First-time RV owners often started out as tent campers, who saw how more comfortable RVs looked and thought "that is nice, I’d like to do that myself.” Obviously, the biggest concern is the cost of the RV itself. Perhaps you have looked at a site like this one and seen RV listings with estimates of monthly payments. And at that point, you may think, “$250 a month? I can swing that!" while simultaneously dreaming of your family seated around a campfire, with that gorgeous new Jayco RV behind you.

As the Valley RV Supercenter is in the business of selling RVs, we like that kind of thinking. But we also want you to be happy with your RV experiences, particularly if it is your first, so we want you to fully understand all the costs involved with RV ownership.

The RV Costs

If you are financing the RV, you will find the process similar to financing a car. There is an inverse relationship between the down payment and monthly payments. Interest rates vary with the economic climate and can also depend on whether you are purchasing used or new. Of course, there is also an inverse relationship between the term of payment and the monthly payment. Longer terms mean a lower payment. Our listings have a term assumption of 144 months, but you may want a different payment period. Also, like a car, in addition to the purchase price, there is the cost of tax, title, and licensing; the last of which will be renewed each year.

Separate from the purchase costs - but just as important – is the insurance cost. Between the time that you decide what kind and size of RV you want, and the actual purchase, you will want to contact your insurance company, and likely a couple of others to determine the estimated insurance costs.

Tow Vehicle Considerations

Unless you are purchasing a motorhome, the second consideration before you start shopping is the tow vehicle. Do you have a vehicle now that is capable of towing the type of RV you want? While the vehicle’s tow rating is important, it isn’t the only figure you should know. There are also the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR), maximum tongue weight, and possibly a couple of others that are explained in detail here. Suffice to say here that you have to keep in mind not just the trailer’s weight but also the trailer when fully loaded with your things and passenger weight as well.

Your truck or SUV may also need to be fitted with a trailer brake controller, a proper trailer hitch, and trailer mirrors, since your trailer is likely wider than your tow vehicle. Some models have towing packages that include a radiator to cool the transmission fluid, a wiring harness, and other features. If your vehicle is not so equipped, you will want to inquire whether it should be.

If you are considering a motor home but want to tow a vehicle behind it, there are some different options to consider, much of which is discussed here.

Storage and Maintenance

Chances are, you won’t be living in it full-time, so you’ll want to have your RV storage figured out. If you have the space and no HOA restrictions, storing it at home is great! But if not, you’ll want to price our storage options.

Like a vehicle, an RV has maintenance costs. The most obvious is tires, which will need replacing every five years, regardless of their mileage, and may need to be replaced more often if you use your RV a lot. Costs vary, as some trailers have two tires, others have four, and motor coach tires are another thing altogether.

Wheel bearings need to be repacked about every 1-2 years. In addition, water systems should be disinfected and checked, and propane systems will also need to be checked, which may cost $100 to $150 per year. And just know that at some point, a slide-out, the A/C, or another appliance will need repairs. Sealing repairs are also common. The trailer encounters forces and flexes a bit on the road. Breaks in seals are inevitable.

Camping Locations

The RV does save you money on hotel costs, but keep in mind the costs of campground stays. Depending on where you are going, you will want to make advance reservations, and the cost varies between peak and off-peak seasons and specific holidays.

Stuff

Finally, there are the things you will need and want for your trips. Needs include everything needed for hookups, such as the water hose, sewer hose, electrical cords, and a surge protector, which may be rated for 220 volts if you have a refrigerator or A/C unit. You will also want wheel chocks and have some leveling blocks on hand.

Then there are the living accouterments, such as bedding, kitchen items, outdoor camp chairs, a grill, and anything else that you want on a camping trip.

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