With traveling restrictions slowly being lifted, there are many opportunities for you to travel and camp. While it is still dangerous to travel by cruise or plane, traveling with an RV might be perfect for you.
It’s still wintertime. You might think that spring and summer are still far away and you still would not need an RV. However, what you might fail to realize is that fall and winter seasons are the perfect times to buy one at a cheaper price.
It’s not yet summer
RVs are seasonal and prices fluctuate depending on the season. Camps and travels happen over the summer. This simply means that the peak season for buying an RV is during this time. It also means that the prices are at a high and oftentimes, the cheaper ones are already sold out by the time you decide to buy one. Thus, the best time to buy an RV is during fall or winter.
The demand for RVs slows during these seasons. You will find lower-priced RVs during this time. If you’re lucky, you might even get good discounts and incentives.
Further, the best months to buy RVs are from October to January. Sales decrease during October-November. However, the slowest months for RV sales are during December-January. Sales are also slow during February but skyrocket when March comes. Thus, this time is the best time to buy an RV.
Watch out for RV trade shows
Every year, RV associations and RV dealers organize RV trade shows to show the units for sale, accessories offered, and even used RVs for sale. Salespersons in these events are hungry for customers and sales. Thus, they will offer as many promos and discounts as possible to get a sale.
One benefit of going to trade shows is the opportunity to see different RV models. The units you might see can range from below $5,000 to $2 million, depending on the dealers that will participate in those trade shows.
Another benefit is that you can get the feel of every RV that you are interested in. Check out what type of RV is suitable for you and your family. Further, you will also know the types of RVs available in your area. It’s best to check online on upcoming RV trade shows in your area, including the floorplan of traders and the days of the trade show.
Compute with an RV financing calculator
Budget is one of the biggest concerns when it comes to buying an RV. While some are lucky enough to buy RVs in cash, the majority of prospective RV buyers settle with RV financing to fund their RV purchase.
The rates of RV loans vary on factors, such as the term of the loan, age of the unit, type of RV you are planning to buy, credit history, and location. RV financing can last from 5 years to 20 years.
It’s best to inquire with a RV financing company to know the rate you are qualified for. However, if you don’t have time, you can compute using an RV loan calculator. You can calculate your possible monthly payment or loan amount using the loan calculator.
Benefits of having an RV
If you’re one who loves to travel by the road, here are reasons why buying an RV is beneficial:
- Travel flexibility
Traveling via a plane or commute will give you restrictions as to the place where you can stay, the hours spent on the commute, and the food that you can eat. However, you can have the most flexible travel or camp with an RV.
You have complete control over your time and the place of vacation if you drive your own RV. There is an opportunity to explore new places, such as mountains, rivers, wildlife, and local communities.
- Bring everything you want with you
When traveling without an RV, there are restrictions as to what you can bring with you. However, you can basically bring your whole house if you have an RV. Some RVs have bathrooms, kitchens, and sleeping areas. Make sure that you do not exceed the maximum weight that your RV can carry.
- You can practice social distancing
With the pandemic still active, traveling with other people can be dangerous. There are uncertainties with staying in hotels and interacting with people you don’t know. Traveling in an RV is much safer than plane rides and cruises since you are still contained. You don’t have to go to public restrooms, restaurants, and hotels.
- Traveling is more affordable
Traveling with an RV means traveling with lesser expenses. You will save money on food and accommodation. You don’t have to shell out a ton of money for expensive hotel rooms and meals. Further, you will save money because you don’t have to buy plane or cruise tickets.
Things to consider
First, know your budget. By knowing your budget, you will have an opportunity to know what type of RV fits your budget, including the size, type, age, features. If you have a small budget, then you might get a small or secondhand one. If you have a big budget, then a big and new RV might be for you.
Second, choose whether you want to buy a used or new RV. A used RV can save you a significant amount of money, have an opportunity to restore and redecorate it, and insurance is cheaper. However, there might be issues on the damage, maintenance, and technology of such. If you buy a new one, then it will have the latest tech and no risk of prior damage. However, insurance is more expensive for newer models.
Third, choose whether you want a motorhome or a towable. If you get a towable RV, you must have an available vehicle that can tow your RV. If you don’t have an available vehicle, then that is another expense for you. With a motorhome, there is a limitation on the space you can use for baggage.
Takeaway
The lockdown made people more hopeful and excited to travel again. Traveling with an RV is an ideal method to travel to avoid crowds. Now is the perfect time to get one, as it is cheaper because of the off-season deals, trade shows, and RV financing options.
Author Bio
Lauren Cordell is a financial adviser who writes for various finance websites. She mostly talks about financing tips and sometimes, about traveling. Aside from writing, she also likes reading books about teen fiction.
