According to Go RVing Canada, shopping for an RV in the winter is a smart idea.
Keep in mind a few tips and tricks to help you get the perfect RV at a great price:
Make a Budget and a Wish List
Before you head out to find your dream RV, take some time to do a little future planning. Make a wish list that includes all of the features that you absolutely need to enjoy your new RV. Make a separate list for the bells and whistles that you’d love to have, but you can live without.
Next, consider a reasonable budget for your new rig and don’t forget to add in some extra costs:
- Repairs and/or upgrades if you are buying used
- Gas costs – the bigger the RV, the more gas or diesel it requires
- Off-season storage costs
Browse Before You Buy
Once you know what you are looking for and what price range you want to stay within, take some time to browse. Get to know how your budget compares to your wish list. You might be pleasantly surprised since prices can be substantially lower in the winter months.
Visit your local dealerships periodically to get a feel for their prices and available stock. You can also browse online classifieds listings like Kijiji to check out the local used market.
Unfortunately, both the Calgary and Edmonton annual RV expos have been cancelled this year, but you can still visit the vendors online. Check out the Recreation Vehicle Dealer’s Association for their member list. The Red Deer RV Show is scheduled for February 18-21 but be sure to check for cancellations before you go.
Tips for Getting the Best Price
Once you have a good idea of what type of RV you want and how it will fit your budget, start narrowing down your choices. There are a few ways that you might be able to get a better price than the sticker shows:
- If you are thinking of purchasing from a dealership, consider visiting them on a weekday in the middle of a cold snap.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for a deal or some free upgrades. You might be surprised what they offer.
- Take a look at last year’s models. The dealerships will soon need to make room for the new stock.
- Keep an open mind. A well-maintained used RV might be almost as good as a brand-new model.
- Don’t be rushed. If you take your time and aren’t in too much of a hurry, you will eventually find the right RV at a great price.
Buying an RV in the middle of the coldest months of the year might seem a little odd, but it is definitely worth a look. You might be pleasantly surprised by the deals that are available when you take advantage of the slow season at your local RV lot.
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