Camper Buying Guide: Getting The Best Deal

Getting the best deal on a camper can be a stressful process. It's important to do your research and shop around to find the right option for your budget and needs. Buying used can be a great way to save money and get more for your money. When purchasing a camper, it's crucial to understand the financing options and loan terms to ensure you're getting a good deal. Comparing prices and negotiating with dealers are also essential steps in getting the best value. Additionally, being mindful of the time of year and considering buying at the end of the season can result in motivated salespeople and better deals.

Shop around for the best price

Shopping around for the best price is a crucial step in getting the best deal on a camper. Here are some tips to help you shop around effectively:

Compare Prices from Multiple Dealerships

Don't settle for the first dealership you come across. Visit multiple dealerships, even those within the same town, as they will likely have different prices, interest rates, and down payment requirements. Getting prices from as many dealerships as possible will help you save money and make an informed decision.

Consider Used Campers

You don't always have to buy a brand new camper. Used campers can offer significant savings, and you may find "gently used" options that are only a few years old but still in great condition. Buying used also frees up your budget for any desired customizations or upgrades.

Brand Comparison

When shopping for a camper, don't get too attached to a specific brand. While it's important to buy from a reputable manufacturer, keep your options open. Compare similar RV types from different brands, as you may find comparable features and quality at a much lower price.

Timing is Crucial

Dealerships and manufacturers work on monthly, quarterly, and yearly sales cycles. Consider buying at the end of the season or towards the end of the fiscal year. During these periods, salespeople may be more motivated to make a sale and could offer better deals to meet their sales targets.

Be Transparent

Don't be afraid to let salespeople know that you're exploring options at other dealerships. Being transparent about your shopping behaviour might encourage them to offer a more competitive price to win your business.

Research and Negotiate

Do your research and be prepared to negotiate. Compare prices, floor plans, and features across different dealerships and brands. If you find a similar camper at a lower price elsewhere, use that information as leverage to negotiate a better deal at the dealership of your choice. Remember, negotiating is not rude; it's an expected part of the buying process.

Consider buying used

If you're looking to get the best deal on a camper, it's worth considering buying a used one. Buying used allows you more control over your budget, leaving you with more money to invest in improvements and customisations over time. Here are some tips to help you get the best deal on a used camper:

• Shop around: Visit multiple dealerships and get prices from as many different places as possible. Different dealerships will have different prices, interest rates and down payment requirements. By shopping around, you may be able to save yourself thousands of dollars.
• Don't be afraid to buy used: Many people think they need to buy a new, never-used camper. However, you can often find a "used" camper with barely any mileage. Buying used will free up money in your budget to make customisations and improvements.
• Be brand-flexible: Don't get too attached to a particular brand. While you want to buy from a reputable manufacturer, don't miss out on a deal just because of the name. You can often find comparable options from lesser-known brands at much lower prices.
• Buy at the end of the season: Dealerships and manufacturers work on monthly and yearly sales cycles. If they haven't met their sales goals, you're more likely to find motivated salespeople who are eager to make a deal.
• Do your research: Know what to look for when buying a used camper. Check for water damage, electrical and plumbing issues, and other common problems. A professional RV inspection can help identify potential issues and ensure you don't end up with a lemon.
• Negotiate: Don't be afraid to haggle and negotiate on the price. Start low and be willing to walk away if the deal isn't right.

Don't be loyal to one brand

When it comes to buying an RV or camper, it's important to keep your options open and not be loyal to just one brand. Here's why:

Brand loyalty can limit your choices and potentially cause you to miss out on a great deal. All RVs serve the same fundamental purpose – to provide a comfortable place to stay while on the road. By fixating on a specific brand, you may overlook similar RV types that could offer the same functionality and features at a more affordable price. Exploring different brands increases your chances of finding the best rig to call home.

Additionally, prices can vary significantly between brands and dealerships. Shopping around allows you to compare prices, interest rates, and down payment requirements across different options. This knowledge puts you in a stronger negotiating position and can help you secure a more favourable deal. You may discover that a competitor or online dealer has a better offer than the brand you're loyal to.

