DISHForMyRV Blog

RV shows are great for a variety of reasons.  You can see whether the RV lifestyle is for you, if you’re in the market for a new RV, or even if you already have an RV and just want to see what the latest technologies are that you can add to your life of the road.

There are a few recommendations we can make, so your time at one of these shows is efficient and as stress-free as possible!

1. Know your budget. This is critical. Unless you are going to the show purely for fun, you want to know how much you can spend and how much you would be willing to be spend.  It’s a common trap people find themselves in, especially when purchasing their first RV.  Don’t get sold on something you can’t afford!
2. Wear comfortable shoes and bring snacks. Ever been to a convention center or theme park? Then you know how much walking is done and how expensive the snacks are inside the event. Plan ahead by wearing comfortable walking shoes and packing your own snacks.  Don’t forget to bring H2O. Gotta stay hydrated!
3. Consider leaving the kids at home. If your kids are young enough that you will also be pushing a stroller, I would suggest you get a babysitter. The day is about being able to freely walk through the different RV models with ease and mobility.  That being said, if your kids are a little older and if you are planning on traveling together as a family, then they should definitely be with when looking at different models. Don’t forget: it’s going to be their home, too!
4. Bring a list of your biggest questions. Before you go the show, write down some of the bigger questions you want to ask.  This way you won’t get side tracked while the salesmen is explaining all the really cool features. Sure, the RV might have a retractable sky light in the bedroom area, but does it also have the space for a full size fridge that you know you will need? Or the extra storage compartments that you know will be necessary to accommodate everyone in your family?
5. Test it Out/Get comfy. This seems pretty obvious, but take the RV for a test drive! Sit down and think about the space inside. Does it fit all of your needs? Can you imagine cooking a meal and sleeping in here? Take time to figure out if this RV is going to work for you and your family for your life on the road of during vacations.
6. Take Photos. Again, this might seem obvious, but in the excitement of looking at all of the different RV’s you can get distracted and even overwhelmed.  You think you will remember everything, but details can get missed. Looking back through photos can definitely help you make a final decision.
7. Go During the Week. Weekends at the shows are crazy! If you can, take the day off of work and go during the week.  You want to be able to actually get inside the RV’s you are looking at and not have to wait in a long line every time. Just maneuvering around the event space will be easier as well, especially if you have kids in tow.
8. Don’t Overthink Things! Yes, the tips listed above tell you to do your research and prepare, but at the end of the day if you find an RV that meets all your family’s needs and is in your price range, go for it! You are investing in a unique way to travel and experience life with your family and friends in ways you haven’t been able to do before.

Click here to see a list of RV shows around the country:

Whether it’s your first time heading to a show or you are a veteran and know the ropes, following these tips will help you make the best of your time and experience.  Purchasing an RV is a big commitment with an even bigger commitment to the RV lifestyle after, so you want to make sure you are taking the time to explore your options and have your questions answered.  Once you do, you will literally be heading down the road where new adventures and yet un-made memories await you and your family. Safe travels everyone!!