Motorhome Sales USA

Tips and Considerations for Buying Pop up Trailers and Folding Pop Up Campers

Michael — Sat, 13 Mar 2010 06:47:09 +0000

Popup camper trailers can be a fun, inexpensive way to travel. While popup campers are definitely a step-up from a sleeping bag and a tent, there are some differences to consider when purchasing a pop-up camper trailer or folding popup camper.

One big advantage is the price.

You can buy a decent quality new pop-up camper for between $2,000 -$10,000. That’s a terrific deal when you consider that you get;

Sheltered living area which usually includes sleeping accommodation
kitchen area, some cooking appliances
mini-refrigerator
storage space and often other amenities as well

Another benefit about these types of trailers is you can tow them with your SUV, mini-van or large car. The trailer will have some effect on gas mileage but given the pop-ups weigh an average of 1500 – 4000 lbs, the gas consumption won’t be too high.
There are some potential negatives to consider before buying a pop-up camper trailers. For instance, they don’t shield outside noise very well. If privacy is a major concern that might be a potential drawback. Another potential downside is that some popups only have limited amenities. For instance, you may need to use a porta-potty and many pop-ups don’t have air conditioning (although some of the more expensive models do).

Overall a pop-up camper trailer can be an excellent starter vehicle for someone interested in RV camping.

Of all the motorhomes for sale popup’s can be significantly less expensive than a travel trailer, fifth wheel RV or even a used motorhome. So if you want to camp in comfort, a pop-up may be the way to go as long as you aren’t looking for all of the luxuries of home.

Tips and Considerations for Buying Pop up Trailers and Folding Pop Up Campers written by Motorhome Sales USA
© Kristof Creative

List Your Vehicle On Ebay For Free Locally or Nationally

Michael — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 17:49:07 +0000

This just in...

eBay Motors is now offering two free ways to list your vehicle for sale:

Reach buyers in your area with eBay Local Classifieds or extend your exposure nationwide (or even worldwide) with an Auction-style listing.

There are no listing fees for either option.

Local Classifieds

100-mile radius reach
Free to list
No backend fees

National Auction-style listings

12 million buyer exposure
Free to list
Flat backend fee

It's fast and easy to create detailed, searchable Motorhome or RV listings that interested buyers can't miss. List your vehicle now.

It's convenient and worry-free to buy and sell on eBay Motors—the trusted, global marketplace.

Buy or Sell Now

List Your Vehicle On Ebay For Free Locally or Nationally written by Motorhome Sales USA
© Kristof Creative

Gas Saving Tips for Motorhomes and RVs

Michael — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 05:25:12 +0000

With today’s gas prices being what they are people are always looking for ways to lower their fuel consumption. This is especially true for drivers of RVs and campers as much as it is for drivers of new or used motorhomes.

The following tips can help you when trying to conserve fuel – be it gas or diesel.

Properly maintaining your vehicle is the key to efficient fuel consumption.

Check your tire pressure;
Under inflated tires can burn extra gas.
Clean your air filter regularly;
A clean air filter can reduce gas usage up to 10%.
Regularly check your fuel filter and change it once per season.
Not only can this help save on gas, but it can also help prevent a breakdown.
Changing your spark plugs regularly can also be beneficial.
Finally, have your motor home regularly serviced by a qualified RV mechanic; you will find a suggested maintenance guide in the vehicle owner’s manual.

Another way to help save on gas is by watching how you drive.

Try to maintain an even speed. Riding the brake or unnecessary acceleration will lower your gas mileage. Also try to avoid excessive idling whenever possible. Slow and steady ‘wins’ the gas consumption race.

There are also things you can do to help save gas when towing your fifth wheel trailer, travel trailer or folding camping trailer.

Don’t haul unnecessary items, especially heavy equipment. The heavier your load, the higher your gas consumption will be in the towing vehicle.

Whether you are driving a Class A motorized Gulf Stream or a Class C motorized Coachmen, everyone can benefit by following the above fuel saving tips.

Gas Saving Tips for Motorhomes and RVs written by Motorhome Sales USA
© Kristof Creative

Pros and Cons of Motorhomes and RVs

Michael — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 00:48:17 +0000

Owning a Class A motorized; Class C motorized Coachmen or Gulf Stream motorhome; a travel trailer, fifth wheel RV or even a folding camper trailer can be very liberating and exciting. It gives you the ability to take long trips at a moment’s notice just by packing some supplies and starting the engine.

However these particular vehicles require the buyer assessing their needs to avoid purchasing an impractical vehicle. Let’s examine some of the benefits and drawbacks of motorhome or RV ownership.

The first obvious advantage is convenience.

You may need to stock some essentials such as propane or toiletries, but you don’t have to worry about where to stop to eat or take a bathroom break. Just pulling off the road at any rest area will suffice. Another advantage of RV ownership is they have become a mainstream part of our culture. Camping facilities and mechanics that cater to RV users are plentiful and easy to find.

The major potential downside of owning a motorhome is fuel consumption.

