Buying a New RV? Questions to Ask Before You Shop (Part 1 of 3)

Are you shopping for your first RV? Before stepping onto a dealer lot, it’s important to know the questions to ask when buying a new RV. In this episode of the Girl Camper Podcast, co-host Lesa McDermott talks with Mike Harlan, General Manager at North Trail RV Center in Fort Myers, Florida. Together, they explore how to prepare for RV shopping and avoid common pitfalls. Avoiding Common RV Buying Mistakes Mike shares the biggest mistakes first-time buyers make. Too often, people rush into a purchase without doing any homework. He explains why preparation is the key to making a smart investment. By asking the right questions before you buy, you can save money and avoid frustration later. Tow Vehicles and Tongue Weight Your tow vehicle plays a critical role in your RV choice. Mike explains that just because your vehicle can tow a certain weight doesn’t mean it will do it safely. Understanding tongue weight and tow ratings helps ensure you’ll enjoy your travels without stress. How to Compare RV Floorplans Flashy features can be tempting, but the floorplan determines how you’ll live in the RV. Mike encourages buyers to picture everyday use: What happens on a rainy day when everyone is stuck inside? Are the cabinets deep enough for real dishes? Does the space offer comfort and flexibility? Asking these simple but practical questions can prevent regret down the road. Start Your RV Buying Journey the Right Way This first episode sets the foundation for making a confident RV purchase. If you’re planning to buy soon, these insights will guide you toward the right rig. 👉 Stay tuned for Part 2, where we’ll dive into warranties, pricing, and dealer practices every buyer should know. Sponsored by Progressive Insurance – Protect your RV adventures with Progressive. https://youtu.be/f7kPFXS1ovQ