Where do I even begin?
Great question, as starting the process of buying an RV can quickly become overwhelming and ruin the fun it was intended to be. I put this article together to hopefully get your process started on the right foot. Everything from the RV search, to getting a loan and then getting it insured. Fulltime RV living has become more and more popular and this article is just what you may need. I would start with the 20 must-know questions to help you understand the language first.
Table of Contents
- 20 Must know questions asked by RV beginners
- What is the best brand class C motorhome?
- Best Class C under 25 foot
- Great bunkhouse RVs for all RV types
- How to get the best price when buying an RV
- Getting your RV loan
- Best RV insurance companies
- The best vehicle to tow
- RV Inspections
- Free Camping Coast to Coast
- Must-Have Supplies
- Fulltime Living Costs
- Caring for your Black tank
- Managing your Mail
- Making your Campsite feel like Home
- Ideas to Make a Living while traveling Fulltime
- Knowing your Electrical System
- 10 items you need for your First time out
20 must-know questions asked by RV beginners
1. What does RV stand for?
RV stands for Recreational Vehicle – Recreational vehicles are generally any motor vehicle designed or modified for use over unimproved terrain that is used for recreation or pleasure of a public way or vehicle designed for recreational use such as for camping, usually a motorhome. Let’s explore the rest of the 20 must-know questions asked by RV beginners.
2. What are the different types of RVs?
motorhomes
Class A – Class A motorhomes are built using a very strong, heavy-duty frame. These frames are built on either a commercial bus chassis, a commercial truck chassis, or a motor vehicle chassis. Plenty of storage space and a roomy interior are what define the Class A motorhome.
Class C – A Class C is a motorhome built with a cab or cut-away chassis. A cab/cut-away chassis provides a front structure that looks like a van, including seats, a dash, opening doors, and body sheet metal. Many people like Class C because it is familiar with their own automobile.
Fulltime RV living
Class B – Class B motorhomes are small, streamlined, and ready to roll. Nimble and more fuel-efficient than Class C motorhomes, Class B motorhomes offer living space best suited for small groups. Often called Camper Vans, Class B motorhomes are built using automotive vans or panel trucks.
Fifth Wheel – The “fifth wheel” in the name refers to the U-shaped coupling mounted onto the cargo bed of the tow truck. So, a pin box on the front of the fifth-wheel camping trailer locks onto the fifth-wheel coupling on the truck. It’s similar to the device found on over-the-road tractors hauling commercial semi-trailers. These models are perfect if you are really interested in Fulltime RV living due to the space they provide.
RV types
Travel Trailer – Travel trailers, while similar to camping trailers in many ways, are more closely related to RVs or mobile homes. Some would call travel trailers a general term for any mobile living trailer. However, the most common definition is a lightweight RV that a conventional ball hitch can tow. Fulltime RV living can be done comfortably in a good-sized travel trailer also.
Teardrop – A teardrop trailer, also known as a teardrop camper trailer, is a streamlined, compact, lightweight caravan, which gets its name from its teardrop profile.
Truck camper – A truck camper is a demountable recreational vehicle (RV) that is loaded and unloaded from the bed of a full-size or mid-size pickup truck. The common feature is the ability to demount the camper from the truck.
Popup camper – Pop-up campers, also known as fold-out campers or tent trailers, are camping trailers that collapse down into a much smaller, portable package.
Fulltime RV living
3. Do I need a special license to drive an RV?
Usually not, for RVs in most states, a standard driver’s license is all you need to drive your RV. If your RV, towing vehicle, or motorhome clock is above the maximum length or above 26,000 pounds, you may need a special license to register, own, and operate it in certain states.
4. What are Grey and Black Tanks?
The black tank is a holding tank attached to the underbelly of the RV. All of the waste from the RV toilet empties into the black tank. Black tanks vary in size anywhere from 15 gallons to 50 gallons.
The gray tank holds wastewater from every source other than the toilet, which includes your kitchen sink and bathroom sink. Soapy water, toothpaste, dust, and dirt from your afternoon hike or anything else you rinse down the sink drain ends up in the gray tank.
