“I see my path, but I don’t know where it leads. Not knowing where I’m going is what inspires me to travel it.”
-Rosalia de Castro
Cruising alongside the ubiquitous ocean, your favourite music on and wind in your hair. Road trips have essentially been a huge part of Aussie life, and we realise there’s nothing more exciting and liberating than hitting the road to explore something new.
Now that you’re inspired enough to take the road, let’s talk about the next step, like buying an RV.
Whether going to buy used caravan or used motorhome or a new RV, it’s a life decision. It’s also about driving, towing and doing maintenance. You need to know when to take it to the shop, what performance oil it needs and coming to terms with mileage and gas price.
This guide points you to the various aspects to consider while deciding to buy an RV for sale.
Choosing Between a Wagon, Van and Motorhome
A wagon is an ideal vehicle with two or three people. It has plenty of space compared to a car. For a night of good sleep, you can let the back seats down making it a portable bedroom. Sometimes the wagon can have an awning attached to create additional living space.
If you’re travelling with your family and plan to stay in hostels, then a van is a great option. You may have to struggle with the limited interior space, but this is the most cost-effective segment of RV.
A motorhome will separate your sleeping and travelling spaces. You can take all your essentials with you and store them in your motorhome. With a campsite with ample facilities and electricity will make your trip super comfortable in this RV.
Towable
This requires you to invest in a towing vehicle such as an SUV or truck. If you already own a towing vehicle, then you just need to be comfortable with driving while towing. Towables can be a travel trailer or a fifth-wheel RV. They give you more room for your RV lifestyle.
Most towables from campers to trailers to fifth-wheel RVs all offer almost the same functionality and features; however, the comfort level is more or less directly proportional to the size of the RV. There are many different types, so be sure to do your research.
If money is not a constraint, then buying a new RV is recommended. But if you’re in a budget, then you may buy used caravan or used motorhome. You’ll be amazed to see the various options in the lineup of RV for sale.
New or Used
The idea of a brand new rig is almost irresistible on a gut level for many campers. If you can handle the financial implications, then buying a new RV is a good option. The new ones come with warranties and also easier to finance directly through the dealership.
Buying a used RV is often considered a financially savvy decision and they might be actually easier to “hit the ground driving” than their brand new counterparts. In many cases, RVs that are only 2 or 3 years old gets turned in because their owners upgraded to a newer model. Some older models with lower prices have the potential for renovation.
Do your homework and research online comparing new models to their older versions. However, choosing between new or used RVs ultimately comes down to the delicate dance of what kind of trip you plan and what you can spend.
Other Expenses
Buying new or used caravan, motorhome or any RV for sale, it’s only half the battle. There are quite a few expenses that come with the purchase.
- Registration & comprehensive insurance
- Maintenance & repair costs
- Fuel & LP gas
- Cable & internet access
- Parking & toll charges
Where to look for RVs
Once you decide if it’s going to be a new one or a used RV, then you can start looking for it. If you want a new baby, you might want to head straight for the dealership, though many of them offer used RV for sale as well.
Visiting a dealership will let you know your RV up close and personal – get inside of it, walk around and get a good feel of how it would be to drive and live in it. Take your time and find the one that fits your lifestyle and plans for the trip.
Another great place to check out RVs is the RV shows. They bring together a wide range of RVs from almost all the dealerships under one roof. This gives you a chance to experience them all and probably get some stellar deals. You’ll find RV shows across Australia, all year round.
Final word
Though overwhelming due to its abundant options, it’s worthwhile to go through the process of buying an RV. Understanding that it’s a long-term investment allows you to make the right choice for you and your family.
Other travel options seldom provide you with the same experience that an RV gives you. The most significant characteristic of an RV is that it comes with the freedom to travel wherever you desire, the freedom to seek adventure and the freedom to be.
Have fun.
