So glad Bish's RV let you continue being honest. Much respect to you and the company you represent. Every dealer should show this video before every RV sale.
Some people may not realize how much of a selling feature this is. Your videos with Bish's allowing such transparency is contributing to a huge trust factor.👍
@@alanploetz7100 I'm feeling that I'll be able to trust Bish's RV with my RV purchase in the very,very near future. Josh is upfront and honest,..I can tell. After nearly twenty five years of tent camping,I'm wanting to make the transition up to a tent camper,...or pop up! My 60 year old bones can't take the hard ground anymore! LOL!
As always your the best. My wife and I was planning on full time RV’ing. I was researching, watching videos of full timers & your channel. But unfortunately life happened before we got to start, now I’m a widower. Before she passed away I told her it’s a good thing that we hadn’t bought a TT she agreed. Josh continue doing what you’re doing. People appreciate honesty unfortunately nowadays honestly it a rarity.
Talk to your SO before buying! A guy I know retired and promptly bought a tow vehicle and an RV. His wife was not pleased. She had no intention of spending their golden years cooking and cleaning; she wanted restaurants, housekeeping, and room service. The trailer got sold, they bought two motorcycles, and they're still happily married touring the country staying in hotels.
And don't let these big box stores split up you and your partner to try to individually put the press on you. I cannot believe how predatory some places are
I retired from the cruise only business, and in a lot of married cruisers was one waited a lifetime to travel on a ship, and the other had no desire to step aboard a ship and be surrounded by water with an island NOT within swimming distance... There is usually more to a buying experience that a sales person covers. THANK YOU Josh for sharing.
When I was selling RVs I had a customer do this and it was quite a strain on his marriage. Best idea is to not surprise your SO with a purchase of this scale.
I was walking the dog and I passed a campsite with a beautiful airstream and brand new tow vehicle. There was a kind lady, clearly proud as peaches, on the awning side of the rig. I complimented their setup and she told me how much she and her husband LOVE camping!!!! Over in "civilization corner " her husband, rubber gloves and all, looked up at me silently shaking his head...... It ain't for everyone.
In 1978 we moved from Ill. to S.D. with a self converted Dodge Maxi Van and a tent. Family of 5. WE camped in the Black Hills a few years till we bought a used 21' TT. Sold it to buy a house. Sold house to move to Indiana in '87. We used Dad and Mom's class C and class A one time each till 2000 when we bought a used TT again Kids all gone by now. 2005 we bought a new 32' Montana 5th. Lost count of the number of miles we put on it the next 12 years going west to visit family and other short trips. Traded that one for out current 36' 5th in 2017. We have about 25K miles on it now and we are in out 4th year of snow birding in warmer areas. We are now in our mid and late 70's with no intentions of selling or trading it now. But age will catch up with us some year. Thanks for your video.
I'm fairly new to RV camping but I have found it to be super hard to get a spot at some campgrounds. What makes it easier is my trailer is very small so I can grab the spots the big guys can't fit in. When I was a kid everyone I knew had smaller trailers and they slept whole families in them and we're just fine. Now everyone has these huge monster trailers and I have to ask, why? My trailer is a tent on wheels. We only use it to sleep in. We do everything outside, even cooking and washing dishes. So that's my advice. Really think about just how big your trailer has to be. It's not a trophy. Buy it to use it, not as bragging rights. With these big trailers you also need a huge rig that is not good to use for anything else.
It is hilarious to me watching these RVs come and go out of the campground. There are about 40 RVs here permanently (we live in them all year round). Those are usually small in comparison to a lot of the ones that come in the summer and are parked for weekend use (folks who pay for a spot all summer to use on the weekends). It is quite obvious which ones are status symbols (like the toy hauler across the road from our tiny Springdale). I agree with you completely. We Dodge Grand Caravan camped for years in Alaska. I see no reason to have a giant RV if you're only going to use it on your days off. But it's like the hotel industry now going to a "home away from home" approach. People want to get away, but not really.
Josh you and Bish's RV are the best. You dare go somewhere others would not dare, this is the type of things that make someone OUTSTANDING in their field. GO RV NERD'S!
There is also the cost to license and insure these RV's, and the insurance doesn't necessarily cover everything. I so enjoy your video's, and really appreciate that you are so up front about everything.
You are correct about having a third party. I ended up buying a brand new RV and the roof had a leak. It caused damage. Thank goodness it was still under the warranty. They had to remove the whole roof keeping our RV for a whole month.
The wife and I are long-time campers with tents. We bought our Class C, shortly after I retired almost three years ago. We bought ours used, mainly due to the prohibitive cost of a new Class C. The comfort we now experience camping, offsets the costs of RV storage, maintenance, propane and gasoline to travel to our destinations. Tenting and being a senior are kinda' incompatible in our experience.
@JoshtheRVNerd , you have that correct. The cologne of wood smoke does wonders for folks who want to "get-out" of the city frequently during the spring/summer and fall.
I’m now on my 5th trailer. The point you made about “hey what do you say we go camping this weekend?” Is pretty much a thing of the past. Now pretty much anywhere you have to have reservations. It kills the whole spontaneity of the adventure.
I hear this a lot. Frequent travelers often tell me though they do not have trouble finding a place for the night & often advise many places have open sites when they get there
@@JoshtheRVNerd Wife and I purchased a new 14" RV 13 years ago. Camper looks almost as good as the day we purchased it. Takes lots of care and maintenance. Just like owning a boat. Back when we first purchased it we could literally book a campsite 2 or less days before arrival. Totally changed now and it makes it way difficult to up and go. We have 2 very unpredictable working schedules. Good video.
Thanks, Nerd. That is very good advice. We've been dreaming of owning an RV for many years, but never got to it for various reasons. As we think more about it, it has become apparent that we are not going to get the most out of it. The biggest thing for us is storage as we live in a city. Besides the cost, we have to travel to the storage facility to take of things, including clearing snow off the roof after a big snow fall. On top of that, we'd have to own a gas-guzzling truck that we'd have no good use for when not towing. In fact, I foresee I'd avoid driving it at much as possible. With platforms like RVezy, there really is not a good use case to own an RV. Thanks again.
The motorcycle connection with buying accessories is 100% spot on. It is never the item itself... those darn accessories are a good way to make your wallet need grief counseling!
