“Things I wish I’d known before buying an RV”
Buying an RV, motorhome or trailer is a big investment, and while it’s also an exciting – many would say life-changing – purchase, it’s a good idea to hear some feedback from current owners before you make a commitment.
Here are some comments we’ve heard from clients and RV enthusiasts about their experiences, as well as things to consider if you’re thinking of buying your first RV.
“It’s not the same as driving a car”
RVs are significantly larger and heavier than other vehicles – generally twice the weight of a car – and maneuvering them on and off the road is quite different. You want to be sure you can see around and change lanes, as well as speed up and slow down safely, especially in wet, snowy, icy or windy conditions.
Most recent RV models have cameras to help you back up and park, but before you take your first trip, practice driving in a big empty parking lot where you won’t risk hitting anything – and check out our blog post on driving, parking, and backing up your RV for more tips.
“RV insurance is different from car insurance”
RV insurance covers a lot more than just the vehicle itself – in fact, it’s kind of a combination of home and car insurance because it covers both the RV and the possessions inside. In general, RV insurance is more expensive due to additional coverage options, as well as the higher value and complexity of RVs compared to cars.
The final cost of your RV insurance will depend on several factors, such as the type and size of your vehicle, how often it’s used (full-time vs. occasional travel), and the value of personal belongings inside. However, as with a car, the cost can vary based on the value of the vehicle and the level of coverage chosen.
“Just like your house, it can fill up with too much stuff”
Cooking equipment, games, tools, coats, blankets, books, flashlights, a fire extinguisher . . . even if you’re only using your RV for occasional getaways, you’ll start stocking it with essentials and if you’re not careful, you won’t be able to walk around in it anymore!
Storage can be at a premium in RVs, and if you’re heading out on a long trip – packing clothes, equipment and tools for all kinds of weather conditions and occasions – you may have to get creative to avoid stumbling over all your stuff. Check out our blog post on interior RV storage ideas for some suggestions.
“You need to budget for more than just the RV”
If you’ve been saving up to buy your first RV – either new or used – remember that there are other costs that go along with the vehicle long-term. Gas, maintenance, camping or RV park fees, and insurance all need to be factored into your overall budget.
For example, gas mileage will vary depending on what type of RV you have, but you’re going to have to fill up a lot more often than you do with a regular car. And as we noted above, insurance tends to be more expensive.
The good news is, you’ll save a lot on the cost of lodging when you travel!
“We should have bought one sooner”
Many RV owners say the same thing: Despite some initial financial and logistical challenges, once you own an RV, you realize exactly the kind of freedom and opportunities that it provides you. There’s no need to pay for expensive motels or hotels, you can come and go as much as you like, you get to decorate and stock it however you want, and if the weather in a particular area looks like it will be bad, you can drive somewhere else!
Need a secure space to store your RV between trips or in the off-season? Contact the team at Max RV in Clovis today!