It’s an exciting time when you decide to purchase your first RV. You can begin turning your travel dreams into reality. There are so many places that you are able to go and explore. Owning an RV allows you to hit the back road, see the mom and pop restaurants, and travel at your own pace. There is a new found freedom that RV owners are able to enjoy. But, you probably have quite a few questions too. Here are some things you should know before looking at new RVs for sale.
What you need to think about
Imagining the exciting adventures you can have while you travel is one thing, but before you hit the road you have to determine what type of RV to buy. This process will involve you thinking about the following things:
- Do I want a motorhome so I don’t need a vehicle to tow my RV?
- How many people need to sleep in the RV?
- How much storage space do I need?
- What features are important to me?
- What kind of layout do I prefer?
A couple looking to go on the concessional weekend trip is most likely going to look for something different than a couple that is transitioning to full-time RVing. And a family of 6 will most likely want more space than a retired couple that is traveling alone.
When you are RV shopping make sure that you pay attention to the features that come with the RV and not just the layout. What is the exterior made out of? What type of suspension does it have? The suspension is important for the life of your RV. This is what keeps your trailer from wearing out early and keeps your appliances from being jarred around as you are on the road.
You also want to think about how much you have saved up, what you can afford if you are paying cash, or what kind of payments you can afford. This can help you determine what RV is going to be a good fit for your budget.
Tips for new RVers
If you are nervous about taking your RV out for the first time you aren’t alone. Most first time RVers are anxious about everything from driving the RV to knowing how to get setup at the campsite. Here are some tips to help you out.
Backing the trailer in
- Grab the bottom of the steering wheel. If you want back of trailer to go left turn it left if you want it to go right, turn it right. When you try to hold the top of the steering wheel and do this it’s backwards.
- Do small turns instead of trying to do large turns. Continue going back and forth until you are in.
- You will want to use a leveling bubble and plates when setting up a trailer. Your leveling plates will help you to level your RV from the right side to the left.
- Bring a cordless drill along to make use of the stabilizing jacks much faster and easier.
Control panel
Make sure you are familiar with how your control panel works. And, don’t forget to make sure that you are clear of any exterior structures, trees, plants, or anything else when opening slides and the awning.
Hook up
The process of connecting to a full hook-up at a campsite is something that overwhelms many RVers. Here are a few things to remember.
- Many campgrounds will have options when you are plugging in for how many amps you are using. Make sure that you plug in to the correct spot.
- The gray tank is for things like your dishwater and water from your shower. The black is from your toilet. When you are at a dumping station always do your black first and then the gray.
Relax and have fun
RVing is all about relaxing and enjoying yourself. That’s one of the best parts about RVing. The campgrounds are full of other RVers that are more than willing to give you a hand or answer questions for you if you need it. And, the staff at Sky River RV is happy to answer any questions for you as well. Our goal is to help make your RVing experience the best it can be. Give us a call or stop in to one of our locations today.