WOW you hit the nail on the head !!! Great video , I hope all new RVers watch this video because you just spit out the truth !! Your section " neighbors " was outstanding because we just where camping 2 weeks ago and found the camper from hell next door . Playing there music till 1am with there outside speakers . Then at 7am forgetting they still had there outside speakers on full blast they turned on the news so everyone in the camp ground could hear it . Both the wife and I said lets leave 2 days early because the state camp ground wouldn't do anything about the noise .
We live in an RV park in Ohio and have two sets of those neighbors. When we moved to our current spot, it was the quiet area of the park. After two moved for various reasons, they were replaced by the partier's that were requested to leave the area they had been parked in. Now we deal with loud music till 4 am every weekend and sometimes during the week. They keep complaining about us assuming we are the ones complaining about them. Luckily, my husband got a job in Vermont and we're leaving before the camping season starts again. I can't do another summer with these people.
I love your videos. Im going to sell my sticks and bricks and buy a 5th wheel camper. Im going to be mainly stationary , but may go on a vacation from time to time. I have lived in one before with someone, but this time, im going it alone. I have watched hundreds of videos about maintenance and repairs, and i like challenges, so i think im ready for this one.
@@JoshtheRVNerdTrue. When I first learned that after following Travels Without Charlie for awhile, I thought it was rather strange. I wonder why that's the case?
Great video - even as a reminder for those of us who have been camping a long time. We got our first RV, a class C, in 2002. When the kids were young we use to leave it parked in the driveway fully stocked from Memoria Day to Labor Day. In additional to weekend and vacation camping use used it on trips to the lake or beach in NH. You had your fridge, a place to take a nap in the AC with an infant and a shower to get the sand/salt off before going out to dinner. The saying “Better by Buy Experiences than Things.” Well an RV “Thing” allows you to have all kinds of experiences you might not otherwise be able to afford due to time or money. Finally you mention potential rowdy neighbors. Have you flown lately, the behavior in airports and on planes can be worse than the worst late night drunk camper
As someone who flies now and again for work.. not a fan of airports. It's a miserable experience and I thank netflix and my airpods for helping distract me thru it lol
This sort of content is why i enjoy your channel so much. Put to the side the consistent, solid, relatively unbiased information you provide. You urge people to realistically purchase what they can handle not what they can afford.
@@JoshtheRVNerd I don't always comment, but I do watch every video you produce. I know what I want, but that doesn't preclude me from watching alternatives.
Thanks again Josh. I was having a good day until this video 😂. But seriously, those who have spent enough time even tent camping know people are people, and they are like a box of mixed chocolates!!!
Hi Josh I think they should have a class for the people to teach them about rv ing before they take delivery it is a must to do to make them understand and have a question and answer just a thought take care happy camping
Thanks for all you do to promote responsible RVing Josh. My husband and I have been subscribers since before the pandemic. Loved how you weathered those tough times when we were all locked down (gotta admit those videos hold a special place in our hearts). Keep being you, we're here for it 😊
The TRUTH, from a DEALER! Who woulda throught? My wife and I have enjoyed travel trailers for about 50 years, and still use one, but you need to think about all the topics Nerd presents before jumping in. Or out, if you havn't looked at hotel and meal costs lately. Thanks, BISH's; you need to pay Josh more.
Thanks Bish's. Here is my 2 cents. Let your spouse decide what RV to buy if your spouse has concerns. I wanted to do winter camping towing a travel trailer. My wife did not like that concept but she found truck campers and we agreed on one we could live with. We ordered it during Covid with a big truck, sold the house and have lived in our RV for the last 2 years. Best retirement decision we ever made. 😃
RV living has definitely had some great advantages for us. It's certainly cheaper than owning a house and it's great that you can pick up and move if you don't like the location. I wish more states would allow full time RV living. With my husband looking for a new job, that has been a huge issue. Too many states don't support tiny house living (which they group RV living into). That means that we have to figure out what to do with the RV if we take the job and we're back to a house. 😒
Really good info to share. Sometimes people fall in love with “idea” of rving, but don’t slow down enough to really consider what they’re signing up for! Great integrity for someone in rv sales to actually shine the light on the reality of owning an rv.
Good point. I suspect it's probably not unlike people falling in love with the idea of marriage without thinking that thru!! Knowledge, foresight, resource allocation, planning, etc. are all important; but as in marriage, the keys to long-term success are participant commitment & being realistic & flexible.
We bought a 2023 unit last year that has outside speakers. After hearing and witnessing the horror stories about them iwas skeptical about useing them, but I found out that with ours at least they only really project straight forward. So people behind you and to the side of you cant hear them unless you play really really loud. We also had to have our unit go back to the factory for some repairs. We brought it to the dealership end of August and didn't get it back until January. Fortunately for us camping season was done but something to think about.
My thoughts exactly @donalexander4083 Bish's don't have many locations in the south where I live but I'm only about a hour 15 min from Longview location and when I'm ready to upgrade out of my 09 and buy new I'll be checking then them first. All because of Josh and his videos. He'll there's 3 camper places in the down I live in and I'm still going to Longview first. I hope by that time they have some of there Wayfinders in stock there insted of just having the option to have it shipped there
Thank You, “Vary Much” 2 things I’m happy to know first there’s you that I learn from and second there’s a BUSH’s RV dealership in Tx. Guess where I’m going when I buy my FIRST TRAVEL TRAILER “ThankYou” Sir.
@@janicethoni8421 The first time I put them up, they were taken down. Tried to put them up again this past fall and I was told no and I had to take them down.
Nailed on the Amazon boxes. We dry camp and quad side by side ride. We bought a travel trailer that is perfect for this other hobby riding in the side by side. It will be nice to come back shower, eat sleep if it rains we can watch TV.
As a 1st timer, this is a really knowledgeable video. I really didn't consider many of the factors you mention. Wow!!! I am thinking about a travel trailer. Logistics, upkeep, fuel (???), storage, getting into camp grounds-fees, neighbor issues and the INTERNET issue was an eye opener. I was considering working remotely using my Travel Trailer as I traveled. This may be an issue now. I will keep watching you for your honest approach. Thank you. I better rent 1st perhaps.
