If you’re new to the RV market, you may be wondering where to start. Which kind of RV or camper should you buy? Should you buy new or used? Where can you turn to get your maintenance questions answered? There are so many hypothetical questions to ask yet so little time. Luckily, here at RVbyLIFE, we know a thing or two about RV repair and RV maintenance, so know that we’re always here to help! Our blog provides a great resource for the newbie RVer, a seasoned veteran, and everyone in between! If you don’t know where to start, check out the ultimate guide to owning an RV or camper below!
What Kind of RV Should You Buy?
Before you set out to purchase a new or used RV, you have to understand the different types that are available on the market. There are two main categories of RVs: drivable (Class A, Class B, and Class C) and towable (or tow-behinds and hybrids).
Drivable RVs
- Class A – large, drivable motorhomes resembling a bus or motorcoach
- Class B – camper vans which can either have barebones interiors, very elaborate amenities, or somewhere in between
- Class C – larger camper vans with additional living space over the cab
Travel-Trailers (Tow-behinds)
- Fifth-wheels – a large tow-behind that attaches to the bed of a pick-truck using a special hitch
- Airstreams – aluminum travel-trailers by the Airstream brand usually of modest offerings; the brand offers Class B luxury RVs as well
- Tear Drops – small, tow-able trailers that sometimes look like tear drops, only meant for one or two people to camp in.
- Toy Haulers – a regular travel trailer with a “garage” connected to the living space to carry “toys,” like snowmobiles and dirt bikes
- Pop-ups – much like a tent, pop-ups fold up for use and down for easy storage
- Hybrids – like a pop-up but with canvas flaps that open up for added space
Camper trucks, which are campers that sit over the bed of a pick-up truck, are yet another category of RVs. Although they are meant for only one or two people, camper trucks are an easy alternative to RV ownership.
So, what type of RV should you buy? That question comes down to budget, family size, and needs. Our blog on how to choose the right RV for your family will give you more insight.
Should You Buy New or Used?
This is oftentimes a personal question as it depends on many factors. Strong benefits for buying new RVs include the latest features and state-of-the-art technology and design, whereas buying used offers durability and a lesser price tag. However, as both have their advantages, they have their disadvantages to consider as well. For example, depreciation on a new RV is around 20% or greater after you drive it off the lot. Financing can also be a burden, and insurance costs will play a factor as well. Conversely, buying a used RV has its perks, but it certainly comes with risks, too. Although buying used has a lower price tag, you will have to factor in greater costs for repairs and maintenance. Read our blog on tips for a successful used RV purchase if you’re considering buying used.
For more great RV purchase, RV repair, RV cleaning, RV detailing, and RV restoration products and ideas, visit our online store and be sure to check out our blog for additional DIY tips and tricks. As always, orders over $49 ship for free in the continental U.S. Shop us 24/7 on our website at www.RVbyLIFE.com.
About Life Industries Corporation
Founded by Mr. Edwin Kehrt on Long Island, New York in 1959, Life Industries Corporation formulates, compounds, labels, packages, and ships various chemical compounds. Parent company to BoatLIFE, RVbyLIFE, and AeroLIFE Industries, the organization relocated to its present home in North Charleston, South Carolina in 1995. Grace L. Schmidt, Mr. Kehrt’s daughter, has been president since 1987. Last year marked the company’s sister brand BoatLIFE®’s 66th anniversary.
