RV shows can feel like a dream and a whirlwind all at once. Rows of gleaming motorhomes, cozy trailers, and clever camper vans invite you to step inside and imagine your future adventure. But with so many options and distractions, it’s easy to get overwhelmed or lose focus.
Attending a show is a great opportunity to see a wide range of models up close, but how do you make the most of your time there? And how do you know what you can actually afford?
We’ll walk you through exactly what to look for when you're shopping for an RV at a show, and how to be financially ready before you even step inside the event.
Know Before You Go: Pre-Qualify and Set Your Budget
One thing to help make the most of your RV show experience is getting your financing in order before you go. Why? Because pre-qualifying gives you a clear budget range, so you can avoid falling in love with something that doesn't align with your finances.
With My Financing USA, you can get pre-qualified quickly and securely. Once you're pre-approved, you can also explore the MyFy Marketplace our platform where you can shop RV listings that match your budget from reputable dealers and private sellers.
Having that number in mind helps you walk into an RV show with confidence. It also gives you leverage when speaking with dealers.
What to Focus On During the RV Show
RV shows are exciting, but also crowded and fast-paced. Here’s how to stay focused and make the most of your visit:
1. Match the RV to Your Lifestyle
Before walking onto a show floor, think about how you'll use your RV. Weekend getaways? Full-time travel? Family road trips? Solo adventures?
Here are the main types of RVs you’ll encounter:
- Class A Motorhomes: Big and luxurious, ideal for extended travel.
- Class B Vans: Compact and nimble, great for quick trips and stealth camping.
- Class C Motorhomes: A practical balance of space and drivability.
- Travel Trailers & Fifth Wheels: Towable options with flexible layouts.
- Pop-Up Campers: Lightweight and easy to store, perfect for occasional campers.
Take notes or photos of floor plans that feel functional. Ask yourself: Do you need bunks? A dedicated workspace? A bigger bathroom? Use your phone to track what you liked (and didn’t) in each model.
2. Don’t Be Distracted by Flashy Features
It’s easy to be wowed by outdoor kitchens and built-in sound systems, but focus first on the essentials:
- Layout and storage
- Sleeping space and comfort
- Kitchen and appliances
- Bathroom size and usability
- Build quality (cabinet latches, drawer construction, seals)
While the amenities are great, sacrificing structure and good craftmanship for them is not worth the short lived features.
3. Inspect What You Can
At a show, you won’t be able to do a full inspection, but you can still spot red flags or signs of quality:
- Do doors open and close smoothly?
- Are the materials durable or flimsy?
- Do you notice any odd smells (which could indicate leaks)?
- Is there enough headroom and visibility?
Ask sales staff about construction details, insulation, and warranty coverage. If you're looking at a used model at the show, definitely ask about service records and accident history.
4. Ask Questions Like a Pro
Even in a busy show environment, you can get valuable answers. Ask:
- What is the RV’s dry weight and max capacity?
- What type of power systems does it use (solar-ready, inverter, generator)?
- Are the slide-outs manually or electronically operated?
- How many gallons do the tanks hold (fresh, grey, black)?
These questions help you see beyond the surface and understand what day-to-day life will be like in that RV.
Don’t Forget: You Can Always Revisit the Right One Later
If something feels just right but you’re not ready to buy on the spot, don’t stress. That’s where the MyFy Marketplace comes in. After pre-qualifying with My Financing USA, you can browse units from our trusted dealer and seller network that fit your exact loan amount. You might even find the same model from the show at a better price. Plus, shopping after the show lets you take your time and make a pressure-free decision.
Why MyFy Marketplace Works for Smart RV Buyers
Our Marketplace was designed to eliminate the guesswork. Here’s how it works:
- Get pre-qualified for financing with no impact on your credit.
- Browse RV listings that match your loan amount.
- Shop confidently from verified sellers across the country.
It’s the modern way to buy an RV starting with your budget, not sales pressure.
Final Thoughts
RV shows are an amazing way to explore your options, compare models, and spark inspiration, but the key to making a smart RV purchase is going in prepared. Understand your needs. Know your budget. And don’t be afraid to walk away and shop later.
Ready to hit the show floor with a plan?
Get pre-qualified today and explore RV listings built around your budget at MyFy Marketplace.
FAQs:
What is the minimum credit score required to qualify for a loan?
We can work with credit scores as low as 550. Our programs are designed to help customers across a wide range of credit situations, including those with past credit challenges.
How long are the loan terms available?
We offer loan terms of up to 20 years, giving you the flexibility to choose a repayment schedule that works best for your budget and goals.
What is the minimum loan amount I can apply for?
Our loan starts at $10k. This applies to both dealer and private party purchases.
What interest rates do you offer?
What types of purchases are eligible for financing?
We finance both dealer and private party purchases and can approve loans for LLCs, trusts, and full-time RVers. We do not finance park models or schoolies..
Can I finance and RV or boat if I'm a full-time traveler?
Yes. We offer financing options designed for full-time RVers and boaters.
