Knowing what to consider when purchasing a used camper can be daunting. With options ranging from towable to motorized RVs, determining which type suits you best is just the start. Next, evaluating the RV’s condition, price, and features is crucial to align with your budget and requirements. This guide provides an outline of important factors to keep in mind while shopping for a pre-owned RV, ensuring you enjoy the advantages of a used RV while minimizing potential risks.
Factors When Buying a Used Camper
Here are essential considerations to help you select a used RV tailored to your travel preferences.
Tow Vehicle Compatibility
Before acquiring a used camper, assess your current vehicle’s towing capacity, just as you would with a new RV. Understanding your vehicle’s towing capabilities will help you filter out RVs that are not towable by your vehicle. If you find an enticing used RV or plan to upgrade your vehicle alongside your new RV, consider the cost of the tow vehicle and whether its size could restrict your campground options.
Invest time in researching to find a used camper that matches your existing or prospective vehicle. Aim to stay well within your vehicle’s maximum towing capacity—generally, it’s advisable to adhere to the 75-80% rule. Approaching the limit can become challenging during trips through hilly terrains and can lead to unnecessary wear and tear on your vehicle. For additional accuracy, you can utilize a towing calculator to determine your vehicle’s safe towing limits.
Condition
You’re looking for a robust, used camper from a reputable manufacturer that has been well looked after. Research leading RV manufacturers to understand their quality and product offerings. Identify key structural features, such as aluminum framing and a fully walkable roof. Then, be vigilant when inspecting specific units.
Once you find an RV of interest, carefully evaluate its condition. Key checks include:
- Inspect for signs of water damage
- Test all electrical components and lights
- Conduct a roof inspection
- Verify the functionality of appliances
- Inspect walls for cracks, bulging, or unevenness
- Complete an annual standard RV check
Tire condition, age, and quality are often overlooked yet critical aspects to consider when purchasing a used camper. If the RV features worn-out, bargain brand tires, plan to replace them immediately to avoid blowouts, and factor this cost into your negotiations. Recommended tire brands include Michelin, Goodyear, Carlisle, and PowerKing.
Although a walkaround inspection is vital, some underlying issues might elude your eye. Thoroughly checking systems like water, plumbing, and propane can be labor-intensive without the right tools. Therefore, consider hiring a professional for an RV inspection to identify hidden problems.
A Thorough RV Inspection
One of the most useful buying tips is to arrange for a professional inspection before making a purchase. Similar to a home inspection, an RV inspection can uncover hidden issues, safeguarding you from acquiring a lemon or unforeseen repair costs. An inspector can pinpoint necessary repairs—large and small—that should influence your decision to buy.
While many believe RV inspections are only for used campers, they can also highlight manufacturing defects in new units. Engaging with a trustworthy service provider from the start can prove helpful for ongoing maintenance and repairs.
Budget
The idea of being “house poor” can apply more broadly; you can also stretch your finances too thin on an RV or tow vehicle. When searching for used campers, keep your purchasing motivations at the forefront and adhere to your budget. Ensure you allocate funds for travels and experiences as originally intended. Additionally, a used RV will come with regular maintenance needs, and occasionally major repairs will be necessary. Plan for this in your budget.
What does this entail? Investigate common repairs that might arise within five to ten years of purchase. Whether it’s replacing a fridge or brake components, knowing the lifespan of crucial RV elements will help you approximate future repair costs. Collaborating with a reliable RV service and maintenance provider can enhance the longevity and value of your used RV.
Finally, assess the value of the RV routinely available valuation tools, which help determine a fair price for a used RV. With the current abundance of market data, tools like the RV Valuator can provide you with a ballpark estimate of the RV’s worth.
Size
Larger isn’t always superior when it comes to RVs. You may crave spacious living when transitioning to RV life, yet oversized RVs come with limitations.
Consider your comfort level when driving and parking a sizable vehicle. Don’t force yourself beyond your comfort zone; handling, parking, and navigating larger units can be challenging. Reflect on your desired camping destinations—if you aim to visit national parks or smaller private campgrounds, a compact RV may increase your options.
An RV under 30 feet is typically ideal for national park stays while larger fifth wheels require more room for maneuvering. Given their height, large models are also more vulnerable to damage from low-hanging trees and tight camping sites.
Balancing daily living space and driving ease can be tricky. Based on our experience, ensuring fit for accessibility at your chosen destinations takes precedence, which may mean sacrificing some living space. However, spending more time outdoors often compensates for that sacrifice, as exploring your surroundings can become a priority.
Floorplan
Consider how you plan to use your RV interior when examining floor plans. Ask yourself the following:
- Do you have kids needing their own sleeping areas?