This was very honest and transparent content. I hope people listen. Love that you suggest all first-time RV buyers get a third-party inspection before purchasing. Thanks Josh. Like your hat... maybe you could get a hat that says "The RV Nerd" and sell one to the rest of us, "just another RV nerd".
I love camping and tent camped for years. But having a small tow behind with shower, hard walls, and creature comforts, I knew I would need to buy one. Don't use it much, but my budget affords it, and now I can go anywhere with all the amenities I could ever need.
Propane costs, firewood costs, preventative maintenance, repairs, supplies, chairs, tools, cleaning supplies, protection products, group events, weather damages, hosting others, and some times over doing partying. It can also strain friendships and relationships.
@@TheDesertdawg1 very, very true. Unfortunately, most people don't think about the fact that they are having to pay for it twice when buying a "home away from home" like an RV.
You want to see people's tempers go off easy get them to back up a trailer into a tight spot or as them if they know there clearance to go in a tunnel or under a bridge
Good point on the tow vehicle aspect. Our 3800 lb GVW trailer (3100 dry) is lightly loaded, but towing it with our Honda Pilot (4500 lb rating) wasn't a walk in the park. Although it could do it, you could tell wind resistance also factored into it. It was working hard and spent a lot of time in third gear on the highways. If we got a good wind gust from the side, it was quite noticeable. Very different from towing our old 2000 pound popup. Now we have a pickup truck, and it's a much better experience. Still gets a measly 12 MPG when we're towing it, but it does a better job of it.
RVs are not perfect😂😂😂but they could be sooooo much better if RV manufacturers just showed us that they ACTUALLY CARED by improving the dreadful QUALITY CONTROL of their overpriced products😢😢😢
Great video. Here's an incomplete list of what I have bought so far just for the trailer alone: Anti-sway hitch, new power lift, lift cover, full TPMS system, LP tank cover, new door locks, wheel chocks, wheel covers, pest control items, new ceiling vent fan, spare tire cover, bumper hitch mount, wheel levelers, electronic level system x2, water hoses x3, water pressure regulator, water filters x2, water Y adapter, leveler blocks, various tools and lots of them, fuses, lubricants and conditioner fluids, full camera system, parking related extras, outdoor chairs, outdoor table, outdoor extras and fire pit, electrical extension cables x3, electrical power adapters, power filers 30&50 amp, sewer hoses x4, sewer adapters and fittings, electrical generator, kitchen gear and cooking gear, bedding, new shower head, special toilet paper, various inside cleaning agents, extra clothing to leave in the RV. And the list goes on... I still love it though!
Been living tiny for several years and full-time digital nomad for 2 years now... VERY GOOD video. Accurate on the challenges, which is surprising from a dealership. ❤
One of my sons worked for an RV manufacturer just out of high school. Yes, they were built fast, and mistakes were made. They had a saying; ***k it, shim it, send down the line!" He quit not wanting to be apart of that. He told me that with some of that, people could get hurt. Now, I know there have been a lot of advancements in the way they are built now. But they are still built by people. Love how Bish's keeps you posting honest information.
Just me personally. Camped on & of 50 years, now retired purchased a new TT. Rough figures comparing $100 per night hotel stay, 3 night camping trips times 52 weeks (not practical) recoup cost of Rv is 70 years. This is not factoring in cost to actually travel to camp. I don’t drink or gamble so I am ok with spending my money to camp 30-40 nights per year. Oh & I did not pay for a seat at the Super Bowl. Thanks for the reality check for all of us
The generations of people that will soon enter into the RV world that buy fast food to be delivered to their front door step, will most likely not be inconvenienced with the poor quality of dealing with RV maintenance. It’s fine with me because it will become easier to find a campsite lol. I truly enjoy the rv experience but I have much patience. Tell that to those that expect things right away, right now. I hope I’m wrong because many wonderful people are employed to provide us these rvs, that can create wonderful memories. Thankful for people and businesses like yours.
That a T4 in the background? Anyhoo.. This is like people moving to Florida. More money than brains thinking it's a vacation every day. It's not. It's a lifestyle. And if you're not willing to live it you will be disappointed and make everyone else's life miserable 💯 It's work like farm life. Really fun and rewarding so that's the life. It's all about you! What other analogy do we need? We don't so like Florida, stop. You will find it difficult if you are new. And if you arnt willing to live like the locals and disturb them, we will get rid of you.. But on a good note! You can do it till the money thing until it runs out. You will feel really rewarded taking care of things that will pop up. Hell, the wife and kids will do things that are shockingly rewarding to them and you! The simplest of things you will do automatically will bring up a memory like when you level it and recall your first time or when the kids got it right. 😁 Wait till a skunk walks through your site! So many priceless memories 💯 ❤❤ It all boils down to you. Don't do it because you can. Do it because it expresses a really good part that is already inside you! 🍻
I know a few people that literally thought that 'vacation every day' thing about Florida. You flat nailed it there. They expected everything was supposed to cater to them when they got there. That's not how the world works
We are retired and yes, it is physically demanding. We don’t mind that. It is great for thinking on your feet. Our big issue is the incidents of frightening weather. We have been in scary stuff that was not predicted.
I've been doing this for a year now and I find my biggest irritation is commercial campgrounds. Trying to decipher each campground's policy and rules is a world class headache. Especially pet rules. I just saw a park in FL that charged a $100 pet fee and no pet over 20 pounds. Some claim to be pet friendly then when you get there or reading the fine print on their website (which frequently doesn't exist) you find they won't take you because you have either too many or too large or wrong breed etc. Then after they turn you away they won't refund anything. Some have rules as to what type of RV or how old you can be or who knows what else. I have definitely learned that using parks, be they federal, state, or local is the way to go if you possibly can. Corps of Engineers parks seem especially nice and are very reasonable priced. BTW, I have found Josh's videos to be quite accurate when compared to my actual experiences. While I am happy with my selling dealer, I think if I were to trade I would definitely try to find a Bish's dealer.
When you buy an RV make you check everything don’t make the mistake I made I bought a RV it was missing a curtain a hair crack on a window missing a screen not to mention thermostat.went out and had be replaced fireplace heater stopped working a rubber piece on roof came undone and yes it was brand new . Keystone Hideout 30 foot.
We had a 2020 travel trailer and used it seasonally from May to September in Canada. While the water conwnction in a cubby looked nice, it functioned poorly and let squirrels and mice enter via their poor design. Sold trailer for orher reasons...
