Buying an RV is exciting.
It’s the promise of open roads, slow mornings, campfires, and the freedom to take your home with you wherever you go. But it’s also one of the most misunderstood purchases people make.
Every season, we see brand-new RV owners pull into Galloping Snail RV Park, thrilled about their purchase, and sometimes a little overwhelmed by the reality of maneuvering, maintenance, and systems they didn’t fully understand before signing on the dotted line.
If you’re thinking about buying an RV, here’s what you need to know before you commit.
1. Start With Your Lifestyle — Not the Floorplan
It’s easy to fall in love with a beautiful interior layout. But before you compare bunk beds and kitchen islands, define how you’ll actually use your RV.
Ask yourself:
- Will this be for weekend trips or full-time living?
- Are you planning stays at national parks or private RV parks and campgrounds?
- How many people (and pets) are traveling with you?
- Will you mostly use full hookups, or do you want to boondock?
- If buying a motorhome, will you tow a car?
- If buying a trailer, what is your tow vehicle’s maximum towing capacity (because you’ll want to stay under that).
A large RV may look appealing, but if you plan to visit state or national parks, many sites have length restrictions (often under 35 feet). If you’re new to towing or driving large vehicles, starting smaller may mean far less stress.
The happiest RV owners aren’t the ones with the biggest rigs; they’re the ones whose RV matches their lifestyle.
2. Choose the Right Type of RV
There are two main categories: motorized RVs and towables.
Motorhomes
- Class A: Large, bus-style coaches with high-end features and significant storage.
- Class B: Compact camper vans, easy to drive and park.
- Class C: Mid-size motorhomes with the distinctive over-cab sleeping area.
Towables
- Travel Trailers: Versatile and available in many sizes and price points.
- Fifth Wheels: Larger towables that require a pickup truck with a special hitch.
Each has pros and cons related to cost, maintenance, maneuverability, and living space. There is no universal “best” option, only what works best for you.
3. Bigger Isn’t Always Better
This is something many first-time buyers don’t realize until their first trip.
Large RVs offer space and comfort, but they also require confidence behind the wheel. Tight campground turns, backing into sites, and navigating fuel stations can be stressful if you’re not used to driving something that size.
Before committing to a longer or taller rig, consider:
- Your comfort level when driving large vehicles
- Whether you’ll be traveling solo or with someone spotting you
- The types of campgrounds you want to visit
- Storage availability at home
Sometimes, slightly smaller can mean significantly more enjoyable.
4. Budget Beyond the Purchase Price
The sticker price is only the beginning.
When calculating your RV budget, include:
- Insurance
- Registration
- Maintenance and repairs
- Fuel (think of RV fuel consumption in yardage, not mileage🤣)
- Storage fees (if you can’t keep it at home)
- Campground fees
- An emergency repair fund
RVs break. It’s not if — it’s when.
Appliances fail. Seals wear out. Tires age. Slides need adjustment. Having a savings cushion prevents minor issues from becoming major stress.
5. Understand Towing and Weight Limits
If you’re buying a travel trailer or fifth wheel, this section is critical.
You need to know:
- Your vehicle’s maximum towing capacity
- Tongue weight limits
- Payload capacity
- Hitch rating
- Whether your truck is properly equipped for the trailer
Many buyers focus only on towing capacity and overlook payload, which can lead to unsafe setups.
If you’re purchasing a motorhome, consider whether you plan to tow a car (“toad”) behind it. Make sure the motorhome’s hitch rating supports that additional weight.
When in doubt, consult a towing professional before purchasing.
6. Buying Used? Hire an RV Inspector
If you’re purchasing a used RV, a professional inspection is one of the smartest investments you can make.
An inspector will check for:
- Water damage (soft spots, bubbling walls, mold)
- Roof condition and seal integrity
- Frame rust
- Slide-out function
- Appliance operation
- Generator performance
- Plumbing and electrical systems
Pay close attention to the tires. RV tires often age out before they wear out. Look for the date code on the sidewall, anything over five years old is a red flag. Even tires that “look fine” can fail unexpectedly.
And no matter how new the tires are, check air pressure before every trip. Blowouts can happen even on relatively young tires.
Even new RVs benefit from a thorough inspection before delivery.
7. Learn the Systems Before You Sign
You don’t need to be a mechanic, but you do need to understand how your RV keeps you:
- Warm in winter
- Cool in summer
- Powered off-grid
- Connected to shore power
- Supplied with water
- Properly dumping waste tanks
Understand whether the RV runs on gas or diesel. Know how many batteries it has and what type. Learn the shore power amperage (30-amp vs. 50-amp), generator size, propane capacity, and tank sizes (fresh, gray, and black).
The more you understand before leaving the lot, the smoother your first trip will be.
8. Rent Before You Buy
One of the best pieces of advice for first-time buyers?
Rent one.
Better yet, rent different types. Try a travel trailer one weekend and a Class C another. Live in it for a week if possible.
You’ll quickly learn what works for you — and what doesn’t. Small inconveniences become obvious when you’re actually using the space.
It’s far better to discover those preferences before committing to a long-term loan.
9. Consider an RV Owner Tech Course
Many new owners benefit from taking an RV owner training course. NRVTA holds these classes about 2.5 hours from Galloping Snail in Athens, TX. These programs walk through maintenance basics, troubleshooting, system management, and safe operation.
Investing in education early can save thousands in repair costs later and build confidence quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it better to buy a new or used RV?
Used RVs often provide better value because they’ve already experienced the steepest depreciation. However, they require careful inspection.
How much does RV maintenance cost per year?
Maintenance costs vary widely, but budgeting at least several thousand dollars annually for repairs and upkeep is realistic.
What size RV is best for beginners?
Many first-time buyers prefer smaller travel trailers or Class C motorhomes because they balance livability with easier maneuverability.
Do RV tires expire?
Yes. Most RV tires should be replaced around the five-year mark, regardless of tread wear.
Do I need a special license to drive an RV?
In most states, no special license is required for standard RVs, but always verify your local regulations.
Buying an RV is a big decision, and a rewarding one when done thoughtfully.
Take your time. Ask questions. Learn the systems. Match the rig to your lifestyle, not the other way around.
And when you’re ready to put those wheels on the road, you can rest your shells with us on your next great adventure.