Recreational vehicle buyers' guide A recreational vehicle, also known as an RV or a camper, can be a worthwhile invest- ment for people who want to travel at their leisure. RVs offer the benefit of traversing the open road without having to sacrifice the comforts of home. The RV market has been hot over the last couple of years as people have looked to RVing as a safe way to travel. According to the RV Industry Association, shipments of travel trailers and motorhomes were expect- ed to hit their highest level on record in 2021, with more than 533,000 units sold by year-end in North America. Sizable purchases are seldom easy, and purchasing an RV is no exception. In addi- tion to choosing the right vehicle, RV own- ers must learn maintenance, how to drive a large vehicle, towing, and campsite eti- quette. Buying an RV is a long-term invest- ment. These pointers can help the purchase go smoothly. New or used? Purchasing a used RV can help people save money. However, upgrades and repairs may be costly. New RVs have the latest tech- nology and no risk of prior wear and tear. Insurance premiums will be higher for a new vehicle, and a new purchase can be expen- sive depending on the features chosen. Figure out features and size Take a hard look at what you are seeking in a camper. Do you want something that is just an alternative to tent camping? Are you interested in an RV that can sleep a crowd? Do you have a tow hitch and a vehicle capable of towing an RV? These questions and more will determine the style and size of the RV that's right for you. Class A RVs are large, bus-shaped rigs between 20 and 45 feet in length. Class B are sleeper vans and are smaller than Class A. Class C rigs offer size but driveability and are built into a regular truck chassis. For trailer-style RVs, the options are foldable trailers, travel trailers, toy haulers, and fifth wheel trailers. They vary in size and features; but you'll need a truck to tow them. Usage frequency When considering an RV, think about how often it will be used and where it will be stored when not in use. Garage storage may be challenging on a larger rig, and some housing communities frown upon parking RVs in driveways. This may affect the size you choose as well as the features you need, according to KOA, the RV camp site leader. Secure financing As with other vehicles, shop around for the best rates on financing; you don't neces- sarily need to go with the dealer. Also, when buying a trade-in or used rig, hire a third- party inspector to go over systems to ensure they're in working order. These are just a few things to consider when looking to purchase an RV. Buyers should do their homework to get a vacation vehicle that fits their needs and budgets. (MCC) Travel 15 | O akville B eaver | T hursday,F ebruary 3,2022 insidehalton.com STUDIO SUITES STARTING FROM $2,925 380 Sherin Drive Oakville, Ontario L6L 4J3 905.847.1413 vistamere.ca BOOK A TOUR TODAY Get more FOR LESS You want cosy and comfortable in a nice safe and quiet Neigh- bourhood with Oakville and Halton Region's best value? V for Vistamere. You'll find us nestled in south Oakville. And you owe it to your- self to see our delightful Studio Suites that go for just $2,925 a month. You'll be impressed with the generous size of our suites. Complete with lots of closet space, a 4-piece private bathroom, fully-equipped kitchenette, broadloom throughout and a walk- out patio. Perfect. Plus take advantage of our 60-day move-in timeline, it's sure to be a stress reliever. Call 905.847.1413 to book a tour today. Medium-Large Suite shown above Suites up to 962 square feet www.shoppersdrugmart.ca 2501 Third Line905-465-3000 478 Dundas Street West905-257-9737NOW OPEN24 HRS EVERY DAY • Patient Counselling • Complete Diabetic Care• Home Visits • Consultations • Free RX Delivery• Free Nutrition Counselling • Vaccinations• Cholesterol, A1C, AFib and DNA Screening lw ys Here toelp You! DE RANGO PHARMACY INC. w 2501 T905-465-3000 • P• H • C AlwaHelp Pharmacist -Fabio De Rango Drug Store/Pharmacy PLATINUM WINNER 2021