How to get the most out of attending an RV Show
RV shows give you the unique opportunity to compare dozens, or even hundreds, of different classes, makes, models and styles of RVs without driving around to dealer after dealer. Here are our top suggestions for getting the most out of a show.
BEFORE THE SHOW:
1) Do some research ahead of time. Depending on your schedule and the crowds, you may not be able to see everything you want to. So, do some research and make a list of the things you want to find first. Many shows have dedicated websites with exhibitor maps to help you plan your visit. Looking to trade up? Go online and find some likely brands you know you want to check out and head there first.
2) Make a plan. It’s easy to get wrapped up in the excitement and make rushed decisions. This can lead to costly mistakes. Making a strategy ahead of time will help you keep your head. Know what your goals for the show are—information gathering, price comparison, or actually purchasing.
Some questions you’ll want to know the answers to ahead of time are:
*How often do you plan to travel?
*Will you be doing any cold-weather travel?
*How will you store the RV when you’re not using it?
*What’s your budget and how will you finance?
*How many people will be traveling, and how much space will they need?
3) Expect a crowd. Try to get there as the doors open, or walk the floor during lunch time when most people are taking a break. Oh, and wear comfortable walking shoes. It can take several hours to get through the whole show.
DURING THE SHOW:
4) Bring a notebook and a backpack. You can learn a lot at a show, but it can be hard to digest it all at once. Bring a notebook, so you can write down things you want to remember. You’ll also be picking up lots of brochures and literature. A backpack makes it easier to carry it all while keeping your hands free.
5) Ask lots of questions. Talk with other visitors, not just the dealer reps. If you’ve got a family, and you notice another family talking about trading in their 5th wheel, strike up a conversation! Ask them how they handle taking kids on the road. RVers are notoriously friendly people willing to share what they know.
6) Attend a free seminar. Many shows offer 1 or 2 hour workshops given by experts in the industry. You can gain a lot of valuable information in a short time this way, with no sales pressure.
AFTER THE SHOW:
7) Review your notes. Go over all the information you gathered as soon as you can, while it’s all still fresh in your mind. You may want to make a file to keep all your brochures, booklets, and notes in order.
Make appointments to test drive. Never make a purchase decision without actually taking the vehicle on the road. Waiting a few days after the show for your test drive can help you remain objective and make a better decision.
Got any more great tips for our readers? If so, please leave a comment.
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Links
If you are looking for an RV, I highly recommend joining the RV Consumer Group (www.rv.org). The cost is around $125 but considering how much you are investing in an RV, it is a tiny price to pay and can save you from making a costly mistake.
With your membership you will receive ratings of all the RVs. They are rated for type of use. For example, if you are going to full-time in your rig, you want to make sure you choose one that is made for 4 seasons. You’ll also get information on how to determine the quality of construction.
As the article suggests, leave your checkbook and credit card at home so you don’t succumb to a good sales pitch without having the chance to thoroughly research your choice and compare prices.
Jaimie Hall-Bruzenak
http://rvhometown.typepad.com
When we shopped for a new 5th wheel we took a video camera and a list of features we required. my son went with my wife and i and was a great help.we checked all rigs that come close or met our want list and filmed them from top to bottom literally, (thats where the boy came in). after all choices were observed we took the videos and watched them and through a process of elimination worked through the facts and figures, without any sales pitches or interferences it was easy to find just what we wanted. we actually narrowed it down to three then went to the respective dealers before making our choice. this was a fun and easy way to shop and not really tiring for us seniors.
I don’t recommend paying any money to anyone and have them give you ideas of what you may or may not like… You have the decision and what you can afford. Travel trailers is the less expensive and class A motor homes are the highst. So, M/homes or Trailor,pickup with camper,or just a tent. Then go and check the news paper and check out the dealers. However, I just purchased a 2003 C class with 8,999 miles and payed 36K and had to put on all new tires. But you will have time in the discussion in the financial dept. If you got a good deal becareful of the percentage of your loan.. I had a deal for 8,5 % but last day they told me 12%.. I didn’t walk but be careful….