Thank you, Josh, for your openness and honesty. Thank you to Bish's for being a confident enough company to allow Josh to do this his way. Much respect to both you, Josh, and Bish's......and when i've found the one i truly want and am ready to make the purchase, i will be heading to Bish's.😊
Of all your great informational videos this is my favorite! It's made my wife and I rethink our plans to upgrade to a larger 5th wheel when we retire. We still want a new one as ours is well used, but not sure we need the new monster size 5th wheel we were planning on for our planned 2 to 4 months of travel per year. Really great thought provoking information!
You guys Rock!!!! I love my RV and we really enjoy it. But yeah it ain't exactly a trouble or dollar free "lifestyle". And it can be a full time job booking sites and planning your trips. Not for the faint of heart or pocket. But I dig it.
I have looked at RVs for several years, mostly from Josh😅. I like some RVs, but after seeing some RV campgrounds at state parks I visit, I’m not sure I want to stay in those areas. Lots of noise, bright lights, drinking, generators (where there are no hookups). With a nice tent, I have a bit more flexibility.
I've only been RVing for about 3.5 years, and I've loved every minute it because I never had an unrealistic expectation. i didn't buy a truck to save on gas, I don't get all the amazon boxes to be fiscally responsible... heck I've gotten some whatchamacallits and doohickeys I later regretted. It's all about the experience, the trial and error to live, if only for a weekend, the life you want. You definitely have to go in knowing what you're getting and take the good with the bad. Well done on laying it out, all card on the table.
I bought my travel trailer to stay over the road working road construction. so i'm actually saving half of the money from motels, even with campground cost and payment.
Thanks for keeping it real. As for me, we have learned the hard way. Started with a really nice pop-up, and a truck that was just too small for the weight. Traded the truck for a larger truck that could handle the popup, then, had structural problems with the popup, so went to a really nice 2020 Jayco White Hawk 32RL. The dealer stated your truck can pull it fine. Well... Yes it can, but, right at it's max tow weight. The real problem is not the tow weight, but, the length and height of the trailer. Pulling 36.8ft, at 9000lbs with a 1/2 ton is not a comfortable experience. I think that you have to be realistic about what YOU think you need, as well as what really you are comfortable with. As for us, we are looking to upgrade our truck again, and this time, will over-buy as far as what it can tow. They just don't ever tell you this. Manufacturers state "10, 11, 12, 14, or 15K on that 1/2 ton truck...Ours is rated at 9240lbs max. That is great that it can pull it, but, reality is that you need a heavier truck to allow for the length and width you are actually pulling. Once you know, what you need, the lifestyle is fun. But, approaching with your own knowledge is key to a great experience.
I don't know everything about towing but I have learned I know more than most folks and man.. there is so much BAD towing advisory out there from completely unqualified people
As an experienced camper/RVer, you hit just about everything!! It is a commitment that you have to be ready for…don’t expect to make any money on the deal.
Hi Uncle Josh. Another thing to add. If you’re not going to leave the campsite as good as or better than you found it, ie. NOT leaving it trashed! Then camping is not for you. Before the pandemic campsites were good, since the pandemic A Lot of people are leaving them in not so great shape for the next camper, very aggravating!
Thank you for all the info you provide. I am trying to get my wife to pay attention to all this. I want her to know it won't all be roses. I have been researching for almost 2 years now. I will a least know what is going on, but no hands on. I can't believe people buy stuff and don't find out anything about it.
Outstanding advice Josh! People like myself that spent a career in the military love the life. My next unit will be for living full-time for two years!!!
#nerdherd checking in from Arizona. I will say this, if you are handy and mechanically inclined - then the RV life may be OK for you. I have leaned on my mechanical skills many times fixing little things on my Micro Minnie 2225RL. Things that someone else would have to send off their rig to the dealership to fix. Honestly, I wouldn't recommend RV ownership unless you have some skills or extra $$ to get things fixed. These aren't like cars, they have a lot higher maintenance requirements. Much like my airplane, I find myself performing more maintenance on the Micro Minnie versus my two trucks.
There are a lot of impostors trying to do what you can do when it comes to RVs not even close to you. I would like to see you explain the seasons campers are able to handle.
Love our camper, spend a lot of time in it and on it. If either spouse goes into this hobby with the thought of.. “ let’s get a camper and we will save money on hotels and travel”, they are not ready to buy! 😊
Yep. I can stay in a lot of hotels for the cost of an RV and tow vehicle. Also with the increased prices for campsites they aren't all that much cheaper than a hotel room.
Josh, thank you. I can agreed with you on most everything you said. Something that shocked me when my family started camping again after a few years off was the fees to use our state parks in Indiana. The first time we showed up and was charged a gate fee after paying for the site online I was like say what lol. If you buy firewood from most camp grounds you will be charged a premium over gas station prices that are unbelievable in their self. I find when buying food for most of our vacations I tend to spend more and stock the fridge and freezer better then we do if we just stayed home. Overall would change a thing. Buying our camper from Bishs and meeting you the day we picked it up was a great experience. Maybe you will be in-house when we buy our next one 😊.
Firewood is definitely a tricky thing but you really shouldn't transfer firewood around that's not native to the area. It's a way to introduce things like bugs into an area where they don't belong and screw up local ecosystems a bit So.. we get stuck overpaying for firewood
Storage. I live in the country so I don’t have an HOA or city ordinance telling me what I can and cannot do on my property so my camper is parked and connected to electric at my house. Many people are not allowed to park there camper at home so they have to pay a fee for storing their camper when it’s not in use
That's how I grew up - outside of the city limits. I enjoy being closer to town now (small town as it may be) but someone telling me what I can/cannot do on my property? Man.. just never sits right with me
This is just the kind of video I expect from “Uncle” Josh. Giving you all the info and insight you need before buying or choosing the RV life. Can you think of another person who would talk to you out of buying and RV then this amazing guy? Outstanding job Josh👏🏻👍🏻
Thanks for the video. Love your videos as they are just informative and entertaining. So one of the big things that folks need to consider is their tow vehicle. Car dealers are seriously misinformed about what these trucks are capable of. I got sold a Nissan Frontier that I thought could tow a 6100 lb trailer max. Not the case at all. Turns out there are other things in the manual that seriously restrict the truck. Lucky for me I am really only looking for a pop up camper to take my kids camping and give my autistic daughter a safe place to be when we travel if she has issues. I don't know if you have a video yet or would make a video but I think so folks can avoid the issues I ran into maybe making a video about selecting a proper tow vehicle. The big limiting factor on my truck is the frontal area of the truck and trailer. I am limited to 30 square feet. No one knows what I am talking about but it is in the Nissan manual. Even the Nissan dealer has no clue about that. RV dealers look at me like a deer in the headlights not knowing what it is. So yeah buying a tow vehicle is seriously overlooked by most. I completely understand why folks just say buy a full size truck to avoid the problems of smaller trucks like the Nissan Frontier.
