Pros and Cons of Owning an RV

Pros and Cons of Owning an RV

Posted on August 6, 2022

Levelling Up Your Travel Game

With summer in full blast, going on a spontaneous trip somewhere near the water sounds like heaven. Oftentimes, spontaneity and coziness are one of the first things an RV owner will list as an advantage of having an RV, so it's not a coincidence you ended up reading this article.

Owning an RV comes with many pros and some cons - we're about to list them here so keep reading if you need help deciding on whether to get one or not!

Considering Getting An RV

RV-ing has always had its designated audience, but a big shift in its use during COVID increased the interest in this type of vehicle. The demand for renting RVs skyrocketed in 2020, mostly because families loved the win-win situation RVs help achieve. The families could be outside and go on a vacation, but at the same time stay isolated from other people and follow the public health guidelines.

With the sense of freedom and the home-away-from-home vibe they give out, RVs continue to prove their worth day by day.  Add the I-don't-need-an-extra-drivers-license-to-have-an-RV to that equation, and you have yourself a nice little vacay option. In Canada, if you have a standard driver's license with no restrictions, you can drive or tow all of the RV classes, except the ones with air brakes.

Also, as long as you are legal to drive in your own province, you can drive in the States, too.

https://www.roulottesdesjardins.ca/en/blog/what-does-the-rv-class-mean/Read More: What Does the RV Class Mean

What Are The Pros Of Owning An RV?

Now that we have the basics covered, let's help you make that decision once and for all. Sure, renting an RV is a great way to see if that life suits you, but owning an RV is a completely different story.

Spontaneity & Comfort

As we mentioned at the beginning of this article, spontaneity is one of the biggest pros when it comes to owning an RV. When you own an RV, there's no need for lots of planning ahead, since most of your camping stuff can already be in your vehicle. Come long weekend and all you have to do is pack your clothes, a toothbrush, and you're good to go!

Also, no need to book a place to stay or struggle with finding a nice camping spot near the public toilets. You can have all of that within your RV and enjoy the comfort of your home while being up on a mountain somewhere.  Plus - with today's work-from-home options, you can literally change your office surroundings every week!

The Adventures & Camping

With spontaneity come extra adventures. It's easier to find something cool to do when you don't have to worry about transportation and booking a stay. Plus, there's no need for extra packing - you can have everyday items and linen right IN your RV.

You can literally have a list of places you would like to see and find a list of spots you can park in and enjoy nature. The weather's looking good this weekend? Fill up the tank and hit the road! That's how easy it is to be adventurous if you have an RV.

It's Cheaper Than Staying In Hotels

Have you noticed all of those service fees places charge now? Staying in hotels or booking a stay in a private apartment via an app is not as cheap as it used to be.

Even with the gas prices being so high at the moment, it still pays off more to visit a new place and stay in your motor home than to book a stay.

Being A Part Of A Community

This is a pro a lot of RV owners will gladly highlight in every conversation. The people you meet are almost always in a good mood, welcoming and ready to help. How wouldn't they be when they're exploring nature every chance they get and live the good free life? Whether you join a club, or just meet someone along the way, there's a very high chance you'll make yourself a new friend.

Your Pets Can Come Along

Yup - there's no need to feel bad because you're leaving your dog with your parents for a week. The dog can come with, there's plenty of room for everyone! Why not give your pets a chance to see the world too? Don't be selfish!

Renting To Others

This one is actually very cool. When you're not using it, renting your RV could be a great source of income. You can save up for your monthly payments, save up the money for storage, or create yourself a nice maintenance fund.

Plus, you'll be helping someone experience the RV life!

What Are The Cons Of Owning An RV?

Well, we have to cover the cons as well. Luckily, there are not as many cons as there are pros. Here's what you have to keep in mind!

The Initial Cost Of It

Buying an RV isn't cheap. The cost of the vehicle will of course vary depending on its size and condition, and unless you have cash, you will have to finance your new RV and make monthly payments. You also have to think about insurance costs and a road-assistance plan.

Yes, you will save up in the future because you won't have to book expensive places to stay, but in the beginning - you will empty your pockets. Luckily, you can buy a used RV in great condition and save some money, but if buying used is not your cup of tea, well - you get the point.

Maintenance And Repairs

You will also have to set up a fund for maintenance and repairs. Being on the road, as much as it's awesome, does come with a bit of uncertainty too. You never know what will happen on your trip so you always have to be prepared. As your RV travels over pothole-filled roads and uneven or unpaved surfaces, it is more likely that something will wiggle out of place. On an RV, maintenance services like oil changes, tire alignments, etc; typically cost more than they would on a standard vehicle.

Roulottes Desjardins is always here for you to ensure your vacation goes as smoothly as possible with our servicing options! Get in touch!

Storage

Many people can't park their RVs at home and have to pay for storage. The fees for that are based on locations, type of shelter, weather and security.

Depreciation

Just like with any other vehicle, this one loses its value as soon as you drive it off the dealership's lot. A factory-fresh vehicle usually loses you ten to twenty percent of its purchase price, which is why buying used might sound more appealing. That, however, has its own pros and cons.

The Takeaway

Many advantages come with buying and owning an RV. But it is an investment not everyone is ready to dip their toes into. Before taking the leap, consider things like:

• How do you plan to use it?
• How often will you use it?
• Where will you keep it?

For more tips on buying an RV, check out this article.