5. What do you do for internet Service?
What Are My RV Internet Options?
- Satellite – dedicated internet service from a satellite provider.
- Cellular data – a one-stop-shop for internet and telephone needs.
- Public WiFi – coffee shops, RV parks, and truck stops often provide this.
- Multiple sources – You can combine and use more than one source to strengthen or boost your signal.
6. Do I need separate insurance for my RV?
Yes, if it is a motorhome. You must have at least the state minimum for liability coverage because they are driven and not towed. Much like your car insurance but usually less costly depending on your RV and coverages added.
Fulltime RV Living must know items
7. What are GVW, GVWR, and GCWR?
- GVW – gross vehicle weight: curb weight or dry weight without any added supplies, people, or fuel.
- GVWR – gross vehicle weight rating: Simply put, GVWR is the maximum total weight of your vehicle. Tells you how much your vehicle can safely weigh.
- GCWR – gross combined weight rating: This is the maximum allowable weight of both the loaded tow vehicle and the loaded trailer that the tow vehicle can handle safely.
- Payload capacity: This is how much weight can be carried in the vehicle, people, fuel, camping equipment, and weight from the tongue of the added trailer
- Tongue weight: The weight from a trailer or fifth wheel transferred to the rear of the tow vehicle. The trailer would add pressure/weight to a hitch and fifth wheel over the rear axle in a truck bed.
8. Where do you do laundry?
Keeping up with the laundry while traveling in your RV can be a challenge at times, but there are multiple ways in which you can complete this task.
- Laundromat – bring quarters and supplies
- Onboard washer and dryer if space and cost allows
- Portable washer and dryer – Smaller more affordable units that can be set up and stored as needed.
- Campground laundry facilities
9. What is meant by the 10-year rule?
The ten-year rule at RV parks. “The Ten Year Rule” is a code that’s enforced at many upscale RV parks around the country. The rule implies that RVs older than 10 years are too weathered and worn and should be prohibited. The rule is often enforced regardless of how pristine the RV actually is.
10. What else will I need when I buy my RV?
Check out the Top 10 must-have items for your first time out
20 most know questions asked by an RV beginner
11. What is Boondocking?
In short, boondocking is off-the-grid RV travel. Sometimes referred to as “dry camping,” boondocking is any time you camp in your RV without water, sewer, or electrical connections. This has become more popular for full-time RV living because of the money that can be saved. RV park daily fees can add up quickly and ruin the plans you have made.
12. What is the best RV club to join?
8 Best RV Memberships To Join (2021 Favorites)
- Good Sam Club.
- Passport America.
- Escapees RV Club.
- Boondockers Welcome.
- Harvest Hosts.
- KOA Value Kard Rewards.
- Thousand Trails.
- Happy Camper Half Price Camping Club.
13. Where can I stop on the road for a quick wink?
Can RVs stay overnight at truck stops?
Truck stops aren’t just for trucks, tractor-trailers, and oversized rigs anymore. RVs are parked overnight at truck stops across the country every day. If you make sure you observe the rules of truckers, you’ll be fine. Be courteous, park straight, and be gone by mid-morning if you choose to park here.
Can you park an RV at Walmart?
Can I park my RV at a Walmart store? While they do not offer electrical service or accommodations typically necessary for RV customers, Walmart values RV travelers and considers them among our best customers. Consequently, They do permit RV parking on store parking lots when they are able to accommodate it. Best to check with individual store managers for their approval.
Can I sleep in my RV at a rest stop?
Rest stops are a great place to stop and stay for one night or maybe even two because it is legal to do so. This means you won’t get a tap on your window during deep slumber! Most rest stops have 24-hour bathroom facilities and some even have picnic tables. don’t pop out your slides and lawn chairs!
Can I sleep in my RV while traveling?
No, everyone must always be secured with a legal seatbelt while on the road. Anything otherwise is both illegal and dangerous to all.
