Before You Buy

RV'ing is a very economical way to live and see this country or any country for that matter. If you are not sure what kind of RV you want to do it in I suggest you rent one and take it out on a spin for a few nights. This will give you an idea of what you really need for this lifestyle in terms of space, comfort, amenities and the like. I know they are expensive to rent, but, it is a lot cheaper than buying something you have never tired and discovering that you don't like it. I don't know of anyplace that will rent you a 5th wheel, so you will need to talk to people who own them to find out what they think. You can tour them at most RV dealerships. Also try to go to RV shows where you can get lots of information. Promise yourself that you will not make any decisions to buy until you have thoroughly investigated all the possibilities. RV salesmen and women can bring on some high pressure tactics, leave when they do it. Just say, "Thanks for showing us around we must leave now" take the brochure and get off the lot. Study the rigs you like then see if you can rent one like it and if not just go spend a couple hours sitting in it, exploring it, talking about it, check it out thoroughly. OK, so how do you get a good deal? Decide what you want then email every dealer in the country (except the one you want to deal with) and tell them what you want (send them the model and the list of features you want) and that you are looking for the best price. Take the best price and fax your dealer an offer. Tell them you can purchase the rig at x number of dollars at another dealership and that you are offering them the same deal. If they don't want the deal, then go buy it in Montana or wherever you found the best price. The warranty is the same so it doesn't matter where you buy it because you can get warranty work done at any dealership and many RV repair facilities. I did this and saved about $20,000.00 off the list price. So before you buy, do your homework, go to an RV park and talk to the full timers. They will be happy to tell you what they think - believe me! They will show you their rigs and they will give you all kinds of advise. They will be a great resource for you. So, before you drive off the lot with a new rig, whatever kind you buy - new or used - motor home, travel trailer or 5th wheel, be sure you are satisfied that your research was complete. Happy trails. Jim