RV Buying Guide

Perusing an RV buying guide can quickly set you on the road to travel adventures with your own motor home or trailer.

Picture yourself in a new motor home.

The first step in making a recreational vehicle purchase is to become familiar with your vehicle options.

Motorized RVs are classified according to size.

Class A motor homes are the largest RVs available. They are often rectangular, combining the driving and living space in an open floor plan. Although some customers are drawn to the idea of being able to move around the living area while driving, this is actually not recommended. Serious injuries can occur if passengers are not properly belted in the event of an accident. Class A owners will often tow a car to use for local transportation while camping.

Class B motor homes are built on a van chassis, although the height of the vehicle is greater than that of vans.

Class C motor homes are built on a truck chassis. Both of these categories are scaled-down versions of the Class A designs. The driving area is separated from living quarters.

Class B and Class C motor homes are also typically less expensive than the larger models.

Some campers prefer the convenience of towable RVs because you can leave your living space behind at the campsite. Options include:

• Fifth wheel – Fifth wheels must be towed by trucks. In fact, they are designed to be hitched from the truck bed, with a portion of the RV hanging over the bed. However, you will need to carefully consider the size of your potential purchase if you have a smaller pick-up, as not all trucks are capable of towing the weight of the largest fifth wheels.
• Travel trailer – Travel trailers are towed on hitches behind the vehicle, and can be towed by trucks, vans, and larger cars. They come in a variety of lengths, so you can find the best fit for the size of your family and your travel needs.
• Pop-up camper – Just as its name suggests, a pop-up camper begins as a rectangular box, but when opened, the front and back pop out. Lighter than a travel trailer, they can be towed by smaller vehicles. The canvas sides aren't always ideal in rainy weather, but it's still more luxurious than a tent.
• Truck camper – These shells slide into the bed of a truck for an instant portable living area.

Although it can be fun to drive off the lot in the newest model suggested by an RV buying guide, is it really necessary? A used vehicle can still have years of travel left in it. However, you should be knowledgeable about used RV values before stepping on to the lot. You don't want to overpay, and you also don't want to pass on a great below-market-value price.

If you will be traveling to the Houston, Texas area, PPL Motor Homes bills itself as the "largest RV consignment dealer in the USA." Even if you aren't heading south anytime soon, you can use the resources on the dealer's website to learn more about purchasing used recreational vehicles. Then you can bring this knowledge to sales in your area. Check your local classified ads and keep an eye out for motor homes and trailers with "For Sale" signs in the window.

If you're interested in a recreational vehicle for a single vacation, such as a cross-country trip to attend a wedding or graduation, renting an RV may be a better option than buying. Rentals can also help you get a feel for larger motorized models if you believe in the idea of "try it before you buy it."

For instance, Cruise America rents motorized RVs in three sizes, as well as travel trailers. Check availability and rates online before planning your next trip. USA RV Rentals is another national company with locations in numerous states across the U.S. You may also find smaller rental services closer to home.

Before bringing a new RV home, make sure you have considered where you will be able to park it or store it during the off-season. Will it fit in your garage? Are there any local ordinances concerning parking recreational vehicles in your yard? What storage lots are available in your area? Knowing the answers to these questions will keep small details from dimming your enjoyment of your new vehicle.

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