14. Can you take a hot shower in an RV?
Yes, comfortably in larger units. To read how long can I shower in an RV? read here
15. What is the average lifespan of an RV?
The average life of a class A motorhome should be around 200,000 miles if you take good care of it and perform regular maintenance.
16. What is a TOAD vehicle?
A toad is a vehicle you tow behind your motorhome. It’s there so you can set up camp and still have an easy way of traveling around without having to drive your RV everywhere.
What is the best vehicle to tow behind my RV?
17. Can I live in my RV?
Yes, it is legal to live in an RV. To stay within the law, you will need to take care to follow local zoning laws and ordinances that may govern where you can park your RV. You may also need access to water and sewer if you plan to park in one place or on your own land on a permanent basis.
If this is something that interests you and wondering how much it costs to live in RV full-time? Click here
18. How much do RVs weigh?
For details on how much does an RV weigh? Click here
19. Can I drink alcohol as a passenger in an RV?
Currently, 40 states and Washington D.C. forbid the possession and consumption of open alcoholic beverages in motor vehicles. This includes the driver and the passenger in a motorhome.
20. Do you have to wear a seatbelt in the back of the RV?
Requirements differ from state to state – For example: When traveling in Missouri, backseat riders under 15 must buckle up. The driver and front-seat passenger are required to buckle up. Montana – requires everyone in the RV to wear a seat belt. Nebraska – people in the front seat must wear a seat belt.
What is the best brand Class C Motorhome?
2020 has seen many highs and lows, above all a pandemic that shut the country down. Firstly, it has ignited a buying frenzy like never before seen in Class C motorhomes. Secondly, manufacturers are pumping models out at a record pace. However, it has created sloppy workmanship as companies race to pump out unit after unit. Don’t get me wrong, not every company is producing defective motorhomes. So, what is the best brand class c motorhome?
There are some quality brands on the market today, but even the best brands produce a lemon here and there.
The problem I see is subpar companies are now really strapped to find good labor and materials and that is being passed on to the consumer. So mix that with high demand for a unit and you can see why a less-than-quality company may struggle.
Once you find the perfect model for you, let us show you the perfect RV resort to take it to – CLICK HERE
Not All Models Are Top Rated
Be aware some of the best RV manufacturers make models that have reliability/quality issues. Educate yourself, therefore you know which model from a top manufacturer is worthy of your money.
The Top 5 Best Class C Motorhomes For Sale Under $60,000
- Coachmen Freelander Class C Motorhome
- Winnebago Outlook Class C Motorhome
- Thor Chateau Class C Motorhome
- Jayco Redhawk Class C Motorhome
- Coachmen Leprechaun Class C Motorhome
The Top 5 Best Class C Motorhomes For gas consumption
- Itasca Navion Motorhome 18mpg
- Winnebago View 24v Motorhome 16.5mpg
- Fleetwood Pulse 24A Motorhome 15.2mpg
- Tiffin Wayfarer Motorhome 14mpg
- Thor Freedom Elite Motorhome 24FE 13mpg
Which is better diesel or gas motorhome?
Diesel motorhomes are much more fuel-efficient, and diesel fuel has a greater energy value than gasoline does. Its higher energy density means that diesel fuel can offer up to 10 percent better fuel economy by volume.
The Top 5 Best Class C motorhomes For Couples
- Winnebago Aspect Class C Motorhome
- Dynamax Isata 3 Class C Motorhome
- Jayco Redhawk Class C Motorhome
- Winnebago Fuse Class C Motorhome
- Thor Quantum Class C Motorhome
The Top 5 most reliable Class C motorhomes
- Coachmen Freelander
- Tiffin Wayfarer
- Thor Tiburon Sprinter
- 2021 Jayco Greyhawk
- Dynamax Europa
The Top 5 Class C motorhomes for towing power
I kept off super C motorhomes as their towing ability is much higher 18-20,000 lbs.
- Thor Four Winds 8,000 lbs.
