I just figured because it was such a necessary and COSTLY expense... u were putting a little more emphasis on it. Just go with that...u didn't screw up!
FOOD costs! You included hotel, BnB, and rentals, but you didn't include stopping to eat at diners and restaurants. That adds up quickly as well. BTW, what the heck fancy pants RV parks are you going to that charge $200 a night? Most I have spent was $60! In fact I have a week long stay in Texas planned, $250 for the entire 7 days. Some thing else to consider, when camping, check to see if there are weekly discount rates, saved us hundreds over the years by doing this. They are nice parks too, not run down poop holes with busted pedestals and rolling brownouts, or trains rolling through every hour, with horns blaring. Did I mention Every HOUR!
I bought a used motorhome from Bish's last November. Everything was up front and honest. Staff was great to work with and more importantly I'd buy from them again. Keep in mind I flew in from NH and drove the rig home. Everything was ready and as Josh was talking about the rig was winterized before I got there. No BS, just an honest sale with honest sales people.
Man THANK YOU so much for sharing this!! May I ask which store you worked with and if you'd mind leaving them a review at www.bishs.com/review-us-manually for their good work?
I love seeing someone so honest in these videos. We’ve gone to several different RV dealers lately, and you can tell right away which ones are trying to hard sell you from the start and which ones seem to be honest and up front with you. We avoid the “used car salesmen” like the plague.
Just thinking I would like to travel from Ohio to buy from this guy. Looking at the website there are campers for sale in a few different states though
Big thing missed is travelling with pets or have to kennel them.. I did a calculation in 2021 we spent over 12K between hotels and kennel fees in 8 months. The kennel fees were actually more than the motel/hotel fees. Plus we miss our puppies. With an RV you can bring them with you.
I would definitely take my 3 small dogs along when RVing! They are so much a part of my life I cannot imagine leaving them behind, particularly given that they are all seniors, two of which are in their teens.
Josh I would love a video on pet safety for RVing. We mostly take our trailer to dog shows, which was why we got it so we can stay at shows. Things like xpens to contain your dogs at campsites vs tie outs, and different ways of keeping your pet safe while you travel down the road. My two dogs travel in Ruffland crates that are strapped down in our backseat and the bird travels in his travel cage which is also strapped down in the backseat. When we are gone from the trailer and leave the dogs behind we have a waggle to monitor the temps inside to make sure they are safe. We also have folding crates so we don't have to take the crates out of the back of the truck for them. Plus poop bags, leashes, water bowls...this list goes on and on.
We own a 5th wheel and found out early on, that although your trailer is covered while hooked onto your vehicle, as soon as you unhook it, your trailer is not covered for damages while parked. So, if it catches fire, tree limb falling, storm damage, whatever happens after it's unhooked, it will not be covered. So, we have always gotten the extra insurance on ours. Check with your insurance company to find out if your trailer is covered once it's unhooked.
Nice to see a dealer actually being up front instead of taking advantage of people. BTW: The nice thing about what he is doing is educating the customer who may be new to RV ownership. If you are honest with them up front, it is less likely that the customer will be mad AFTER the purchase. On the plus side, it makes it more likely that they will be using your dealership for repairs and maintenance! Far too many new people (I was one) get into this and although we did our research on the price, the TRUE COST of owning an RV is NOT apparent unless they do what Josh is saying. Also note, I am in FL and do not have any connections to Josh or Bish, I am just giving my opinion as someone who went through this in FL 10 years ago.
Wish something like this was published back in 2016 when we purchased our first travel trailer. The "kit" the RV dealership included two lp bottles filled, a 85ah battery and a box containing a 10ft stinky hose 5ft water hose, and pressure regulator. Our first weekend was "fun" we were lucky that the RV park neighbors took pity on us and let us use a pair of chalks. They also let us know about the wealth of knowledge available on U Tube to keep safe and the essential items needed. $2k later, we started enjoying our RV.
Looking back thru my career over the years... we had a similar crappy starter kit like that and I didn't know enough to properly prepare clients I love how Bish's really encourages me to get this info out. Our challenge now is finding effective ways to share this knowledge across all of our teams at our stores to provide the best experience for our clients everywhere
Thank you for your honesty. We just sold our TT after 7 years. I have to say it was a happy day getting rid of it. I can see owning one to live in full time, but to use for recreational use, forget it. They aren't worth it. We took our last trip this summer from the Midwest to Washington State and back. Gas alone was over $1600. Campgrounds weren't cheap, either. Yes, some were only $10 per night, others as high as $70 per night. I had to put new tires and batteries on our TT to get it ready for the trip. Another $1000. Add in the hassle of backing in your spot, hooking up electric, water, leveling, putting down stabilizers, dumping tanks, etc. To me, it was all work. Plus as most RVers know, pulling one of these 250 miles a day is rough. You can't make good time versus driving a car. Finding a gas station you can navigate in and out of was another hassle. I'm not saying we never had fun in ours. But looking back, there were only a couple of places where our TT came in handy. Otherwise we could have stayed in a hotel along the way. From now on, it's hotels, B & B's, VRBO's, etc. for us.
Hi Josh, This is the best Cost of Owning an RV video I've ever seen. Thank you so much. The sad part is it definitely let me know that I cannot afford to buy an RV. It'll always just be a dream. I truly appreciate you and Bish's honesty about it. Thanks Nerd! You're awesome.
I started with a van and tent, went to the smallest pop up tent trailer, traded for a 29' Mallard, traded (and used some insurance money I wasn't expecting to go a little bigger than planned) for a 5th wheel (hubby is 6'7"!), he can stand up and take a shower!
I just LOVE watching your "educational" videos Josh! So helpful to help understand "big picture", real world knowledge, about the industry and associated costs to owning and using an RV that just don't show up in the brochures. This one as especially helpful and makes me want to drive to Bish's from California for my next RV purchase coming up soon. Thanks!
I am grateful for your videos Josh! Your honesty is refreshing. I am 72 years old and planning to purchase our first travel trailer when my wife retires in a couple of years. Clearly we’re looking at rv camping in our home state of Indiana and our favorite state Michigan. I want to find someone like you that will not only help us find the right travel trailer for us but also what we need to camp for several years.
@@JoshtheRVNerd I have every intention of reaching out to you when we’re ready. There is a Bish RV in Anderson which is closer to us but to be honest I feel more comfortable heading to your location in Michigan. We’ve been watching your videos on various travel trailers for a few years now and feel we can trust you and/or your team to help direct us to what’s right for us. Thanks again Josh!
I love this video! I’m working on being a first time rv buyer, but I’ve been a lender for years and mannnnn have I been shocked at the stories I’ve heard over the years!
Great to see a company that understands the value of doing good, honest business. Too many companies are focused on the single sale and not the repeat business and strong word of mouth that comes from operating that way. Especially in today's world of online reviews, so many people post up the negative when things go wrong, and not nearly as many report on the positive, so if you put that bad business karma out there, they are just exponentially going to get bad reviews.
Just the other night out of curiosity, I added up all the accessories that we bought for our camper from WDH to hoses to surge protector and everything else we use consistently on trips and those "just incase" items that stay in/ with the camper...the total was nearly $3000! 😮 Of course, these are one time purchases over 2 seasons and some items are "luxury" that make camping experience easier, safer and more enjoyable.
Okay Josh, it is your fault. Today we just traded in our 2021 Fleetwood Bounder 33C and purchased a NEW 2022 Newmar Ventana 3407 that is loaded from your Meridian Idaho location. This is a really nice coach and reps gave us a great deal. Really looking forward to picking it up since in 2 weeks we have a trip planned to the Oregon coast. I blame you, LOL. And everything you said in this video is absolutely true. We are now a member of the Bish's family.
Congratulations and THANK YOU for choosing our place to bring your business! If you haven't done so, then please consider dropping the team a quick review at g.page/r/CXotzLZ8ZoVAEAg/review in return for their work!
