RVs, travel trailers retain popularity
BUTLER TWP — Over the past few years, Scott Murray has seen an increase in people buying recreational vehicles.
“I think (sales are) stronger than they've ever been,” said Murray, RV manager at Butler Pre-Owned Auto Sales.
He said this likely is because people have rediscovered camping and have decided that the monthly payment can be less than two-nights in a hotel, making motor homes and travel trailers an inexpensive vacation option.
With regular maintenance, these vehicles can last for years.
When looking to buy a travel trailer, Murray said the most important information to know is how much weight your vehicle can handle.
“Know what your vehicle can tow,” Murray said.
The lightest trailers include pods and pop-up models that can be towed by smaller SUVs and minivans. The next weight class is called ultralight, and these trailers can be towed by larger SUVs.
Even heavier are fifth wheel trailers, which can be towed by three-quarter ton to one-ton trucks.
The largest ones are permanent units, which can be used year-round and parked at a campground.
“There's a trailer built for everyone,” Murray said, noting that prices range all the way up to $70,000 plus.
Basic trailers, which are wood-studded with aluminum siding, have no heating and only can be used during the warmer part of the year. RVs that are the next step up, such as ultralights, are made of aluminum and fiberglass and have some heating so they also can be used in slightly colder months.
Murray said the top of the line models have good insulation and can be used all year long.
As far as amenities, Murray said it is up to the buyer to decide what he likes. The basic models include items such as a sleeping area and kitchen.Top of the line models can include fireplaces, dishwashers and designer furniture.“RVs, now a days, they're more like traveling homes,” Murray said.He said the trend in trailers is having a second outdoor kitchen and bathrooms that are accessible from the inside of the trailer and the outside.“That's the way the trend is moving right now,” Murray said.As far as maintenance, Murray said the most important action is to once a year get on the roof to wash it and make sure the caulking and sealing are good. That is because water leaks can cause big damage, he said.“It's just like the roof on your home,” Murray said. “This is the big thing, and you want to do it every year.”Owners also should have the furnace cleaned every season, and make sure the hot water heater and other heating elements are clean. Additionally, the septic tank should be maintained.Trailers have to have an annual state inspection. Motor homes should have the oil changed every 3,000 to 7,500 miles.With regular maintenance, RVs will last a long time.“They'll last 10 to 15 years, if not longer, if you maintain them and take care of them,” Murray said.
