How to Choose an RV at a Show

RV shows are exciting whether or not you’re on the market for a new RV. But if you are, an RV show becomes even more thrilling: you may just find your next adventure vehicle (or first one ever) waiting for you! 

Of course, navigating a crowded RV show floor can be overwhelming. We put together this post with tips and tricks to help you keep your eyes on the prize and choose the right RV for you. We’ll cover why RV shows are a great opportunity for RV shopping, what homework to do before you head out, and what to look for once you arrive. 

Why RV Shows Are the Best Place to Shop for an RV

If you’ve never been to an RV show, you’re missing out. These enormous events often include displays from dozens of different RV manufacturers, giving shoppers the opportunity to walk through many different makes, models, and types of RVs all in one place.

For those newer to the RV lifestyle, that means the opportunity to explore motorhomes, trailers, and campervans to see which might work best for the way you travel. More advanced RVers who have a better idea of what they like might get the chance to compare two different floorplans, back to back. (Walking through something in person is just a whole different ballpark than clicking around online!)

RV shows also often offer show-only discounts and financing offers, which is valuable for any shopper. Who doesn’t want a deal? 

Finally, you’ll also get to experience expert advice and hands-on tours, not to mention being surrounded by other RVers who know and love the lifestyle. (Many RV shows feature live entertainment and even seminars from pros that can help you level up your travel lifestyle!)

Know Your RV Needs Before You Go

While RV shows have a lot to offer, they can also be downright overwhelming, especially if you’re seriously considering an RV purchase. It’s too easy to be overcome by decision paralysis if you don’t lay a little bit of groundwork up front. Fortunately, that homework can be both easy and fun to do.

Define How You’ll Use Your RV

Different RVers have different goals, which means different rigs will work best. For example, if you’re a weekend warrior just looking for a place to lay your head between adventures, a pop-up travel trailer might be everything you need at an affordable price point. On the other hand, if you’re looking to slide into a full-time RV lifestyle, you might want something bigger and more comfortable.

Other factors to consider include your travel party and the way you’ll camp. Are you going solo, traveling as a couple, or bringing a whole family along? And once you reach your destination, will you be boondocking in off-grid locations or relying primarily on well-appointed campgrounds with bathhouses, community centers and on-site convenience stores? All of these play a part in determining which type of RV will strike the balance between comfort and affordability.

Set Your Budget Range

For most RVers, price is one of the most important considerations—you simply can’t afford what you can’t afford. Different types of RVs have different basic price ranges. Here are some general guidelines:

• Class A motorcoaches tend to be the most expensive, starting upwards of $50,000 or $75,000 new even for an entry-level model. The most luxurious versions can cost upwards of $300,000.
• Class B RVs, or campervans, have a wide price range; you may find a vintage converted Westfalia van for $20,000 or less, but a new Sprinter will easily run you over $100,000.
• Class C RVs are usually a bit more affordable than Class A RVs, but can still range from $70,000 to $140,000 for newer models.
• Travel trailers also range widely depending on size and type, with tiny pop-up and teardrop trailers sometimes available for $15,000 or so and big fifth-wheel trailers sometimes climbing over $100,000 depending on amenities. (Keep in mind that with a towable RV, you will also need to have a heavy duty truck or other tow vehicle, which is its own expense!)

Along with the actual purchase price of the RV, be aware of the other ongoing costs of RV ownership, which can often be hidden: insurance, storage, and maintenance can all add up considerably each month, especially if you don’t plan for them.

Research Brands and Models Ahead of Time

While walking through different RV models and floor plans gives you so much more information than a website ever could, doing some research online ahead of time can go a long way toward narrowing your search and helping you understand what options you’ll have to choose from. 

For starters, the show’s website will often list the exhibitors that are planning to be there, which is a good starting point on your shopping journey. From there, you can research those specific manufacturers, who may highlight certain models on their own websites. You can also turn to user-generated content—like the stuff on YouTube or Reddit, for example—to read owner reviews of specific models or watch walkthrough videos.

Your online research can help you create a short list of “must-see” RVs, so you’ll know as soon as you walk into the show exactly where you want to head. (You might decide to check out other RVs, too, but this will ensure you don’t miss out on any that you know interest you ahead of time!)

Pro tip: Make a checklist of what matters most—space, storage, towing capacity, or luxury features—so you don’t get overwhelmed.

What to Look for When Comparing RVs at a Show

Once you’re at the RV show, it’s time for the fun part: Walking through a bunch of different types of RVs! Here’s what to look for while you’re actually on the scene, comparison shopping.

