RV ownership is just like being a home owner. Except for the small fact that you can move your home anywhere the road can take you. No wonder so many people find such joy in being RV owners.
Like everything else you own, you’re going to need to constantly make sure it’s taken care of. Maintenance and repairs are just a way a life for our belongings. With elevated prices over the last decade you’re going to need to stick to a strict budget. However, there are ways to still maintain your RV and remain under budget. Check out these tips to help you with staying on budget.
1. Learn to Make Repairs Yourself
It’s not always the smartest and cheapest way to keep bringing it into the shop. Especially for minor stuff. You don’t have to be “Mr. Handy” or a mechanic to make many of the smaller repairs. In fact, you only need some tools and access to the internet in most cases.
With hundreds, maybe even thousands of “Do It Yourself” RV repair videos online you’ll see firsthand how manageable it is for you. This translates to hundreds of saved dollars in: gas, labor costs, and possibly parts.
2. Roadside Assistance Program
This is something every RV owner shouldn’t go without. Whether you have a big rig or small rig, you should look to finding coverage for those accidental issues. It’s not only good to be covered, but it’s smart.
The average towing company typically does not have the special equipment required to handle RV’s. The odds of stumbling and finding one on short notice aren’t in your favor. This is where your roadside assistance program matters. You will be covered in the event of you needing assistance and won’t need to pay those added expenses. For about $150 a year you’d be silly not to have this.
3. RV Warranty Policy
If you’re looking for the best way to make repairs without paying too much it’s through RV warranties.
With RV repair costing upwards of $300 per hour, you can see the need to have a warranty that can offer all these repairs. Picking up an extended warranty allows you to be covered for most of any mechanical problems your RV may develop. A small deductible is usually all it takes to get your home back on the road.
Make sure you decide on the type of warranty that best suits your needs. Some cover all mechanical issues while some only cover the most common issues based on that model. Knowing what you’re prepared to handle and pay for is strictly up to you.
4. Use Alternative Sources
You may have heard that going “off the beaten track” can lead to great things. Well, the same applies when looking for services and products.
Sure, you can easily go to local shops and even retailers for your services and repairs, but if your serious about your budget then you may want to try some alternative outlets. Sites like: Craigslist, EBay, RV salvage companies, Walmart, and RV part sellers. All of which may supply you with cheaper services and products that can save you a whole lot more than any retailer and localized shops could.
5. Don’t Forget to Comparison Shop
It’s never good to settle. Taking something how one person’s gives it to you it’s just bad business. There’s no need to overpay for a part if you can find that same part somewhere else cheaper.
The value of the internet is glorious when it comes to this. Thousands of sites where you search for parts, and once you find a price you’re happy with just click and buy. Saving money is the key to being able to live and travel in an RV.
Look carefully, you may stumble across shops and locations online that are along your travels. Saving even more money on shipping costs. This is something you should strongly consider if you need parts or services along your way. Saving time and money is never a bad idea.
Budgeting when you’re traveling is the key when getting to see and do things you want. Spending additional money and services can always be better managed. With these helpful tips, you should be able to handle any situation or problem that may arise on your journey.