We know that camping is one of your favorite activities. You can’t wait to get out, travel, hike, and spend time in nature. However, sleeping on the hard, uneven ground with insects crawling into your sleeping bag is not a part of camping you look forward to. Maybe it’s time to look into buying a used RV. Here are some practical steps to make sure you get a good deal!

Know What You Want

Before you start shopping, make sure to do your homework. Research different RV models and decide exactly what you are looking for. Think through what kind of floor plan you want, how many beds you need, how much kitchen space, etc. Then, decide how much money you want to spend and set a firm budget. Buying a used RV instead of a new one will save you tons of money right off the bat, but it can come with some unexpected problems.  It’s important to make sure you’re getting a quality unit and, if it seems too good to be true, it probably is.

Know Where to Look

Next, it’s time to start hunting for a good deal. Visit dealerships, check with your social circle to see if they know of any RVs for sale by the owner, and shop online through Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist. Try RV shopping sites like RV Trader, RVT, and Classy RV.

Inspect the Vehicle

Before buying an RV, make sure to inspect the vehicle thoroughly. Check the roof and all seals for leaks. Look for water damage or any floor deterioration. See if the tires are worn out. Make sure the mileage isn’t too low or too high. Too high means the RV is old and worn out. Too low will mean it has been sitting vacant for a long period of time, and it will require major maintenance. Also, see if you can take the RV to a mechanic and have them check that everything is working correctly before you buy.

Take it For a Test Drive

If you can, take the RV for a test drive, so you can make sure there are no major mechanical issues. Check that the brakes work well and that the engine runs smoothly. Check all of your sightlines and really pay attention to how much you can see in the vehicle. Learn the controls and gadgets available on the dashboard to see if they fit your needs. Listen closely as you drive to see if you hear anything concerning.

Check the Vehicle History

Looking over the RV’s history is important to make sure that it has not been in any major accidents, and to see what repairs have been made during its lifetime. You can also see its maintenance history to find out if the last owner took care of it or not. All of these factors will impact how long the RV lasts.

Shopping for an RV is a fun experience, but it is important to have a plan and make a wise buying decision. Do your research and decide what you want and at what price. Inspect and test drive RVs before buying one and make sure to look over the vehicle’s history. Once you finally have your new RV, enjoy all the fun of camping with the comforts of home! If you do need any repairs on your RV, stop by 5 Star RV Repair, and we can help you out. We offer tons of different RV services and offer amazing customer service. Contact us today!