Deciding to get an RV is exciting, but it can also be overwhelming. There are so many different types of campers, floor plans, and features to consider, after all! It’s helpful to have ways to narrow the search to a more manageable number of choices, which is why we created the following RV buying guide. Use the below strategies to make the shopping process easier. When you are ready to shop RVs for sale, head over to RVs and Boats For Less. Our dealership is based in Chubbuck, Idaho, and we proudly serve those in Idaho Falls and Pocatello.
Set A Budget
A great place to start is with your finances. Think about how much you can realistically and responsibly spend on a camper. Remember to take a long-term approach. If this rig needs to last the next decade, budget accordingly. Once you set your price limit, you can instantly eliminate any option that is outside that price range.
If you want to stretch your budget further, consider:
- Shopping used. Thanks to depreciation, used models are sold at a drastically lowered price than new models.
- Shop new, but an older year. If you want a new RV, consider getting one from a previous year. For example, a new 2018 RV will be more affordable than a new 2021 RV.
- Shop during the off-season. RV dealerships see a decline in customers during the off-season, which can prompt them to offer great sales and discounts.
Decide What Size To Get
Next, think about how large or small the RV needs to be.
First, consider the passenger number. There needs to be enough beds for everyone, but it also may be wise to get an extra bed or two. If your kids want to bring a friend or you have family visiting, you can take them along on the trip.
Next, consider how much space your family needs to feel comfortable. No one wants to spend their vacation feeling cramped or tripping over other passengers. The larger your travel group, the more interior space you will want.
Consider Towing Versus Driving
There are two broad categories of RVs: drivable models and towable models.
Drivable models can transport themselves to the campground. These RVs come with their own drivetrain, allowing you to hop into the driver’s seat and hit the road. Many of these models can even tow a commuter car behind them, giving you access to a smaller vehicle at the destination site.
Towable models, on the other hand, are transported with a tow vehicle. Some towable RVs can only be towed by a pickup truck while others can be transported with a wider range of vehicles.
Drivable models free you from needing a tow vehicle, but they also have higher maintenance needs due to their drivetrain. They also tend to cost more money. Towable models are more budget-friendly, but they do require a tow vehicle.
Pick The Must-Have Features
RVs can come with a variety of features. Some models are streamlined to only offer the necessities. Some are luxurious and offer high-end amenities. Most fall somewhere in the middle.
Think about the features you want. Extra features will cost more money, but will also improve the travel experience. Common features include slide-outs to increase the interior space, larger entertainment centers to boost quiet nights in, and higher end appliances to improve meal quality. Make your list of “must-have” features, then give it to the RV dealer. They can use this list to recommend models offering those perks.
Ready to shop RVs for sale? Check out the selection at RVs and Boats For Less. We carry a range of models and our friendly staff is always happy to make personalized recommendations. We aim to make the shopping process a breeze! You’ll find our dealership in Chubbuck, Idaho, and we proudly serve those in Idaho Falls and Pocatello.
