
Sign up & start saving!
Get our weekly newsletter for the latest in money news, credit card offers + more ways to save
Finder is committed to editorial independence. While we receive compensation when you click links to partners, they do not influence our content.
Updated
If you’re considering investing in an RV or trailer, there are a few factors to consider before taking the plunge. And once you get your new set of wheels, you’ll also have to think about all of the work that goes into maintaining it before and after you hit the road.
Asking yourself a few simple questions can help you find the RV or trailer that best fits your needs.
You’ll need to choose a model that fits your chosen storage location, whether you plan to use a driveway or a secure parking site.
Grab a tape measure and check the dimensions of your parking space, and don’t 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’s body as you turn, since the back edge will travel in a wide arc.
If you’re planning on renting a storage space, measure it and find out how much it’ll cost each month before shopping around for an RV or trailer.
For a couple, a 15-foot camper may be plenty. But a family of four with two 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.
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.
Once you’ve 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’ll 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.
If you intend on doing a lot of camping around the country, you’ll need an RV or camper that is self sufficient. Look for a model that has solar panels for electrical power, a large gas tank and large onboard water tanks.
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’re unlikely to ever venture over the rough stuff, you could save money by sticking to a more road-based RV.
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’s less likelihood of leaks forming. You should also pay attention to the owner’s manual and keep the interior ventilated to reduce humidity and moisture levels.
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.
You’ll also need to decide whether you want to get a motorhome you can drive or a trailer that needs to be hitched up to another vehicle and towed.
Motorhomes tend to be the most expensive option, but they can also be a lot bigger than trailers, making them a great option for someone who plans to take to the roads full time.
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’ll need to have a vehicle capable of towing the model you want.
To find out your car’s towing capacity, check your owner’s manual. Bear in mind that this is the maximum weight your vehicle can haul — if you choose a trailer that weighs the maximum amount your car can tow, you won’t be able to tow it with anything in it, like food, water and luggage.
If you’re buying an RV or trailer, or you’re loading one up to go on a trip, it’s 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 state laws. For example, some roads will have maximum weight limits.
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 the DMV for entry and exit scales you can use.
Loading your RV or trailer correctly is crucial to maintaining full control of your vehicle and making long-distance driving comfortable and less tiring. Incorrectly loading your vehicle can result in poor handling, brakes that don’t operate correctly, increased fuel consumption and control problems.
When loading your vehicle, place heavy items down low — near the axle. You can place medium-weight items slightly further away and lightweight items like clothes in lockers higher up and further from the axle. Proper loading will improve your trailer’s resistance to swaying and snaking. It will also be more stable at high speeds and in crosswinds.
The video below demonstrates the dramatic effect loading has on the handling of the tow vehicle.
It’s a good idea to keep your RV or trailer well maintained before and during your trip. If you’re towing a trailer, you may also want to have your car checked out before you leave.
Towing laws vary by state, so you’ll need to make sure you understand the local road rules if planning a cross-country adventure. Generally, you should ensure the following:
When researching what RV or trailer you want to buy, here are a few terms and abbreviations you may come across:
Before buying a new RV or trailer, there are a few questions you can ask yourself to ensure you’re choosing the right option for you. And you’ll also want to look into how you’ll store, maintain, and drive or tow your new camper before taking the plunge.
Know what you want? Compare RV loans to find a lender that can help you get behind the wheel of your dream motorhome.
To learn even more about buying RVs, read up on these answers to typical questions.
Picture: Getty Images
Target-date funds (TDFs) automatically rebalance to take on less risk as you near retirement. Learn more.
Mint Mobile has some of the cheapest prepaid phone plans, but you’ll have to commit to a 3-month plan. See if the features are worth it.
Risks and performance indicators to consider before you buy into a SPAC.
Insure your classic car or race car at agreed value with Heacock Classic, but you’ll have to look elsewhere if you have recent claims or major violations.
Offers a transparent look at your premiums and rewards renewal with a better insurance score.
Best tips for planning a road trip and saving money along the way.
Learn about RV camping, and see how much it costs.
Most rental companies build in some coverage, but make sure you have enough before getting in the cockpit.
If you’re relaxed behind the wheel, you’ll want to steer clear of these states with the strictest driving laws.
Some cities ban the practice, but otherwise you can overnight legally at designated parking areas.