AMA Insider Summer 2018/ UNDER 55 | Page 48

Big Deal MeMbers save 15% on parts and service at Go rv RV Guide Plus, buy an RV from Go RV and get a one-year ama Plus RV membership, one year free RV storage, and Go RV adventure Club membership with free firewood, propane and RV supplies for life ($1,270 value) How to Buy ama.ab.Ca/rV An RV is a great way to see North America, but don’t take our word for it—try it for yourself! 48 Summer 2018 AMA InSIder Choose a Model There’s a recreational vehicle to suit every taste and budget 1 2 3 4 5 6 1. Tent trailer Pros: The most affordable option, lightest to tow Cons: Needs set-up before use, limited storage 2. Travel trailer Pros: Easy to tow by SUVs and minivans with a regular hitch Cons: Limited space 3. Fifth wheel (goose-neck) Pros: Lots of space, leaves tow vehicle free for use when parked Cons: Needs pickup truck for towing 4. Class C motorhome (bunk-over) Pros: Comfortable and contained Cons: Limited space, no vehicle for use when parked 5. Class B motorhome (camper van) Pros: Small and compact for going anywhere, can be luxurious Cons: Limited space for more than two people 6. Class A motorhome (bus) Pros: Loads of room, luxurious Cons: Expensive to buy and operate To see if you’re cut out for RV life, rent before buying. “you’ll get an idea of how capable your truck is, and how comfortable you are pulling an RV,” says sarnesh Narayan, vice-president of operations at Go RV (GorV.ca), an amaRewards partner with dealerships in Red deer and leduc. you’ll get a taste of what it’s like to travel with your accom- modations, before committing to a purchase. It’ll also help you decide how much space you really need. at Go RV, you can rent a 27-foot RV, which sleeps eight people, for about $1,200 per week. Buy an RV later and that payment will be deducted from the price. If you do decide to buy, Narayan recommends getting a new unit rather than used—to take advantage of the warranty and the likeli- hood of fewer repairs. But remember to factor in main- tenance and service costs, as all RVs still require regular maintenance. “It’s very important to work with a dealer that has a trusted service department,” Narayan says. The cost of a new 14-foot trailer typically starts at $15,000. a new 27-footer, the most com- mon size, usually costs between $20,000 and $30,000. motor- homes are more expensive— some Class a models can easily top $100,000.