Guide to Buying a Used RV | Abilene, TX

Thanks to numerous options and affordable prices, used RVs are an attractive option for travelers and campers. But just like buying a used car, buying a used RV can be daunting. If you’re going on the used RV market, there are a few things you should know and steps you should take that will smooth the process and ensure you end up with a satisfying purchase.

Set Up a Budget

Before you even browse for RVs, you should set up a budget. Though it’s probably not the most exciting part of the process, it may be the most important. Start with a basic living budget by assessing how much money you spend on fixed expenses like a mortgage and groceries, and recurring recreational expenses like restaurants and movie tickets. The money you have left over is your discretionary income, which is the amount you should have available to spend on an RV every month.

Keep in mind that monthly payments toward an RV should be lower than the total amount you are willing to spend on RVing. You should anticipate spending on repairs, upgrades, and RV lifestyle-related services and amenities. Doing research can help a lot with assessing just how much these things will cost.

Do Your Research

Whether you’re new to RVing or a seasoned camper, there are many things to know about RVs and the RV lifestyle. Go online and learn about special license requirements, RV weight ratings, and the different types of RVs like travel trailers, fifth wheels, and toy haulers. It will also help your budget to connect with existing RV owners on forums, message boards, and Facebook groups to get a good sense of how much money the lifestyle will cost you — from basic amenities to upgrades you know you’ll want to get.

Find the Right RV for You

One of the advantages of shopping used is that it opens up a whole world of possibilities. There are countless different RVs and floorplans to choose from, making it easier for you to find the RV unit that truly matches your needs. And if you’ve determined how much you can spend on an RV and done the research on the type of RVs and amenities you know you’ll want, it will also be easier to narrow down your search and not get lost in the wealth of options.

Before you settle on an RV you want to inspect in person, do a quick internet search to see what current and former owners of the same unit have to say about it. Reading reviews is always a good idea. Additionally, check out the National Automotive Dealers Association website to find a fair price for the RV’s particular make, model, year, and condition.

Perform a Thorough Assessment of the RV

Once an RV has grabbed your interest, it’s time to perform a thorough assessment of its condition. Investigate the RV in person, looking for signs of damage, checking maintenance records, opening all storage areas, and even putting your nose to work. If the RV is a motorhome, you’ll also need to check the powertrain. RVs are far more complex and have more potential trouble areas than regular vehicles, so it’s important to really get into the nitty-gritty. Our recommendation is to consult a certified technician who can perform a thorough inspection of the unit and knows exactly what to look for.

Get Acquainted with Your New-to-You RV

After purchasing a used RV, take a small maiden trip to your local campground. This will allow you to get familiar with the unit’s quirks and features, as well as any potential issues that you wouldn’t want to encounter while on a big trip away far from home.