Coincidentally, indoor RV shows are often scheduled this time of year which offers even more of a temptation for those on the fence. Before you run out and buy one, consider some of these questions.
- How much can you afford? Remember, to use your RV you'll need gas money and funds for campgrounds. Try not to break the budget or going out in your new camper will be stressful instead of fun. Contact your independent insurance agent to get an idea of how much money you'll need to budget for an RV insurance policy too. It's usually a great deal and provides peace of mind, but you'll want to know how much to set aside in your financial plan.
- How many people will need to sleep in the RV? If you're going to be spending more than a night or two, you'll want everyone to be comfortable. Some of the beds (tables and couches that fold down) that RV manufacturers claim to sleep two are extremely small, so take a realistic look at them before making decisions.
- If you're towing, find out the towing capacity of your vehicle. Then look for a sticker inside the RV that lists the GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating). It tells you how much the camper will weigh once it's loaded up and the fresh water tank is full. Make sure your vehicle can tow that amount safely, otherwise you may end up with an expensive repair bill.
- Try before you buy. If you're nervous about owning an RV for the first time, consider renting one for a weekend. You'll get an idea of what's entailed and whether you enjoy driving or towing that type of camper.
If you're thinking of owning an RV, do your homework so you make the right decision. Then contact your insurance agent for more information on an RV insurance policy and for more safety tips to keep in mind when using your camper.