Josh, I hear you buddy! We also need to consider how much it is going to cost to ADD the missing TV, an oven, an upgrade for the pedestal dinette, a porcelain toilet, a replacement to the Dollar Store 4” fart fan, a surround shower panel, an attached ladder, some solar to run that 12V fridge etc😂😂😂
I live in Montana. For towable rv’s get permanent license plates automatically doesn’t matter what type of trailer it is. Even flat bed car trailers and goosenecks. Where with motor homes you have to pay for the registration annually until the motor home is 11 years old. Montana does the same thing with cars and trucks 11 years or older permanent registration
Going from a pop-up where everything was simple (except for setup) to our 1st hardside... we were the whole hog type! I found that we invested a lot more money to accessorize and protect our new purchase, as compared to the pop-up where we just didn't seem to give a dang...just happy to be camping!
Newbie here, just learning. Josh's videos have been GREAT info and an 👀 opener for us! We also think his personality is funny and believable. We truly appreciate all the different subjects covered as we navigate our decision process. 🚌
Best way to find out what you need? No matter what you get in advance, do this: Do an initial camping run at the campground nearest your house - whole hog, for a weekend. Show up as early as you can, and keep notes on nice-to-haves, or run into town/store/home for the need-to-haves. Re. taxes/tags: Not all dealers will deal cross-state for you - you may have to do it yourself. I bought my new trailer in Washington but registered it in Oregon. While most border-town dealers will just handle it for you, not all will. In my case, I had to get the pre-title docs from the dealer, and then title/tag/tax it in Oregon myself. Oregon has an initial 0.5% 'luxury' vehicle tax, plus registration fees, which I paid myself to the state. My RV dealer (to their credit) provided all the paperwork (including a guide to registering the trailer in Oregon), and did tell me the costs up-front to do so. I paid the tax online, downloaded and printed/filled out the forms, then went and got the title and tags at the local DMV in one go. It wasn't so much the money (it cost me around $250 or so all said and done?) It was the time. PS: Antifreeze? Why not (gently, at 30-40 psi!) blow out the lines with compressed air and use a low-point drain - I have done that for years on my previous RV (owned years ago), and it has worked perfectly fine for me (I put a small splash of mineral oil in the toilet to keep those seals wet). Minus any compelling reason why, I intend to do it come this autumn (fewer chemicals that way, easier to de-winterize, etc). You do have to have the thing level and be sure the low-point is truly the low-point, but otherwise it's no problem.
I do this for my summer storage. The heat in the Phoenix Metro area , AZ, will pressurize the system, and you get leaks/breaks. So, I just drained the system. Can't leave the valves open as mud wasps love to build the homes as well as other critters. We don't need winterizing as it very rarely gets to 32° and even then only for a couple of hours. Summer temps inside RV hit almost 174° so we had to add a maxair auto fan with auto lid and crack open a bedroom window to keep the interior down to about 10° above ambient.
*LOCAL SHAKE-DOWN TRIP:* I _highly_ recommend doing that and agree completely *ANTIFREEZE:* Having done this for years I see a few campers traded in every season that didn't get blown out completely. I know plenty of people do it successfully every year but the cost of a few gallons of anti-freeze and peace of mind knowing no water can find a way to pool up and freeze/expand/break a fitting outweighs the potential cost of a blown water heater/unknown leak in a pipe somewhere once I start putting water thru it again -- for _me_ anyway
That's a fair call - you do have to be careful to ensure it's done right. To be fair though, the same can be said for running antifreeze through the lines as well - if you miss ensuring even one...
@@tommiller5853 you're not wrong. I feel like antifreeze provides a little more assurance you've done the job But I also see people forget things like outside showers all the time
I am in the process of buying my first RV and have been trying to educate myself as mush as possible before purchase and have really enjoyed your videos, they have been most helpful, I only wish you guys were in Texas. Thank you for all you do!.
I haven’t pulled the trigger on purchasing a travel trailer yet but my City offers RV storage for a whopping $250 per YEAR. You have to get on the waitlist though. They doubled the rent a couple of years ago from $125 per year and at least one person complained about it. First World problems 😂
28:22 Our full hook-up camping site at the Campground is just $560 but it's that's a month (plus the storage shed offered on site) ! The owner has a heart of gold! You only get free basic cable and internet. No pool, but you do have a catch and release pond. There's a creek out back with lots of fish to catch! Really a relaxing atmosphere here! 😊
One of the main reasons we started "RV-ing" is BECAUSE we want to bring our dogs with us. As soon as I retired from the military we got our truck and 5th wheel so we could snowbird. So it's from WI-FL every year since then. Also because I want to sleep in my own bed, cook in my own kitchen, and go to the bathroom in my own bathroom. We do also take our dogs to hotels. And we find good/nice ones, but it's REALLY expensive by the time you pay for the room and the pet fee. We don't really board our dogs any more because our older one has had cancer the last year and she needs special care, diet, and supplements/medications that I can't have done in a kennel setting. We are very happy to keep doing this for as long as we all still can.
Like your vid. When asked, I always advise against rv ownership if they only plan one to two trips a year. With the price comparison you outlined, add maintenance to total cost of ownership including tire replacement. Example, my tires went from $300 per to $600 (2020-22) back down to $400 each (Goodyear G rated). I had to replace suspension in 2019 for $2500. I’m due battery replacement soon. Do I go AGM x 2 for $600 or lithium for waaayyy more: haven’t decided yet. I have screws coming out of the walls, seals showing age, and a water heater on its last legs. Soooo, unless you have the time, energy, and money for repairs… don’t buy. (I do a lot of boon-docking to defray the costs)
Unless I missed it, one thing you didn't mention when comparing the daily costs of an RV trip to a hotel stay, is fuel costs. You did mention it earlier in the video, but not in this context. Consider the difference between a road trip in my wife's Honda Accord ar 36 miles per gallon, including hotel stay, and the same trip pulling our trailer (and it isn't a big trailer) with my Silverado at 11 miles per gallon, and a night at KOA (plus the time setting up the trailer at the campground at night and putting everything away the next morning). That's why we drive the Accord for longer trips with multiple hotel stays at different hotels, and we take the trailer for shorter trips where we stay in one place for a longer period of time.
I agree. We just took our last trip this summer from the Midwest to Washington State. Gas alone was over $1600. Add in the cost of campgrounds (average $45 per night) and we could have stayed in hotels. Most have free breakfast to boot!
I was pleasantly surprised with the cost of storage. It certainly does vary! :) 30ft. Bumper tow camper, easily $125-$140 a month (outdoor) in Northern CA. I wish I could pay $50 a month to store my camper. :)
Invaluable video, thank you, Josh. I'm thinking I should grab the $200 indoor storage a block away. If it weren't for needing to travel with pets and wanting my own bed at night (with a hanging wardrobe for sundresses), I'd not be here. TFS 😻
Cost of the trailer? Financing? Storage, all the add ons(generator/hoses, fire pits, chairs, table, lights, etc) Insurance, cost of towing hitch/sway bars, bigger propane tanks. It goes on and on. We still want to replace our mattress with a higher quality one. Do you need a vehicle to pull your trailer/5th wheel? Lots of money there. Fuel, tires, maintenance, more insurance. We also just bought a yearly subscription to Harvest Hosts! It never ends.
You are right on. We just got rid of our TT. Happiest day in our lives. I looked back over the past 7 years what we spent on all the accessories you mentioned, plus tires, batteries, etc. They are a money pit. From now on, it's hotels, B & B's, VRBO's, etc. Plus the hassle setting up and doing the reverse in the morning.
Plating and taxes in Indiana SUCKS!!! When I was in the military, one of the first things I did was change my state of residency when I got stationed to Florida.
I've talked a few people out of purchasing an RV when they are honest in how often they would use it vs the purchase price and depreciation. Others I've encouraged to rent a RV first, and they knew what they were getting into when they went to purchase.
I'm a HUGE proponent of renting first. In fact... I recommend that right here th-cam.com/video/DO3u1Bk-rbE/w-d-xo.html in a list of tips for 1st time buyers!
You're definitely my favourite RV tips guy. Honest, informative, friendly and easy to understand. Keep it up! I'd buy from you guys if I wasn't in Western Canada.
I think you should mention hitching. That is a not insignificant cost that had to be factored in to towable rvs. Even motorized have hitching to worry about for a dinghy or other trailer. Great videos, been a viewer for a few years now. Keep up the great work.