- Forest River Sunseeker 7,500 lbs.
- Holiday Rambler Augusta 7,500 lbs.
- Winnebago Minnie Winnie 7,500 lbs.
- Jayco Greyhawk Prestige 7575 lbs.
Now on to our list of Overall Best Class C Motorhome Manufacturers
what is the best brand class c motorhome?
This is just a company overview as a whole more than a critique of specific models. We will review different models in an upcoming blog and dig deeper into specs. and pricing.
Lazy Daze
Their primary objective is to build the best possible RV, not the greatest number. To utilize quality components, not the cheapest. This, in combination with their excellent manufacturing staff, has created a Lazy Daze Motorhome with outstanding durability.
The Lazy Daze frame, located between the inside and outside walls, is backed with a lifetime warranty to the original owner. This unique warranty helps substantiate the fact that they manufacture a rugged product, with built-in longevity for years of trouble-free enjoyment.
Winnebago
Smart design innovations mean you’ll enjoy industry-first technology. Advanced parts supply system coupled with excellent customer support means unparalleled service. And superior craftsmanship built with safety in mind means quality you can trust.
That’s a lot for one letter to deliver, but it’s what our community of owners has come to expect. But it’s more than that. Winnebago is greater than its products and services. It’s a community that stretches back over half a century. A community of owners that strive for boundless adventure. It’s a community of craftsmen that weld and stitch and polish every vehicle that makes those adventures possible. This growing community is at the heart of everything we make and do.
Dynamax – Forest River
Dynamax, legendary product integrity, and customer loyalty have combined to build a powerful brand. Now, a new generation of RVs is coming of age – delivering the best of both worlds – casual, easy living interiors with fresh décor options designed to maximize comfort and value.
They work hard to provide the most enjoyable ownership experience in the industry. Through their dedicated on-site service department, they are able to provide incredible value and successfully cultivate wonderful relationships with their owners.
Dynamax, reaching a higher standard is not an option, it’s a tradition. When you take their higher standards of safety, quality, and reliability and then back them up with their industry-leading warranty & customer service, you get a very powerful combination. Just as in a home, an RV provides a number of opportunities for something to go wrong. While they work hard to assure that things do not go wrong, they make sure that our Warranty and Customer Service Support is there to take care of you if something does!
Their RV is stronger than ever as part of Forest River, Inc. You can have confidence that they will be around to make your ownership worry free for a long time to come.
Entegra Coach – Thor
Wade Thompson and Peter Orthwein founded THOR Industries in 1980 with the purchase of Airstream, an already iconic brand. Since going public in 1984, THOR has grown both organically and through strategic acquisitions in both recreational vehicles (RVs) and buses. Today, the THOR Family of Companies is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of recreational vehicles.
Over the years THOR has received many honors for its growth and management success and has become one of the most admired and respected companies.
Thor gets a lot of bad rap from online reviews and on social media, but it is little known that Thor owns many of the popular brands on the market. Such as Jayco, Keystone, Tiffin, Dutchman, and Starcraft.
Renegade – REV Group
Renegade RV is part of REV Group, Inc., a leader in the motor vehicle industry for bus, emergency, recreation, and specialty markets. The name REV is not an acronym but instead, a statement that drives home our company’s commitment to connect and protect thousands of people every day.
In short, REV builds “vehicles for life” thanks to its 18 manufacturing facilities, 29 vehicle brands, and more than 7,400 REV employees across the United States. The company produces more than 20,000 vehicles annually, including ambulances, fire apparatuses, commercial buses, terminal trucks, street sweepers, wheelchair-accessible vans, and of course, luxury motor coaches, like Renegade RV.
Under the company umbrella, the REV Recreation Group, formerly Allied Recreation Group, is made up of some of the world’s most recognized and admired RV brands. Each brand — American Coach, Monaco Coach, Holiday Rambler, Fleetwood RV, and of course, Renegade RV — remains distinct, while together the group is a celebration of the rich heritage and future promise of the greatest manufacturers in the RV industry.
