Every year around this time, the RV show season begins. RV shows, like boat shows, are intended to introduce the new year’s RV models and help spread RV-related information among consumers. These shows are usually scheduled during the quieter time of year, the winter months, to help jumpstart the selling season. RV dealers from miles away will bring their products to these shows. For the buyer, RV shows put everything you need to see and learn about RVs under one roof, making it the ideal forum for conducting research and making informed RV purchasing decisions.
Did I mention that RV dealers will come from miles around. This includes many local dealers in the area you live in. If possible, you want to find a dealer that is within a reasonable distance from where you live. As bad as it may sound, if you buy from an out-of-state dealer or far from home, your local RV dealer may not provide you with the best after-sales service. The most important concern here is that you deal with a reputable RV dealer.
A good place to start your search for a reputable RV dealer is at a local RV show. When you attend an RV show, don’t be afraid to ask questions about the RV dealer and the products they offer. To get started, you need to find a reputable RV dealer with a reputable and professional staff. A reputable dealer wants your business and wants you to come back to them for future business. I’ve been to many RV dealerships that I wouldn’t hesitate to do business with and I’ve been to others that I couldn’t leave soon enough. Remember, you are at the show to see the dealer as well as the product and you should plan to visit the physical location of the RV dealer before you buy. If possible, talk to other people who have dealt with the dealership in the past. Don’t be afraid to ask them to give you a tour of the dealership. Look at the service department. Do you have certified technicians? Do they have the capacity and facilities to perform routine maintenance and warranty work on the units they sell? Look at the Parts and Accessories department. Do you offer a good selection of parts and accessories? Do they have a good selection of RVs to choose from? How long have certain manufacturer brands been selling? How long have they been in business?
There are some great deals on offer at some RV shows and with all the excitement, and a good salesperson, it’s easy to make a hasty purchase. If they can offer a great deal at the show, chances are they can offer a great deal after the show, unless the deal includes a manufacturer discount or rebate for the dates of the show only. Let them know you might be interested in a particular unit or offer, but want to visit the dealer before you buy.
There is a lot of ground to cover at an RV show and a wealth of information available. Not only will you find a good selection of RV dealers to check out, but there will be every RV make and model imaginable. RV shows are a great place to do some comparison shopping. Note that RVs are available in base, mid-range, and high-end models. When comparing prices, make sure they are apples to apples. One RV may look like another, but you should compare the options, construction, equipment, and features that both have to offer. See who offers the best offer, but remember that if the dealer closes next month or isn’t equipped to work on the RV, your best offer may turn out to be a bad offer.
RV shows aren’t just for RV dealers to show off their wares. VR shows are a great source of information, from knowledgeable representatives, on all aspects of the VR industry. You’ll find information on RV campgrounds and resorts, RV aftermarket products, RV accessories, and free RV seminars. Some of these seminars may be helpful in making some of your purchasing decisions. Check with the exhibit office for seminar topics and times.
VR shows are also a good place to talk with RV manufacturer representatives and other industry experts. Many of the RV manufacturers send knowledgeable representatives to assist RV dealers with their products. Don’t be afraid to talk to other RVs at the show too. Many of these people have years of VR experience and knowledge of different products.
Buying an RV is an important decision. To make the best possible buying decision, you need to do your research and be well informed. I’d like to offer you ten tips for making an informed RV purchase decision.
1) If you’re not absolutely sure an RV is right for you, try renting one before you buy.
Rule number one for owning an RV is that you must use it. It can be hard to determine if an RV is right for you if you’ve never used one. Plan a weekend or week-long trip and rent an RV to try it out. Renting an RV can be a good indicator to gauge if an RV is in your future. But be warned, once you have the VR bug, it’s hard to get rid of.
2) Know what type of RV is right for you and your family before you buy.
Recreational vehicles come in numerous types, sizes, and price ranges. Learn which type is right for you and what price fits your budget. Take the time to research your specific needs and how you plan to use the RV. If you plan to travel across the country in the RV, a motorized RV might make more sense than a towable RV. If you plan to go camping in the woods, off the beaten track, a pop-up camper or truck probably makes the most sense.
3) New or Used?
This is an important consideration before purchasing an RV. To help you make this decision, consider how you plan to use the RV and what your budget is. If you only plan to take a couple of weekend trips or use it for one week a year, a used RV might be right up your alley. And it won’t do you any good to have an RV if there isn’t enough money left in the budget to enjoy it.
4) If you buy a towable RV, make sure you have a tow vehicle that can safely tow it.
You may find the RV of your dreams only to find out that your tow vehicle can’t tow it. If you already own the vehicle you plan to tow, determine how much you can safely tow and purchase an RV based on that information. If you plan to purchase a towing vehicle, select the travel trailer or fifth wheel trailer first, then purchase a vehicle that can safely tow it. RV dealers should have trained staff to help you match the tow vehicle and trailer.
5) If you plan to buy a motorized RV, drive it before you buy it
Driving an RV for the first time can be a bit intimidating, but it’s important to try it out before you buy. You want a motorhome that you feel comfortable driving because you will be spending a lot of time behind the wheel. Take a look at all the controls, the view, the mirrors and make sure it works as you expect.
6) Do your research
Buying an RV is a big investment, similar to a car or your home. You need to do your research before you buy. There are many RV manufacturers and RV brands to choose from. You want an RV dealer and manufacturer that stands behind the product after the sale. You can search the Internet for manufacturers, request brochures, take factory tours, and attend local RV shows to learn more about all the options you have.
7) Buy from a reputable RV dealer
A reputable RV dealer will have a professional sales, parts, and service staff. This is an important consideration during and after your RV purchase. It’s important that you select the right RV type, floor plan, and brand for you and your family, and that qualified technicians are available to service the unit after the sale. A reputable RV dealer can make your RV ownership experiences that much more enjoyable.
8) Protect your investment
When you buy your RV, consider other factors that will help protect your investment. I recommend looking into some kind of extended service contract that goes beyond the manufacturer’s warranty period. There are numerous plans available, so shop around for the best deal. Get specialized RV insurance coverage. It is different from your auto and home policy. When you need specialized coverage, you’ll be glad you have it.
9) Now that you have it, where can you use it?
The Recreational Vehicle Industry Association, RVIA, states that there are approximately 8,500 RV parks and campgrounds located near national parks and forests, popular tourist attractions, along interstate highways, and in small cities and towns. With the Internet, you have instant access to most of these public and private campgrounds, RV parks, and RV resorts. Other good resources are travel guides, magazines, campground directories, and state tourism boards to help you plan your next RV trip.
10) Go back to rule number 1
I mentioned earlier that if you have an RV you need to use it, otherwise it’s just a great lawn ornament. So pack up the RV, kids and pets and head out to explore this wonderful country we live in and build lasting memories with family and friends.
So, what are you waiting for? Find out when the next RV show is in your area and be sure to attend. Oh, and don’t forget to bring some comfortable walking shoes!
Find an RV show near you:
http://www.rvia.org/AM/customsource/INCL_Shows.cfm?section=local_shows&all=1
happy Camp,
Mark J. Polk
Copyright 2008 by Mark J. Polk owner of RV Education 101
