Camper Discounts: How Much Can You Expect To Save?

When it comes to buying an RV, it's important to be aware of the potential discounts on offer. While it's tempting to aim for a 30% discount, as is often touted by experts on social media, this could lead to a poor purchasing decision. RVs depreciate far faster than cars or trucks, losing about 40% of their value in the first 2 years. This means that relatively new campers in excellent condition can often be purchased for a fraction of their original price.

When it comes to negotiating a discount, it's important to do your research. Websites like NADA provide valuable information on RV pricing, allowing buyers to determine a fair price for their desired RV. It's also beneficial to shop during the off-season, when dealers are more willing to negotiate to move inventory. Patience is key when searching for the right deal, and it's important to remain unattached to any particular RV to avoid making impulsive decisions.

Additionally, it's crucial to be mindful of hidden fees and charges that may be added by dealers. When negotiating, it's best to focus on the out-the-door or final price, rather than the initial sticker price, which is often inflated. By being informed, patient, and strategic, buyers can expect to negotiate discounts of up to 20% or more on used RVs.

The average discount on RVs is 20%

If you're in the market for a new RV, you might be wondering how much of a discount you can get. While there's no one-size-fits-all answer, it's helpful to know the average discount buyers typically receive. Based on research and the experiences of RV owners, a 20% discount on RVs is a reasonable starting point for negotiations.

Factors Affecting Discounts

Several factors can influence the discount you may receive when purchasing an RV:

• Time of Year: Buying an RV in early fall in the Sun Belt may limit your negotiating power as this is a popular time for snowbirds to upgrade their vehicles. In contrast, buying during the off-season in northern states might result in larger discounts.
• Inventory Levels: When RV dealers have an excess of inventory, they may be more willing to offer discounts to move units.
• Model Year: As with cars, dealers are often willing to offer larger discounts on older models to make room for new inventory.
• Location: The price you pay might depend on the region you're buying from.
• Demand: If a particular model is in high demand, dealers may be less inclined to offer significant discounts.
• Your Negotiation Skills: Ultimately, your ability to negotiate can make a big difference. Be prepared to walk away if the dealer doesn't meet your expectations.

Tips for Getting a Good Deal

• Shop Around: Compare prices from multiple dealers, both locally and nationwide. This will give you a sense of the market and help you identify dealers who are offering competitive prices.
• Online Research: Utilize online resources like RVTrader.com to find the lowest advertised prices for the make and model you're interested in. This will be a useful starting point for negotiations.
• Manufacturer Rebates: Keep an eye out for manufacturer rebates, which can further reduce the price.
• Consider Older Models: Buying a model that's one year old can often save you a significant amount, sometimes up to 40% off the current model year.
• Avoid RV Shows: While RV shows offer a wide variety of models to choose from, they may not be the best place to get the lowest price. Dealers at these shows are often less willing to negotiate.
• Negotiate Add-Ons: Even if the dealer doesn't budge on the RV price, they may be willing to throw in freebies or add-ons like hoses, surge suppressors, or leveling blocks.

Examples of Discounts Received

To give you an idea of the discounts others have received, here are a few examples:

• A 2005 Dutch Star RV purchased in New Jersey with a 28% discount.
• A 2006 Vectra RV purchased in Delaware with a 27% discount.
• A 2014 Outback 5th Wheel RV purchased in Massachusetts with a 24% discount.
• A 2019 Newmar RV purchased in Florida with a 20% discount.
• A 2021 Winnebago Class A RV purchased in Michigan with an 8% discount.

When purchasing an RV, it's important to do your research, compare prices, and negotiate to get the best deal. While a 20% discount is a reasonable starting point, don't be afraid to aim higher, especially if you have strong negotiation skills and can take advantage of the right timing and market conditions.

Dealers are more likely to offer discounts when they have a lot of inventory

During the pandemic, for example, there was a surge in demand for RVs, and dealers struggled to keep up. This resulted in a situation where dealers did not need to offer discounts as there were more buyers than RVs available. However, the situation has changed in recent years, with dealers facing ballooning inventories and potential customers facing higher interest rates and tighter financing options. These factors have combined to create a buyer's market, and dealers are now more likely to be flexible on prices to secure a sale.

The season and region can also play a role in the likelihood of getting a discount. For instance, buying an RV in early fall in the Sun Belt states may result in smaller discounts as many people travel to these states for the winter and look to upgrade their RVs. In contrast, buying an RV in the off-season in the northern states may increase your chances of getting a better deal.

Additionally, dealers are often willing to offer larger discounts on older models to make room for new inventory. So, if you're looking to buy an RV and want to get a good deal, it's worth considering the time of year, the region, and the dealer's inventory levels.

It's also worth noting that the discount you can get may depend on the specific RV you're interested in. Some brands and models may have thinner supplies, and dealers may be less inclined to offer significant discounts on these RVs. Therefore, doing your research and comparing prices across different dealers can help you make an informed decision and increase your chances of getting a good deal.