How to get the best price when buying an RV
As camping and RVing grow in popularity, more and more people are in search of the perfect recreational vehicle. RVs themselves are a big investment, so you want to make sure you get the best price. Whether you are in the market for a new unit, older model, or something in between, do your research. The buying process is pretty straightforward, but you may be wondering, how to get the best price when buying an RV.
How to get the best price when buying an RV
If an RV dealership is in your future, have a plan and stick to it. Before you even leave your driveway, do your research, know what you are shopping for, know your budget and never be afraid to walk away. You can always regroup and live to shop another day.
Make a plan
When was the last time you went camping? 10 years? 20 years? well, you are not alone. The growing popularity of hitting the road has given a lot of us the itch to see what this great country of ours has to offer. For many, it has been years since the last camping adventure and that may have been a pop-up camper or even just a tent.
The first thing you need is a plan and set expectations, even though expectations are often crushed in an RV lifestyle.
Decide what you are wanting to do with your RV, weekend warrior, a month away from home, or even the possible full-time RV life.
Think about what kind of space you need to be comfortable enough to actually enjoy. Will you be in your RV most of the time or will you be out on the trails and come back to just eat and sleep?
How many people does it sleep and are they dedicated areas or something that will need to be set up and broken down daily?
Remember if you are in the market for a towable unit, you will need a dependable tow vehicle. This tow vehicle will also need to be able to tow the weight you are searching for.
As you have seen there are many things to take into consideration when shopping for an RV. This is where the next step comes into play, do your research.
Do your research
When starting to research your RV purchase keep in mind the plan you have created. It can be overwhelming with all the different types of RVs available. Hopefully, you can take your time and find the perfect fitting RV for you and your family that everyone is happy with. So, when you arrive at the dealership if that is the path you choose, know more about the RV than the salesman.
20 must-know questions asked by the RV beginners
10 items the RV newbie must have the first time out
Best RV insurance companies for 2021
How to get the best price when buying an RV
Know what type you are going to buy
As we discussed earlier with your game plan and figuring out what is the best fit for you and your family, it is time to put it to use. There are hundreds of units on the lot and you could spend all day checking them all out, so it is best to have some kind of idea of what you are in search of.
- Research online – Check manufacturer’s websites
- YouTube is a great resource, as there are many RV walk-through videos to choose from.
- RV shows are a perfect way to get up close and personal with all the different types on the market. You can see the quality and know what bells and whistles are available for each unit.
Know when to purchase an RV
October and November are when RV sales really slow down and this makes for a good time to find that deal you have been searching for. December and January you may be deep in a snow drift depending on your location but these are the perfect months to find the best deal on a new RV. As the weather breaks around early April and temps rise, so will the prices.
RV shows
An RV show is a great place to start and also a great place to finish your RV shopping. A dealer does not want to move all these units back home and most are willing to make a great deal if it is good for both parties involved.
Shows usually bring in everything from top-of-the-line Class A models all the way down to a small teardrop unit, so you have a chance to see it all in one location. So, unlike a dealership that may have 20 or 30 of each model on the lot, it is a much more streamlined experience.
How to get the best price when buying an RV
Can you negotiate the price of an RV?
Negotiating is not out of the question, a discount of 20% to 30% or sometimes even more off of the sticker price is a strong possibility.
This all depends on the year, make, and model of the RV in question. Usually, the higher the price, the more wiggle room they have to make deals. For a 10-year-old used model, you are not going to get much reduction from the asking price. Be realistic!
Don’t rely on dealer financing
Don’t jump on the first quote for financing you get without shopping around. Check with your own bank, or local credit union, and even try a couple of quotes from online lenders. You can always take it back to the dealership to see if they will match or vice versa.
This is most likely going to be a long-term investment and you want to go with a company or bank you are comfortable with. Let them fight over your business, not the other way around. So, do not be in hurry, wait till you are ready.
Get an inspection
Unless you are knowledgeable of RVs and very mechanically inclined, please get an inspection from a trusted 3rd party inspector.
