Marcus Richards
A recreational vehicle, also known as an RV, is one of the popular ways of traveling when it comes to taking vacations. An RV is like a home on wheels –– it is an extremely portable accommodation that allows you to choose where you want to spend the night. From the wide, sandy beaches with calming waves crashing onto the shore, to being surrounded by forest thicket with starry nights, taking an RV will bring your vacations to the next level.
As appealing as that may sound, owning an RV is a huge investment. This article will provide you with the advantages and disadvantages of buying and renting out a trailer so that you’re equipped to make the best decision.
Advantages Of Renting An RV
Many people choose to rent an RV instead of buying one for many good reasons. Here’s some.
It Is Cost-effective
You can expect to pay at least thirty grand for a brand-new RV and the price goes up to hundreds of dollars for the luxury ones. If you’re only going to use the RV once or twice a year during the holidays, you’re better off renting one. You could rent a large RV for approximately $800 for five nights, which is way less than purchasing one. Even if you rent an RV at this rate per year for five decades, you’ll still spend compared to buying one.
You Get To Experiment
If you’re debating over whether to rent or buy an RV, you should probably rent the model that you’ve set your eyes on first. That way, you get to know what it’s like to drive one around and see if it lives up to your expectations. Maybe you’ll find that there is not enough space for everyone, or that the RV does not have certain facilities or functions that you would much rather have. Opting to rent the RV will allow you to experiment with different models until you find the one that suits you the most. No obligations here!
Little Commitment Is Required
You’re only responsible for the RV during the period when you rent it. In other words, during the times when you’re not using the RV, you need not worry about maintaining the cleanliness, engine system, and overall maintenance of it. This is especially true if you live in a place with four seasons. Winter is a brutal time for all RV owners as they have to go through a long and arduous process to do a deep and thorough cleaning of the water tanks and vents.
Additionally, if you’re renting from a reputable company, you’ll be assured of a high-quality and well-maintained RV. One less thing to worry about.
Disadvantages Of Renting
A coin has two sides. So, here are the disadvantages of renting an RV that you should take into consideration.
Following The Rules and Regulations
Renting an RV from a company means that you will be bound to them by a contract. Of course, it is in the company’s best interests to lay down some rules in case people misuse the RV irresponsibly. Before you rent one, be sure to go over the fine prints in detail as you wouldn’t want to unknowingly break some rules and pay a fine. In a way, renting an RV will restrict your freedom to a certain extent.
No Place to Call Your Own
Chances are, the RV that you’re going to rent has been occupied by countless groups of people in the past. Although the company will clean up the RV after every use, it is a known fact that the beds and bathrooms have been used by other strangers before. It might be a trivial issue to some since you’re only going to use the RV temporarily, but if you’re more conscious about hygiene, then maybe renting an RV is not the way to go.
Advantages Of Buying An RV
Now that we’re done with the pros and cons of renting an RV, let’s move on to the benefits and downsides of buying one.
It Is Convenient
Owning your RV means that you can hit the road whenever you want –– that includes impromptu trips and weekend getaways. You won’t have to go through the logistical hassle of planning when and where to rent one. Also, you need not worry about buying the necessities and equipment as they are all packed inside for you. All you need is the keys and you’re ready to go!
You Can Do Whatever You Want
Fancy a themed interior or that comfy mattress that you swear by? If you own an RV, you can do all that and more. Design the interior however you like. Buy whatever appliances or decorations to create your style, and nobody can say no. Owning an RV will give you the freedom to do whatever you want with it.
Let’s Talk About Finances
Guaranteed, buying an RV is not cheap. It is a luxury for most people. However, if you can afford it and are a frequent RV user, buying one would be more bang for your buck. There are options for second-hand RVs which is not a bad choice to consider. Most of them are well-maintained and serve the same purpose as the brand new ones.
Besides, you could rent out your RV for an extra source of income for the times when you are not using it. Instead of letting it sit in your garage, why not rent it out to someone who wants it and get some capital in return? It’s a win-win situation.
Disadvantages Of Buying An RV
You know the drill. Now, here are the downsides of buying an RV.
Let’s Talk About Finances…Again
It has already been mentioned several times but yes, buying an RV is pretty expensive! Not to forget about the additional maintenance fees, insurance, and licensing.
You Hold Full Accountability
Your RV will probably have to undergo annual maintenance no matter how well-maintained it is. Things might have to be changed or repaired and if you’re not willing to do it, nobody else will. That is unless you ask a professional to help out which would once again incur additional costs.
Conclusion
Hopefully, this article has helped you decide whether to rent or buy an RV. Ultimately, an RV should be a positive addition to your life instead of burdening it. Happy travels!
