How to Buy a Travel Trailer

Recreational Vehicles (RVs) come in a variety of designs. One of the most popular type of RVs is the travel trailer. Unlike motor home RVs, a travel trailer does not contain its own engine and driving gear. Instead, travel trailers are hooked up to the back of a truck or car and pulled. Travel trailers can be parked in RV camps and are a convenient alternative to staying at a hotel. It is important to carefully maintain your travel trailer and regularly inspect the wheels and exterior of the RV for any wear or damage.

Instructions

1

Decide whether you want a new or used travel trailer. A used travel trailer will be less expensive than a newer model, but you may have less of a selection. New travel trailers can be purchased at some large sporting good stores or at an RV store. You will be able to tour the models prior to purchase.

2

Decide what size travel trailer you want. Travel trailers range in length from 12 to 35 feet. Your family size, amount of luggage, length of trip and frequency of travel will determine what size travel trailer you want.

3

Determine where you will store the travel trailer. Very small travel trailers may be able to sit in your driveway, but if you purchase a larger model you may need to rent a space to park it.

4

Decide what floor plan you want. Travel trailers are available in a variety of floor plans. You may select a travel trailer with a built-in kitchen, living room and bathroom. Some travel trailers have separate bedrooms, whereas others have sofas that convert into beds.

5

Take it for a test drive. Whether you are purchasing a new or used travel trailer, ask to take the model for a test drive before you commit to purchase it. Even if you love the interior of the travel trailer, you may discover during a test drive that the model is bulky or difficult to haul.

6

Ask for a discount. When you are ready to purchase a travel trailer, be sure to ask the seller for a discount. University Federal Credit Union notes, "Some RV dealers regularly add fifty percent to their 'asking' prices." If the seller is not willing to negotiate on price, find out if the store you are purchasing from holds annual sales. This may be a good time to come back and get the travel trailer you want at a reduced rate.