Love this channel! I was in sales for a Number of years and was never as "successful" as many of my peers. Though to be fair, I rarely had a return after a sale. My goal was to inform the customer and educate them as to available options so they could make the best decision to meet their needs. I think I'd enjoy working at or with Bish's RV.😊 Also as for my personal buying philosophy, I prefer to buy once. Thus I am a big fan of the line "buy your 2nd RV the 1st time!" ❤
Thank you Josh for this information. Though I could have used this 2 and a half years ago. Though I know now a dealership I will never buy from again. Love your videos and thank you for doing them.
I don't know what criteria Roamly was using on their estimates but full collision and comprehensive coverage on our travel trailer was about $30/yr. You don't need liability as that is covered by the tow vehicle (though that might vary by state). For gas pickup trucks based on my experience and conversations with other folks who tow trailers the average seems to be 10 mpg give or take a couple of mpg depending upon conditions. Diesel will usually have better mpg and seem to be 5 mpg or more better than the equivalent gasser. The best I recall getting was 16 mpg coming down out of the Rockies with a tail wind. It was 8 mpg going the opposite way a week earlier. One thing I didn't hear you mention is maintenance costs on a person's tow vehicle. Most manufacturers consider towing a heavy duty use and recommend owners use the heavy duty maintenance schedule. This means you will need more frequent fluid changes and the like. Depending upon how often you take the trailer out this could add up. Towing also tend to put more wear and tear on tires so you have the potential to need to replace them more frequently. You have to figure the cost of the RV into your per night cost comparison as well. The last time I ran those numbers I determined we could stay at nicer hotels for years before we equaled the cost of the RV. It is why I look at our RV use as a private hotel room being different from the reason we own RVs. We buy an RV for camping in state parks and other government campgrounds. Our use for destination travel is because we have already invested in the RV and as you say gives us the privacy of our bed, bathroom, etc. This perspective more or less makes any lodging cost comparisons unimportant. I apologize if anything is less comprehensible than normal. I've been fighting a two virus infection, not COVID thankfully, for a week now with about 10 hrs sleep since Friday.
Tow vehicle costs is a fair factor to mention. Could be argued that falls under the vehicle’s cost of ownership but it’s all the same money at the end of the day
@@JoshtheRVNerd I am talking about additional vehicle cost that towing adds over and above your regular duty maintenance schedule. If you tow you need to use the heavy duty schedule and the extra oil, transmission fluid and coolant changes can add up if you put on a lot of miles. Basically most folks don't consider that with the additional stresses towing puts on a vehicle their annual maintenance costs will go up.
I too appreciate this video! We’ve already decided to face the fact we can’t afford to buy a half ton pick up AND one off the list of awesome campers you’ve shown I.e. Rockwood mini-lite, Imagine, Cougar, freedom express, etc. , those will have to wait. Now I’m in search of a camper compatible with our 3500 towing capacity. And I’ll tell ya when I see one that pops up that’s from a Bish’s that is a BIG PLUS for me! Thanks for all your work making all these videos!
What you see on this channel is truly a reflection of our leadership and the goal of our organization. We are not perfect. But our goal is to provide customers with the best experience possible. We would like to _earn_ your business rather than "get" your business if that makes sense.
Great Video. Here is our data for our 2013 33' Class A gas in Northern California monthly costs (over and above the loan payment): $1,060 - without repairs when things break! Storage - $225, Insurance - $65, Savings for tire replacement - $80, DMV renewal - $70, Maintenance on engine/generator - $30, Fuel (3500 miles/year) - $250, camping/dog shows - $340.
Hey Josh, I appreciate your honesty and truthfulness!!!This should come back to you ten-fold... with that in mind, I will honestly tell you you are the only one I subscribe to. Thank you for your honesty!
Hi Josh, just wanted to share with you. I'm in Indiana and to register my Class C does indeed go down each year. Its started over a thousand dollars in 2019 and is now down to 650. "THANK GOODNESS". Great video as usual. Keep up to good work. Your Faithful Viewer, Ron Indy
Thank y oh so much for this video and the previous video. With everything i learned from your videos i learned the salesperson in camping Workd in NJ was going to take me to the cleaners. I asked him about all the extras and he included about 5000 extra on top of the rv price. I walked out because the only thing he was concerned about was my credit score and if i had enough cash with me. Needless with everything i have learned from you i walked out and i was ready to buy an rv that day. Thank you again. I will be researching other places closer to home i appreciate everything you post. I wish i was closer to Michigan
There was one financing requirement on the 5th wheel I bought, it wasn't an add, or anything like that. It was in order to get the financing, it must be for personal use only, not for business, not for rental. One add I would suggest for anyone, especially when the amount financed is well over the "resale" value will be in a year and that is GAP insurance. Worth every penny when that RV or vehicle goes BOOM.
Great content on important, and often overlooked, topic (once again)!! Now my sales tax is 5% in CO and if I were to buy it at your dealership in MI, where it's 6%, how does MI handle that??? And the facilities/facilities phrase you were looking for was "...based on the amenities available at the park."
You are so right to line out the dollars and cents. Two schools of thought on rolling the registration, taxes, etc. into the purchase. Yes you are financing those one time costs over the life of the loan but I think a lot of people don't realize it's a big number to come up with right after a big purchase with a down payment. If you've planned and budgeted for it, ok. In TX that's 6% of the purchase price when you go to get your tag. 6% of a $50,000 travel trailer is $3000. Got that in your pocket for your sales tax and tag? Just saying....One last thing, there's more to it than dollars and cents. It's the freedom, the experience, the convenience and lots of things that don't have a dollar value.
I get it. I still recommend folks putting down what they can BUT.. I also recognize some folks are ready to have fun NOW. We can assist both points of view
6% doesn't sound too bad. Here in California, I'm figuring it's around 10%. After watching this video, it looks like I'm going to have to wait until retirement (3 or 4 years), and then run the numbers. I'd like to be able to buy one outright (no payments), so then it's just the insurance, maintenance, camping fees, gas, etc.
@@kevinbrown2926 Ouch, 10%. I was really focusing on people (like me) who finance. My experience after two of these is to get as many of the other big ticket items (taxes, registration, truck necessities such as hitch, fifth wheel or anti sway, etc. in the finance package). I know it pushes the equity out but those expenses that someone maybe doesn't see coming can be a lot. It's none of my business but I'd say do it sooner rather than later. One of my regrets (not the right word but you get the idea) was not pulling the trigger earlier. Good luck!
Thanks, I appreciate the advice. Since this will be my first RV purchase, I'm trying to learn as much as I can, and Josh's videos are great. They're very informative, and entertaining! The hell with TH-cam, he should have his own TV show! I'm still working full-time, so if I purchased now it wouldn't get much use. Right now I have a tent that attaches to the back of my Crosstrek, with a Luno mattress inside the hatch. So for long weekend camping it's doable, but I'm looking forward to longer and more comfortable trips when I retire! 😎
Towing an RV with an EV truck will require regenerative braking on the trailers to get better EV mileage. Also active/motive axles and additional EV battery storage on the RV will help to increase the towing distance when the manufacturers finally get together on this.
Towing a trailer behind my Ranger, I go from 22 to around 11 average, and the biggest cause is aerodynamics. A low, flat trailer will cost me fewer MPG than a travel trailer that I rented, and a 3200lb travel trailer will cost me more MPG than 6000lbs in a low flat load.
Fantastic video. We are looking at replacing our camper within the next year and are considering buying out of state. Your videos are so helpful for knowing what the market is doing and things to look out for or consider. The more we watch, the less likely I’d do business with any other business besides bish’s. Appreciate the honesty.
The first thing that popped into my head was people need to find the rating of the plumbing in the RV and get a pressure regulator to keep the pressure from bursting the pipes or fixtures. In Tennessee, we pay the sales tax at the county clerk when we get the plates. After that it's just $29 a year after that. However it can vary between counties. Some counties have a "wheel tax" of at least $50. Luckily, my county doesn't have a wheel tax. I have a 2021 Silverado 1500 and a Forest River 20 foot trailer. Without the trailer, I average 20 mpg. With the trailer, it goes to 9 to 12 mpg, depending on the terrain. I always stay at KOA. I've noticed that the costs go up on weekends and holidays. So plan your trip around those. Are you at the Coldwater MI store? I think my local dealer is kind of high. If you could save me several thousand dollars, we might talk. 😀
Excellent information for anyone thinking of buying an RV. You covered it all. You are IMO an honest and considerate person. Always wanted to do business with dads company now with Bish's. You have the best youtube videos.
