Going Camping? Should You Buy an RV or Trailer?

RVs or Trailers: Which is Better For You?

Buying a recreational vehicle comes with a number of considerations as owners often have to learn how to drive the vehicle and perform basic maintenance. However, many owners appreciate the advantages of owning an RV and the ability to plan for long road trips including great camping and a good number of the comforts they have at home.

When might it be best to buy an RV and when is a travel trailer a better option? Explore some key advantages and differences today.

Why Purchase an RV

First-time RV owners can buy either new or used and add more features to their RV as time goes on. That means that if the budget only allows for a bare bones model, it does not preclude the ability to upgrade and customize the RV when funds become available. There are multiple ways to get started in the lifestyle without a huge commitment, such as with pop up campers or small travel trailers, but living quarters are smaller than with other options. People considering an RV can compare towables as well as drivable motorhomes, and may prefer towables as they can detach their primary vehicle for a short day trip.

Buyers who want all of the bells and whistles in a new RV like a great kitchen with a kitchen and all the utensils that go along with it. They should go through a dealer and be aware that this is one of the most expensive alternatives when purchasing. There can be disadvantages when buying a new RV, such as the higher price tag, an increase in insurance premiums and potential investment in a towing vehicle. However, the ability to get a customized RV with a full manufacturer warranty can offset these factors.

Why Look for a Travel Trailer

A travel trailer may be more suitable for those looking to spend less on maintenance. An RV is not generally used every day and some old RVs may have less than 50K miles on them. Vehicles which are not used often can develop problems with the drying out of hoses, belts, gaskets and seals, along with rusting of other components. Increasing the frequency of driving can reduce such issues.

When it comes to travel trailers, there are fewer areas to check before heading out. Travel trailer owners should be looking at the brakes, wheel bearings and tires, while an RV also has the insides of bumpers, frame rails and engine compartments to investigate, common residences for critters. Mice and squirrels can chew through wires and build nests, creating a fire hazard. New owners of these vehicles may come to appreciate this factor as it can make getting ready to leave on a camping trip easier.

If an RV breaks down and requires service, towing will be more expensive. Some towing companies will refuse to tow large RVs. If the vehicle is being serviced, the owner is out both their transportation and a place to stay, while a travel trailer can be unhitched. Travel trailers are a type of RV, although some features making them easier to service.

Love the Lifestyle

An RV can essentially be a house on wheels and many enjoy this option for a fun getaway as a couple or with the family. However, there are many different types of recreational vehicles available and buyers should do their due diligence in learning which vehicle may best suit their current and future needs. Speak with a few RV dealers, and read owner blogs and forums to learn more about the pros and cons of different types of recreational vehicles.

The responses below are not provided, commissioned, reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any financial entity or advertiser. It is not the advertiser’s responsibility to ensure all posts and/or questions are answered.