- Will you require workspace while camping or traveling?
- How often do you cook meals?
- What indoor activities will you need space for on rainy days?
Start by prioritizing sleeping areas that suit your family size. Families often gravitate toward fifth wheels, toy haulers, and larger travel trailers for their flexible sleeping setups. Couples and solo travelers may prefer van life, motorhomes, or smaller campers.
Interested in exploring available options? Check out floor plans for fifth wheels and travel trailers, then browse used RVs by type.
Features
Regardless of family size or preferred floor plan, noting specific features can simplify comparing different RVs. Consider looking for:
- Storage space for gear and camping equipment
- Sleeping capacity and layout (e.g., separate rooms for privacy)
- Size of the refrigerator
- Pantry storage space
- Counter space
- Cooking amenities (indoor and outdoor)
- Designated workspace (for remote work or schooling)
- Generator or solar power options (for off-grid camps)
- Washer and dryer hookups (for full-time living)
- Number of air conditioning units
- TV connections, inside and outside
- Electronics like monitoring setups
- Prep for solar power system
- Fresh, gray, and black water tank sizes
Four-Season Capability
When considering a used camper for full-time RV living, seek out four-season capabilities. Most who travel full-time prefer climates with year-round warmth; however, considering insulation matters even in summer. Weather changes unpredictably, and during warmer months in states like Florida, Texas, or Arizona, an air conditioner can struggle against rising temperatures. Good insulation can be your best ally throughout all seasons.
For those living full-time, prioritize insulated RVs rated for four seasons. Even if you maintain a home and use your camper part-time, an RV designed for frequent use offers durability beyond standard options.
Used RV Purchase Checklist
Finding your perfect used RV is an exhilarating journey. However, with numerous options, having a checklist keeps you organized and focused on favorable features and floor plans. Use the following pre-purchase checklist before, during, and after your used RV buy.
Pre-Purchase
These checks will assist with research before scheduling dealership visits.
- Set Your Budget
- Choose Your RV Type
- Identify Preferred RV Age
- Research Manufacturers
- Select Top Floor Plans
- Read Customer Reviews
- Browse Online RV Inventory
- Investigate Fair Purchase Values
- Decide Between Financing or Paying In Full
- Research Financing Options (if required)
- Seek Insurance Quotes
- Locate Your Nearby Dealership
Knowledge during this phase enhances your efficiency at the dealership. Connect with experienced RVers to gain insights about their campers, what they would change, and what they wish they had known. The feedback can be invaluable and facilitate questions during RV tours.
At the Dealership
Use these checks to evaluate RVs, inspect their condition, and establish financing arrangements.
- Identify a Preferred Salesperson
- Tour Multiple RVs
- Inspect Condition of Selected Models
- Research Financing Pre-Approval (if applicable)
- Negotiate Final Purchase Price
- Define Financing Terms (if required)
- Choose Insurance and Protection Packages
- Plan Final Walkthrough and Pickup
Post-Purchase
These checks will support your RV enjoyment and maximize the value of your RV investment.
- Acquire Necessary RV Supplies
- Schedule Regular Maintenance
- Explore RV Clubs Offering Camping Benefits
- Plan for RV Renovations or Decor Updates
Why Buy a Used RV From Camping World?
Camping World offers RV owners the option to sell or trade in their RV to upgrade or downsize their RV lifestyle. All used recreational vehicles undergo a thorough reconditioning process before finding their next owners. Here’s a brief overview of what Camping World’s used RV reconditioning program entails:
Step 1: New Mattress
Each RV begins with a brand-new mattress, sparing buyers from dealing with outdated bedding left by previous owners.
Step 2: Deep Clean
Every used RV receives a complete deep clean and odor neutralization, which includes flushing and sanitizing all holding tanks. This ensures cleanliness for your inaugural camping trip.
Step 3: Multi-Point Inspection
The process encompasses a comprehensive inspection to identify soft spots, signs of water damage, and missing components. This step also addresses necessary repairs based on the RV’s conditions.
Step 4: Good Sam Protection Services
Every used RV comes with a three-year Good Sam Elite Membership, one year of Good Sam Roadside Assistance, and one year of Good Sam Travel Assist. Moreover, you gain access to Camping World’s nationwide service network for routine maintenance, renovations, collision repair, and more.
During your inspection with a salesperson, ensure to note any repairs or concerns. When buying from Camping World, they’ll address outstanding cleaning or repairs to ensure you can drive your used RV home in excellent condition.
We strive to provide all the resources you need to locate and purchase the RV that fits your needs. Check out the helpful RV roundups and buying guides to learn more.
Do you have any questions about buying a new or used camper? Let us know in the comments below.
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