I've learned the majority of salespeople in almost any field have a painful lack of knowledge about the products they're supposed to be representing. I've found this true of cars, boats, RVs, electronics.. anything really
I am 75, I have been camping my whole life, I discovered around 55. It was hard to get up off the ground after tent camping, so we got into an RV and we loved it ever cents.
I greatly appreciate the info you provided to the UA-cam audience. It was an eye-opener. Now I know wish way to go in regards to the type of RV my wife and I are going to start looking for.
Hello Josh! Very Solid and Meaningful Information!! We are a camping family, beginning with tents and moved on to simple travel trailer setups. The wife and I are empty nesters on the cusp of retirement, and we are now in the factoring process of which path to go; we have rented various RV models to get a better feel of what we need. I believe that these days, it is easier to pick a camper rather than picking a campground; these reservation apps are making it more difficult. You have to "plan" in order to be "spontaneous" these days...which takes some of the fun out of it for us.....but we used to also be more of the "weekend warrior" set back then.... I really appreciate the candor you provided here; (actually, this is really smart marketing here, as you wont have as many negative views on the industry, especially if you keep someone from making a choice they later regret!) Keep up all of your great work, and hope to see you down the road and at the campfire! All the Best! ~Lou
I hope tons of people watch this video and take the information into consideration. Due to the ignorance of many RV owners (especially first time casual owners) I was actually more afraid to buy used due to the potential for additional problems caused by negligence, the thought of dealing with those problems coupled with any unresolved manufacturer issues caused us to buy new. Any preventative maintenance issues are on us and we'll just have to fight the manufacturer for any caused by them, lol.
Small campers are becoming more popular but people need to think realistically about the size of their camper before buying. We liked our small camper until we encountered some really bad weather on a couple of trips. When we had to spend a significant amount of time inside, our opinion changed. And since we used our own bathroom/shower facilities, two people trying to get ready at the same time became something we had to work out a strategy for. And setting up/tearing down a campsite is a good amount of work and can make long trips a lot of work, too. Josh hit the nail on the head when he said there’s a degree of physical ability necessary.
Thanks Josh. We do want INTERNET access for our online projects, producing UA-cam videos, and online computer programming as well as streaming TV programs even in remote areas. Starlink looks as though it will be our best solution. It is a bit expensive with $600 for the dish and router plus $150 per month for roaming in the USA. You can also buy global roaming. But you only pay for the months that you need to use it, with no contract. I will think about cancelling our home cable. The third generation systems have a flat "dish" which can be mounted successfully on the flat roof of an RV, and this does not need the motorized dish positioning system. Apparently you can put a plexiglass cover over it for additional protection. It has a 110 degree view of the sky with its phased array antennae, and doesn't really need to be aligned in any particular orientation. However, obstructions like trees can block the signal and even if it is boiling hot weather you cannot park in the shade if you want a roof mounted antenna to work. The alternative is to set up the antenna by hand some distance away from your RV. But there are stories of other RVs driving right over them. Some UA-cam videos show methods of mounting them on a flag pole attached to the ladder or A-frame or elsewhere, but there is a daily overhead in labor to set it up. One snag is that the power consumption has increased to about 50-100 Watts in the 3rd generation unit, but generally at the lower end of this range. If we have a single 200 Watt solar panel we might need one hour of bright sunshine for every 2-4 hours of internet use and batteries to match. The 3rd gen. unit uses 110 volt AC household supply which can be provided by a 12 volt inverter with some loss of efficiency, possibly requiring up to 120 Watts DC. Since Watts=Amps x Volts this equates to 10 amps. Four hours of use at 10 amps would require a 40 Amp.Hour battery, not counting other electrical requirements such as the fridge freezer, fans and lighting. You would need extra to cover rainy days with little sunshine. The device uses an internal voltage of 57 volts, but unfortunately, Starlink have not considered it necessary to provide a DC power input socket. So, some people cut a hole in the dish to get access to a DC input and use a 12 volt DC to 57 volt DC converter. Of course this voids the warranty. But improvisation is half the fun of RVing!
About May 27th 2024 (2 days ago) StarLink reduced the price of 3rd Generation RESIDENTIAL hardware from $599 to $349 in selected states. During registration it asks you to enter your location. When you start typing it shows a map of USA. Move the big dot to your area and click to order. If it is one of the selected states it will show $349, otherwise $599. If your state has the more expensive option you can choose a state which does have the selected price, indicating that you intend to use it there, but enter your own address for delivery. This works. In my case I believe it is legitimate because I live near Bristol, TN which straddles the border between TN and VA. It happens that VA is included and TN is not. So I ordered it this way and it worked. They sign you up for a residential plan, but after you have tried it out at home, you can switch to the regional roaming plan which is $150. StarLink also doubled the monthly fee for Global Roaming from $200 to $400. However, regional roaming includes USA, Canada and Mexico.
“RV’ing” has become a 1% activity. You have to have A LOT of money to own (purchase and upkeep). 6 yrs ago we bought our first unit and the equivalent unit today is 2.5x the cost. There is less wiggle room on price and quality is drastically down.
100% spot on Josh. In our first 3 seasons, we've spent over $7k in accessories... Maintenance is a must... proper tow vehicle is a must... the cost of things while at the park... something always comes up... but it's my happy place 😊 Marc and Trish from KYD said it best: "Start where you are" camp on your budget. Rent First, try it out!!!
