There’s nothing like exploring the great outdoors. The incredible views and the open stretch of road in front of you. From scenic hikes to weekend camping trips and cross-country adventures, a travel trailer brings comfort and convenience to every experience. If you’re ready to plan your next outing, you may be wondering, When is the best time to buy a travel trailer?
Great question! Seasonal trends and market conditions influence both the pricing and availability of recreational vehicles (RVs). Luckily, with a little patience and the right strategy, your dream RV is well within reach. Check out these tips for landing an affordable yet top-of-the-line travel trailer so you can hit the open road sooner rather than later.
Buy in Off-Peak Months
While you can pack up the right travel trailer and head out on your next adventure any time of year, many people tend to plan their excursions during the spring and summer months. Since the demand for an RV is high this time of year, you may find a better deal if you’re able to hold off on your purchase until the fall or winter months.
So, when is the best time to buy a travel trailer, exactly? Well, according to Progressive, the casualty insurance company, the ideal time to buy a travel trailer or motorhome is during late fall or winter.
There are a few reasons this time of year makes for an attractive RV-buying season. For starters, demand is low during the off-peak months, and dealers are often more motivated to move inventory. There may be new models they want to bring onto the lot, for instance, and they have to make space for them.
Dealers are also eager to sell RVs this time of year so they can avoid the time and expense associated with winter prep. Looking for both low prices and plenty of options? Plan to shop for an RV during October or November. This time of year, you can get the best of both worlds—a wide selection and a great deal.
Shop End-of-Season Sales
Dealers run sales year-round. Summer promotions may include Fourth of July, Memorial Day, or Labor Day sales, for instance. However, during these peak-season holidays, demand is high, and you’re unlikely to score the best deal. Instead, shop end-of-year sales or on Black Friday, when dealers are likely to offer special pricing.
To be confident that you’re getting the absolute best deal, do your research ahead of time. There are several resources you can use to get an idea of how much a travel trailer will run you based on make, model, and year. For example, you can look up prices for new and used RVs on websites such as J.D. Power, RV Trader, and RVUSA.
Once you have a ballpark price in mind, keep your eyes peeled for a good sale. When you’re an informed buyer who understands how much you’re likely to spend, you’re in a better position to score a deal that’s a clear home run.
Attend RV Shows
If you’re looking to buy a travel trailer, an RV show is one of the best places to start your search. You have the convenience of shopping multiple dealers in one place, along with the ability to price compare on the spot. Instead of spending days driving from one dealership to the next, you can save yourself time and energy by visiting each in a single day.
Because there are so many dealers in one place, they often offer special pricing or discounts, making it easier for you to land a good deal. You may also find that dealers and financial institutions alike offer attractive financing options at RV shows. Manufacturers may be on hand, as well, to walk you through the details and features of each model you’re considering.
RV shows provide the opportunity to view a wide selection of travel trailers, compare them up close, and lock in special pricing—all at once. They’re also the perfect place to gather information, ask questions, and meet industry professionals under one roof.
Negotiate the Best Deal
It may seem simple, but sometimes, you simply have to ask what a dealer can do for you. In some cases, the dealer may have already given you their best offer. In other instances, a dealer may be extra motivated to make the sale and willing to negotiate with you on the price.
As the old saying goes, it never hurts to ask. So be forthcoming with the dealer and let them know, within reason, what you’re looking to pay to help them close the deal. Keep in mind that if you’re looking to negotiate, you may want to plan to shop on a weekday when dealers are in a little less of a hurry.
Progressive notes that in addition to shopping during off-peak months, it’s wise to visit dealerships during the week when you’re more likely to receive one-on-one time with a salesperson. This kind of personalized attention enhances your chances of securing the best deal.
If, despite your best negotiating efforts, you’re unable to lock in the price you’d hoped, see if the dealer is able to sweeten the pot with other incentives. For example, you may be able to negotiate upgrades, maintenance packages, add-ons, or accessories.
The benefits of figuring out the best time to buy a travel trailer and getting a great deal on your purchase aren’t just about getting the lowest price. The money you save on your initial purchase can be used to turn your RV into the perfect getaway destination. Recreational vehicle experts like Albany RV in Oregon specialize in upgrades, customizations, and accessories after purchase, so your travel trailer can be everything you hoped for. With the right timing and a little research, you can drive away with an excellent deal on an RV and customize your next adventure with the money you’ve saved.