RVs depreciate quickly, so buying used can be a good option

RVs are notorious for their quick depreciation, so it is often a good idea to consider buying used. All new campers depreciate quickly in their first two years, and you can often purchase a relatively new (two to five-year-old) camper in excellent condition for a fraction of its original price.

New trailers, for instance, can depreciate by about 40% in their first two years. This means that if you buy a used RV, you can avoid the steep initial drop in value. You can also benefit from the fact that many RV buyers jump into a purchase only to find that it does not suit their lifestyle. As a result, they sell their RV after a few years, often with minimal use, for a fraction of what they paid.

When buying a used camper, you have two primary options: buying from a dealer or purchasing from a private seller. Each option has its advantages and challenges. Dealers will try to make a profit and sell to you at or above "average retail", whereas private sellers will usually accept a lower price but will require you to hire your own technician to inspect the vehicle.

When negotiating the price of a new or used RV, it is important to remember that RV dealers need to sell multiple RVs every month to stay in business. Therefore, if you are shopping for an RV during a time of low demand, such as during a recession or when interest rates are high, you will be a welcome sight on any RV lot and should be able to get a good discount.

It is also worth noting that the season and region where you purchase an RV may impact your ability to negotiate a deal. For example, buying an RV in early fall in the Sun Belt may restrict how much of a discount you’ll get since snowbirds travel to these states in flocks for the winter and are often looking to upgrade their RVs. On the other hand, buying an RV north of the Mason-Dixon line between October and May might result in larger discounts because it’s the off-season for RVing in those states.

Do your research and look at prices online before negotiating

When it comes to buying a camper, it's important to do your research and look at prices online before negotiating with a dealer. Here are some tips to help you get the best deal on your dream camper:

Understand the Camper Market and Pricing

It's important to understand the basic truths about the camper market and typical dealership pricing. Camper dealers often have more flexibility in pricing used campers than new ones because they can buy used campers from customers at a discount. Dealers may mark up the prices of used campers by almost 50% to maximize their profits and allow room for negotiations. Therefore, you should not use the sticker price as a starting point for negotiations, as it is often inflated. Instead, you should research the average price of the specific camper you're interested in. The NADA website is a great resource for finding the average prices of campers, dating back to 1966. Knowing the average price will give you a good starting point for negotiations.

Shop During the Off-Season

The off-season for camper sales typically starts in mid to late November and ends in late January to early February. Dealers are usually more willing to negotiate and offer discounts during this period to move their inventory. So, if you're looking to get a good deal, it's best to time your purchase during the off-season.

Be Patient and Don't Get Attached

Finding the right camper and negotiating the best deal takes time. Give yourself a few months to shop around and compare prices. It's important not to get too attached to any particular camper, as this may cloud your judgment during negotiations. Remember, you need to be willing to walk away from a deal if the terms or price are not acceptable to you.

Keep a Cool Head and Check Your Ego

Negotiating can be challenging, and it's easy to let your ego get in the way. Remind yourself that negotiating is just business, and it's not personal. If you feel yourself getting too emotional, take a break—excuse yourself to use the restroom or take a phone call to cool off. Keeping a level head will help you stay focused on your goal of getting the best deal.

Watch Out for Hidden Fees

When negotiating the price of a camper, make sure you are discussing the final, out-the-door price. Ask the dealer about any additional fees or charges they may add to the price of the camper. By being aware of potential hidden fees, you can ensure that you are getting the best deal on the total cost of the camper.

Be prepared to walk away if the dealer won't negotiate

When negotiating the price of a camper, it's important to be prepared to walk away if the dealer is unwilling to negotiate. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Do your research: Know the market value of the camper you're interested in. Sites like Nada Guides, TV Trader, and RVUSA can help you understand the pricing for both new and used campers. This knowledge will give you leverage during negotiations.
• Set a budget: Decide on the maximum price you are willing to pay and stick to it. Dealers may try to push you beyond your budget, but it's important to stay firm.
• Be willing to walk away: If the dealer is unwilling to negotiate or meet your price, don't be afraid to walk away. This shows that you are serious about your budget and that you are a determined buyer.
• Compare prices: Visit multiple dealerships and compare prices for the camper you want. This will give you a better understanding of the market and help you find the best deal.
• Timing is key: Consider the season and region when purchasing a camper. Buying during the off-season or when new models are about to arrive can increase your negotiating power, as dealers are more motivated to clear out old inventory.
• Be firm but fair: During negotiations, be respectful but also firm in your requests. Let the dealer know that you are a serious buyer and that you are willing to make a deal if they can meet your price.
• Know when to say yes: If the dealer offers a price within your target range, it's generally a good idea to accept it and move forward with the purchase. Don't get too caught up in chasing the last penny of savings.

Remember, buying a camper is a significant investment, and it's important to make an informed decision. Don't be afraid to walk away if the dealer is unwilling to negotiate or meet your expectations. There are other opportunities and dealers out there, and you can always come back to the negotiation with a stronger position.

Frequently asked questions