We just sold our TT after owning it for 5 years. I have to say, it was one of the happiest days of our lives getting rid of it. They are a money pit, period. Yes, we had a few good times in ours, but for the money we spent including payments, insurance, registration and maintenance, we could have stayed in nice hotels while traveling. Plus factor in the lousy gas mileage you get towing one. And many campgrounds aren't cheap anymore. I can see owing one if you are living in it full time. But to own one for recreational trips, they are not worth it. From now on we are traveling by car and staying in nice hotels. And most hotels even offer free breakfast to boot!!
Really appreciate videos like this. I'm heavily considering full timing in a travel trailer for a year or two. Main goal is investing in myself and bucket list traveling a few times a year. Thanks for all the info.
I was kidding about my earlier comment. I should have said I appreciate your bringing this type of truth to your viewers for those who havent really thought about the ins and outs and what if's
There's a dealership that will give you a 30 minute lesson on driving a Class A. 30 minutes to see if you can do it - I think it should be a 3 day process.
So glad Bish's RV let you continue being honest. Much respect to you and the company you represent.
Every dealer should show this video before every RV sale.
If anything they really took the leash 100% off
Some people may not realize how much of a selling feature this is. Your videos with Bish's allowing such transparency is contributing to a huge trust factor.👍
@@alanploetz7100 I'm feeling that I'll be able to trust Bish's RV with my RV purchase in the very,very near future. Josh is upfront and honest,..I can tell. After nearly twenty five years of tent camping,I'm wanting to make the transition up to a tent camper,...or pop up! My 60 year old bones can't take the hard ground anymore! LOL!
@@JoshtheRVNerd That's a good thing!
As always your the best. My wife and I was planning on full time RV’ing. I was researching, watching videos of full timers & your channel. But unfortunately life happened before we got to start, now I’m a widower. Before she passed away I told her it’s a good thing that we hadn’t bought a TT she agreed. Josh continue doing what you’re doing. People appreciate honesty unfortunately nowadays honestly it a rarity.
TY James!
Talk to your SO before buying! A guy I know retired and promptly bought a tow vehicle and an RV. His wife was not pleased. She had no intention of spending their golden years cooking and cleaning; she wanted restaurants, housekeeping, and room service. The trailer got sold, they bought two motorcycles, and they're still happily married touring the country staying in hotels.
And don't let these big box stores split up you and your partner to try to individually put the press on you. I cannot believe how predatory some places are
I retired from the cruise only business, and in a lot of married cruisers was one waited a lifetime to travel on a ship, and the other had no desire to step aboard a ship and be surrounded by water with an island NOT within swimming distance... There is usually more to a buying experience that a sales person covers. THANK YOU Josh for sharing.
Sounds like a match made in heaven... those folks will not be getting a divorce anytime soon. 🏍🏍🧡
When I was selling RVs I had a customer do this and it was quite a strain on his marriage. Best idea is to not surprise your SO with a purchase of this scale.
I was walking the dog and I passed a campsite with a beautiful airstream and brand new tow vehicle. There was a kind lady, clearly proud as peaches, on the awning side of the rig. I complimented their setup and she told me how much she and her husband LOVE camping!!!!
Over in "civilization corner " her husband, rubber gloves and all, looked up at me silently shaking his head......
It ain't for everyone.
It’s weird that in the rv world the term “hand built” isn’t a good thing. Anywhere else you have something hand built it usually means it’s well made.
lol right?!
The difference being, hand-built and (along a) production line are not usually used in the same sentence.
In 1978 we moved from Ill. to S.D. with a self converted Dodge Maxi Van and a tent. Family of 5. WE camped in the Black Hills a few years till we bought a used 21' TT. Sold it to buy a house. Sold house to move to Indiana in '87. We used Dad and Mom's class C and class A one time each till 2000 when we bought a used TT again Kids all gone by now. 2005 we bought a new 32' Montana 5th. Lost count of the number of miles we put on it the next 12 years going west to visit family and other short trips. Traded that one for out current 36' 5th in 2017. We have about 25K miles on it now and we are in out 4th year of snow birding in warmer areas. We are now in our mid and late 70's with no intentions of selling or trading it now. But age will catch up with us some year. Thanks for your video.
Man stay active and stay young!
I'm fairly new to RV camping but I have found it to be super hard to get a spot at some campgrounds. What makes it easier is my trailer is very small so I can grab the spots the big guys can't fit in. When I was a kid everyone I knew had smaller trailers and they slept whole families in them and we're just fine. Now everyone has these huge monster trailers and I have to ask, why? My trailer is a tent on wheels. We only use it to sleep in. We do everything outside, even cooking and washing dishes. So that's my advice. Really think about just how big your trailer has to be. It's not a trophy. Buy it to use it, not as bragging rights. With these big trailers you also need a huge rig that is not good to use for anything else.
Funny how that’s changed
It is hilarious to me watching these RVs come and go out of the campground. There are about 40 RVs here permanently (we live in them all year round). Those are usually small in comparison to a lot of the ones that come in the summer and are parked for weekend use (folks who pay for a spot all summer to use on the weekends). It is quite obvious which ones are status symbols (like the toy hauler across the road from our tiny Springdale).
I agree with you completely. We Dodge Grand Caravan camped for years in Alaska. I see no reason to have a giant RV if you're only going to use it on your days off. But it's like the hotel industry now going to a "home away from home" approach. People want to get away, but not really.
Completely agree. Well said.
Can I ask what kind of trailer your running?
@@boomafoo9 it's a home built but it's 13 feet long. I designed it to sleep two adults and up to 3 kids.
Josh you and Bish's RV are the best. You dare go somewhere others would not dare, this is the type of things that make someone OUTSTANDING in their field. GO RV NERD'S!
Our pleasure!
There is also the cost to license and insure these RV's, and the insurance doesn't necessarily cover everything.
I so enjoy your video's, and really appreciate that you are so up front about everything.
Our pleasure!
You are correct about having a third party. I ended up buying a brand new RV and the roof had a leak. It caused damage. Thank goodness it was still under the warranty. They had to remove the whole roof keeping our RV for a whole month.
The wife and I are long-time campers with tents. We bought our Class C, shortly after I retired almost three years ago. We bought ours used, mainly due to the prohibitive cost of a new Class C. The comfort we now experience camping, offsets the costs of RV storage, maintenance, propane and gasoline to travel to our destinations. Tenting and being a senior are kinda' incompatible in our experience.
