring to safeguard against dirt and oil stains, and have protective walls to help avoid interior damage. The unique garage door and ramp on the back of the RV provides easy access to loading and unloading, and in many models, you will find that it doubles as a raised patio complete with railings and an awning.

There are many types of Toy Haulers ranging in size and function, such as travel trailers, fifth-wheels, and motorhomes. They vary in length from 21 to 40 feet with the ability to sleep up to 11 people.

Deciding which RV is right for you and your next adventure is a big decision, and we hope that you enjoy the journey. When more questions arise, check out the FMCA Forums and take a look at what FMCA members have to say about these RVs.

And now that you know more about these vehicles, be sure to see all the RVs available on the nation’s leading marketplace, RVTrader.com!

FMCA educates, equips, and empowers RV owners in their journey to creating, experiencing, and benefiting from the outdoor lifestyle they dream of and deserve. FMCA is your ally to the outdoor lifestyle you love and enjoy.

Over the last few years, consumers have found alternative ways to make big purchases. Instead of visiting local RV dealerships and browsing the lots, there’s been an emergence in buyers shopping outside of their areas and online. For example, in 2021, 41% of RVs sold in the Denver, Colorado area were registered outside of that market, according to Statistical Surveys Inc.

This trend suggests that shoppers are willing to buy outside their locality. With a record-high demand for RVs and limited supply at local dealerships, many shoppers have been buying campers and motorhomes sight unseen to save time on the process and get on the road faster.

In fact, we surveyed over 2,500 RV Trader shoppers and 11% said they’ve purchased an RV sight unseen, a noteworthy segment of buyers. Of those who have purchased sight unseen, a remarkable 90% said they had a positive buying experience, with 39% describing it as “great” and 22% as “excellent.”

Purchasing an RV without seeing it can have several advantages, including a larger selection of inventory and a faster sale. Thinking about buying this way? RV Trader has seven tips for buying an RV sight unseen to help you have a positive and successful experience.

1. Know What Features You Want

Before shopping for an RV, you should figure out what features you want the unit to have. Consider how often you’ll travel in your home on wheels, as well as who you’ll be with and the types of experiences you want to have on your mobile getaways.

How many sleeping areas will you need? Will you need a full kitchen with all the appliances or something simpler? Do you want to expand your space with slide outs? Asking questions like this can help you decide what type of RV is best for you and how much you might have to spend.

2. Pick a Type of RV

Once you figure out what bells and whistles you want your RV to have, then you can decide which type of RV is best for you and your travel needs. RVs can be divided into two categories, drivable and towable. From there, they range in size and features.

If you’re traveling with a family or group that likes amenities, you may consider a large, luxurious Class A motorhome. Or, if you want to explore different attractions and destinations without lugging around your mobile living spaces, a travel trailer may be better since it can detach from your tow vehicle. Research the different types of RVs, picturing yourself on the open road, to determine which will best fit your travel lifestyle.

3. Determine Your Budget

To determine your budget for buying an RV, you should do some research on the market you’re shopping in. See how much other units are going for to get an idea of a price range. Consider how much you’re willing to put down for the down payment, along with the cost of the monthly payment, fuel, storage and maintenance.

When deciding how much you want to spend on a new or used RV, you should also factor in the potential cost for buying outside of your area. You may have to pay to have the RV shipped to you, or pay the sales tax for a different state.

4. Shop on a Trusted Website

Online shopping can expose you to scammers who are advertising RVs that don’t actually exist. However, you can easily avoid this by shopping on trusted websites from dealerships and online marketplaces. Start by asking your friends and family for suggestions and reading online reviews. You should also make sure that the website is secured and has HTTPS in the URL.

If you are considering buying from a private seller, you should confirm that both they and the RV are legitimate. The seller should also have accurate contact information for you to reach them. For more tips for safely shopping online, read our previous article 13 tips for avoiding scams when buying online.

5. Read the Listing Description

Online listings should include detailed information about the for-sale RV. While reading these listing descriptions, you should learn the make, model, year, condition, mileage, sleeping capacity, and more of the unit you’re browsing. If there isn’t enough detailed information, don’t be afraid to contact the seller with any questions you may have.

While this type of buying is technically sight unseen—because you’re not viewing the RV in-person yourself—you can still get a look at the for-sale RV before you buy it. This is where listing photos come in handy. A good listing should have photos of both the exterior and interior of the RV. These allow you to get a pretty good idea of the camper’s condition and features. 

