Is Buying a Used RV Right For You?

The cost of a new RV can prohibit some from experiencing the benefits of RV travel. But instead of buying a new camper for your first experience, pre-owned RVs often sell at a lower cost and can provide a softer financial entry into the RV lifestyle. However, you must know how to buy a used RV, as the process can differ from RV buying tips for new campers. 

While used RVs can require additional upkeep, buying the right pre-owned RV and budgeting for known and unknown maintenance costs can still be cheaper than buying a new RV. In this used RV buying guide, we’ll highlight the pros and cons of used campers and provide tips on what to look for when buying a used RV.

Should I Buy a New or Used RV?

Jumping into the RV lifestyle doesn’t always require a significant upfront investment. Renting an RV is great for newcomers, but purchasing an affordable, used RV can also be a smart way to begin your adventure. For families and solo travelers alike, buying used often leads to savings—especially for those ready to embrace the lifestyle.

However, a common question arises: How old is too old for a used RV? This is where knowledge and experience come in handy. You’ll also benefit from asking key questions, inspecting used RVs thoroughly, and brushing up on RV maintenance basics before deciding.

The Benefits of Buying a Used RV

Let’s begin with some of the benefits of buying the best used motorhome or towable RV for you:

Save Money

Perhaps the biggest advantage of buying used is the immediate cost savings. Most used RVs, even if only a few years old, have taken the brunt of the RV depreciation rate (around 20%) just by driving off the lot. Generally, travel trailers tend to hold their value longer than motorhomes and fifth wheels. Still, it all depends on how well the RV has been cared for.

Here are a few critical questions to ask the seller:

• What repairs or maintenance has been done?
• Is there documentation of work performed, including roof repairs, winterizing, or water damage?
• How was the RV stored? Was it exposed to extreme weather or kept under shelter?
• How frequently has the RV been used?
• Has the RV had multiple owners?

An RV that has been regularly maintained can help you avoid costly repairs down the line. Remember, frequent use often means problems were addressed before they escalated.

Gain RVing Experience

RVs can be intimidating at first, but we all start as beginners. A used RV offers a budget-friendly way to learn the ropes. Whether you’re new to the lifestyle or just testing the waters, a used RV allows for trial and error without the worry of damaging a brand-new, high-dollar rig. And as you gain experience, you’ll discover which features and amenities truly matter to you.

The Drawbacks of Buying a Used RV

Knowledgeable RV buyers should also know the disadvantages when shopping for used RVs:

An Unknown History

No matter how many questions you ask, some things remain a mystery. This is especially true if the RV has had multiple owners. Even with a thorough inspection, issues like hidden leaks or electrical problems can go undetected. As the owner of a used RV, you’ll need to stay vigilant and look out for any signs of disrepair over time.

Expired Manufacturer’s Warranty

Most RV manufacturer warranties expire after 1-3 years, and appliances often have even shorter coverage. If warranty protection is important to you, consider purchasing an extended warranty or a third-party coverage plan to avoid out-of-pocket expenses for major repairs.

Unforeseen Fixes

Like any vehicle or home, RVs require regular maintenance and, sometimes, unexpected repairs. Older RVs are more likely to need repairs, so it’s wise to set aside a budget for the unexpected—such as replacing tires or fixing the air conditioner. Comprehensive insurance for older rigs can be harder to obtain, so factoring in these costs is important.

What To Look For When Buying a Used RV

If you’ve decided that used campers should be part of your RV search, here are a few used RV buying tips: 

• Maintenance records. The more you can learn about how the previous owner(s) cared for the RV, the better you can assess its condition and plan for upcoming maintenance.
• Structural Integrity. Look for soft spots on the floor, wall streaks, mold growth, corroded parts, and bowed ceilings. These are some red flags that could signal significant water damage.
• Exterior Condition. Are there any dents or punctures in the sidewalls or roof? Are the seals cracked or missing around the windows, doors, and roof-mounted accessories? What about the seams between sidewalls and front or rear caps? Are the storage compartments accessible, and do the doors properly close and lock?
• Interior Condition. Are all cabinets present and in working condition? Are there missing or loose handles? Do you notice any aesthetic damage to upholstery or other interior decor? Does your nose pick up any smells that you know will be hard to remove?
• Tires and Chassis. Inspect the tire tread depth and overall condition. Look under the chassis for signs of excessive corrosion or any bent/damaged parts to the chassis, axle, or suspension.
• Water Systems. Check that the system doesn’t leak when connected to city water. Fill the fresh water tank and check that the 12V water pump supplies adequate water pressure to all fixtures. 
• Power and Appliances. Test 12V appliances when disconnected from shore power. This includes your water pump, some interior lights, and your water heater. Plug into shore power and ensure larger appliances work, such as your air conditioner, microwave, and refrigerator. 

When buying a used RV from a reputable dealer like Camping World, you’ll look at used campers that have already undergone an extensive reconditioning program. You can learn more about that program and what to look for when buying a used RV in the guide below:

Why Try RVing?

RVing isn’t just for retirees. Younger generations are embracing the nomadic lifestyle, using RVs as a way to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature. As Craig Kirby, President of the RVIA, noted, “Americans love the space and freedom of the outdoors and the enrichment that comes with living an active outdoor life.”

Moreover, RVing pairs well with the remote work lifestyle that has become prevalent in recent years. Working remotely from an RV can offer significant cost savings, especially compared to traditional housing. Plus, there are tax benefits to living full-time in an RV.

Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or a more permanent solution, RVing offers flexibility, freedom, and a chance to explore the outdoors in comfort. The rise in RV travel shows that more Americans are giving this lifestyle a try and loving it. If you’re ready to begin your RV journey, consider a used RV to ease into the experience without a huge financial commitment.

Camping World’s experienced RV sales staff can assist you in finding the perfect used RV for your lifestyle. Rest easy knowing that used campers at Camping World are inspected and held to high standards for quality and cleanliness.

Camping World’s experienced RV sales staff can assist you in finding the perfect used RV for your lifestyle. There’s truly no substitute for heading into a dealership to see floor plans in person. However, here are a few more resources to help you make the most of your dealership visit when the time comes.

• Pros and Cons of Vintage RVs
• How To Find RV Parks Without a 10 Year Rule Near Me
• What Are The Best Used Fifth Wheel Toy Haulers?
• 2020 Travel Trailers

What do you look for when buying a used RV? Let us know in the comments below.