There's something to be said too for the "self care" almost theraputic effect you can enjoy when camping as well
@JoshtheRVNerd , you have that correct. The cologne of wood smoke does wonders for folks who want to "get-out" of the city frequently during the spring/summer and fall.
I’m now on my 5th trailer. The point you made about “hey what do you say we go camping this weekend?” Is pretty much a thing of the past. Now pretty much anywhere you have to have reservations. It kills the whole spontaneity of the adventure.
I hear this a lot. Frequent travelers often tell me though they do not have trouble finding a place for the night & often advise many places have open sites when they get there
@@JoshtheRVNerd Wife and I purchased a new 14" RV 13 years ago. Camper looks almost as good as the day we purchased it. Takes lots of care and maintenance. Just like owning a boat. Back when we first purchased it we could literally book a campsite 2 or less days before arrival. Totally changed now and it makes it way difficult to up and go. We have 2 very unpredictable working schedules. Good video.
Extremely good advice. If I didn't have my husband I would never be able to keep up with all of the maintenance maintenance on our RV.
I've never been the super handy type. Always had more of a knack for mental dexterity vs. physical. I totally get what you're saying
Thanks, Nerd. That is very good advice. We've been dreaming of owning an RV for many years, but never got to it for various reasons. As we think more about it, it has become apparent that we are not going to get the most out of it. The biggest thing for us is storage as we live in a city. Besides the cost, we have to travel to the storage facility to take of things, including clearing snow off the roof after a big snow fall. On top of that, we'd have to own a gas-guzzling truck that we'd have no good use for when not towing. In fact, I foresee I'd avoid driving it at much as possible. With platforms like RVezy, there really is not a good use case to own an RV. Thanks again.
Yeah the logistics sometimes ruin the potential fun
The motorcycle connection with buying accessories is 100% spot on. It is never the item itself... those darn accessories are a good way to make your wallet need grief counseling!
lol
WOW you hit the nail on the head !!! Great video , I hope all new RVers watch this video because you just spit out the truth !! Your section " neighbors " was outstanding because we just where camping 2 weeks ago and found the camper from hell next door . Playing there music till 1am with there outside speakers . Then at 7am forgetting they still had there outside speakers on full blast they turned on the news so everyone in the camp ground could hear it . Both the wife and I said lets leave 2 days early because the state camp ground wouldn't do anything about the noise .
TY Michael!
We live in an RV park in Ohio and have two sets of those neighbors. When we moved to our current spot, it was the quiet area of the park. After two moved for various reasons, they were replaced by the partier's that were requested to leave the area they had been parked in. Now we deal with loud music till 4 am every weekend and sometimes during the week. They keep complaining about us assuming we are the ones complaining about them. Luckily, my husband got a job in Vermont and we're leaving before the camping season starts again. I can't do another summer with these people.
I love your videos. Im going to sell my sticks and bricks and buy a 5th wheel camper. Im going to be mainly stationary , but may go on a vacation from time to time. I have lived in one before with someone, but this time, im going it alone. I have watched hundreds of videos about maintenance and repairs, and i like challenges, so i think im ready for this one.
Well done video. So many have no idea what is involved with ownership.
I see it every day man. Hope it helps some folks
Excellent info. As a senior citizen and a widowed female RVing is something I’ve been longing to do. Gave me lots of food for thought. Thank you.
For what it's worth - you're not alone! About 90% of solo RVers are ladies. You may not realize it but there's a whole traveling sisterhood out there
@@JoshtheRVNerdTrue. When I first learned that after following Travels Without Charlie for awhile, I thought it was rather strange. I wonder why that's the case?
Great video - even as a reminder for those of us who have been camping a long time. We got our first RV, a class C, in 2002. When the kids were young we use to leave it parked in the driveway fully stocked from Memoria Day to Labor Day. In additional to weekend and vacation camping use used it on trips to the lake or beach in NH. You had your fridge, a place to take a nap in the AC with an infant and a shower to get the sand/salt off before going out to dinner. The saying “Better by Buy Experiences than Things.” Well an RV “Thing” allows you to have all kinds of experiences you might not otherwise be able to afford due to time or money. Finally you mention potential rowdy neighbors. Have you flown lately, the behavior in airports and on planes can be worse than the worst late night drunk camper
As someone who flies now and again for work.. not a fan of airports. It's a miserable experience and I thank netflix and my airpods for helping distract me thru it lol
This sort of content is why i enjoy your channel so much. Put to the side the consistent, solid, relatively unbiased information you provide. You urge people to realistically purchase what they can handle not what they can afford.
TY Richard. I always appreciate your daily visits
@@JoshtheRVNerd I don't always comment, but I do watch every video you produce. I know what I want, but that doesn't preclude me from watching alternatives.
Thanks again Josh. I was having a good day until this video 😂. But seriously, those who have spent enough time even tent camping know people are people, and they are like a box of mixed chocolates!!!
Hi Josh I think they should have a class for the people to teach them about rv ing before they take delivery it is a must to do to make them understand and have a question and answer just a thought take care happy camping
Thanks for all you do to promote responsible RVing Josh. My husband and I have been subscribers since before the pandemic. Loved how you weathered those tough times when we were all locked down (gotta admit those videos hold a special place in our hearts). Keep being you, we're here for it 😊
The TRUTH, from a DEALER! Who woulda throught? My wife and I have enjoyed travel trailers for about 50 years, and still use one, but you need to think about all the topics Nerd presents before jumping in. Or out, if you havn't looked at hotel and meal costs lately. Thanks, BISH's; you need to pay Josh more.
Man I try!
Thanks Bish's. Here is my 2 cents. Let your spouse decide what RV to buy if your spouse has concerns. I wanted to do winter camping towing a travel trailer. My wife did not like that concept but she found truck campers and we agreed on one we could live with. We ordered it during Covid with a big truck, sold the house and have lived in our RV for the last 2 years. Best retirement decision we ever made. 😃
wow!
RV living has definitely had some great advantages for us. It's certainly cheaper than owning a house and it's great that you can pick up and move if you don't like the location. I wish more states would allow full time RV living. With my husband looking for a new job, that has been a huge issue. Too many states don't support tiny house living (which they group RV living into). That means that we have to figure out what to do with the RV if we take the job and we're back to a house. 😒
Really good info to share. Sometimes people fall in love with “idea” of rving, but don’t slow down enough to really consider what they’re signing up for! Great integrity for someone in rv sales to actually shine the light on the reality of owning an rv.
