Whether you want to permanently adopt the RV lifestyle or are simply interested in some enthralling getaways, there are some key factors to consider. Before you contemplate the pros and cons of owning vs. renting a camper or RV, include the following points in the decision-making process.
What to Consider Beforehand
How Often You’ll Use Your RV
When looking for cost-effective solutions, how often you intend to use your van will affect the decision. After all, if you aren’t planning on an annual vacation or don’t intend to travel that often, it might be pointless to spend a hefty amount on the purchase. Whereas, it’ll be cheaper, in the long run, to buy if your trips are frequent.
If You Have a Place to Store One
If you don’t have a garage, then this could affect your plans to purchase an RV. Clearly, a camper van takes up a fair amount of space, and you’ll want to protect it from outside elements. The vehicle’s maintenance can become quite costly, so think about where you plan to store it safely.
The Different Types of Vans
There are different types of vehicles, so you’ll need to look into which type would benefit you depending on your future needs. Are you looking for a van that embodies leisure travelers with an opulent look or a stealth camping van that is converted to living quarters? Whatever you decide, affordable vans are available, so be diligent in your search for a camper or RV.
No matter if you opt for a winnebago era or a class B motorhome, you need to think about the comforts you’ll want on your trip. The facilities in RVs include tankless hot water heaters, washing machines, and dryers but installing these amenities costs more. RVs also come with features like slide-outs that provide additional space when parked, making them feel more homely and comfortable for longer trips.
Your Intentions
Similarly, you must consider your intentions with the van to determine the type of vehicle you want. If you plan to live in your camper van for long periods or indefinitely, then buying is the operative choice. However, in some cases, frequent trips might be more cost-effective by renting. Of course, this varies depending on what type of trips you’re taking and how long they’ll be.
When to Consider Renting a Camper
If you’re planning to visit a large country and want to explore only a portion of the place where you will camp out, it would be a waste of money to buy a camper van – unless you plan to move to such an area full-time. Moreover, even if you are leaning more toward buying your own, it would be best to initially rent the vehicle of your choice to test it out before making a more permanent decision.
Advantages
The main advantage of opting for a rental is that it eliminates the stress and cost of storing and maintaining the RV. Additionally, renting is a great way to experience the RV life if you don’t want to spend a lot of money on one summer trip. Luckily, there are so many options for you to test the camper van experience, so do quality research to get the best RV loan rates; this will give you an idea of the RV lifestyle at an affordable price. It is also a great way to help you decide what you want to do in the long run.
Disadvantages
The disadvantage of renting is that the prices often fluctuate, so the time of year will affect your traveling. Rental costs can skyrocket in the summertime when most people plan to venture camping in the outdoors. Another issue will be the cost of the vehicle type and the location you are renting in; these factors can drastically change the rental price. Furthermore, if you end up taking frequent trips, you’ll be spending more money than you would if you had placed a down payment for the purchase of a van, making buying the more convenient choice.
Rental Costs
As mentioned above, the rental cost varies depending on the vehicle. Basic RVs and camper vans still cost a minimum of $100 per night. The more luxury class A vehicles go at a much higher rate. You’ll also have to factor in the extra charges, such as the distance you plan to travel. If you go over 100 kilometers a day, you could be charged with an extra $50 per day; this is why you must search for the best rates before deciding.
When to Consider Buying a Camper
Your intentions and how often you plan to travel in your RV will determine whether you should buy it. Also, consider where you live, because the more options you have to camp, the more frequently you will use your van. The main consideration is maintenance; will you be responsible for the vehicle’s upkeep, or will you hire a service? Additionally, having garage space or finding a reasonable storage rate in your area will immensely affect overall costs.
Advantages
The advantages of buying an RV are simple: it’s yours! That means that your dreams of traveling often are about to become a reality because it is much cheaper to own a van if you plan to use it several times a year. You will also be more flexible with your travel plans, unlike renting, where you have to deal with the constraints of rental costs should your holiday plans change. Finally, you’ll get to put your personal touches and customize your camper van the way it benefits you and your family and make it cozier.
Disadvantages
The disadvantages to owning an RV is, of course, the storage and maintenance. Naturally, such a large vehicle will require an extensive amount of upkeep, and this can get quite costly over time, and the longer the RV is in use. Moreover, your finances will be impacted by the ongoing storage and insurance costs.
Pro Tip for Buyers
Buyers need to keep track of costs. One way you can do this is to look for older vans because these could be a substantial money-saver. Moreover, you can then splurge for the bigger camper van since it is going to be cheaper. However, on the flip side, you’ll want to ensure that the older RV does not induce higher maintenance costs that result in you paying the same price if you purchased a new vehicle. Discover unbeatable prices on a vast selection of RVs at ZeRvs, your go-to online marketplace for recreational vehicles. Our incredible deals and superior customer service make shopping at ZeRvs a pleasure.
Ultimately, there’s no clear option that is suitable for everyone. Consider your needs and your financial situation and decide what is right for you accordingly. All in all, whether you choose to rent or buy your own RV, a camping holiday is a surefire way to spend some quality time with your loved ones and reconnect with Mother Nature.