Be Prepared Before You Buy | Tips From The Ocean Lakes RV Center

Camping is the way to go when it comes time for a vacation! The Jacksons developed their land into a campground because they believed that every family should be able to enjoy an oceanfront vacation. They felt that camping caters to people of all walks of life.

Before you hit the road, though, there is one essential thing you will need. You will need an RV, of course! RVs are not a one size fits all purchase; there are many floor-plans and features out there. There truly is something for everyone in the RV world!

You may find yourself asking where to begin or where to shop? 

Follow Along - The Ocean Lakes RV Center’s Manager, Chris, provided four tips for when purchasing an RV | 

The Perfect Fit | Do your homework and decide on the floor-plan that would best fit your needs. Some layouts may be more convenient for you or more spacious. It all depends on what you are looking for and how many people will be camping.

Tow Check | If you plan on towing, make sure you purchase an RV that your vehicle can tow properly. How much your car, truck, or other vehicle can tow depends on the type of vehicle and the towing options on the car or truck. 

A General Rule:

• Front-Wheel Drive Car or Small SUV = 1,500 pounds
• Mid-Size All-Wheel Drive SUV or Pickup Truck = 3,000 pounds
• Full-Size SUV or Half-Ton Pickup Truck = 5,000 pounds or more

The weight limits can vary by large margins depending on how the car or truck is equipped and it is up to the owner to confirm the limits for the car or truck. Check the owner's manual for your vehicle, and be sure you never max out or exceed the weight.

Options | Make sure you consider the options that are available for your RV. What do you like, what is a necessity for you and your family?

Examples of Options:

• 10-Gallon Water Heater vs 6-Gallon Water Heater
• Upgrade Options, such as a Stainless-Steel Package
• Outside Kitchen vs No Outside Kitchen
• Additional Slide Outs vs Minimal Slide Outs

Service After Purchase | Consider purchasing from an RV dealership to ensure service after the purchase. Buying from a dealer that has follow-up service after purchase and is about quality, not quantity, is crucial when buying your RV. 

The Ocean Lakes RV Center | The RV Center has an in-depth stock of both new and used RVs and fifth wheels. Our lines include Durango fifth wheels, Salem travel trailers and fifth wheels, Salem Villa park trailers, and Salem Hemisphere travel trailers. 

The RV Center is conveniently located next door to the Main Office and accessible from within the campground or by taking the Frontage Road south of the Main Campground Entrance that will lead you to our front door.

Campers in Ocean Lakes and surrounding campgrounds can have their unit serviced onsite! Call our Service Department and one of our experienced Technicians will be dispatched to your site.

Until Next Time | Whether you are purchasing your very first camper or upgrading to a new one, give our RV Center Team a call for assistance. We are happy to answer all of your questions and help you throughout the buying process (and after, too)!