Whether you are talking about gasoline, diesel or propane, the recent fuel costs have increased dramatically. This is definitely something to consider before leaving on a cross-country adventure.

Another potential concern is storage.

Where are you going to park your vehicle when it is not in use? Before deciding to park on the street or in the driveway, check on local ordinances or deed restrictions. Otherwise you may find yourself in trouble with local law enforcement, your neighbors, or both! Storage facilities are available in most cities but can be expensive.

If you consider these factors of motorhome or RV ownership, you are sure to make a wise decision.

Pros and Cons of Motorhomes and RVs written by Motorhome Sales USA
© Kristof Creative

Essential Tips To Get Your RV Ready for Spring

Michael — Sat, 26 Jul 2008 18:09:46 +0000

Author: Ken Freund
Brought to you by Good Sam Club RV Road Service

How to Get Your RV Ready for Spring
Coming out of Hibernation

Winter elements can take a toll on stored RVs. If your coach has been in storage, now is the time to start preparing for those spring getaways. Taking a little time now will help ensure enjoyment all through the year.

Before hitting the road complete this RV spring-prep checklist:

Begin with a thorough exterior inspection. Examine the outside, including the body and roof, for any cracks or separation and look inside for stains on the ceiling, sure signs of roof leaks. Look beneath the coach and/or or tow vehicle for signs of fuel or other fluid leaks.

Once you've determined there are no exterior leaks, wash the RV with a specially formulated soap designed for the exterior. Work in the shade, since washing a hot surface can result in hard-to-remove spots and streaks. Use specialized wheel cleaners to make tires and trim look new.

An RV that's been stored all winter needs to be aired out. Vacuum the carpet and clean the floors and other surfaces as needed.

Spring prep should include a fluid and connections check. Look for insect and rodent nests and chewed wires and hoses. Check the amount of LP gas and test appliances for proper functioning.

Drain and flush the freshwater tank. Add 1/4 cup of household bleach for each 15 gallons of capacity. Then fill the tank almost to capacity, leaving room for sloshing. Drive or tow the coach to mix the bleach. Run the hot water to get the bleach through the water heater. Then drain the freshwater tank. Refill, along with 1/4 of baking soda per 15 gallons. Drive or tow to mix the water, run the hot water, then drain and refill with fresh water. Test the water pump and water system, including the water heater.

On motor homes, generators and tow vehicles, change the oil and filter and perform all recommended services according to the owner's and maintenance manuals.

Batteries should be check for electrolyte level and connections should be removed, cleaned and after re-assembly, treated with an anticorrosive product.

Make sure all of the lug nuts are secure, check tires for cracks and other damage and set inflation pressures. Trailers should have the wheel bearings repacked.

Replace batteries and test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. Check the gauges on fire extinguishers. Check and refill your first aid and emergency kits. An emergency kit should include: flares, a gas can, reflective triangles, duct tape, jumper cables, wheel chocks, flashlight and basic hand tools.

Stock up with necessities for cooking, cleaning and entertaining. Review kitchen equipment and the inventory of favorite games, books, cards, puzzles, CDs, DVDs or videos.

To have peace of mind when you hit the road, get Good Sam RV Emergency Road Service

Essential Tips To Get Your RV Ready for Spring written by Motorhome Sales USA
© Kristof Creative

Tips for Choosing a Great Motorhome and RV Campsite

Michael — Sat, 26 Jul 2008 17:56:41 +0000

Whether you are new to RV camping or a veteran, choosing the right motorhome campsite is very important.

When choosing a campsite, some things to consider are the vehicles for which they cater. For example, Class A motorized or Class C motorized motorhomes, fifth wheel trailers, travel trailers or folding camping trailers all have differing needs.

Does the campsite you’re reviewing at have the amenities you’re looking for? Some facilities offer a pool, lake, Internet access, hiking trails, planned activities for kids and more; these services may interest some campers but may not appeal to others.

Some sites offer just basic lodging with power, water and sewage connections. It’s a good idea to find out what your perspective campsite offers. You should only pay for the services you will actually use.

Another point to consider is if they allow pets? This may sound irrelevant to most RV owners but it’s an important consideration if you’re a pet owner. As an RV owner, you may not think about this because you’re not renting a hotel room—you’re merely parking your motorhome at the campsite. You need to realize most RV campsites have strict rules about allowing pets on their grounds—especially if you find this out after driving twelve hours and paying a non-refundable deposit!

So whether you’re driving a used motorhome you recently purchased or you’re towing your reliable travel trailer, RV camping can be a great family activity if you choose your campsite carefully.

Tips for Choosing a Great Motorhome and RV Campsite written by Motorhome Sales USA
© Kristof Creative

Pros and Cons of Owning a Fifth Wheel Trailer

Michael — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 20:31:33 +0000

Owning an RV can be a lot of fun and provide a great sense of freedom. When deciding what type of RV to purchase you must make a careful decision.

