Where to start?

[AllPointsBob]

My wife and I will be retiring soon and looking to purchase our first RV....we are looking to stay in it most of the time and travel....at least at first..We are still not sure of the exact type or size...this forum is great, and we were wondering what resources you used to find out about all of the different models...the pros and cons...I would
hate to purchase an RV to find there were others we haven't even considered as we didn't even know they existed. We are complete newbies and would welcome any suggestions.

[Skip426]

Welcome to iRV2.

Well for an absolute first timer , this could be a real problem , as most people will have had three RVs before they get a keeper. I've had 5.
Go to RV lots , and look through , the whole line up , travel trailers , 5th wheels , and the motorized units , wander through them all sit in EVERY seat .
CHASE THE SALESMAN AWAY, say your not buying any time soon , just kicking tires.
When you can narrow it down to motorized or tow RV, then rent one of the type, you think you'll be comfortable in for a week or two. Don't buy until you know what type and floor plan will work for you.

[BuzzWolfAR]

Skip gave you good advice.

Is fun going through RV sale lots and looking. You will get lots of pressure from sales folks, but keep them away. Look at everything and ask questions.

Renting is a great idea, but it seems most buy more than one in their first years. Never at a profit.

Enjoy the shopping. You will hear negatives about every manufacturer and model. If you have an RV buddy, use him/her to try to find the truth.

[ModestMonk]

I've invested hundreds of hours in our quest over the last few years. We are weeks from picking up our 1st RV. Our final three choices are a world away from our first top three. I learned to read and look beyond the spin and written hype the manufacturers put out there. Sadly there were many candidates that had gone out of business also.

Make a written list of the attributes you're looking for. Don't be afraid to "improve and refine" your list. We couldn't find any trailer that had everything we wanted. In the end we found two manufacturers that had most of what was on our list. So I'm about to drive 2600 miles to get our 1st choice.


Good Luck!

[MSHappyCampers]

Hi Bob! Welcome to IRV2! We're sure glad you joined the gang!

Hope you find the perfect rig for your needs!

Good luck, happy trails, and God bless!

[TexasTom]

I echo the recommendation to rent. After looking at a lot of different models you may change your mind about what you want after renting because it will bring up factors you had not previously considered. For example, the first thing we realized is in a class A coach, the vacation starts when we leave. In a 5th wheel it was just another drive to our destination.

[Selah]

Shows and large dealers are a good starting point to compare all of the various types, makes, and sizes. Shows do not necessarily offer the best prices. Leave your checkbook at home untill you have seen as many different types you are comfortable with.
Make looking at RVs part of some short vacation trips. Go down the Tampa and go through Lazy Days. Take some trips to RV shows coming up. FMCA is having a big rally in Indianapolis soon. Etc.

[TonyDi]

Glad to have you here in the forum with us.

Skiop gave you good advice. I don't know your time frame, but if time allows try to go to one of the major RV shows. Spend a couple of days looking around. You'll soon come up with what is best for you. Most RVs can be rented with the exception of 5th wheels. Rent before you buy.


Happy Trails!!!

[Mr_D]

Started RV'ing with my parents in 1957 when they rented a TT.
Got my first 16' TT in 1968 (used)
Went to a 23' TT a few years later when the family grew. (new)
Then to a ¾ ton pick up and 25' TT (new)
Then in 1988 to a 17' Type B MH (new)
In 1997 we went to a 25' Type C MH (new)
In 1999 we got our first Type A MH, a 35' gas unit (new)
In 2000 we ordered our first DP, a 38' Dutch Star (new)
In 2002 we got ordered the 40' Dutch Star (new)
in 2015 we got the present 45' Magna. (used)
But now that the DW has died I'm kind of considering going smaller but I'm sure it would be at a big loss. Our plan (or at least mine) was to go full timing, now I'm 70 and not so sure.
So, no matter what you decide at the present time be prepared to change in the future!

[AllPointsBob]

Thank you all so far for the tips...I know some is common sense...Ive heard owners mention particle board over real wood, leaky roofs, bad designs, etc. to start our quest could you give me five top manufacturers that have stood the test of time? If it were musical instruments I could give you my top 5, but this is uncharted territory for me.

[Smidge]

I agree with Skip426.

[Stever53]

this place is great

Good luck on your search

Safe travels

[momdoc]

Welcome! All good advice so far. Shows, big dealers are a good starting point to see what interests you. Then rent a couple to get a feel for them. Look on the various threads on the units you like to see what problems others may have had with them. Not an easy or quick decision for sure

momdoc

[AllPointsBob]

Originally Posted by momdoc

Welcome! All good advice so far. Shows, big dealers are a good starting point to see what interests you. Then rent a couple to get a feel for them. Look on the various threads on the units you like to see what problems others may have had with them. Not an easy or quick decision for sure

momdoc

Thank you!