Step Inside and Test the Layout

The best way to understand an RV is to literally walk through it. Specifically, you should wander through the rig and imagine your daily routine and how it would fit in. Check out the kitchen counter space and storage—is it enough for you or your family’s needs? Sit in the living area, lie on the bed, test out the shower height and scope out if the bathroom sink is big enough to wash your face in. It’s the little things that’ll end up making a big difference when you’re actually on the road.

Inspect Build Quality and Materials

Even the most perfectly laid-out rig in the world is useless if it’s not high quality. Get comfortable looking at the little things, like cabinet hinges, flooring, seals, and insulation, to get a sense of the build quality of the rig as a whole.

You can also ask the manufacturer representative about any warranties or other extras that apply when you buy a rig new—and where their service centers are located.

Compare Features and Tech

Higher-tech isn’t always better, but having the right equipment on board can make a difference when it comes to enjoying your trip to the fullest. Specifically, some features to keep an eye out for (and compare model to model) include:

• Prep for solar power and battery systems
• Wi-Fi boosters
• Automated controls
• Towing equipment (for a tow-behind car, for example)
• Additional safety features

Pay Attention to Weight and Tow Ratings

If you’re buying a towable RV (like a travel trailer or fifth wheel), a little bit of math needs to be part of your shopping equation. Ensure your tow vehicle is rated to tow the model you’re considering. Ask the manufacturer representative for the trailer’s GVWR and hitch weight details, and compare them to your owner’s manual to ensure your truck or other tow vehicle passes muster. Towing a trailer that is heavier than your vehicle is rated for is dangerous, and may void insurance coverage if something happens.

Questions to Ask RV Dealers and Manufacturers

One of the best parts of exploring an RV show is the opportunity to ask the various RV dealers and manufacturer representatives questions in real time. Here are a few template questions to ask the reps while you wander the floor:

• What’s included in the show price?
• What’s the warranty coverage and length?
• How does this model compare to last year’s version?
• What’s the service and maintenance schedule?
• Where are nearby authorized repair centers?
• Are there any current promotions or financing offers?

Pro tip: Don’t forget to bring a notepad and pen—or, let’s be honest, use your phone—to jot down answers and compare later!

Test Before You Buy (or Rent First!)

As much information as you can glean by walking through various RVs on a show floor, you also have the opportunity to explore even more by test driving or renting. Here’s what to know about these two important tools on your RV purchasing journey.

Ask About Test Drives at the Show

While it’s not guaranteed, some dealers allow short drives or demonstrations at the RV show itself. If not, you may be able to ask where you can schedule one post-show. (You should be allowed to take a test drive at most dealerships.)

Try Renting Before Buying

Another great way to try before you buy is to rent the exact same RV—and that’s a lot more possible on a peer-to-peer RV rental platform like RVshare! Since we list rigs owned by regular people, there’s a wide variety of makes, models, and types to choose from. You can pick a rig that’s very similar to the one you’re considering, which will give you the opportunity to see how it fares when the rubber literally meets the road.
Not sure which RV fits your lifestyle? Rent the same model on RVshare and experience it firsthand before you buy.

Take Notes and Compare After the Show

After you get home from the show with all the data you’ve collected, you have the opportunity to compare your notes and make a decision in due time. Consider creating a comparison chart for your top picks, so you can lay out the pros and cons in black and white and compare at a glance.

On your comparison chart, include key details like price, features, any included warranties, and, if it’s a towable vehicle, its towing weight.

It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement, but don’t rush. Sleep on your decision. It’s helpful to go to the RV show multiple days so you can shop on, say, Thursday and Friday, and make any big purchasing decisions (and take advantage of show pricing!) on Saturday or Sunday. Under some circumstances, you may also be able to follow up with the dealers after the show and get similar pricing if you tell them you learned about their RV and started making your purchase decision at the show.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing an RV

So, what are the big common mistakes people make when choosing an RV—at an RV show or otherwise? Here are a few foibles to look out for:

• Buying based on looks or price alone. While both of these are important factors to consider, neither is enough to make a whole purchase decision.
• Forgetting to factor in towing and storage. You want to make sure you’re equipped to handle your RV once you buy it!
• Ignoring maintenance and insurance costs. Budgeting for these ongoing costs can often get lost in the rush of getting ready for the big up-front purchase.
• Skipping a hands-on test or walkthrough. These options are one of the best reasons to visit an RV show in the first place, so don’t miss out!
• Not confirming dealer reputation or service availability. Your relationship with the dealer is just that: A relationship. Make sure the foundation is set so you can have a long, healthy one (and get your regular RV maintenance done in an affordable and convenient way).

FAQs About Choosing an RV at a Show

Choosing an RV is about more than price or features; it’s about finding the rig that fits your adventures. RV shows give you the best chance to compare, learn, and even test-drive your dream RV. And if you’re not ready to buy, try renting through RVshare to make sure it’s the perfect fit.