TY so much Alan! I'm a product of hard work but also really good leadership. I wouldn't be able to do what I do without the people who trained and continue to coach me
Josh, you are absolutely the best, unequivocally!!! Thank you for this info. I wish I could give multiple Likes on this video, and I hope it drives people to your lot. Honesty is a rare commodity today. Take care, friend, and safe travels!
If I'm financing, I ALWAYS go in preapproved for X. This sets spending limits and maintains the status quo. And oftentimes I may be able to negotiate a better rate.
Thank you Josh you are are very honest. You have convinced me & my wife that rv camping trailers is for the super RICH. IF I had the $ I would definitely buy one from you. THANKS AGAIN
While it's always tough reading a comment like this I feel strongly viewers will have reached the same conclusions on their own & my efforts only serve to clear up otherwise muddy waters for them a little more quickly. Whatever you choose to do I hope you have fun doing it :)
ALWAYS test both heat and air when seeing the rv. Do not ever take their word for it. We learned the hard way when he had the air on and said sure the heat works. Well it got stormy when we took it out the first time and we had no heat. Then had to spend the $300 to get a new thermostat to get it to work! Grrrrr very aggravating.
Josh thanks for a very informative video. I believe you hit all points and cost with this video. I still have things I bought with first RV but you mentioned somethings I didn't think of. Thank you
GREAT VIDEO. So many details folks just don’t know to figure in. I like the “last check in the checkbook” example. Smokes out all the B.S. Great job Josh!
I’ll never buy a Forest River again. From the factory I had brake wiring issues. I drove the trailer off the lot the first day and realized the brakes were not working. I took it back to the dealer 3 times and finally ended up paying mobile techs to do the job right. FR would not stand behind their product
Sorry to hear that John. It is worth mentioning "Forest River" isn't really an inclusive blanket-company. Each brand is basically an independent company that manages their own builds, staff, and even warranty processes internally. But this is also why we carry so many brands - to leave you with plenty of options
Absolutely ❤️ your videos!!! Please continue the good work. I show my hubby all your videos so that he gets what I don't. Hopefully, when we get ready to make to make the plunge, your MI dealership will have Alliance RVs. Of course if you don't doesn't mean that's a deal breaker. Again, thanks for all the knowledge you touch on in your vids!
I bought a 3 year old vcross vibe 6504 in 2016. Only thing it has cost me, is $100 year insurance, added new tires 2 years ago, ac went out. I just use portable ac now. I sealed roof myself for about $60 and 2 hours work, soldered a loose wire on electric jack, replaced a few burned out bulbs and greased bearings. That's about it since 2016. We don't see sub freezing temps much here and my water tank stays empty.
@JoshtheRVNerd portable roll around ac is 15,000 btu, the 13,500 on the roof when working could not keep up. We go camping in 110-125 degree temps in desert. The portable ac works better, I just take plywood cut to fit in a window, then slide the window until flush, then add that sticky reusable thick tape stuff to stop air, cut hole and add a dryer vent on outside, dryer connector on inside, then just connect hose. Being it is so hot where we go, I cover the ac hose with the insulated foil type dryer vent hose just bigger. Keeps heat out that way. Never a issue. I love buying vehicle or RV from non pushy dealers, always go back when you find a good one.
Josh just want to say THANK YOU for helping us my wife and i we are now as of today the happy owners of a 2022 east to west AHARA 325 from the ludinton bishs store I have been watching rv prices and we came across the video you did on the AHARA 325 and 365 and we both loved the layout and it was on sale for $47000 end of the year and we bought it so thank you for what YOU do thanks Ric Smith p.s. i will need to put the bishs bag you autographed for me in our new rig
Wow CONGRATS!! And thank you for picking our door step! Mind dropping the team a quick review at g.page/r/CWS6rEWlP16lEAg/review in return for their great work?
Campground prices vary wildly! Here in NY, state parks are $27/night with electricity. Water and sewer not per site but available. Full hook-up private campgrounds, $50-$160+ depending on where you go and what they offer. Great content!
*🤦🏻♂️Just realized I included "Fuel" Twice on the thumbnail 😆*
There are two types of fuel, gas & diesel.
I just figured because it was such a necessary and COSTLY expense... u were putting a little more emphasis on it. Just go with that...u didn't screw up!
@@oldengineer1519 and propane! :)
@@marcusbuckslayer3280 what's interesting to me is how the comments regarding listing fuel twice has been almost universally echoing your own here..
FOOD costs! You included hotel, BnB, and rentals, but you didn't include stopping to eat at diners and restaurants. That adds up quickly as well. BTW, what the heck fancy pants RV parks are you going to that charge $200 a night? Most I have spent was $60! In fact I have a week long stay in Texas planned, $250 for the entire 7 days. Some thing else to consider, when camping, check to see if there are weekly discount rates, saved us hundreds over the years by doing this. They are nice parks too, not run down poop holes with busted pedestals and rolling brownouts, or trains rolling through every hour, with horns blaring. Did I mention Every HOUR!
These are the kinds of videos that are needed to truly advise people the “cost” associated with the fun.
Ty Marcus. I try!
I bought a used motorhome from Bish's last November. Everything was up front and honest. Staff was great to work with and more importantly I'd buy from them again. Keep in mind I flew in from NH and drove the rig home. Everything was ready and as Josh was talking about the rig was winterized before I got there. No BS, just an honest sale with honest sales people.
Man THANK YOU so much for sharing this!! May I ask which store you worked with and if you'd mind leaving them a review at www.bishs.com/review-us-manually for their good work?
Ooh, fun idea. Fly there drive rig home to California.🤔🤔🤔🤔
I love seeing someone so honest in these videos. We’ve gone to several different RV dealers lately, and you can tell right away which ones are trying to hard sell you from the start and which ones seem to be honest and up front with you. We avoid the “used car salesmen” like the plague.
Just thinking I would like to travel from Ohio to buy from this guy. Looking at the website there are campers for sale in a few different states though
Just seeing this, sorry. It's the store 1.5 hours north of Gramd Rapids.@@JoshtheRVNerd
Big thing missed is travelling with pets or have to kennel them.. I did a calculation in 2021 we spent over 12K between hotels and kennel fees in 8 months. The kennel fees were actually more than the motel/hotel fees. Plus we miss our puppies. With an RV you can bring them with you.
Yes! This is one of the main reasons I'm going mobile. Cost, but more than that, needing to be with them. And.... So much better to be in my own bed.
I would definitely take my 3 small dogs along when RVing! They are so much a part of my life I cannot imagine leaving them behind, particularly given that they are all seniors, two of which are in their teens.
🙌🏻
Josh I would love a video on pet safety for RVing. We mostly take our trailer to dog shows, which was why we got it so we can stay at shows. Things like xpens to contain your dogs at campsites vs tie outs, and different ways of keeping your pet safe while you travel down the road. My two dogs travel in Ruffland crates that are strapped down in our backseat and the bird travels in his travel cage which is also strapped down in the backseat. When we are gone from the trailer and leave the dogs behind we have a waggle to monitor the temps inside to make sure they are safe. We also have folding crates so we don't have to take the crates out of the back of the truck for them. Plus poop bags, leashes, water bowls...this list goes on and on.
@@kathleenjettlund7617 Great idea for a video! (I know a lot of people don't crate their pets during travel which isn't a great move.)
We own a 5th wheel and found out early on, that although your trailer is covered while hooked onto your vehicle, as soon as you unhook it, your trailer is not covered for damages while parked. So, if it catches fire, tree limb falling, storm damage, whatever happens after it's unhooked, it will not be covered. So, we have always gotten the extra insurance on ours. Check with your insurance company to find out if your trailer is covered once it's unhooked.
Yeah it’s goofy like that
Interesting 😮
Nice to see a dealer actually being up front instead of taking advantage of people.
