Planning Ahead - Five Things to Do Before Buying an RV

When buying a travel trailer, fifth wheel or any sort of RV it is important to know what you are getting into. These types of vehicles are always a big investment and rarely necessary; by definition a recreation vehicle is a luxury item. There are those to whom it is a necessary investment but for most of us it is a big investment in recreation.

Therefore it is important to take a few steps before moving ahead with the purchase. Here are a few things to think about and decide upon before ever stepping onto an RV lot or logging onto a RV sales website.

First, establish a budget. Having a realistic budget is important. Realize that RVs can be bought for anywhere from a few thousand dollars to well more than one-hundred grand. That?s a pretty wide range of prices and knowing where your purchasing power lies on that line will save you the heartbreak of falling in love with a luxury fifth-wheel that you cannot afford.

Second, figure out what kind of RV is right for your family. Consider what each member needs for their personal space and what sort of activities your family enjoys. Do you have a son who will go into withdrawal if he is denied his video games? Do your children bicker and tease one another or get along well and play together quietly? If you plan to travel with other adults will they be comfortable sleeping on the same pullout that would work for you kids? Anticipate every possible scenario and try to find a travel trailer or RV with the floor plan that can answer these needs.

Third, be prepared to price shop. There is a huge difference in price from one RV seller to the next. And there is a huge difference from one model to the next. Learn to say no or I'll get back to you and mean it. Never let a salesperson pressure you into making a decision that you're not ready to make.

Fourth, research the prices of the RVs you are considering. The NADA is a great source for finding the fair, base price of your new travel trailer or fifth wheel. But be sure that you understand this is a base price. From vehicle to vehicle within the same model family there will big price variances based on what features are included with that particular vehicle.

Fifth, fully inspect the vehicle you are considering for purchase. Anticipate every potential problem from the electirical circuits connected to the taillights to the plumbing in the bathroom to the axels and wheel assemblies. Ask questions and insist on complete answers. Expect that there is a problem; not necessarily because there will be one but wouldn't you rather discover trouble before you sign the papers rather than three days into your first road trip?

An RV is a major investment. You should make sure that you take your time and buy the right vehicle for you, your family and your budget.

Ray Eddings is a freelance writer. This article was written on behalf of RVSaveALot.com. For more information about and a wide selection of fifth wheels and travel trailers please visit http://rvsavealot.com.