Shopping for a used pop up camper? If you answered yes then you need to consider a few things before making a purchase. Being prepared before going out camper shopping can save you money and potential headaches down the road. Some things you should research are: what will you tow with, how much are you going to spend, what camper layout suits you and what to look for in a used pop up.
Lets take a look at towing, is your vehicle up to the task. If you are unsure of the towing capacity of your vehicle find out before you ever go shopping. Look through the owners manual or call the auto dealer to find out for sure.
A visit to an RV dealer may be your best choice, as the first question they ask you is "What will you be towing with?". A dealer always considers safety first before selling someone a travel trailer, so they have the resources to give you the correct information.
Before beginning your search set your self a budget for the purchase of the pop up. Keep in mind that the cost of the camper is only part of the budget. You will probably do some redecorating and small maintenance to your new camper. Ten to twenty percent of the cost of the pop up should be set aside for these items.
Take some time to visit your local RV dealers to walk through some pop ups. This will give you an opportunity to find the floor plans that suits your lifestyle. Since you are buying used you may have to compromise here, but you should buy a camper with a floor plan you like, as this cannot be changed later.
Armed with the above information it is now time to start looking for a camper. When looking at a pop up keep an eye out for signs of leakage. Water leakage can destroy a camper if left unchecked, and the damage may not be obvious. If you spot signs of water take a very close look at the area for damage. If you do find damage, just walk away, as it can be very costly to repair.
No water damage? Great. Now you can move on to the canvas and mechanical systems. Check that the lift system works properly and smoothly. A tight seal should be made when the roof is lowered. Canvas and screens should be free of rips, tears, and large amounts of mold. Test all the systems in the pop up to ensure they are in working condition. On the outside of the camper be sure to check the tires and towing lights.
Take notes of the problems you find during your inspection of the pop up. If the problems are major and costly consider walking away and looking for something in better shape. If only minor problems are noted use this information to calculate your offer. Your purchase price should allow you enough money from your budget to make the needed repairs, if the seller is unwilling to deal walk away from the transaction. Remember you will be able to find another pop up for sale and maybe even a better deal!
Tips for Purchasing a Used Pop Up Camper
Shopping for a used pop up camper? If you answered yes then you need to consider a few things before making a purchase. Being prepared before going out camper shopping can save you money and potential headaches down the road. Some things you should research are: what will you tow with, how much are you going to spend, what camper layout suits you and what to look for in a used pop up.
Lets take a look at towing, is your vehicle up to the task. If you are unsure of the towing capacity of your vehicle find out before you ever go shopping. Look through the owners manual or call the auto dealer to find out for sure.
A visit to an RV dealer may be your best choice, as the first question they ask you is "What will you be towing with?". A dealer always considers safety first before selling someone a travel trailer, so they have the resources to give you the correct information.
Before beginning your search set your self a budget for the purchase of the pop up. Keep in mind that the cost of the camper is only part of the budget. You will probably do some redecorating and small maintenance to your new camper. Ten to twenty percent of the cost of the pop up should be set aside for these items.
Take some time to visit your local RV dealers to walk through some pop ups. This will give you an opportunity to find the floor plans that suits your lifestyle. Since you are buying used you may have to compromise here, but you should buy a camper with a floor plan you like, as this cannot be changed later.
Armed with the above information it is now time to start looking for a camper. When looking at a pop up keep an eye out for signs of leakage. Water leakage can destroy a camper if left unchecked, and the damage may not be obvious. If you spot signs of water take a very close look at the area for damage. If you do find damage, just walk away, as it can be very costly to repair.
No water damage? Great. Now you can move on to the canvas and mechanical systems. Check that the lift system works properly and smoothly. A tight seal should be made when the roof is lowered. Canvas and screens should be free of rips, tears, and large amounts of mold. Test all the systems in the pop up to ensure they are in working condition. On the outside of the camper be sure to check the tires and towing lights.
Take notes of the problems you find during your inspection of the pop up. If the problems are major and costly consider walking away and looking for something in better shape. If only minor problems are noted use this information to calculate your offer. Your purchase price should allow you enough money from your budget to make the needed repairs, if the seller is unwilling to deal walk away from the transaction. Remember you will be able to find another pop up for sale and maybe even a better deal!