3 Tips Before You Buy an RV
Jul 17, 2026
With summer in full swing, it's easy to get lost in a daydream about going out on a boat, exploring the off-road with an ATV, or camping cross-country in an RV. Whether making exciting memories or just enjoying peace and nature, recreational vehicles can offer great experiences - but does buying one actually make sense for you?
A recreational vehicle is a big purchase. Before you let you r daydreams take control of your wallet, keep these three tips in mind.
1. Rent Before You Buy
Recreational vehicles are not cheap, and the related loans typically have higher interest rates than regular car loans. Recreational vehicles also lose value quickly - which means if you regret your purchase, you'll have a hard time recouping your costs.
Renting is a low-stakes way to try out the recreational vehicle you want. As you rent, pay attention to the little things and ask yourself questions like:
- Do I have a place to store or park the vehicle year round?
- What optional features do I like? What features could I live without?
- If relevant, is my car's maximum towing capacity high enough to tow the vehicle?
- Is there anything about the experience that would prevent me from taking out the vehicle more regularly (such as limited water access, inflexible work hours or a particularly frustrating part of the overall process)?
2. Research the Extra Costs
There's more to the cost of a recreational vehicle than just the sticker price. Just like your everyday car, your recreational vehicles also need regular maintenance. If you don't do the maintenance yourself, you'll have to pay someone else, which means you'll need to find a place that will take your vehicle.
Specific types of vehicle may also require special insurance policies or cost you additional fees, such as campground fees for RVs and dockage fees and off-season storage for boats. Owning a recreational vehicle can be well worth these costs, but it's important to be prepared and budget accordingly. Do your research ahead of time so you know what additional costs to expect.
3. Compare New Versus Used
Obviously a used recreational vehicle will cost less than a new one, but sticker price is not the only comparison you should be making. Factors you should consider include...
- Depreciation: The depreciation of value will be much less steep on a used vehicle, which means if you decide to sell it later, you'll be more likely to make more of your money back.
- Warranty: New vehicles typically come with at least a limited warranty, but you may struggle to get a warranty for a used vehicle, which means you may pay more for repairs.
- Vehicle Options: When buying used, you'll naturally have fewer options from which to choose.
Should You Get an RV?
Ultimately, the decision is up to you. Many people who purchase recreational vehicles love the experience - but many people also end up spending several thousands of dollars on something that just gathers dust in their garage. Be honest with yourself about which of those people you're more likely to be.
If you decide buying a recreational vehicle is right for you, you can trust Honda FCU to get you a great low rate on your loan. Contact us or apply online to get pre-approved before you shop - then, just sit back and enjoy the adventure.
Links:
https://www.hondafcu.org/loans-and-credit-cards/vehicle-loans
References:
https://sweethomefcu.org/4-tips-for-buying-your-first-boat-or-rv/
https://www.abileneteachersfcu.org/blog/buying-an-rv-or-atv/
