If you are reading this you are no doubt RV shopping. I thoroughly enjoy this process. Admiring countless photos, floor plans, and dealer sites for the model that best fits your family. While doing so you imagine yourself and loved ones building lifelong memories on the road. This feeling is absolute bliss. Of course, after a while reality sets in and you realize their are more RV manufacturers than you can count, they all have a horror story on an owners forum, and your tow vehicle is likely t0o small.
Breath.
This series is going to break down the process much like we did while shopping for our first rig. If you focus on the main points first, you can then move into the details of which color pillows you will add to the camper and what floor covering you most desire. While our process is not perfect for all RV shoppers, it can definitely act as a bare bones guide as you move towards your wheeled travel companion.
When shopping for an RV, it helps to break your decision down and focus on the main questions below. Be honest with yourself and make a list before going further down the funnel.
What can your tow vehicle handle?
I can not stress enough to do your research. Just because a quick google search or advertisement claims your truck or SUV can town 9,000 lbs does not necessarily mean it is true. Start by looking at the sticker located on your vehicle outlining your capacities as well as the sticker on your RV outlining unloaded and loaded weights.
What are your absolute needs from your RV?
These are the things that you absolutely must have to live comfortably in your RV. Think of the basics such as sleeping capacity, bathroom, AC. For us the most limiting factor was sleeping capacity as we wanted the ability to sleep our family as well a our friends.
How are you going to truly use your RV?
Once you determine the above, reflect on how you intend to use your RV. Are you driving it cross country every summer for a 2 week haul? Perhaps you are only spending a few weekends out? Other questions to ask yourself would be the climate you intend to camp in. These answers will greatly impact your choice of the perfect RV.
Choosing the Perfect RV – Part 2 – Your Tow Vehicle