Used vs. New RV: Which Is Better?

Rising house prices and the growth of domestic travel due to the pandemic have meant RV sales are booming. Last year shipments were up by 22.5% in a one-month period alone. But when buying, is it best to purchase new or second-hand?

There are pros and cons to both. Read on as we help you make the decision on how and where to buy a recreational vehicle.

Pros of a New Recreational Vehicle

Nothing can beat the smell of a new car and that is intensified in a new RV. Everything is pristine and all the features are unused. Even with a valet, you won’t get that in a used vehicle.

With this comes all the latest upgrades. A new recreational vehicle will have the latest safety features, along with an in-cabin infotainment system.

Crucially, you will get a manufacturer’s warranty. If anything goes wrong with the vehicle or problems occur, then you will be covered. You will also find that financing for RVs and campers becomes a lot easier with new models.

Cons of a New Recreational Vehicle

Most of the cons when you purchase a recreational vehicle that is brand new are financial. Not only are they very expensive, but much of that value also goes once you drive it off the forecourt. If you are financing and have left a deposit, this can often be equivalent to the deposit amount itself.

Pros of a Used Recreational Vehicle

Research thoroughly and you can get some real bargains when the time comes to buy a recreational vehicle second-hand. Most RV users treat their RV as a second home and look after it well. It is not like buying a used car where it may have been driven to death.

Many people also make valuable upgrades once they have taken the RV home. This means you can get some models with better specifications than brand new ones. All of this is at a reduced price.

Cons of a Used Recreational Vehicle

Like any used vehicle, you may get something substandard. The owner may be trying to offload a faulty vehicle or one with serious problems. However, this can also happen even if you buy a recreational vehicle new, but then you have a warranty to back it up.

One way to avoid this is to do your research. Take someone with you who knows RVs, both from a mechanical and aesthetic point of view. Water and structural damage are the areas you should really inspect thoroughly.

Finally, getting the exact worth of a second-hand RV is tough. Many variables can impact the price, so even similar models and ages can have different prices. Essentially, a vehicle is worth what you are willing to pay for it.

Hitting the Road

There are many recreational vehicle dealers for old and new products. Add this to the many listing sites online, and you are sure to find a vehicle to suit your needs.

If you enjoyed this article, visit the rest of our blog. We have everything from consumer goods to cars to help get the most from your money.