If you\u2019re considering buying an RV in Canada \u2013 whether it be a typical RV, camper, trailer or other variety \u2013 there are a several factors to consider before taking the plunge. And once you get your new home on wheels, you\u2019ll also have to think about all of the work that goes into maintaining it before and after you hit the road.<\/p>
When you\u2019re thinking about buying an RV in Canada the first thing to do is decide which type of RV you want to invest in based on a number of features.<\/p>
One of the most important factors to consider is how much you want to spend on your RV. When buying an RV in Canada, realize that the price point can really vary \u2013 anywhere from $8,000 to over $500,000 \u2013 depending on the type of RV you choose as well as any add-ons you opt for.<\/p>
Other than your budget, you should also consider what you plan to use your RV for. Is it for weekend getaways with your significant other? Then maybe a smaller, more portable, 2-person sleeper would be your best option. Is it for summer vacations with the family? Then perhaps a larger RV with more amenities is the better option.<\/p>
There are generally 5 types of RVs you can choose from in Canada. You can browse through the options below to decide which is the best one for your needs.<\/p>
Asking yourself a few simple questions before buying an RV in Canada can help you find the RV or trailer that best fits your needs.<\/p>
For a couple, a 15-foot camper may be plenty. But a family of 4 with 2 younger children might want to consider a 20-foot model that comes with bunk beds. If you plan on doing a lot of touring, you might want to go for an option with a permanent bed, as the act of having to make a bed up every night can get wearisome.<\/p>
Longer RVs will also typically feature an enclosed bedroom, providing an amount of privacy. And if you want space, an awning nearly doubles the living space available by creating a covered outdoor seating and cooking area.<\/p>
Once you\u2019ve nailed down the size of the RV body you can work with, you need to visit a dealer and look at as many interiors as you can. This way, you\u2019ll get a really good idea of the interior layout that will work best for you and your family. You may find you prefer one manufacturer over another simply because of how they position and develop their RVs and trailers.<\/p>
If you intend on doing a lot of camping around the country, you\u2019ll need an RV or camper that is self-sufficient. Look for a model that has solar panels for electrical power, a large gas tank, large onboard water tanks and<\/p>
Deciding whether to go for an off-road RV is a necessity. While you may really like the look of the off-road RVs, if you\u2019re unlikely to ever venture over the rough stuff, you could save money by sticking to a more road-based RV.<\/p>
You\u2019ll need to choose a model that fits your chosen storage location, whether you plan to use a driveway or a secure parking site.<\/p>
Check the dimensions of your parking space, and don\u2019t forget to ensure you have sufficient overhead clearance if you plan to park your RV under a carport or in a shed. Also, make sure you allow for the swing of the RV or trailer\u2019s body as you turn, since the back edge will travel in a wide arc.<\/p>
If you\u2019re planning on renting a storage space, measure it and find out how much it\u2019ll cost each month before shopping around for an RV or trailer<\/p>
Choosing a manufacturer known for building strong, solid RVs and trailers is key to making this investment worth it. Generally speaking, a body with fewer joints between panels will mean there\u2019s less likelihood of leaks forming. You should also pay attention to the owner\u2019s manual and keep the interior ventilated to reduce humidity and moisture levels.<\/p>
Other plus points to look for include independent suspension, especially on off-road models, for improved handling. Make sure the chassis underneath has no corrosion and that the welds are sound.<\/p>
To find out your car\u2019s towing capacity, check your owner\u2019s manual. Bear in mind that this is the maximum weight your vehicle can haul \u2014 if you choose a trailer that weighs the maximum amount your car can tow, you won\u2019t be able to tow it with anything in it, like food, water and luggage.<\/p>
When researching what RV or trailer you want to buy, here are a few terms and abbreviations you may come across:<\/p>
If you\u2019re buying an RV in Canada, or you\u2019re loading one up to go on a trip, it\u2019s a good idea to weigh it. For trailers, this is important to make sure your car is able to tow it while fully loaded up with your gear. For towable or drivable campers, knowing the weight will help you comply with any local or provincial laws. For example, some roads will have maximum weight limits.<\/p>
To weigh your RV or trailer, bring it to the nearest commercial scale after loading it up with any food, water, gear and passengers you plan to take on your trip. You can look up local commercial scales online or contact your provincial service centre for entry and exit scales you can use.<\/p>
Motorhomes tend to be the most expensive option as they can be a lot bigger than trailers because of all their home-like amenities, making them a great option for someone who plans to take to the roads full time.<\/p>
Trailers, on the other hand, tend to be less expensive, making them more accessible for people on a budget. But they can also be harder to drive, and you\u2019ll need to have a vehicle capable of towing the model you want.<\/p>