October 10, 2025
Buying an RV is a big financial and lifestyle decision. From licence requirements and weight limits to tech know-how and towing considerations, there’s a lot to think about. Here are five important things you need to consider before you purchase an RV.
Try Before You Buy: Test Different RV Types First
Motorhome, caravan, campervan, camper trailer. How do you choose which RV is right for you? The best way is to try before you buy. It is a vastly different experience to tow a caravan than to drive a motorhome, or put up a camper trailer. The only way to know what will work best for you is to try before you buy. It’s not cheap to hire a motorhome, but it could save you thousands in the long run by knowing the right questions to ask when you do buy because you’ve experienced it yourself. thl offers multiple brands so you can do just that. Maui has campervans to hire in Australia, New Zealand and Southern Africa, which are the higher-end European Mercedes and Volkswagen models. Britz is the go-to as a mid-range option, while Mighty is for the budget-conscious and when you’re only hiring a motorhome to see if you like the lifestyle, going the cheaper option might just be the ticket.
RV Size and Weight: Why Bigger Isn’t Always Better
If you don’t have a heavy vehicle licence, then you will need to consider which RV you buy. Any vehicle that exceeds 4.5 tonnes requires a heavy vehicle licence. So, what does a motorhome of that size look like? These are the larger, more luxurious motorhomes. Think Avida, Paradise, Sunliner. These brands also offer smaller models, but if budget is no problem, it’ll be like staying in a five-star villa on wheels. Think sleek kitchens, plush lounge areas, double beds, bathrooms with showers and often dual slide-outs.
You will, however, need to be adept at driving a longer, larger, heavier vehicle, so parking even in the simplest places like supermarket carparks needs careful consideration. The payoff is living in absolute opulence with room for the whole family – just expect other campers to want a walk-through to check it out. After all, you’ll be like royalty in any RV park.
Understanding RV Technology: Batteries, Solar, and Smart Systems
12V batteries, converter, generators, solar panels, sensors – glazed over yet? There’s a lot of tech to get your head around in an RV, and with the rise of the smart RV with controls and panels to rival that in any modern home, it’s worth doing your homework. There are guides via companies like BMPRO, which has systems integrated into Jayco, New Age and Concept Caravans, and your dealer can also help you here, but do the research first and go in with a list of questions. It’s better to ask now than have problems later.
Towing vs Driving: Caravan or Motorhome?
The age-old debate – caravan or motorhome? The difference is if you choose a caravan you have a vehicle you can use once you’re in the RV park. But on the other hand, to have that vehicle means towing something the size of a motorhome on (often) main highways. Then there’s hitching and unhitching and if you are going to choose a caravan, all cars are not created equal, and you will need a ute or SUV. The fact is it all comes to weight. RACV is your go-to for a guide on options for towing and make sure you ask the question when you are looking at an RV. Your dealer will know what you need. You don’t want to get overexcited and buy a caravan that costs the price of a small house (yes, they do!) only to find you don’t have a vehicle that can tow it.
Match Your RV to Your Lifestyle and Travel Goals
Love going off-grid? There’s an RV for that and don’t think it means you are restricted to a pop-up camper either. Motorhomes like Explorer Motorhomes’ Pathfinder or Avida’s Explorer 4×4 mean you can have the best of both worlds – a motorhome with a bed, bathroom and kitchenette and all the tech you need to go off-road. There are plenty of off-road caravans too like Ezytrail Airlie 23 4 Bunk, which sleeps six, so the whole family can go. You just need to be aware of the importance of your tech when you’re not connected to power. Think solar, generators, portable Wi-Fi, but if nature is your soul saver, this is the option for you.
Bonus Tip: Do a Final RV Inspection and Join a Club
Inspect the RV thoroughly before you drive it off the dealership. It’s easier to deal with it on the spot than have to chase repairs. And when you do hit the road, don’t overload as you will have to call in at weigh stations, not to mention it becomes a major safety hazard on the road to be overweight. Also, consider joining a club! Clubs like CMCA, Australia’s largest RV club, help connect you with other likeminded travellers and keep you on top of all the tips and trends you’ll need for your new lifestyle.
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