There are Class A motorized and Class C motorized motorhomes, travel trailers, folding camper trailers, and fifth wheel RV's. Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of fifth wheel trailers.

Fifth wheel trailers are generally large trailers that can accommodate a family with many of the comforts of home including showers, full kitchens, large sleeping areas, television and more. They’re easier to tow than travel trailers, and they provide more living space per foot length than a motorhome because they don’t house an engine. Fifth wheel trailers also provide the option of unhitching the tow vehicle for local transportation.

There are some potential drawbacks to consider as well.

Fifth wheel trailers must be towed by a truck with a “wheel hitch” in the bed. Larger fifth wheelers require at least a medium duty truck for towing. Tall models sometimes present clearance problems for low bridges, branches, and even gas stations or a bank canopy. Also, the living area of fifth wheelers cannot be accessed while the vehicle is in motion and can require a very large storage area when not in use.

Overall, a fifth wheel trailer can provide a nice alternative to a Coachmen or Gulf Stream motorhome but you have to weigh the various factors when looking at motorhomes for sale to ensure a fifth wheel trailer is the right choice for your travel needs.

Pros and Cons of Owning a Fifth Wheel Trailer written by Motorhome Sales USA
© Kristof Creative

Importance of Knowing the Height of Your Fifth Wheel Trailer

Michael — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 19:10:18 +0000

Owning a fifth wheel trailer can be a very rewarding experience. But that's not to say it can't also be a little intimidating when you attempt to tow your first fifth wheel.

Fifth wheel trailers comes in an assortment of heights and lengths—and it's important to know the clearance of both. Misjudge the length and you could end up backing into something or side-swiping an object while taking a turn

Even worse is not knowing the height of your fifth wheel AND the height of any object you might be traveling under—such as a bank's drive-through canopy.

The following video illustrates this point quite well.

Know Thy Fifth Wheel Trailer Height

Embedded Video

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CXneVbTf2bk

Note: Sources tell me the man driving the truck and his young son are both alright.

I can't even imagine the insurance claim for a totaled truck, severely damaged fifth wheel trailer, and the bank's canopy.

Ouch!

Considerations Before Purchasing A New or Used Motorhome

Michael — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 03:21:24 +0000

So you’ve decided to take the plunge and purchase a motorhome. That’s terrific!

But the big question now is, of all the different types of RVs and campers available, should you purchase a new or used motorhome? Of course cost can be a large factor.

If you’re on a budget, you may be able to purchase a higher quality Class A Motorized for the same money you would pay for a brand new Class C Motorized with fewer amenities.

Another question to ask is how often do you plan to use the motorhome? If you’re only going to use it a few weeks per year, a used vehicle could certainly be a good option. If you’re planning to be a full time road traveler, a brand new model with a full warrantee may be a better purchase.

How long do you plan to keep the motorhome? Will this be a short-term purchase or are you planning to upgrade within the next year or two? If this is going to be a long-term purchase, you may wish to invest in a new vehicle. This is because the value of RVs tend to depreciate quickly over the first few years. Therefore their trade-in value significantly diminishes over a short period of time.

Another consideration is financing options; lending institutions usually offer longer terms and lower rates for new vehicles as opposed to used vehicles. If you are going to take out a loan, this is definitely something to think about.

Whether you purchase a brand new Coachman, a used Gulf Stream or decide to buy a 5th wheel RV, travel trailer or folding camping trailer, make sure you do your research to ensure you make the right decision.

How to Travel the United States in an RV for Less

Michael — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 02:16:20 +0000

Whether traveling in a high quality Class A motorized Gulf Stream; a streamlined Class C motorized Coachmen, or a fifth wheel trailer, purchasing an RV is just like any other kind of vehicle.

You can pay more or you can pay less. Most of us prefer to pay less.

Here are some tips to help you save money when viewing motorhomes for sale.

Trip Research and Planning

There is usually more than one route you can take to get to any given destination. If you don’t mind forgoing a more scenic route, traveling on major highways can generally cut down the total mileage and fuel you used on the road.

Although this is a great way to save both time and money, it’s almost counterproductive to why you probably bought your RV in the first place — to see the country.

Choose RV Campgrounds Wisely

The United States has wonderful campgrounds and gorgeous travel destinations. Are you looking for a resort style campground or a simple place to park your RV and sleep? Many RV campgrounds offer various amenities such as swimming pools, lakes, planned activities for children and adults, Internet access and other amenities. Finding a place to park that meets your requirements without offering unnecessary extras is a great way to ensure you don’t pay for things you don’t want and won’t use.

Maximize Fuel Consumption

Another way to travel in your RV for less is to ensure you are maximizing your fuel consumption. Keep your vehicle in excellent condition with regular maintenance, keep your fuel and air filters clean and ensure your tires are properly inflated. Additionally, if you keep your speed within posted limits you will not only use less fuel but it will give your passengers more time to enjoy the view.

Whether you are in a travel trailer, folding camping trailer, or a large motorhome, it’s always nice to be able to travel for less.