Whether it’s your first time buying an RV or you’re a seasoned veteran, purchasing a motorhome is a big decision. Most people keep RVs much longer than they do family cars, so you want to make sure you’re buying the right one – without breaking the bank. There are so many options out there that the process can feel overwhelming, but we are here to help. Here are our favorite tips on how to find the best deal on an RV.

Set your budget

This is just a good practice no matter what you’re investing in. RVs can range from around $40,000 to hundreds of thousands of dollars if you’re in the market for a luxury coach. Deciding how much you’re willing to spend ahead of time can keep you from spending too much. If you go in with a flexible budget, you’re likely to spend a lot more than if you decide on a number before your search and stick with it.

Know what you want

Another tool to avoid overspending is to know exactly what you are looking for going in. Know which specs are important to you and which ones you can live without. First of all, ask yourself what you will be using it for. Short weekend trips in your local area? You can probably do without some of the bells and whistles. Cross country trips with lots of time on the road? Paying more for some extras to make long trips more comfortable could be worth it. If you’re buying an RV with the idea of transitioning to full-time RVing in mind, you’ll definitely need features a casual weekender wouldn’t need. Next, narrow down what specifications are dealbreakers for you. RVs typically have multiple floor plans for the same model that offer different features, so knowing which features you need could be the difference in floor plans or even models. Are you looking for a full kitchen? A bedroom that is partitioned off? Knowing what you can and can’t live without can keep you from being oversold into something you don’t need.

Go to an RV Show

Attending an RV show is an incredibly helpful way to determine the first two points on this list, as well as find special deals you may not find elsewhere. RV dealers sometimes provide exclusive show deals you can only get by attending. It also puts a ton of different options all in one place for you to explore what you do and do not like. On top of that, you can meet and talk with other RVers to find what worked for them.

Shop around for financing

Just like with car buying, the dealer you’re working with will provide you a financing option. But before you jump at the first number they put in front of you, try doing some of your own research. You may find your local credit union can offer you a better deal which will drive down your overall cost.

Consider purchasing used

Since an RV is like a furnished home, you may think the best way to go is to buy a brand new model that no one has ever used before. However, like cars, RVs do depreciate over time, and they take their biggest hit in the first few years. Purchasing an RV with low mileage that is gently used but a couple years old could mean you don’t take the initial hit on value, and you save money in the long run.

Be willing to travel for a deal

Because researching RVs online is so convenient these days, you never know where you will discover a deal. Consider expanding your search radius a little wider. An RV is a long term investment, so you don’t want to settle just because it was the best price you could find in your town – after all, you’re purchasing your rig so you can hit the road. What’s the harm in a little road trip to purchase it? Searching RVUSA could turn up an RV that fits your specs and budget, but is a little further from your local area. If you’re willing to drive a little further, you might be able to save some money.

Utilize the tools on RVUSA.com

Connecting you with the perfect RV is what RVUSA is here for. Use our advanced search tools to narrow down exactly what you are looking for, and we’ll do the work for you. You can browse RVUSA by type, make, state or city based on where you want your search to start. If you’re new to looking for an RV and are unsure where to begin, use our search help feature to let our network of over 300 dealers connect you with an RV that fits your needs. Comparing prices and models on RVUSA is the best thing you can do to find a great deal on your next RV purchase.

Finding the Best Deal on an RV

Finally, remember to be patient. There’s no reason to rush your RV purchase. As we’ve stressed, whether you’re using it selectively for vacations or full-timing, an RV is a long term investment. Patience in the process of finding one is always better in the long run.

With these tips, you’re well on your way to a stellar deal on your next RV purchase. If you need ideas on where to take your new RV, check out our blog for more of our favorite RV destinations!