3 Steps to Finding Your Perfect RV
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Typically, our primary mode of traveling is with our camper. It seems that people either LOVE camping or they hate it. We embrace the lifestyle. However, Sean and I are not tent campers; we like having a home on wheels with a bathroom and shower at our convenience.
People often ask us if camping is more economical than staying in a hotel. I believe this depends on how often you camp and what kind of hotels you like. For our family, camping is economical. Yes, the camper did cost money, but it is offset by $25-$35 per night campgrounds. Even when we stay at more expensive RV resorts, we love sleeping in our own bed each night, so it is worth it to us no matter how we look at it.
3 Steps to Finding Your Perfect RV
Purchasing a camper is a big decision. We have three steps that we recommend (because we took them ourselves ) that work when taking the plunge and buying your perfect RV.
#1- Begin the camper search by visiting a few camper shows in your area.
Sean puts the local camper shows on our calendar each year far in advance to ensure that we don’t miss them. That is because camper shows are an excellent opportunity to view multiple RVs and begin narrowing down your perfect RV or camper.
It is good to attend more than one camper show because each show has different campers and dealers. If you can attend a few shows, you will have a great idea of the various campers on the market.
While at the camper shows, take pictures of RV models and features of specific campers. Also, make contact with the dealers and sales representatives. Most of the time, dealers will be offering special discounts at the show.
Ask the dealers about body structure, features, customizations, and trade-ins when at the show. Be sure to ask them if they have any brochures available for the models that interest you. If you are thinking about trading in a camper, ask about the dealer’s specific guidelines. For instance, does the dealer trade campers or consign your camper on their lot?
On our visit before we purchased our last camper, we attended the same show two days in a row. The first day, we looked at many RVs, found the rig that we loved, looked it over, and tested the features. We located a manufacturer representative during our second visit and asked him a million questions regarding the camper and the purchase. When leaving the show on the second day, we were very excited and about 80% sure that we had found our perfect camper.
This last weekend, we attended a camper show. Sean and I had curiosities about two different camper brands. I wanted to look at the Sandpipers, and Sean was interested in the Montanas. Coincidentally, they were next to each other, and we could look at both very closely and compare them well. We met an awesome gentleman, Mike Smith from Camper City, who answered many questions for us on the two brands.
Sean and I also checked out the latest and greatest camper model we currently own. We compared the design changes and updated amenities between the models.
At RV shows, you have the opportunity to compare different floorplans of the same camper, i.e., a rear kitchen model versus a bunkhouse. You can also compare other models and brands. Also, different types of campers can be explored, such as pull behinds, 5th wheels, toy haulers, vintage models, Class As, Class Bs, and Class Cs.
We went to the camper show to research 5th wheels, but we left with an open mind on toy haulers. We had never contemplated toy-haulers before because we had only viewed them as a method of hauling recreational toys. However, seeing how much room was in the rear area changed our minds on the many uses of toy haulers, including an increase in living space.
When you visit a show, check out the different resorts and camping supplies showcased. We have learned about some fabulous RV resorts and camping products while attending.
#2- Join all of the Facebook groups and forums that specifically feature the brands of campers that pique your interest.
Yes! Facebook has specific groups designated for camper brands and models. When applying for the group, the administrators always ask if you have the particular model of camper or if you’re thinking about purchasing one.
After you have joined the group, watch the comments that are posted. People will ask questions about particular features of the camper, hardware, and troubleshooting. You’ll see magnificent scenery and people who are excited because they just purchased their camper, as well as conversations on financing. You will read a host of comments when things go wrong with a unit. If you continuously hear about the same things going wrong, that model might not be for you.
Although joining a Facebook group might seem like a simple task as far as researching, being a member will give you more information than you could ever imagine.
We purchased our camper based on our findings at a camper show. First, we found what we hoped was our perfect camper. Then we joined a Facebook forum to make sure that our camper had no bad reviews or problems. As some extended advice, after making your camper choice, watch all of the YouTube videos on the camper that you can find to view the interior and exterior features and guarantee that this is the exact camper that you want.
After watching Youtube videos, we traveled to a dealer out of state to purchase our camper. On our camper, we wanted the exterior grill and a refrigerator. However, many local models included a fridge and an icemaker instead. We did not want the ice maker because we had a similar version at home once, and it did not pan out so well for us, so we knew that was not what we preferred. Finally, we found our perfect camper in North Carolina, and it was well worth the research!
#3- If you are a camping newbie, rent the model that you want to purchase.
This may seem a little crazy, but because campers are significant purchases, find your exact model and stay in it for a few days. There is no better way of ensuring that your camper is the best choice rather than staying in one.
One thing I’ve learned recently from talking with an old friend who rented an RV at a campground was that the RV was pretty messed up. Loving Living Green recommends renting an RV from a site like Outdoorsy. With Outdoorsy, you can view pictures and chat with the owner before renting the model. Then, you can request that the owner set the camper up at a campground near you, or you can arrange to pick it up.
With Outdoorsy, you will have direct contact with the owner and the ability to ask the owner specific questions. Plus, you are covered as far as insurance.
After purchasing a camper, visit our sister site, Campers and Campfires. Sean specifically designed the blog for camping enthusiasts. From items you will need on your first camping trip to the ins and outs of camper security, you will find helpful tips and tricks to help you with the perfect camping experience. Check out Campers and Campfires HERE.
If you are curious about purchasing a camper, our three steps are a great path to learn and narrow down your perfect RV! We wish you success in your research, and as always, safe travels!
Read more about camping at our sister site of Campers and Campfires!
Are you thinking about purchasing a camper? We would love to hear from you! Please drop us a line in the comment section below! Want to rent a camper before you buy? Check out Outdoorsy’s selection of campers available in your area!
Interested in learning how we became happy campers? Find out HERE!
