An RV or trailer is a ticket to freedom on the road. The exact contents of the convenience can vary. For example, some are quite compact and might only contain enough room for a cot. Others can fit a full kitchen, bathroom and bed. They’re a great way to camp while still enjoying modernity. Others might use them to travel a continent. But avoid these mistakes when buying one:

1.  Not sticking with a budget
There are a few things as important as a strict budget when you’re shopping for an RV or trailer. The biggest issue is that you’re almost certain to find some great deals. It’s really easy to feel like you’re saving money by going with an option that’s heavily discounted. But in the end, you’re only saving money if you come in under your set budget. However, you shouldn’t set your cap too low. Keep in mind that this is an investment that should last for a decade or more. It’s not just a path to adventure. It’s going to be your lifeline in rough conditions, comfort in a storm and your home away from home.

2. Not considering interest rates or taxes
When you’re figuring out a budget don’t forget that taxes and interest need to be taken into account. Taxes aren’t fun, and paying interest is even more of a chore. But it’s quite literally the price we pay to enjoy an adventure on the open road. So when you’re figuring out a budget don’t forget to add in a little wiggle room for the extra financial necessities.

3. Going too small
We’ve touched on some of the biggest budgetary concerns. And this has largely focused on setting a limit on your spending. But it’s equally important to avoid spending too little as it is spending too much. An RV or trailer isn’t just a one time purchase. It’s not like renting a cottage for a weekend. You’re going to be using it for years to come. You might even use it for a decade or more. You should give some thought to how your living situation and needs might change over time. You might meet someone. You might even start a family. You’ll need to think about avoiding spending too little for too little space. Buying the perfect RV or trailer is all about finding a size and price that’s not too big or too small.

4. Forgetting tow weight
Don’t forget that you’ll also need to ensure the trailer is light enough to match up with a vehicle. And that weight isn’t just the state it’s in on point of sale either. After you load it up you’ll typically see the weight shoot up by a significant amount. So make sure that it’s something you’ll be able to properly deal with in a safe manner.

5. Buying an RV in the wrong condition
When buying used we’re often tempted to go with something that looks perfect. But it’s important not to let looks deceive you. Someone might present you with an RV or trailer that seems to just have some minor wear and tear. But you should make sure to check over every possible inch of it. And this is only a slight hyperbole. Oftentimes damage from mold or similar issues will only be obvious in less than a foot’s worth of space. So be sure to check any suspicious patches of the wall or flooring for damage. Anything which has more give than the rest of the surface might very well have some damage.