Your Ultimate RV Buying Checklist: What to Know Before You Shop

Man holding woman outside of rv

Just in time for Beckley’s Big 4-5 RV-A-Palooza!

Shopping for an RV can be one of the most exciting — and overwhelming — adventures you’ll take. Whether you’re a weekend warrior, a full-timer in the making, or somewhere in between, being prepared before you hit the dealership lot can save you time, money, and stress.

man walking by rvs with sunset in the background

Here’s your ultimate RV buying checklist to help you shop smarter and more confidently.


✅ Set Your Budget (And Pad It a Bit)

Before you fall in love with the perfect rig, know what you can comfortably afford. RV pricing varies widely depending on size, features, and class. Don’t forget to factor in the extras:

wan and woman cuddling on couch looking at tablet

💡 Tip: Build in a little wiggle room for unexpected expenses down the road.


🚐 Know Your RV Types

Understanding the different types of RVs will help you match your travel style to the right kind of unit:

picture of three campers
  • Travel Trailers: Towable and available in many sizes
  • Fifth Wheels: Spacious, towable RVs that hitch into a pickup truck’s bed
  • Motorhomes (Class A, B, C): Drivable RVs with built-in living quarters
  • Pop-Up Campers: Lightweight and compact — great for weekend trips or smaller tow vehicles

👉 Check out our quick RV Types Guide here


🛏 Must-Have Features

What’s on your “must-have” list? Make note of the features that matter most to your travel plans. Some popular ones include:

woman looking at storage compartment in rv
  • Slide-outs for added living space
  • Outdoor kitchens for campfire cuisine
  • Bunkhouses for family-friendly trips
  • Spacious bathrooms, pantry storage, or residential-style furniture

📋 Bring a list of must-haves and nice-to-haves with you while shopping.


❓ Questions to Ask the Dealer

man and woman talking to someone on phone while sitting at table with laptops

You’re not just buying a vehicle — you’re buying into a lifestyle and a long-term relationship with your dealer. Be sure to ask:

  • What kind of service support is available after the sale?
  • Can you explain the warranty in detail?
  • Do you offer financing options?

👉 Learn more about working with Beckley’s RVs


🛻 Try Before You Buy

rv driving down winding road with scenic background

Still deciding which type of RV is right for you? Try before you buy by renting! It’s a great way to test out layouts, features, and overall feel — all without the long-term commitment.

👉 Browse RV rentals here


🎉 Final Thoughts

With a solid checklist in hand, you’re ready to shop for your RV with confidence. And what better time than Beckley’s Big 4-5 RV-A-Palooza? It’s the perfect opportunity to explore hundreds of units, chat with our RV pros, and maybe even snag a once-a-year deal.

rv palooza ad with information and details for Beckley's Open House Event

Happy RV hunting — we’ll see you at the Palooza!

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