When it comes to recreational vehicles (RVs) or caravans for outdoor living, few can compare with the benefits that slide on campers provide. Sleek, agile, and functional – these are the main qualities that define the best slide on campers in the market today. But just like any other major investment, you have to get the right one for you if you want the best value for your money.
With the amount of RV choices these days, however, this is often easier said than done. But it’s not impossible. Remember: you don’t have to buy the most expensive or feature-packed choice to get the best camper for you. You simply have to find the right one for your needs.
And while there’s no single guide for finding the perfect RV for everyone, there are ways to help you find the right one for you. Start by answering these questions, and you’ll be a step closer to getting the slide on camper that’ll suit you the most.
1. What do I need it for?
The first – and perhaps most difficult – question you have to answer is what you’re actually getting your slide on camper for. Do you need a camper for short trips to national parks and other similar locations? Are you traveling on a long-term road trip across the country? Or do you simply need a mobile home for trips to the beach or forest? All these activities may have vastly different requirements regarding features and functionality, and you’ll have to pick the one that best matches your needs.
Knowing what you’ll use your camper for (at least for most general uses) will give you better direction on what type of campers and off-road caravans to consider. This knowledge will also help you narrow down your choices once you do find options that you’re interested in. The more you know what your needs are from your camper, the easier your search will be.
2. What’s my budget?
Another important thing you have to consider is your budget. Once you’ve clearly defined your needs, then you have to set a general budget. Much like determining what your needs are, setting a budget will give you better direction as you go through different choices for slide on campers or other types of caravans like camper trailers and motorhomes. A budget – if you stick to it – will also help you avoid overspending on unnecessary products and features.
At this point, you don’t necessarily need to have an exact budget that you have to follow to the last cent no matter what. What you do need, however, is a general ballpark of how much you’re willing to spend. Have some wiggle room in your budget to accommodate things that you really just want to have. But don’t make the leeway too big that it makes your budget useless for narrowing down your selections for the right RV.
3. Will I be towing anything else?
One major benefit of slide on campers is that you can tow small vehicles or structures in addition to having a mobile home. That’s why it’s a popular option among those who also want to tow jet skis, small boats, and other similar vehicles while traveling. You should, therefore, determine beforehand whether you’d like to be able to tow something along with your RV in most of the cases that you’ll use it. Some campers are better suited for towing than others, with much higher towing capacities and capabilities. Determine your general towing demands from the onset, and find choices that properly match these needs.
4. How far will I be travelling?
Will you be travelling through the state and across the country? Or will you mostly only be travelling to nearby locations? As you know, the further you travel from home, the more and better quality amenities you’ll likely need for your trip. These days, you’ll find a wide variety of slide on campers with vastly different features – some simple, some undoubtedly lavish. Depending on where you plan to travel and how long you’ll be on the road, some features may be absolutely needed while others may simply be luxuries.
5. What’s on my wish list?
While it’s crucial that you focus on your caravan needs, you also shouldn’t forget about those little (or big) things that you want to be included in your recreational vehicle. After all, the whole point of RVs like slide on campers is to have as much safety and comfort as possible while you’re travelling. Once you’ve determined your needs and ensured that your RV choices cover these, then feel free to shop around for the extra features you want.
It’s not about depriving yourself of what you want; it’s simply covering what you need first before moving on to less-important-but-highly-desirable things. In some cases, you may even have to go a bit over your budget to get what you want. No matter what extras you get for your camper, however, remember that only you can really decide what your needs and wants are. Some people need little to enjoy their trip while others may need more comforts and amenities. Be honest with yourself, keep your wants in a wish list, and pursue them according to your needs and budget.
It’s important to remember that these questions are simply starting points for finding the right slide on camper for you. While it may not lead you directly to that perfect camper you’ve always wanted, it will put you on the right path towards it.
Don’t stop with these questions, however. At the end of the day, you know your situation best. After you’ve answered these main questions, continue to ask yourself more specific questions relating to your particular needs and situation. Some of these questions may include:
- How much storage do you need?
- Will you need a refrigerator?
- What type of generator will you need?
- What type of kitchen would you like inside?
- What bed configuration would be best for you?
Need more help on finding the best caravans or mobile campers for you? Send us your enquiry anytime, and we’ll do our best to provide the information that you need. As one of the leading manufacturers of slide on campers in Australia, we understand what most adventurers truly look for in their caravans.