New vs. Used RV
Buying an RV can be a very difficult decision to make. For instance, it’s not cheap and it’s something that will require a long-term commitment to maintaining it. There many options and styles to choose from, a couple of new driving skills that you will need to learn especially for big RVs, and overall, it’s seen as a big investment and you also have the option to buy a previously owned RV or a brand-new RV.
How do you know you are ready for buying an RV?
It’s like when you decide to buy a vehicle, you just don’t buy it right away, without testing it several times. The same thing happens with an RV, although it’s more important in this case because in a vehicle you usually just go from point A to point B and leave the car. While in an RV you spend usually many hours inside and sleep in there for days or weeks. You need to make sure it’s suitable for you and your family and if it covers all your needs. It’s not a lifestyle for everyone, at least not one they enjoy that often. That’s why it is really recommended that people rent RVs and try them out to see if it’s something they would like to invest in and really use it often instead of letting it sit in their home without moving at all.
Cost
An RV either used or new can vary in a wide range, it will all depend either on the condition and of course the size, how luxurious it is and appliances it has inside. An RV can cost from $10,000 to $300,000 USD. Obviously, a used one will be probably thousands cheaper than an equivalent new model of the same, but it all depends on the state of it. Also, in some countries insurance for used RVs is way cheaper than insurance for a new RV.
Viability
If you decide to buy a used RV you really need to check how old really is, even if it’s not too old it might need some repairs on certain parts that you will need to replace soon and sometime all that money you spend fixing those parts will add up and it can end up being the same cost as buying a new one. There are some luxurious resorts that don’t let really old models in their RV camping area so it’s something to keep in mind. Of course, if you buy a new one 99% of the times you don’t have to worry about parts not working correctly at least for several years.
Technology
While the new RVs have the newest technology inside you need to see if it’s really worth it or if there are different alternatives that can be cheaper, for example, integrated USB ports, fancy appliances, etc. Stuff you can buy separately and still be able to use them.
The final decision solely depends on you, your family and how much you really plan on using it. If you think it will be rare and don’t mind much about the model then a used RV is a great option. But if you plan on traveling several times a year for long periods of time, a new RV is the best option to invest in.
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