If not, then be sure to ask the seller for more or better photos. A trustworthy seller should have no problem providing you additional images. You should also consider asking for videos. This can give you a virtual tour of the RV without setting foot in it yourself.

6. Ask for an Inspection Report

Descriptions, photos, and videos can only tell/show you so much. An inspection report can give you a comprehensive view of the RV’s condition. There are companies and services that specialize in handling inspections for shoppers, and will travel on your behalf to look at the for-sale RV.

If you’re shopping for an RV on RVTrader.com, units with inspection reports available will feature an inspection badge. RV Trader Assurance, powered by Lemon Squad, is a great option for consumers who aren’t able to see their prospective purchase in person. You’ll be able to easily request an inspection report that features a comprehensive examination of the internal and external structure, complete mechanical inspection, road test, appliance inspection, and over 40 high-quality photos.

7. Arrange the Shipment

If you’re buying an RV sight unseen, chances are that you aren’t able to go pick it up in person. If that’s the case, you should discuss with the seller how you plan to get your potential purchase to your driveway. 

Some dealerships will work with you to schedule a delivery and charge you a transportation fee. This step typically happens after you sign a purchase agreement and put down a deposit. If this isn’t possible, or you’re buying from a private seller, you can also find a third-party company to handle the shipping and delivery of your RV.

While buying an RV without seeing it in person is an emerging concept, it can be done safely and successfully. Buying an RV sight unseen can improve your chances of getting your dream camper faster in a competitive marketplace.

Ready to start shopping? Browse the nationwide selection of new and used RVs at RVTrader.com.

Deciding to purchase an RV can raise many questions. How much time will I spend in my RV? What class should I buy? Should I buy it new or used? While it’s easy to get lured in by the sparkle of a brand-new camper, don’t rule out a pre-owned unit especially if you plan on performing RV renovations. Before you begin your search, check out RV Trader’s six benefits of buying a used RV.

1. Save Money Upfront

The biggest benefit of buying a used RV is the savings. With a little patience, and careful research, you can find a used RV model that fits your needs at a lower cost than buying new. An older model even has lower insurance costs. The best part is that you can put the money you saved into your renovation budget.

2. Less Depreciation

Much like cars, purchasing a brand-new RV means losing value shortly after you drive off the lot. RVs can depreciate up to 20% during the first year or two of ownership. If you buy new and plan to sell your unit in a few years, you more than likely won’t make back the money you initially spent. Buying used, then, is often the best investment for flipping an RV, whether you’re renovating it for resale or for your own long-term use.

3. Greater Inventory Options

When searching for pre-owned units, you will come across lots of RVs from the past few years. And these aren’t only vintage models. Many owners trade-in or sell their campers after the first couple of years of ownership, creating a marketplace of recently manufactured RVs available for sale at a lower price, thanks to depreciation.

4. More Design Variety

RVs vary in size, weight, and floor plans. When you look to buy outside of new models, you’ll see that older models can differ in these aspects. Since manufacturers create floor plans that cater to each type of RV owner, browse different layouts to find one that meets your needs. Shop used RVs from recent models, within the last three years, to a retro camper with a nostalgic floor plan and design.

5. DIY Customizations

Buying a used RV is a chance to design and remodel your unit exactly how you want it. Whether you want to repaint, add new flooring and fixtures, or completely gut it, a used RV gives you the opportunity to start fresh and make your camper completely one of a kind. With an older RV, you can overlook any cosmetic wear-and-tear and start seeing the unit as your next DIY project.

6. Increased Resale Value

If you don’t have long-term plans for your RV, keep in mind the potential resale value of your unit. If you avoid early depreciation by buying a pre-owned unit, then you should be able to sell it a few years later for close to what you originally paid (assuming it’s been well-maintained and depending on market conditions). However, if you’ve renovated the RV, you may be able to sell it for more than you initially paid plus the upgrades, earning you a tidy profit.

If you’re stuck deciding whether to purchase a new or used RV, consider how you plan to use the unit. Used offers benefits for both long- and short-term ownership even after you renovate. Once you decide to buy used, it’s time to learn everything you need to know about renovations, which you can find on RV Trader’s RV Renovations resource page, with in-depth articles, checklists, and videos. And you can begin browsing pre-owned units at RVTrader.com, the premier virtual marketplace for buying recreational vehicles.