Choosing Your RV

After getting past the will-you-won’t-you of an RV purchase, the excitement of shopping might be stifled by the sheer number of choices facing you. There are a lot of factors to consider, including budget, size, and features.

Since there can certainly be stress and work involved in finding the right RV here at Broadmoor RV we’ve put together this short guide to help you through the process. And when you’re ready to take a look at the best in new and pre-owned motorhomes, travel trailers, toy haulers, and fifth wheels for sale, visit our dealership in Pasco, near Seattle, Spokane, Wenatchee, and Richland, Washington.

Size

Step One of getting your new RV picked out is focusing on what kind of camping or other use you want out of the vehicle. Some people enjoy short camping trips that last the weekend or even a single night, while others want to spend weeks, months, or even a whole season enjoying the outdoors. The more you plan to use your RV, the larger you’ll want to go. You’ll need more living space, features, kitchen functionality, and sleeping area to camp for extended periods. Much less room is needed if you’re into solo adventures or quick getaways with the family.

Types of RV

There are a few different styles of RV designed for best use in specific situations. Each has their advantages and disadvantages, perks and limitations, and restrictions based on the towing power of your car or truck. Keep your intended use in mind!

Travel Trailers

Travel trailers have a lot of design options for you to choose from, varying in size and shape, some with furnishings and others without. A smaller family or group will find plenty of room to rest and relax, and if you’re in a pinch, you can lay down some sleeping bags and squeeze your whole clan inside.

They’re also the easiest RV trailer to hitch and tow, which is a major concern for many prospective owners. The learning curve is much simpler than a hulking fifth wheel, and you won’t have to worry about a huge tow vehicle in order to reach your destination.

Fifth Wheels

These trailers are big enough that you’ll have to install a special hitch in your truck if you want to properly tow it. But with that extra burden comes a bonanza of RV features, like appliances for cooking, furniture for relaxation, master bedrooms for larger and more comfortable mattresses, and restroom facilities to stay hygienic.

While that special hitch is a hurdle to overcome, the unique way fifth wheels sit over a truck bed give them the control and handling from which they derive their name. If you’re into lots of amenities and an expansive space for extended trips, a fifth wheel is a great choice.

Toy Haulers

No, not your kids’ toys. We’re talking about adult toys — powered vehicles, like ATVs, UTVs, personal watercraft, and anything else you want to have fun with on your RV trip. Toy haulers bring all the features of the typical motorhome with the added feature of a huge cargo space and ramp door to make loading a breeze. This type of RV is the best way to go if you’re into outdoor sports and adventure or if you need more space for a workshop, living area, or whatever else you can come up with.

Motorhomes

When you think RV, you’ve probably got a motorhome in mind. No need for towing. These RVs come with their own cab so you can stop worrying about hooking everything together and just drive. They’re more expensive than trailers, but this can be offset if you don’t already have a vehicle fit for trailer towing.

Three different types of motorhomes exist, each roughly based on overall vehicle size. The Class B motorhome has about the same amount of space you’ll find in a small camper trailer, while Class C motorhomes will have as much room as a typical travel trailer. Class A’s are the largest and have many options to choose from, including models the same size as fifth wheels and others that get even bigger.

Budgeting

Hopefully you’ve narrowed your choices down based on your needs, but it’s time to reach for the brass ring of RV shopping: prices and budget. While you don’t want to get something inexpensive and small that underperforms, you also don’t want to bite into a vehicle bigger than you need with a price tag that hits you right in the wallet. The most important thing is to set a limit. Decide on a number you refuse to go over before you visit a dealership.

While Broadmoor RV prides itself on honest salesmanship, some other dealers might try to talk an inexperienced buyer into something beyond their needs and budget. Remember that we’re simply trying to narrow down choices, and even those willing to pay high prices for the very best are advised to have a general idea of the financials before making a purchase.

Careful planning and thought about what type of model is right for you can save tons of frustration and disappointment down the road. Here at Broadmoor RV, we know any big purchase is worth careful consideration, which is why we offer professional service and a friendly staff to help you make a choice. Broadmoor RV is conveniently located near the areas of Richland, West Richland, Kennewick, Pasco and Walla Walla, Washington. We have Super People, Super Service, and Super Prices all in one place. Come in today and let us prove it!