BTW: The nice thing about what he is doing is educating the customer who may be new to RV ownership. If you are honest with them up front, it is less likely that the customer will be mad AFTER the purchase. On the plus side, it makes it more likely that they will be using your dealership for repairs and maintenance! Far too many new people (I was one) get into this and although we did our research on the price, the TRUE COST of owning an RV is NOT apparent unless they do what Josh is saying. Also note, I am in FL and do not have any connections to Josh or Bish, I am just giving my opinion as someone who went through this in FL 10 years ago.
Bish’s is absolutely blessed to have you on their team. I hope they realize that. Thanks as always for the info!
We're happy to have one another both I think!
Wish something like this was published back in 2016 when we purchased our first travel trailer. The "kit" the RV dealership included two lp bottles filled, a 85ah battery and a box containing a 10ft stinky hose 5ft water hose, and pressure regulator. Our first weekend was "fun" we were lucky that the RV park neighbors took pity on us and let us use a pair of chalks. They also let us know about the wealth of knowledge available on U Tube to keep safe and the essential items needed. $2k later, we started enjoying our RV.
Looking back thru my career over the years... we had a similar crappy starter kit like that and I didn't know enough to properly prepare clients
I love how Bish's really encourages me to get this info out. Our challenge now is finding effective ways to share this knowledge across all of our teams at our stores to provide the best experience for our clients everywhere
Thank you for your honesty. We just sold our TT after 7 years. I have to say it was a happy day getting rid of it. I can see owning one to live in full time, but to use for recreational use, forget it. They aren't worth it. We took our last trip this summer from the Midwest to Washington State and back. Gas alone was over $1600. Campgrounds weren't cheap, either. Yes, some were only $10 per night, others as high as $70 per night. I had to put new tires and batteries on our TT to get it ready for the trip. Another $1000. Add in the hassle of backing in your spot, hooking up electric, water, leveling, putting down stabilizers, dumping tanks, etc. To me, it was all work. Plus as most RVers know, pulling one of these 250 miles a day is rough. You can't make good time versus driving a car. Finding a gas station you can navigate in and out of was another hassle. I'm not saying we never had fun in ours. But looking back, there were only a couple of places where our TT came in handy. Otherwise we could have stayed in a hotel along the way. From now on, it's hotels, B & B's, VRBO's, etc. for us.
Hi Josh, This is the best Cost of Owning an RV video I've ever seen. Thank you so much.
The sad part is it definitely let me know that I cannot afford to buy an RV. It'll always just be a dream.
I truly appreciate you and Bish's honesty about it.
Thanks Nerd! You're awesome.
Wow.. TY Joe! I try buddy. I hope this helps people establish REAL expectations
@@JoshtheRVNerd Wow, don't give up your dream...you never know.
Start small and do repairs yourself. Used equipment is usually much lower cost.
I started with a van and tent, went to the smallest pop up tent trailer, traded for a 29' Mallard, traded (and used some insurance money I wasn't expecting to go a little bigger than planned) for a 5th wheel (hubby is 6'7"!), he can stand up and take a shower!
We just sold our TT. Believe me brother, they are a money pit.
I just LOVE watching your "educational" videos Josh! So helpful to help understand "big picture", real world knowledge, about the industry and associated costs to owning and using an RV that just don't show up in the brochures. This one as especially helpful and makes me want to drive to Bish's from California for my next RV purchase coming up soon. Thanks!
Happy to help!
I am grateful for your videos Josh! Your honesty is refreshing. I am 72 years old and planning to purchase our first travel trailer when my wife retires in a couple of years. Clearly we’re looking at rv camping in our home state of Indiana and our favorite state Michigan. I want to find someone like you that will not only help us find the right travel trailer for us but also what we need to camp for several years.
My home store is just inside Michigan from Indiana. Our team would be happy to meet and assist you
@@JoshtheRVNerd I have every intention of reaching out to you when we’re ready. There is a Bish RV in Anderson which is closer to us but to be honest I feel more comfortable heading to your location in Michigan. We’ve been watching your videos on various travel trailers for a few years now and feel we can trust you and/or your team to help direct us to what’s right for us. Thanks again Josh!
Thanks for the reality check on campers…… the romance of just back in, hook up and enjoy just lives in the mind 😂
It’s fun
But it requires effort
@@JoshtheRVNerd eh, it requires some extra money first
Josh, you should add a link to your “ How much can you tow“ video. It’s a good one for new RVers to know too. Keep up the good work!
I love this video! I’m working on being a first time rv buyer, but I’ve been a lender for years and mannnnn have I been shocked at the stories I’ve heard over the years!
Ask plenty of questions. Happy to assist!
Great to see a company that understands the value of doing good, honest business. Too many companies are focused on the single sale and not the repeat business and strong word of mouth that comes from operating that way. Especially in today's world of online reviews, so many people post up the negative when things go wrong, and not nearly as many report on the positive, so if you put that bad business karma out there, they are just exponentially going to get bad reviews.
Ty!!
Just the other night out of curiosity, I added up all the accessories that we bought for our camper from WDH to hoses to surge protector and everything else we use consistently on trips and those "just incase" items that stay in/ with the camper...the total was nearly $3000! 😮
Of course, these are one time purchases over 2 seasons and some items are "luxury" that make camping experience easier, safer and more enjoyable.
Yeah it adds up quickly
😅😅
Man I wish I had Josh and/or Bish’s here in California!
Okay Josh, it is your fault. Today we just traded in our 2021 Fleetwood Bounder 33C and purchased a NEW 2022 Newmar Ventana 3407 that is loaded from your Meridian Idaho location. This is a really nice coach and reps gave us a great deal. Really looking forward to picking it up since in 2 weeks we have a trip planned to the Oregon coast. I blame you, LOL. And everything you said in this video is absolutely true. We are now a member of the Bish's family.
Congratulations and THANK YOU for choosing our place to bring your business! If you haven't done so, then please consider dropping the team a quick review at g.page/r/CXotzLZ8ZoVAEAg/review in return for their work!
Josh, I hear you buddy! We also need to consider how much it is going to cost to ADD the missing TV, an oven, an upgrade for the pedestal dinette, a porcelain toilet, a replacement to the Dollar Store 4” fart fan, a surround shower panel, an attached ladder, some solar to run that 12V fridge etc😂😂😂
I’m a first time new buyer.
Some tips here for new buyers m.th-cam.com/video/DO3u1Bk-rbE/w-d-xo.html
I live in Montana. For towable rv’s get permanent license plates automatically doesn’t matter what type of trailer it is. Even flat bed car trailers and goosenecks. Where with motor homes you have to pay for the registration annually until the motor home is 11 years old. Montana does the same thing with cars and trucks 11 years or older permanent registration
Michigan is the same with permanent plates
Going from a pop-up where everything was simple (except for setup) to our 1st hardside... we were the whole hog type! I found that we invested a lot more money to accessorize and protect our new purchase, as compared to the pop-up where we just didn't seem to give a dang...just happy to be camping!
Did you have that stack of Amazon boxes on your door step for a while? :)
@@JoshtheRVNerd that's so funny...because it's true! Then I couldn't get rid of them, because the kiddo wasn't done playing with them yet.
Newbie here, just learning. Josh's videos have been GREAT info and an 👀 opener for us! We also think his personality is funny and believable. We truly appreciate all the different subjects covered as we navigate our decision process. 🚌
Welcome aboard!
Best way to find out what you need? No matter what you get in advance, do this: Do an initial camping run at the campground nearest your house - whole hog, for a weekend. Show up as early as you can, and keep notes on nice-to-haves, or run into town/store/home for the need-to-haves.
Re. taxes/tags: Not all dealers will deal cross-state for you - you may have to do it yourself. I bought my new trailer in Washington but registered it in Oregon. While most border-town dealers will just handle it for you, not all will. In my case, I had to get the pre-title docs from the dealer, and then title/tag/tax it in Oregon myself. Oregon has an initial 0.5% 'luxury' vehicle tax, plus registration fees, which I paid myself to the state. My RV dealer (to their credit) provided all the paperwork (including a guide to registering the trailer in Oregon), and did tell me the costs up-front to do so. I paid the tax online, downloaded and printed/filled out the forms, then went and got the title and tags at the local DMV in one go. It wasn't so much the money (it cost me around $250 or so all said and done?) It was the time.
