What things to look for when buying an RV/Trailer

[Tiresmoke]

I will get a few suggestions started and let everyone fill in some other suggestions. This should be a help to those who are buying for a first time.

Budget; Yes you can get loans against newer units but you need to set up a budget first for what you can afford. This budget should also include the means to use it. Many first time buyers lose interest when their eyes were bigger than their wallets.

Depreciation; If you buy new versus used you will be the one eating a huge lose in depreciation just like a new car or truck. The first few years of ownership from new lose the most and then depreciation slows down. This is one reason why so many folks look for used especially in a first unit where you may not have everything in mind when you buy.

Size; Are you going to use this unit by yourself or with others like a spouse or family. Be sure you get adequate sleeping spaces and plenty of room for everyone and everything you plan on taking with you. You can never have enough storage.

Amenities; Will you be cooking a lot or need extra bathroom space for a family? Layouts very greatly and getting one that you can live with is key. There are options as well like getting a bunkhouse or toy hauler if you need space for an office or other areas that you can adapt if you are handy.

Tow versus drive; Today’s Class A and C can be very easy to drive on highways or secondary roads. But when you get where you are going you will want a way to get around. Tearing down to move a bus or motorhome can be hard to do without a second vehicle to get around in. With a bigger derivable you can put a car or tuck on a tow bar and pull it. But pulling a trailer or fifth wheel your vehicle is with you pulling your unit and ready to go when you unhook. It will likely be a larger vehicle so with a family that may be easier to use all around. Your milage may vary.

Maintenance. Yes all things need this and sooner or later you will be faced with costs. This of course should be a part of your budget. But scheduled maintenance is easy to figure. Breakdowns and other major expenses can also happen.Do a bit of looking on Youtube or google for what could come up and plan ahead for any eventuality.

Boondocking versus RV Parks or Campsites; With most Campsites you will expect hookups and with that it will be easy to keep the electric devices and water systems running as you need them. But Boondocking can be a challenge as you also need to know about Generators, Solor, Wind and other electrical creation as you need juice to run your lights, appliances and more. Water is something you will need to learn where to get on the road and don’t forget where you will empty those Grey and Black Tanks. There are apps you can get for your phones to help you find water and dumping but also learn about your electrical options while boondocking.

There is a lot more but I will leave you to add your thoughts. Keep in mind all the suggestions will end up helping someone get a start. Take your time learning and looking and ask questions or even go rent one for a weekend and learn first hand so you make a better buying decission.

Happy Trails. See you along the way.

[Pippi]

Thank you, Tiresmoke for these fantastic suggestions, all so very true and important.

I’d like to add a point, too, to the newbies that if you want to get into fulltime RV living and don’t have your rig yet, don’t go big at first. Get something on the cheaper side to test out the lifestyle. Living in an RV is a different lifestyle than what we’re most brought up to. So test it out for at least a year before committing to a bigger and grander purchase.

Happy trails!

[taketimeforlife]

Great tips and suggestions….I plan to be buying a modest travel trailer in the next month or so and will be living in it fulltime along with my 16 year old son and our Golden Retriever, Ace.

One issue I am coming across is that most RV parks that I would consider staying at have requirements that the RV must be no older than 10 years which somewhat limits my choices.

I know there will be many questions and challenges but I am so excited to begin this new journey in our lives.

[Pippi]

I was worried about the older RV requirements as well but really, you just have to call the park. Send them some pictures, let them know you take care of it’s appearance and see what they can do.

I talk about this very issue in one of my videos and also discuss other things to consider when hunting for a nice parking space. You might gain some info from watching it.

Good luck and happy trails 🙂

[richbutler1]

Hi Pippi,

I’m in the exploration phase right now. I have a home, have been an IT Director and consultant, single, no kids and think this big house is a waste for just 1. I think I can consult on the road or in a pinch, dock at an RV park in a Metro and fly to a project Mon-Th and come back on weekends. I’d be able to get a newer unit, but would look at a frugal deal on a used one. I’d think that a 5th wheel/towable would make the best combination for mobility and adaptability. That paired with a full cab pickup (probably a diesel) would allow mobility wherever I am. I’d think that one that can tow it at the hitch vs. pickup bed adapter, so a capped Pickup bed could be handy when moving and for excursions. What’s your thoughts on that vs. a true RV? Also, as far as size, I’d think a 30′ with bump outs and good insulation for 4 season and some adventures up North would be a good thing. I have a dog too, so wondering if that’s enough space for the two of us and more if things change in the future? He’s not big, 15 pounds. If the plan works, I’d like to tour the US while working, not always on the move, but plant in an area for a little while, then check out another. Last question is about internet access. It’s a must and I saw one of your vids with a cable model, but have you tried a 4G mobile hotspot like on Verizon since it’s a national network? I think I’d need something like that for job/earning potential. Have you seen anyone with Satellite service and it being enough speed? Thanks in advance. In the meantime, I’ll be searching for this info. Great vids and adventures!

