Some of the very best holiday memories happen on the road; whether it’s car karaoke - singing at the top of your lungs, or stumbling across beautiful scenery after taking a wrong turn. In fact, the team at KEA often says that ‘the holiday magic really happens between destinations’.

We also know there is a lot to consider when purchasing a vehicle for self drive vacations. Whether you’re a first time buyer or seasoned RV owner, KEA has compiled a foolproof buyer’s guide to ensure you get exactly what you want!

Do Your Research:

The first step in buying an RV is deciding what you want and finding out the options that are available.

We recommend jumping online and reading independent reviews, as well as reading RV specific publications, visiting your local dealer or even attending an RV show – where you’ll be able to see many of the vehicle options available. If  you have friends who own or have owned the vehicle, or a similar model to the one you are interested in, ask them for their recommendations too.

With so many products on the market, identifying the features you need, based on how you’ll use your vehicle, is essential.

RVs vary dramatically, so think about writing a list of things you want or don’t want in your next vehicle. Consider the length of time you’re likely to be on the road for on any given trip, as well as the type of places you will make your nightly stop.

If you’re mostly resting at campsites with cooking facilities you might need a less advanced vehicle than if you’re planning on hitting the open road. It’s important to ask yourself these questions before jumping in.

Set a Budget:

Avoid buyer’s remorse by investigating current prices and evaluating how much you’re willing and able to spend on your dream vehicle. Be sure to factor in any optional extras and their additional costs.

Ask the Tough Questions:

Don’t be distracted by the shiniest paintwork– be sure to ask the important questions, such as the vehicle’s safety features, mechanics and fuel efficiency. It’s a good idea to prepare a list of questions before you go.

Most salesmen should be knowledgeable campers with first-hand experience driving the vehicle and will have no problem answering your queries.

Try Before You Buy:

If you are still in doubt before purchasing, ask for a test drive – this will give you a good feel for the vehicle and help you picture yourself in the RV.

Some dealers, particularly those with relationships with a rental operator, will help you take a vehicle overnight – a great way to test out all the features.

If visiting an RV show, don’t forget to bring home as many information pamphlets as possible, and make your own notes – if you are looking at a couple of different options it is easy to get confused.

For further information, manufacturer’s websites are a valuable resource for the finer details that will help you reach your final decision.

Private Seller:

If you are opting to purchase your RV through a private seller as opposed to a dealer, here are our tips to make sure you are in the know:

• Do an initial inspection, things like checking for cracked tyres, dents, brake wear, fluid leaks, a spare tyre that is in good condition and current service log.
• Take it for a test drive, listen for noises and rattles.
• Think about paying for a professional inspection to help you understand the condition of the parts that you can’t see.
• Ensure the roof doesn’t have any damage or leaks.
• Make sure you ask to see roadworthy and registration documents. 
• Most importantly, before signing any papers, make sure there are no outstanding finances owed on the vehicle.

With these tips in mind the team at KEA urges you and your inner adventurer to hit the road!

Category: Features
Written: Wed 01 May 2013
Printed: May, 2013
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