An RV will have drastic depreciation from the get-go, so the last thing you need is to add on a bad case of buyer’s remorse.
Be prepared to walk away
Always stick to the original plan you made at the beginning of this process. Salesmen do this every day and can be convincing to some, they will steer you off course to the point of ripping up your plan altogether.
Stay the course and always be willing to walk away if not 100% comfortable.
You can always hear them out as they may have a gem of a deal sitting on their lot, but let the final decision be yours, not theirs. So, don’t fall in love with the first unit you see.
Can I get my deposit back on an RV?
Yes, or you should but there may be some unnecessary pushback from the dealer. Any reputable dealer is licensed and bonded – By law your deposit goes into a trust account until you take delivery of the RV.
An immediate call to my attorney would be my next move if they refuse to return a deposit check.
Hidden fees
Beware of fees that you may not expect
- Prep fees
- Sales tax license and personal property taxes
- Doc fees
- Destination charges
- Pre-delivery inspection fees
Some of these fees will be included in the list price but most will not, just be aware as you are considering the price.
Need an RV loan? Read this first!
Where can I get an RV loan?
Getting a loan for an RV can be achieved from many sources these days and may be easier than ever before. RV loans are available at RV dealerships, banks, your local credit union, or one of many online lenders.
If Class C is in your future check out, What is the best brand Class C motorhome? to assist
What credit score is needed for an RV loan?
The consensus is that 700 or over is your best chance of securing an RV loan with a decent rate. The main things lenders research is your creditworthiness, ability to make payments and indebtedness, and low balance credit usage.
Is it easy to get a loan for an RV?
The minimum down payment for an RV is typically between 10% and 20%, but some finance companies also offer “No-Money-Down” loan program options to qualified applicants. Shop around and do your due diligence to find the best rates and payment options.
What is the debt-to-income ratio for an RV loan?
To assure your ability to make your monthly payments lenders will examine your debt-to-income ratio (DTI). Much the same as when you purchase a home loan this is an important factor to determine creditworthiness. Most RV lenders want your DTI to be under 40%.
What is the average rate for an RV loan?
The current average rate for an RV loan is around 6.75%, but some lenders boast rates as low as 2.95% for eligible borrowers. Much different than your typical car loan of 5 years, you can extend these loans out to between 10-15 years depending on the lender and credit score. Of course, these longer terms are usually for newer vehicles and as your RV goes up in age, the length of the terms will significantly drop.
Is an RV loan tax deductible?
The good news is most states allow for tax deductions for the interest of your RV financing. This is typically available whether your RV is your primary or secondary home, though some states may have their own requirements. Usually, states accept this interest on your RV loan is tax-deductible as long as it is equipped with a sleeping area, kitchen, and bathroom (with toilet).
Can someone take over my RV payments?
This would need to be something set up when securing your loan originally, many RV loans are not assumable. That means that the loan cannot be transferred from the seller to the buyer. Due to the fact that the money has already been spent, securing a loan may be easier for this if certain lender requirements are met. Lenders do not want to be in the RV sales business.
How do you finance a 10-year-old RV?
A loan from a bank can be difficult for an RV older than 10 years. Lenders expect to use the unit as collateral and the value is usually just not thereafter that amount of time. If you need a loan for an older RV, you will need to either get a loan from a credit union or a personal loan, which can require a higher credit score. Of course, there’s always the option to purchase older rigs outright! Cash is King!
Need an RV loan? Read this first!
Interest Calculator
The more you borrow and the longer it takes to pay, the overall interest will grow. Know ahead of time what a loan amount will cost you in the long run. You might be surprised! If not careful that 50k dollar RV cost you 100K after all said and done.
RV shopping and Loan search tips
- Set a budget and know your limits before even heading out of the house.
- Shop around and do not settle on the first quote.
- Shop multiple dealerships and attend RV shows, as lenders will also be there.
- Save for adequate down payment – this will reduce the monthly payment amount and the interest paid over the life of the loan.
