Where Can I Learn About RV Manufacturers?
From: Jeff Radich
There are plenty
of opportunities to learn about and observe the different RV manufacturers and
models, from going to a dealership or RV show to chatting with an individual
owner. Below are some of the best places to get good information about the
different choices.
RV dealerships
are a great place to comparison shop because the dealers will usually represent
a variety of manufacturers and have a large selection of RVs available on the
lot to inspect.
RV dealers are
often referred to as the “face” of the RV manufacturers because they are the
ones who provide the sales information, advertising, and promotion for the
manufacturers they carry. They become the experts for the models they offer.
Sometimes,
dealers only offer one manufacturer. In this case, the dealers educate
themselves on all of the best features and latest improvements that the
manufacturer has made and share this information with the customer.
Bring your notebook,
and take notes as you tour each model. This way you will begin to get a clearer
idea of not only what you want in an RV, but also which manufacturers you like
the most and why.
RV shows are
great places to look because you have the opportunity to learn about and view
many different RV manufacturers and dealers who are displaying a large variety
of RVs in one convenient location. The shows also include booths with vendors
of RV-related products and services, as well as lectures on topics of interest
to the RV buyer.
Typically, most
RV shows are presented during the months of January, February, and March and
again during September and October, although you could find one any time of the
year. Look for ads in RV magazines and your local newspaper, as they often
offer discount coupons for the show.
My advice is to
arrive early because if it is a large show, it can take a day or more to see
and hear everything. I have been to RV shows where it took me two or three days
to see everything.
Again, use this
opportunity to pick up brochures, and talk to dealers and manufacturers
representatives, as well as to other RV enthusiasts and owners. There is no
other place where you can get such a wide variety of information in one spot.
To find an RV
show in your area, visit http://rvia.org/rvshows/index.cfm for a searchable database of RV shows in the United States
Much like RV
shows, RV rallies bring like-minded RV enthusiasts together in an atmosphere of
fun and camaraderie. Hosted by various RV clubs, organizations, interest
groups, or manufacturers, these rallies offer, RV seminars, exhibit booths
featuring the latest RV products, a variety of new RVs in all shapes and sizes,
as well as great entertainment and food. It’s a chance to see the latest models
and talk to the manufacturers and dealers. You can even take a test drive on
the spot.
Each RV rally has
its own format and agenda, as well as different locations and fees.
Manufacturers host rallies featuring their particular make and models. Rallies
sponsored by clubs and associations offer a broader range of manufacturers.
Even the smaller
rallies are worth the trip and are both educational and fun. Some of these
rallies are no larger than a small get-together of a local club. Look for a
rally sponsored by a club that is based on a particular aspect of a
manufacturer. Besides the opportunity to gather valuable information, these
small rallies provide an opportunity to meet lots of new people, gather new
ideas, and make new friends in the RV world.
Making a trip to
a local RV park can be rewarding, as there is always a variety of different
makes and models parked in one place. Walk down the lane of camped RVs, and
strike up a conversation with the occupants of those rigs that interest you the
most. RVers are a happy lot; they are usually very happy to share their
experiences, along with any information or opinions they have about their RVs.
Don’t forget to
bring your notebook so you can take notes about what you like, plus any
comments, either positive or negative, that anyone might share with you.
Jeff Radich is a
professional research writer and active RV enthusiast. |