PS: Antifreeze? Why not (gently, at 30-40 psi!) blow out the lines with compressed air and use a low-point drain - I have done that for years on my previous RV (owned years ago), and it has worked perfectly fine for me (I put a small splash of mineral oil in the toilet to keep those seals wet). Minus any compelling reason why, I intend to do it come this autumn (fewer chemicals that way, easier to de-winterize, etc). You do have to have the thing level and be sure the low-point is truly the low-point, but otherwise it's no problem.
I do this for my summer storage. The heat in the Phoenix Metro area , AZ, will pressurize the system, and you get leaks/breaks. So, I just drained the system. Can't leave the valves open as mud wasps love to build the homes as well as other critters. We don't need winterizing as it very rarely gets to 32° and even then only for a couple of hours. Summer temps inside RV hit almost 174° so we had to add a maxair auto fan with auto lid and crack open a bedroom window to keep the interior down to about 10° above ambient.
*LOCAL SHAKE-DOWN TRIP:* I _highly_ recommend doing that and agree completely
*ANTIFREEZE:* Having done this for years I see a few campers traded in every season that didn't get blown out completely. I know plenty of people do it successfully every year but the cost of a few gallons of anti-freeze and peace of mind knowing no water can find a way to pool up and freeze/expand/break a fitting outweighs the potential cost of a blown water heater/unknown leak in a pipe somewhere once I start putting water thru it again -- for _me_ anyway
That's a fair call - you do have to be careful to ensure it's done right. To be fair though, the same can be said for running antifreeze through the lines as well - if you miss ensuring even one...
@@tommiller5853 you're not wrong. I feel like antifreeze provides a little more assurance you've done the job
But I also see people forget things like outside showers all the time
I am in the process of buying my first RV and have been trying to educate myself as mush as possible before purchase and have really enjoyed your videos, they have been most helpful, I only wish you guys were in Texas.
Thank you for all you do!.
Awesome! Glad to be of service!
I haven’t pulled the trigger on purchasing a travel trailer yet but my City offers RV storage for a whopping $250 per YEAR. You have to get on the waitlist though. They doubled the rent a couple of years ago from $125 per year and at least one person complained about it. First World problems 😂
Wow
what city/state is that ???
@@EngineerDJ_JuliusMadison Heights, MI
Thank you for your insight. I don't own one and have been researching them A LOT lately. You're top notch. Thank you!
My pleasure! Very kind of you!
28:22
Our full hook-up camping site at the Campground is just $560 but it's that's a month (plus the storage shed offered on site) !
The owner has a heart of gold! You only get free basic cable and internet. No pool, but you do have a catch and release pond. There's a creek out back with lots of fish to catch! Really a relaxing atmosphere here! 😊
That sounds... pretty awesome actually
One of the main reasons we started "RV-ing" is BECAUSE we want to bring our dogs with us. As soon as I retired from the military we got our truck and 5th wheel so we could snowbird. So it's from WI-FL every year since then. Also because I want to sleep in my own bed, cook in my own kitchen, and go to the bathroom in my own bathroom. We do also take our dogs to hotels. And we find good/nice ones, but it's REALLY expensive by the time you pay for the room and the pet fee. We don't really board our dogs any more because our older one has had cancer the last year and she needs special care, diet, and supplements/medications that I can't have done in a kennel setting. We are very happy to keep doing this for as long as we all still can.
Ty for sharing this! I’ll take all the insight I can get
Research the service center for the dealership you purchased from. Often overlooked and hugely important.
Preach!
Like your vid. When asked, I always advise against rv ownership if they only plan one to two trips a year. With the price comparison you outlined, add maintenance to total cost of ownership including tire replacement. Example, my tires went from $300 per to $600 (2020-22) back down to $400 each (Goodyear G rated). I had to replace suspension in 2019 for $2500. I’m due battery replacement soon. Do I go AGM x 2 for $600 or lithium for waaayyy more: haven’t decided yet. I have screws coming out of the walls, seals showing age, and a water heater on its last legs. Soooo, unless you have the time, energy, and money for repairs… don’t buy. (I do a lot of boon-docking to defray the costs)
Unless I missed it, one thing you didn't mention when comparing the daily costs of an RV trip to a hotel stay, is fuel costs. You did mention it earlier in the video, but not in this context. Consider the difference between a road trip in my wife's Honda Accord ar 36 miles per gallon, including hotel stay, and the same trip pulling our trailer (and it isn't a big trailer) with my Silverado at 11 miles per gallon, and a night at KOA (plus the time setting up the trailer at the campground at night and putting everything away the next morning). That's why we drive the Accord for longer trips with multiple hotel stays at different hotels, and we take the trailer for shorter trips where we stay in one place for a longer period of time.
Fair point I think. TY
I agree. We just took our last trip this summer from the Midwest to Washington State. Gas alone was over $1600. Add in the cost of campgrounds (average $45 per night) and we could have stayed in hotels. Most have free breakfast to boot!
I was pleasantly surprised with the cost of storage. It certainly does vary! :) 30ft. Bumper tow camper, easily $125-$140 a month (outdoor) in Northern CA. I wish I could pay $50 a month to store my camper. :)
I would imagine the cost of living is much higher there
Thank you for all of the information that you put out on these videos. You don’t know how helpful it is.
You are so welcome!
Invaluable video, thank you, Josh. I'm thinking I should grab the $200 indoor storage a block away. If it weren't for needing to travel with pets and wanting my own bed at night (with a hanging wardrobe for sundresses), I'd not be here. TFS 😻
Man indoor storage will keep your rv so much healthier
Haha! My sundress collection is also my hanging storage consideration. It does matter😃.
Thanks for the great information as usual, Josh. You actually answered several of my questions in this one video.
Glad to hear it!
Cost of the trailer? Financing? Storage, all the add ons(generator/hoses, fire pits, chairs, table, lights, etc) Insurance, cost of towing hitch/sway bars, bigger propane tanks. It goes on and on. We still want to replace our mattress with a higher quality one. Do you need a vehicle to pull your trailer/5th wheel? Lots of money there. Fuel, tires, maintenance, more insurance. We also just bought a yearly subscription to Harvest Hosts! It never ends.
Oooh! Harvest Hosts are nice places!
You are right on. We just got rid of our TT. Happiest day in our lives. I looked back over the past 7 years what we spent on all the accessories you mentioned, plus tires, batteries, etc. They are a money pit. From now on, it's hotels, B & B's, VRBO's, etc. Plus the hassle setting up and doing the reverse in the morning.
I will be saving this video to my TH-cam "RV Info" Thank you very, VERY much Josh.
Glad it was helpful!
Excellent video and transparency (as always)!
I appreciate that!
Plating and taxes in Indiana SUCKS!!! When I was in the military, one of the first things I did was change my state of residency when I got stationed to Florida.
Yeah we bring in a ton of customers from Indiana to Michigan and save them a load off taxes and plates
Josh,. Thanks for letting folks know about some of the dishonest tactics used by some dealerships.
👍🏻
I've talked a few people out of purchasing an RV when they are honest in how often they would use it vs the purchase price and depreciation. Others I've encouraged to rent a RV first, and they knew what they were getting into when they went to purchase.
I'm a HUGE proponent of renting first. In fact... I recommend that right here th-cam.com/video/DO3u1Bk-rbE/w-d-xo.html in a list of tips for 1st time buyers!
You're definitely my favourite RV tips guy. Honest, informative, friendly and easy to understand. Keep it up! I'd buy from you guys if I wasn't in Western Canada.
TY matt! Would it be out of the question to ask you to drop me a quick review at g.page/r/CdPcitNVx2nDEAg/review by chance?
I think you should mention hitching. That is a not insignificant cost that had to be factored in to towable rvs. Even motorized have hitching to worry about for a dinghy or other trailer. Great videos, been a viewer for a few years now. Keep up the great work.
Fair point. TY
Love this channel! I was in sales for a Number of years and was never as "successful" as many of my peers. Though to be fair, I rarely had a return after a sale. My goal was to inform the customer and educate them as to available options so they could make the best decision to meet their needs. I think I'd enjoy working at or with Bish's RV.😊
Also as for my personal buying philosophy, I prefer to buy once. Thus I am a big fan of the line "buy your 2nd RV the 1st time!" ❤
I was similar the little while I sold myself
Thank you Josh for this information. Though I could have used this 2 and a half years ago. Though I know now a dealership I will never buy from again.