- Consider the term of the loan and how it affects your payment and overall interest.
- Know your credit score before shopping, as it may need to be addressed ahead of time.
- Don’t be afraid to shop used, you will find better value most of the time if done correctly.
So, is full-time RV life in your future?
Current rates Sept 2021
- Be aware rates change daily – these are just current rates as of today
- Resource – Good Sam Loans
| LOAN AMOUNT | 4-5 YEARS | 5-7 YEARS | 7-10 YEARS | 10-12 YEARS |
| $10,000 – $14,999 | 8.59% | 8.84% | 9.04% | 9.64% |
| $15,000 – $24,999 | 8.09% | 8.34% | 8.54% | 8.64% |
| $25,000 – $49,999 | 4.99% | 5.24% | 5.54% | 5.84% |
| $50,000 – $74,999 | 3.99% | 4.24% | 4.54% | 4.64% |
| $75,000 – $99,999 | 3.99% | 4.24% | 4.54% | 4.64% |
| $100,000 – $149,999 | 3.99% | 4.24% | 4.54% | 4.64% |
| $150,000 – $249,999 | 3.99% | 4.24% | 4.54% | 4.64% |
| $250,000 – $349,999 | 3.99% | 4.24% | 4.54% | 4.64% |
| $350,000 – $499,999 | 3.99% | 4.24% | 4.54% | 4.64% |
Best RV Insurance Companies for 2022
I understand everyone has their own experiences with insurance companies and their views may differ greatly. I gathered my data from online reviews and BBB complaints to produce this best-of list.
My list of best RV insurance companies for 2022 hopefully will put a few minds at ease.
On average, full-time RV insurance cost $1500. RV insurance costs range from $1000 to $2000 for most RVs in the US in 2019. However, RV insurance policies and the costs can vary. While a Class C RV insurance policy may only cost $1000, a Class A RV could be upwards of $2000.
Here are also 20 Must-have apps to use as you head down the road – CLICK HERE
Need RV Insurance? Connect with Charlotte Insurance Today!
Website: www.RvInsuranceShop.com
Email: rvins@charlotteinsurance.com
Phone: (704) 887-5513
Full-Time RV Insurance Cost Factors
The cost of full-time RV insurance depends upon a number of factors. First, the resale value of the RV accounts for a significant amount of the RVs insurance costs. A new, more expensive RV will typically cost more to insure than a used RV.
RV Theft Coverage
The likely hood of theft, break-ins, and criminal damage plays a part in RV insurance cost estimates as well. While RVs usually aren’t as likely to be stolen as your average automobile, they can be an excellent target for burglars and delinquents.
This is particularly true when the RV is left unattended at an RV park or campsite. Where your RV is stored plays a major factor in how vulnerable your RV is.
An RV that spends most of its time in areas with high rates of property crime will cost more to insure than a vehicle stored in a quieter area. RV insurance agencies usually use ZIP code information to determine the RV’s risk of damage.
RV Road Accident Coverage
The risk of an accident can drastically affect the cost of RV insurance. Because most RV driving happens on high-speed highways and rural roads, RVs that are driven frequently run the risk of being in a serious accident.
Also, repair costs for an RV are a lot more than the costs of repair work performed on a typical automobile. Because of RV’s high resale value and the possible scarcity of replacement parts.
What Won’t Be Covered By Full-Time RV Insurance
A good deal of RV insurance policies won’t cover interior furnishings or personal belongings. While some insurance agencies offer policy riders for those wanting to protect the valuables stored in their RVs, it’s usually more practical to take out a separate policy on each valuable item.
A lot of RV owners also like to store their valuables outside of their RV in lockboxes or secure storage units.
If you’re “driving” a motorhome, you’ll also need liability coverage to stay legal on the road. But if you’re “pulling” a travel trailer, your state won’t require you to insure the RV, as you’re already covered for liability on your auto insurance policy.
