If you are reader of this blog, you own an RV, or you just love reading about RV repair. As an RV owner you probably get mailings all the time for your local RV show. It might even be for the Dallas and Fort Worth RV shows such as the Tarrant County RV show that we just exhibited in. So as an RV owner, you may be wondering why you should bother attending an RV show. The reality is, RV shows are not just about selling RV’s, there is also loads of information, tips, and new technologies available for your review. If you have never been to one, let me give you a few suggestions and reasons why you should consider attending.
1. If you are looking to buy or upgrade, you can learn a lot more in person than you can online
Looking at pictures and RV floorplans online is fun, but at some point you really need to get inside of one. How else can you test if you will have enough elbow room in the shower, if you can deal with a bed that short, or how the utilities are set up and accessed. These are the kind of things you just need to see for yourself. The good news, of course, is that if you wind up hating the model you came to see, the next model up is an aisle away. That is why we also recommend that you:
2. Bring the family.
If you’re seriously considering a new RV purchase, bring the kids along to help with making the decision. See how you all fit in the RV and how things like beds, and kitchenettes function for your family. Everybody’s needs are different and this is the best way to try a lot of RV’s on for size. Plus your family members feedback is important since they will also be spending time in that RV. In addition, it turns the discovery and eventual purchase of the recreation vehicle into a family affair, one that all can have a stake in.
3. You can talk directly to the RV factory representatives
Dealers are quite knowledgeable, but the factory reps can tell you what can be done (or can’t be done) at the factory level as far as options are concerned. Most of the RV shows will have representatives from the various RV manufacturers right there to talk to you and answer your questions. Do you want to know why one brand has gone to multiplex wiring throughout their product line, but the one you are considering still wires things traditionally? Ask! Are the paint and graphic options on two models basically equivalent, or does one have twice as many coats of paint? Ask!
4. You can attend any of the many RV and lifestyle seminars
Almost all of the RV shows will have seminars given by RV industry experts. You should attend one, even if you think you know everything, you can always learn something new each time you attend a seminar.
If you’re a new RVer, the information in these sessions can be worth far more than the price of admission. This is especially true if that information keeps you from blowing out the electrical system or bursting the piping in your new RV.
5. Know what you’re looking for – and what you’re willing to spend.
This will simplify the experience by narrowing in on a particular type of RV, feature, etc. The size of your family, the expected use of the RV, and your storage facilities (if you’re not a full-timer) help with that decision as well.
Sometimes, dealers and manufacturers will offer special discounted pricing just for the show; but even then, it’s a good idea to compare with other sources – mobile phones give buyers a lot of flexibility and immediate feedback in this department – to make sure it really is a good deal. Knowing what you’re looking for ahead of time and having a budget will also help you from making an impulsive purchase. That’s not to say don’t look at models outside of your wish list or price range – it’s fun to look, too!
6. Bring a notepad or pick up a show directory.
Use the directory as your guide to mark off models, dealers, and exhibitors you’re most interested in – as you go along. Alternatively, use a notepad to jot down notes as you move through the show, take an RV for a test drive, and after conversations with sales personnel.
7. Take photos.
There is so much to see that it’s easy for all this stimuli and information to get jumbled up as the day goes on. Most exhibitors won’t mind you taking a photo or two with your phone or camera to help you remember what you liked or didn’t like about a particular RV. You can review them once you’ve made your way through the exhibit hall.
8. Check out the other exhibitors like your friends at Coach Specialists of Texas!
RV shows have more than just RV’s to ogle over. You can and should also stop by the other exhibitors to learn about places to go, Campgrounds, RV parks, and RV resorts. Stop by your local RV repair shop to get answers about your current RV and any repairs that are needed. Other exhibitors also offer Raffles, drawings and other special deals or prizes to win. All things related to RV-ing including all the toys and gadgets are there to test and experience, and most importantly learn.