Love your videos and thank you for doing them.
Glad it was helpful!
I've been surfing Utube, and you're the best for info. 😊
Wow.. thank you!
@Josh the RV Nerd at Bish's RV It's true, you also give links to people that can research and buy these RV's.
I don't know what criteria Roamly was using on their estimates but full collision and comprehensive coverage on our travel trailer was about $30/yr. You don't need liability as that is covered by the tow vehicle (though that might vary by state).
For gas pickup trucks based on my experience and conversations with other folks who tow trailers the average seems to be 10 mpg give or take a couple of mpg depending upon conditions. Diesel will usually have better mpg and seem to be 5 mpg or more better than the equivalent gasser. The best I recall getting was 16 mpg coming down out of the Rockies with a tail wind. It was 8 mpg going the opposite way a week earlier.
One thing I didn't hear you mention is maintenance costs on a person's tow vehicle. Most manufacturers consider towing a heavy duty use and recommend owners use the heavy duty maintenance schedule. This means you will need more frequent fluid changes and the like. Depending upon how often you take the trailer out this could add up. Towing also tend to put more wear and tear on tires so you have the potential to need to replace them more frequently.
You have to figure the cost of the RV into your per night cost comparison as well. The last time I ran those numbers I determined we could stay at nicer hotels for years before we equaled the cost of the RV. It is why I look at our RV use as a private hotel room being different from the reason we own RVs. We buy an RV for camping in state parks and other government campgrounds. Our use for destination travel is because we have already invested in the RV and as you say gives us the privacy of our bed, bathroom, etc. This perspective more or less makes any lodging cost comparisons unimportant.
I apologize if anything is less comprehensible than normal. I've been fighting a two virus infection, not COVID thankfully, for a week now with about 10 hrs sleep since Friday.
Tow vehicle costs is a fair factor to mention. Could be argued that falls under the vehicle’s cost of ownership but it’s all the same money at the end of the day
@@JoshtheRVNerd I am talking about additional vehicle cost that towing adds over and above your regular duty maintenance schedule. If you tow you need to use the heavy duty schedule and the extra oil, transmission fluid and coolant changes can add up if you put on a lot of miles. Basically most folks don't consider that with the additional stresses towing puts on a vehicle their annual maintenance costs will go up.
I too appreciate this video! We’ve already decided to face the fact we can’t afford to buy a half ton pick up AND one off the list of awesome campers you’ve shown I.e. Rockwood mini-lite, Imagine, Cougar, freedom express, etc. , those will have to wait. Now I’m in search of a camper compatible with our 3500 towing capacity. And I’ll tell ya when I see one that pops up that’s from a Bish’s that is a BIG PLUS for me! Thanks for all your work making all these videos!
My pleasure!
Thank you Josh. My goodness you provide free information that I would be willing to pay for.
What you see on this channel is truly a reflection of our leadership and the goal of our organization. We are not perfect. But our goal is to provide customers with the best experience possible. We would like to _earn_ your business rather than "get" your business if that makes sense.
Great Video. Here is our data for our 2013 33' Class A gas in Northern California monthly costs (over and above the loan payment): $1,060 - without repairs when things break!
Storage - $225, Insurance - $65, Savings for tire replacement - $80, DMV renewal - $70, Maintenance on engine/generator - $30, Fuel (3500 miles/year) - $250, camping/dog shows - $340.
THANK YOU
I love the passion for doing what’s right! As a ex car salesman this stuff applies to cars too
Cars, Campers, Boats... any sales field really
I think getting this type of information is important and saves a lot of stress for everyone concerned. Thank you.
Hope it helps some folks! :)
Due to your videos, if we ever decide on purchasing a trailer, it will be from your lot. You are a great trusted source of information and guidance!
I appreciate that!
Hey Josh, I appreciate your honesty and truthfulness!!!This should come back to you ten-fold... with that in mind, I will honestly tell you you are the only one I subscribe to. Thank you for your honesty!
Wow ty so much 🙏🏻
Buying a Jayco Eagle HT 5th wheel from Bish’s this weekend. Insurance is about $90, storage is $110 per month :)
TY for choosing our door step! :)
Hi Josh, just wanted to share with you. I'm in Indiana and to register my Class C does indeed go down each year. Its started over a thousand dollars in 2019 and is now down to 650. "THANK GOODNESS". Great video as usual. Keep up to good work.
Your Faithful Viewer,
Ron Indy
Thx for the info, Ron!
Thank y oh so much for this video and the previous video. With everything i learned from your videos i learned the salesperson in camping Workd in NJ was going to take me to the cleaners. I asked him about all the extras and he included about 5000 extra on top of the rv price. I walked out because the only thing he was concerned about was my credit score and if i had enough cash with me. Needless with everything i have learned from you i walked out and i was ready to buy an rv that day. Thank you again. I will be researching other places closer to home i appreciate everything you post. I wish i was closer to Michigan
Sorry to hear you had that kind of experience Susan. Maybe our folks could set up rv delivery for you?
There was one financing requirement on the 5th wheel I bought, it wasn't an add, or anything like that. It was in order to get the financing, it must be for personal use only, not for business, not for rental. One add I would suggest for anyone, especially when the amount financed is well over the "resale" value will be in a year and that is GAP insurance. Worth every penny when that RV or vehicle goes BOOM.
Such a helpful, educational video. I am so appreciative of this information. Learning a ton!
Glad it was helpful!
Thanks Josh I'm wanta be to join the nerd club keep up the nice job I'll continue to follow u
You’re in!
Great content on important, and often overlooked, topic (once again)!! Now my sales tax is 5% in CO and if I were to buy it at your dealership in MI, where it's 6%, how does MI handle that???
And the facilities/facilities phrase you were looking for was "...based on the amenities available at the park."
It actually depends on the method of payment interestingly
Cash vs finance
This video gave me the most honest information that I have ever gotten from anybody!!!! Thank You so much Professor Bish
Lol my pleasure
Just really excellent advice for the new first timers Josh. Another tip of the hat to you for being a stand up guy.
It's really a reflection of our leadership. I wouldn't be able to do what I do if they didn't allow and encourage it! :)
This is probably my favorite video you've done. ❤
wow.. thanks Laura! And you've watched a LOT of them!
You are so right to line out the dollars and cents. Two schools of thought on rolling the registration, taxes, etc. into the purchase. Yes you are financing those one time costs over the life of the loan but I think a lot of people don't realize it's a big number to come up with right after a big purchase with a down payment. If you've planned and budgeted for it, ok. In TX that's 6% of the purchase price when you go to get your tag. 6% of a $50,000 travel trailer is $3000. Got that in your pocket for your sales tax and tag? Just saying....One last thing, there's more to it than dollars and cents. It's the freedom, the experience, the convenience and lots of things that don't have a dollar value.
I get it. I still recommend folks putting down what they can BUT.. I also recognize some folks are ready to have fun NOW. We can assist both points of view
6% doesn't sound too bad. Here in California, I'm figuring it's around 10%.
After watching this video, it looks like I'm going to have to wait until retirement (3 or 4 years), and then run the numbers. I'd like to be able to buy one outright (no payments), so then it's just the insurance, maintenance, camping fees, gas, etc.
@@kevinbrown2926 Ouch, 10%. I was really focusing on people (like me) who finance. My experience after two of these is to get as many of the other big ticket items (taxes, registration, truck necessities such as hitch, fifth wheel or anti sway, etc. in the finance package). I know it pushes the equity out but those expenses that someone maybe doesn't see coming can be a lot. It's none of my business but I'd say do it sooner rather than later. One of my regrets (not the right word but you get the idea) was not pulling the trigger earlier. Good luck!
Thanks, I appreciate the advice. Since this will be my first RV purchase, I'm trying to learn as much as I can, and Josh's videos are great. They're very informative, and entertaining! The hell with TH-cam, he should have his own TV show!
I'm still working full-time, so if I purchased now it wouldn't get much use. Right now I have a tent that attaches to the back of my Crosstrek, with a Luno mattress inside the hatch. So for long weekend camping it's doable, but I'm looking forward to longer and more comfortable trips when I retire! 😎
@@kevinbrown2926 wow.. ty for the kind words :)
You do a really great job in these info videos of explaining all things RV.