Best RV Insurance Companies of 2022
Top Choice – Charlotte RV Insurance
Buying and owning an RV is a dream come true for many travelers across the country. An RV opens up the door to America allowing vacationers to see the many splendors and sights our great nation has to offer. Whether you are climbing a winding road in the Rockies, trudging through the hot desert of the southwest, or heading north to the Nation’s Capitol, an RV can get you there. Your new RV comes with a responsibility to protect and secure it from the dangers of America’s roadways. RV insurance coverage with Charlotte Insurance will protect your traveling companions and assets while you are on the road.
Website: www.RvInsuranceShop.com
Email: rvins@charlotteinsurance.com
Phone: (704) 887-5513
Progressive
Progressive is one of the largest insurance companies in the U.S. and has a wide variety of products to choose from. They are a great option for insurance when thinking of your RV. Their insurance agency has good rates and customer support. Research all of their options as they provide many ways to receive discounts or policy customizations.
In addition to recreational vehicle insurance, they also offer car insurance and homeowner’s insurance. You get a multi-policy discount if you run all your insurance needs through the same company.
Good Sam
Good Sam is one of the most well-known RV insurance providers. Their RV coverage includes highly tailored policies for RV and motor homeowners. (Read our full review here.) They have 24 hours a day service, 7 days a week with some of the best policy options.
The Good Sam Insurance Agency offers specific policies for full-time RVers (full-time RV insurance), coverage for your RV and automobile in the same policy, RV storage options, coverage for attachments such as awnings or rooftop antennas, and much more. They also offer car insurance separate from your RV. And it’s available in all states!
Get a Quote
Nationwide
One of the largest home and auto insurance providers in the country, Nationwide has the greatest variety of discounts of any of our top RV insurance companies, giving shoppers looking for value a way to find the best RV insurance rates.
Nationwide offers many of the discounts you’d expect with most RV insurance companies such as multi-policy discounts for combining your purchase with home or auto insurance, savings for paying your policy in full, and savings for maintaining continuous insurance coverage on your vehicle.
However, Nationwide stands out in the more unique discounts it has on offer. For example, you’ll get discounts for completing an approved state RV safety course, being a member of an RV club, and being a member of a qualifying affinity organization, which includes hundreds of alumni associations and professional groups.
Safeco
Safeco is a great choice for part-time RVers because it offers the best customization options for those who aren’t on the road 365 days a year. This insurer allows you to customize your policy and insures motorized vehicles as well as towable homes and trailers.
Safeco also is one of the few RV insurance companies to offer options such as pet coverage, electronic lock, and key replacement, vacation liability, audio-visual, and custom equipment protection. It also offers worldwide coverage for damage or indirect loss of use for rental vehicles.
Policyholders are privy to discounts for being claims-free each year, a diminishing deductible, and accident forgiveness discounts. Unfortunately, full-time RVers will have to look elsewhere because Safeco will only cover RVs for those who use their vehicles for 250 days or less per year.
Allstate
Allstate provides specific discounts to policyholders when they bundle a homeowners and auto insurance policy with their RV insurance.
It also offers additional discounts such as crediting you for years insured with another carrier and being 55 years or older (you can’t be actively seeking employment, however). These discounts are not common among other insurers.
With Allstate, however, you are limited to insuring motorhomes and there aren’t as many coverage options compared to the others on this list.
Allstate’s policies offer collision and comprehensive coverage, plus add-ons such as personal injury protection coverage, towing and labor costs coverage, medical payments coverage, uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage, and coverage for your sound system.
You’ll need to call an independent insurance agent to receive a quote; Allstate agents maintain their own clients, which makes their business relationships more personal.
There are other companies that provide RV insurance and may serve your needs best
As stated before each person has their own experiences with insurance companies and agents so research is needed to find the best fit for you. These were our choices from our research and results may vary from state to state. Hopefully, this list of the best RV insurance companies for 2022 will help you decide.
Here are also 20 Must-have apps to use as you head down the road – CLICK HERE
One thought on “Fulltime RV Living: Everything you need to know from A to Z”