Purchasing a motorhome, travel trailer, or 5th wheel should be a rewarding experience. If you take your time, do the research, and make an informed decision, your RV purchase should give you enjoyment and satisfaction for years. Use this checklist as a guide while you shop, and try to keep your emotions in check — nothing makes a salesperson happier than seeing how excited you are about a unit. Evaluate a range of RVs within your budget, and if you don't feel comfortable or something doesn't feel right, walk away — there are plenty of other RVs to choose from.
1 Pre-Purchase: Research & Budgeting
Before you ever step on a dealer's lot, narrow down what you actually need and what you can comfortably spend.
- Set a firm budget and stick to it — including financing, insurance, storage, and ongoing maintenance, not just the sticker price
- Decide between a motorized RV (drive it yourself) or a towable (5th wheel or travel trailer pulled by a separate tow vehicle)
- Determine how much interior living space and how many sleeping berths you need
- Research manufacturers and read owner reviews for the models you're considering
- Talk to current RV owners about their experience with specific brands and dealers
- Compare new vs. used — used units cost less but may need more inspection scrutiny
- Check whether your tow vehicle or driver's license is rated for the weight and class of RV you want
- Shop multiple dealers and compare reconditioning practices, warranties, and after-sale support
2 Purchase: Inspection & Negotiation
Once you've found a candidate, slow down and inspect it thoroughly before signing anything.
- Inspect the roof, seams, and sidewalls for cracks, soft spots, or delamination (bubbling under the skin)
- Check seals and caulking around all windows, doors, and roof vents for cracking or gaps
- Run all major systems: water heater, furnace, A/C, refrigerator, generator, and slide-outs
- Test all appliances, electrical outlets, and the battery / converter / inverter system
- Check under the RV for rust, frame damage, or fluid leaks
- Verify tire age and condition (RV tires degrade with age even with low mileage)
- Review maintenance records and any available history report for a used unit
- Consider hiring a certified independent RV inspector for a used purchase, especially for higher-value units
- Get a fair market value assessment (NADA guides or similar) before negotiating
- Review financing terms and RV-specific insurance options before signing
- Negotiate from your predetermined budget — don't let a salesperson push you above it
3 Post-Purchase: Setup & Personalization
After the sale, a little prep work makes the first few trips much smoother.
- Schedule a walk-through with the dealer to learn all systems before you tow or drive it home
- Decide which maintenance tasks you'll handle yourself vs. leave to a dealer or mobile RV tech
- Stock up using our RV Supplies Checklist before your first trip
- Set up a routine maintenance schedule using our RV Maintenance Checklist
- Personalize the space — bedding, furniture, and small upgrades go a long way toward making it feel like home
- Join an RV owners' forum or club for your specific brand to get support, tips, and parts sourcing advice