Moreover, being open to different brands gives you more flexibility in terms of budget and customisations. Buying a used RV from a different brand can free up your budget for improvements and personal touches. You can find comparable options from lesser-known brands that offer the same quality and features as more established brands but at a lower price point.

Finally, staying loyal to one brand may hinder your ability to adapt to changing market conditions and trends. The RV market is dynamic, with new models, features, and innovations emerging regularly. By being brand-agnostic, you can take advantage of the latest advancements and find an RV that better suits your needs and preferences.

In conclusion, when shopping for an RV or camper, it's essential to keep your options open and not be constrained by brand loyalty. Exploring different brands and dealerships can lead to significant savings, increased flexibility, and the opportunity to find an RV that perfectly matches your unique needs and budget.

Buy now, customise later

When it comes to buying a campervan, it's important to remember that you don't have to get everything you want immediately. Opting for a "buy now, customise later" approach can be a great way to get the best deal and stay within your budget. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

First, don't be afraid to buy a used camper. This can be a fantastic way to save money upfront, giving you more flexibility to make customisations down the line. Used campers often have low mileage and plenty of life left in them. By spending less upfront, you'll have more room in your budget to make upgrades and personalise your camper to your liking over time.

When considering a used camper, look for one with a functional interior that suits your basic needs. You can always upgrade and customise the aesthetics and amenities later. For example, you might add new cabinetry, install an upgraded entertainment centre, or put in a better mattress. These customisations can transform your basic camper into a true home away from home.

Another option is to buy an older model and fix it up yourself. There are communities dedicated to restoring older campervans, and you can save a significant amount of money by doing so. You can find cheap RVs on sites like Craigslist or through dealerships that offer used campers. Gutting and renovating an older model according to your vision can be a rewarding experience and result in a camper that's the envy of all your fellow campers.

When budgeting for your camper, think long-term. Consider the must-have features you need from the start and the nice-to-have upgrades you can add over time. By prioritising your needs and wants, you can make informed decisions about where to allocate your budget. Remember, buying a camper is just the beginning—you can continuously improve and customise it to your heart's content.

Finally, don't forget to shop around and compare prices. Visit multiple dealerships, and don't be afraid to let them know you're exploring other options. Dealerships often have some flexibility in pricing, especially if they're motivated to make a sale or are nearing the end of their sales cycle. By keeping your options open, you increase the chances of finding a great deal on a camper that you can transform into your dream mobile home.

Be aware of financing rates

When buying a camper, it is important to be aware of financing rates and how they can affect your purchase. RV financing rates can vary depending on several factors, including the current market trends, the amount you are financing, the type and age of the RV, your location, and your credit score and history. These factors will determine the interest rate you will pay on your loan, which can significantly impact the total cost of your purchase.

It is recommended to get a quote from your bank or credit union before visiting an RV dealership. This can be used to leverage a better deal and secure a more favourable financing rate. Additionally, it is worth noting that RV loan rates tend to mirror auto loan rates, so keeping an eye on the market can help you take advantage of favourable auto loan rates when financing your RV.

When considering financing rates, it is important to understand the difference between secured and unsecured RV loans. Secured RV loans use the RV as collateral, while unsecured RV loans are personal loans that are not tied to the vehicle. Secured loans may have lower interest rates but come with the risk of repossession if you default on the loan. On the other hand, unsecured loans may have higher interest rates but do not put your RV at risk.

Another factor to consider is the loan term, which is the number of months or years you will have to pay off your loan. Longer loan terms result in lower monthly payments but higher overall interest costs. It is essential to weigh the benefits of lower monthly payments against the higher total cost of the loan when deciding on a loan term.

When comparing financing rates, be sure to shop around and get quotes from multiple lenders, including dealerships, banks, credit unions, and online lenders. Different lenders will offer varying interest rates, down payment requirements, and loan terms, so it is crucial to compare multiple options to find the best deal.

Lastly, don't forget to read the fine print and understand all the fees and charges associated with the loan. Origination fees, late payment fees, and prepayment penalties can add up, so be sure to factor these into your decision-making process when considering different financing rates.

Frequently asked questions