I appreciate that!
Glad you’re real with this. There’s a lot more involved than just the initial purchase. A Whole lot more.
We try to be real about stuff!
Thank you
We purchased our trailer in Vermont and registered it in New York and it was a few thousands in $$$ taxes
It's nice when you find those opportunities
I've longed to get an RV. Its on my list of things to get if I ever win the lotto. But I really need more info about it before getting one.
Towing an RV with an EV truck will require regenerative braking on the trailers to get better EV mileage. Also active/motive axles and additional EV battery storage on the RV will help to increase the towing distance when the manufacturers finally get together on this.
Towing a trailer behind my Ranger, I go from 22 to around 11 average, and the biggest cause is aerodynamics. A low, flat trailer will cost me fewer MPG than a travel trailer that I rented, and a 3200lb travel trailer will cost me more MPG than 6000lbs in a low flat load.
Fantastic video. We are looking at replacing our camper within the next year and are considering buying out of state. Your videos are so helpful for knowing what the market is doing and things to look out for or consider. The more we watch, the less likely I’d do business with any other business besides bish’s. Appreciate the honesty.
Glad it was helpful!
Good information to know. This information will help me set up my budget before purchasing a trailer. Good presentation.
Glad it was helpful!
My wife and I are about to buy our first travel trailer to live in to save money for a house . Thank you for this advice
my pleasure! hope this has helped
This was really informative and helpful. Thank you!
Glad it was helpful!
I love your videos, thanks for sharing all this info, its very helpful!!
You are so welcome!
Great video!! Thank you for covering all these extra expenses!!
Glad it was helpful!
The first thing that popped into my head was people need to find the rating of the plumbing in the RV and get a pressure regulator to keep the pressure from bursting the pipes or fixtures.
In Tennessee, we pay the sales tax at the county clerk when we get the plates. After that it's just $29 a year after that. However it can vary between counties. Some counties have a "wheel tax" of at least $50. Luckily, my county doesn't have a wheel tax.
I have a 2021 Silverado 1500 and a Forest River 20 foot trailer. Without the trailer, I average 20 mpg. With the trailer, it goes to 9 to 12 mpg, depending on the terrain.
I always stay at KOA. I've noticed that the costs go up on weekends and holidays. So plan your trip around those.
Are you at the Coldwater MI store? I think my local dealer is kind of high. If you could save me several thousand dollars, we might talk. 😀
RV plumbing is typically 40-45psi for anyone curious
Lots of good advice
We are getting back into the Rv lifestyle after being away for a few years. Somethings we just plain forgot about.
thanks
Yeah that happens quickly
Josh , These are great ideas and very helpful .Thank you for putting the customer first.Most people don't think about winterizing the appliances. 😊😊😊
Glad to help!
One of the many perks of owning an RV in FL
We love your videos and wish you were closer to the Maryland area. Got a twin brother here in out area in the business perhaps?
We do not but we can ship rvs about anywhere and now have a nearly nationwide system of mobile techs available thru our BishFIX system to assist you
Excellent information for anyone thinking of buying an RV. You covered it all. You are IMO an honest and considerate person. Always wanted to do business with dads company now with Bish's. You have the best youtube videos.
TY so much Alan! I'm a product of hard work but also really good leadership. I wouldn't be able to do what I do without the people who trained and continue to coach me
Josh, you are absolutely the best, unequivocally!!! Thank you for this info. I wish I could give multiple Likes on this video, and I hope it drives people to your lot. Honesty is a rare commodity today. Take care, friend, and safe travels!
TY So much, Mary! :)
If I'm financing, I ALWAYS go in preapproved for X. This sets spending limits and maintains the status quo. And oftentimes I may be able to negotiate a better rate.
This is solid methodology
Thank you Josh you are are very honest. You have convinced me & my wife that rv camping trailers is for the super RICH. IF I had the $ I would definitely buy one from you. THANKS AGAIN
While it's always tough reading a comment like this I feel strongly viewers will have reached the same conclusions on their own & my efforts only serve to clear up otherwise muddy waters for them a little more quickly. Whatever you choose to do I hope you have fun doing it :)
ALWAYS test both heat and air when seeing the rv. Do not ever take their word for it. We learned the hard way when he had the air on and said sure the heat works. Well it got stormy when we took it out the first time and we had no heat. Then had to spend the $300 to get a new thermostat to get it to work! Grrrrr very aggravating.
Absolutely great advice
I am thinking about a rv and really enjoyed your honesty about the true cost of ownership .Sure has given me somethings to think about.Thanks.
Glad it was helpful!
@@JoshtheRVNerd Would you even consider a used rv that is in a season camp ground?The rv is 5 years old.Thanks.
@@lloydatkins9698 Sorry -- would I consider it for??
Are you asking if we'd take it on trade? If so, then heck yes
Josh, You did a very thorough and entertaining presentation. Keep up the good work.
Thanks, will do!
Josh thanks for a very informative video. I believe you hit all points and cost with this video. I still have things I bought with first RV but you mentioned somethings I didn't think of. Thank you
Glad it was helpful!
GREAT VIDEO. So many details folks just don’t know to figure in. I like the “last check in the checkbook” example. Smokes out all the B.S. Great job Josh!
Hope it helps!
I’ll never buy a Forest River again. From the factory I had brake wiring issues. I drove the trailer off the lot the first day and realized the brakes were not working.
I took it back to the dealer 3 times and finally ended up paying mobile techs to do the job right.
FR would not stand behind their product
Sorry to hear that John. It is worth mentioning "Forest River" isn't really an inclusive blanket-company. Each brand is basically an independent company that manages their own builds, staff, and even warranty processes internally.
But this is also why we carry so many brands - to leave you with plenty of options
Absolutely ❤️ your videos!!! Please continue the good work. I show my hubby all your videos so that he gets what I don't. Hopefully, when we get ready to make to make the plunge, your MI dealership will have Alliance RVs. Of course if you don't doesn't mean that's a deal breaker. Again, thanks for all the knowledge you touch on in your vids!
I think our new traverse city location will have them
I bought a 3 year old vcross vibe 6504 in 2016. Only thing it has cost me, is $100 year insurance, added new tires 2 years ago, ac went out. I just use portable ac now. I sealed roof myself for about $60 and 2 hours work, soldered a loose wire on electric jack, replaced a few burned out bulbs and greased bearings. That's about it since 2016. We don't see sub freezing temps much here and my water tank stays empty.
Interesting solution on the A/C. TY
@JoshtheRVNerd portable roll around ac is 15,000 btu, the 13,500 on the roof when working could not keep up. We go camping in 110-125 degree temps in desert. The portable ac works better, I just take plywood cut to fit in a window, then slide the window until flush, then add that sticky reusable thick tape stuff to stop air, cut hole and add a dryer vent on outside, dryer connector on inside, then just connect hose. Being it is so hot where we go, I cover the ac hose with the insulated foil type dryer vent hose just bigger. Keeps heat out that way. Never a issue. I love buying vehicle or RV from non pushy dealers, always go back when you find a good one.
Excellent topic and source of information!!! Thank you Josh!
My pleasure!
Josh just want to say THANK YOU for helping us my wife and i we are now as of today the happy owners of a 2022 east to west AHARA 325 from the ludinton bishs store I have been watching rv prices and we came across the video you did on the AHARA 325 and 365 and we both loved the layout and it was on sale for $47000 end of the year and we bought it so thank you for what YOU do thanks Ric Smith p.s. i will need to put the bishs bag you autographed for me in our new rig
Wow CONGRATS!! And thank you for picking our door step! Mind dropping the team a quick review at g.page/r/CWS6rEWlP16lEAg/review in return for their great work?
Thanks for the information rv nerd please keep the faith and the information coming
Will do!
Campground prices vary wildly! Here in NY, state parks are $27/night with electricity. Water and sewer not per site but available. Full hook-up private campgrounds, $50-$160+ depending on where you go and what they offer.
Great content!
Yeah the "resort" type campgrounds with a lot of activities are fun... but spendy
@@JoshtheRVNerd not necessarily for us. Our kids are grown so we don’t need all those extras.