The costliest mistakes usually happen before the first trip. A simpler RV that gets used regularly can be better value than an elaborate one that is hard to store, tow or maintain.
Twelve costly mistakes
- Choosing a trailer by advertised maximum towing capacity alone. Payload, GCWR, hitch and axle ratings can each be reached first. See tow vehicles and hitches.
- Treating dry weight as travel weight. Water, propane, batteries, food and gear can add well over 1,000 lb. See sizes and weights.
- Buying more length than your destinations accommodate. Older campgrounds, ferries, fuel stops and storage all have limits.
- Choosing sleeping capacity without checking suitable travel seating. "Sleeps eight" does not mean eight safe travel seats.
- Ignoring storage arrangements. Measure gate width, turning room, length and height, and ask about winter access and any municipal limits before you buy.
- Shopping by monthly payment instead of total cost. A long loan lowers the payment but keeps the balance high, and resale value can fall faster than the loan.
- Assuming solar automatically supports air conditioning. A small factory package usually cannot.
- Assuming "four-season" means comfortable Canadian winter living. Ask about tanks, valves, insulation, heating and batteries. See construction and four-season RVs.
- Underestimating water damage. Hidden damage can become expensive before it is obvious.
- Buying for an exceptional future trip instead of normal use. Choose for the trips you will take most often.
- Filling every storage compartment without weighing. Large compartments do not raise the allowable weight.
- Assuming a warranty removes repair inconvenience. Warranty service can still mean long waits and travel to a dealer.
New, used or rental
| Option | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| New | Known ownership history, current equipment, choice of layout and warranty cover subject to its terms | Higher initial cost, depreciation and the chance of early defects and warranty-service delays |
| Used | Lower entry cost and possibly better equipment for the money | Hidden damage, incomplete records, ageing components and uncertain prior repairs |
| Rent first | Shows whether you like the routine and whether a layout works | Rental fleets are limited to certain types and sizes |
Inspect a new RV thoroughly and ask for a detailed delivery demonstration. For a used purchase of any size, an independent inspection is worth the money, and a motorhome may need separate house-system and mechanical inspections. See buying new versus used.
What to inspect before buying
A good inspection covers more than whether the appliances switch on.
| Area | Check |
|---|---|
| Exterior and structure | Roof, seams, windows and openings; soft floors or suspicious repairs; delamination or wall distortion; frame, corrosion, suspension and running gear; slide alignment and seals |
| House systems | Plumbing under pressure; tank filling and draining; heating and cooling; refrigerator operation; battery and charging performance; electrical protection and outlets; propane system condition |
| Motorhome mechanical | Service records; tires and brakes; engine, transmission and cooling; steering and suspension; diagnostic concerns and fluid leaks; generator service and operation |
| Documents | VIN matches ownership; lien status; registration history; recall status; import records where they apply; warranty and service terms |
Ask for an itemized total purchase price and get promised repairs in writing. Use the used RV viewing worksheet, the used RV inspection checklist and the RV buying checklist.
Common questions
What is the biggest mistake first-time RV buyers make?
Buying on the advertised tow rating or monthly payment without checking real loaded weights, payload and total cost.
Should I get a used RV inspected?
Yes. Hidden water damage, incomplete records and ageing components are the main risks, and a professional inspection is usually worth it for a significant purchase.
Does a warranty cover everything?
No. Terms, exclusions and service access vary, and warranty repairs can still mean waiting and travelling to a dealer.