[Pippi]

I think you’re on the right track. A trailer is less maintenance in many ways. Take a truck to a mechanic isn’t as scary as taking an RV in.

I think I’m understanding you’d prefer a regular trailer that hitches to the back vs a 5th wheeler that would take up space in the be of your truck. Aside from personal preferences of anyone looking, the only difference I would point out is that some people prefer the feel of towing a 5th wheeler vs a regular trailer. Also, the other difference I’d remark on from my personal experience is the 5th wheelers have a great big feel because their ceilings are like 12 feet tall or something huge feeling in the main living area because of their hunch-back type roof.

So, take those two things into consideration in your research. Best of luck! Let us know what you decide! 😀 Happy trails

[bluewater]

Hello Pippi,
Glad to have found you on Youtube while looking at a video of an RVing couple. Your videos are endearing and inspiring….thanks to your authenticity, simplicity, zest for life, and of course experiences/knowledge on RVing 🙂

If it’s possible, please list a few reliable used RV dealers’ websites and suggestion(s) of a few reliable RV makes. BTW, do you own a car? If not; how do you get by without one? The thought of being relying on having a vehicle makes me think about getting a 5th wheeler instead of an RV. What’s your opinion on this?
Thank you,
Anh

[Pippi]

Hi Anh, I tow my car. I would not get by without one. If you’re planning on parking in one spot for a while, it’s a great idea to consider a fifth wheeler or trailer because of the lower cost to insure and register and no need for engine maintenance.

Check out this thread for some great conversation of buying an RV vs a trailer: https://www.pippenings.com/rv-living/rv-motorhome-life-forum/topic/i-cant-decide-what-to-buy/

Let us know what you decide. Congrats on the journey!! 😀

[bluewater]

Hi Pippi, thank you for the prompt response. I’m convinced that it’s going to be a fifth wheeler or trailer if I am to start on this journey. Will keep you posted and look forward to seeing more of your videos:-)
Wishing you health and inner peace always!
Anh

[Pippi]

Thanks Anh, you too!

[jskline0]

I was not aware that there are places willing to be “snobbish” as to who comes in. I can see someone saying no to an RV that looks like it’s ready to collapse just about anywhere but all the ones that I’ve seen including Pippi’s seem to be well maintained…

That is kind of a shock and interesting thing I’ll have to watch for.

[Pippi]

I think it’s less about being snobbish and more about attempting to screen out the drug dealers/abusers, and really “white trash” sorts that can find their way into the RV living scene.

A lot will consider you if you ask and meet them in person. 🙂

[Dave311]

This may have been said before but be sure if you buy a older unit from a dealer that they will warranty the appliances even for the first year.

Im in this stage right now where i’m shopping for a 5th wheel and it’s a real experience having to consider tow weight, gross weight, gross combination weigh. Finding the perfect 5th wheel that you love and then finding out it’s too heavy is a real downer.

But you just have to keep pressing on and know that your first trailer should be a learning experience not the end all be all. Your first trailer or RV will teach you in time what you want and need for your lifestyle and then the next time you buy you will know what to shop for.

It is even harder when you need an all season unit and having to factor in all those other things and then the all season factor too. It is either way too expensive or its too heavy or its 4000 miles away.

5th wheels tow easier and are more stable on the road, but you lose room.

🙂

[hemiforjin1]

Hi..hopefully this site is still getting reviewed. Looks like it has not been active for awhile.

Could someone please answer several questions about trailer vs 5th wheel for me.

I thought a 5th wheel was easier to maneuver on the road however in looking at some videos it appears maybe not going around corners. I assumed the hitch rotates in the back of the truck allowing for better tracking. Is this not correct vs a trailer which I would think would be more restricted? Also I know alot of places have drive through spaces however of the two which is easier to back up? Also I have heard 5th wheels have an issue sometimes with heights when going under trees?

We would be new to the RV world, not spring chickens however not afraid to learn new life adventures.

We have driven across country with a 28 ft Penske truck pulling a car trailer, assuming the trailer could not be any more challenging.

Thanks so much for any info

Jin

[ncp0813]

Hi! I’m going to be heading on the road full time in 1/20. I was wondering if you could do a video regarding the basics one would need to start out. I.e. tools, a support to hold your hose up for connecting to the site, such things like this.

thank you for reviewing my request.
Nancy

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