RVing Tip of the Day RV buyers mistakes: How will you use that RV? by Steve Savage, Mobility RV Service A common mistake I see buyers make is not giving enough thought to how theyre going to use the RV theyre thinking of buying. For example, are they going to travel long trips with frequent stops, or go a short distance and stay put? Will they usually be traveling only as a couple? Are they fairly good drivers? Once buyers hit the dealer lot they often are more caught up in how something looks than how it functions. No surprise there — thats what the industry likes. It wants the unit to appeal to as large of an audience as possible, and glitter is what takes newbies by storm. Here are a couple of thoughts: A motorhome, especially a smaller one, may be a better choice for travel than a pickup and a towable. Of course, a van camper (Class B) is by far the simplest for those who travel in populated areas. Why? Theyre no harder to drive than a delivery van. Class C motorhomes require less roadway than a Class A, and both Class B and C units generally cost less than a Class A. I know that can be debated — I am speaking in general terms. If the goal is to travel and then stay put for a time, size is of the essence and its hard to beat multi-slide towables. They are generally cheaper, foot for foot, and offer all the same features as motorhomes, but you dont have to maintain a second drive train — something 80 percent of motorhome owners normally do as they tow a car. Then there is the decision as to how many bodies will normally be occupying the RV at the same time. Personally, I have never been able to understand couples and singles who buy models with bunk beds that never get used. Bunks take up space that would be better spent as almost anything else: closets, seating area, you name it. You likely also have heard the old saw about Class A motorhomes: eight for cocktails, four for dinner, two to sleep. Next, how about driving skills? I have known more than one owner who, upon arrival at the campground, always insists someone there park his rig. I have seen motorhome drivers tear the side mirrors off their coach on rocks next to the side of the road, or towable drivers who trash the side of their camper on posts next to fuel pumps. This isnt an issue of type — its an issue of are you able to drive and park the unit you are considering? Again, these folks might be better off with a Class B or C, or perhaps even flying! By now, you should get the picture. Before you set foot inside any RV, your first step is to sit down and make a list of your intended uses. A good way to save money is to buy an RV that fits your intended purpose; otherwise, I will be seeing you back on the lot very quickly. Now repeat after me: It always costs money when you trade your RV!
Posted on: Fri, 04 Apr 2014 14:23:57 +0000
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