I try!
Good point. I suspect it's probably not unlike people falling in love with the idea of marriage without thinking that thru!! Knowledge, foresight, resource allocation, planning, etc. are all important; but as in marriage, the keys to long-term success are participant commitment & being realistic & flexible.
Thanks for the great information buddy you’re always the honest guy if I’m in the market for an RV I will be heading your way
TY Kirk! We're ready when you are
We bought a 2023 unit last year that has outside speakers. After hearing and witnessing the horror stories about them iwas skeptical about useing them, but I found out that with ours at least they only really project straight forward. So people behind you and to the side of you cant hear them unless you play really really loud. We also had to have our unit go back to the factory for some repairs. We brought it to the dealership end of August and didn't get it back until January. Fortunately for us camping season was done but something to think about.
Most folks don't consider that. It's a great point
i don't know if my wife will ever agree to buying an rv but if she ever does i am coming to see you Josh
We'll be ready if and when you are!
Amen to that, Josh and the team at Bish's are definitely the top of my list if and when we are ready.
My thoughts exactly @donalexander4083 Bish's don't have many locations in the south where I live but I'm only about a hour 15 min from Longview location and when I'm ready to upgrade out of my 09 and buy new I'll be checking then them first. All because of Josh and his videos. He'll there's 3 camper places in the down I live in and I'm still going to Longview first. I hope by that time they have some of there Wayfinders in stock there insted of just having the option to have it shipped there
Thank You, “Vary Much” 2 things I’m happy to know first there’s you that I learn from and second there’s a BUSH’s RV dealership in Tx. Guess where I’m going when I buy my FIRST TRAVEL TRAILER “ThankYou” Sir.
Glad to help!
Even if you find storage, I have been told I couldn't have exterior solar security cameras.
Odd… how could you be stopped from installing a camera????
@@janicethoni8421 The first time I put them up, they were taken down. Tried to put them up again this past fall and I was told no and I had to take them down.
Nailed on the Amazon boxes. We dry camp and quad side by side ride. We bought a travel trailer that is perfect for this other hobby riding in the side by side. It will be nice to come back shower, eat sleep if it rains we can watch TV.
It's nice to have that comfy roof over your head
The ole Can Opener Bridge on Gregson St in Durham NC.
lol that's the one!
Not only prices of everything going up, interest rates on trucks and RV's now is ridiculous.
It's rough
Josh, again I appreciate your candor. Your videos are awesome. “Honesty is a very expensive gift. Don’t expect it from cheap people.” Warren Buffett
Great quote!
As a 1st timer, this is a really knowledgeable video. I really didn't consider many of the factors you mention. Wow!!! I am thinking about a travel trailer. Logistics, upkeep, fuel (???), storage, getting into camp grounds-fees, neighbor issues and the INTERNET issue was an eye opener. I was considering working remotely using my Travel Trailer as I traveled. This may be an issue now. I will keep watching you for your honest approach. Thank you. I better rent 1st perhaps.
Little video here with a few more tips for first timers
Renting first is actually one of them
m.ua-cam.com/video/DO3u1Bk-rbE/v-deo.html
Thanks for doing this very honest and factual video. It also shows the difference between Bish's RV and other dealerships. Great job, Bish's and Josh!
Thanks for watching!
This was very honest and transparent content. I hope people listen. Love that you suggest all first-time RV buyers get a third-party inspection before purchasing. Thanks Josh. Like your hat... maybe you could get a hat that says "The RV Nerd" and sell one to the rest of us, "just another RV nerd".
😂 that’s great. You can get one like mine at nerdherdstore.myshopify.com/ if interested
I love camping and tent camped for years. But having a small tow behind with shower, hard walls, and creature comforts, I knew I would need to buy one. Don't use it much, but my budget affords it, and now I can go anywhere with all the amenities I could ever need.
Love your down to earth approach
Propane costs, firewood costs, preventative maintenance, repairs, supplies, chairs, tools, cleaning supplies, protection products, group events, weather damages, hosting others, and some times over doing partying. It can also strain friendships and relationships.
lol only takes one person to ruin a good time
You know I pay for everything in your list living in my sticks and bricks now.
@@TheDesertdawg1 very, very true. Unfortunately, most people don't think about the fact that they are having to pay for it twice when buying a "home away from home" like an RV.
Very good video. We made a mistake buying a pop-up. At the time We both were over 65 was way to much work.
Woof.. yeah.. that's a lot
My partner wanted a pop-up. I said no. freaking. way! I don't want to exhaust myself before I can even enjoy the destination.
Pop up or not it’s not easy .It can be a handful sometimes and that’s just getting it on site according the campground.
You want to see people's tempers go off easy get them to back up a trailer into a tight spot or as them if they know there clearance to go in a tunnel or under a bridge
Good point on the tow vehicle aspect. Our 3800 lb GVW trailer (3100 dry) is lightly loaded, but towing it with our Honda Pilot (4500 lb rating) wasn't a walk in the park. Although it could do it, you could tell wind resistance also factored into it. It was working hard and spent a lot of time in third gear on the highways. If we got a good wind gust from the side, it was quite noticeable. Very different from towing our old 2000 pound popup. Now we have a pickup truck, and it's a much better experience. Still gets a measly 12 MPG when we're towing it, but it does a better job of it.
Love boondocking. Rent free mortgage free
The screen name suddenly makes a lot of sense :)
RVs are not perfect😂😂😂but they could be sooooo much better if RV manufacturers just showed us that they ACTUALLY CARED by improving the dreadful QUALITY CONTROL of their overpriced products😢😢😢
You have a good video on the realistic of rving
Great video. Here's an incomplete list of what I have bought so far just for the trailer alone: Anti-sway hitch, new power lift, lift cover, full TPMS system, LP tank cover, new door locks, wheel chocks, wheel covers, pest control items, new ceiling vent fan, spare tire cover, bumper hitch mount, wheel levelers, electronic level system x2, water hoses x3, water pressure regulator, water filters x2, water Y adapter, leveler blocks, various tools and lots of them, fuses, lubricants and conditioner fluids, full camera system, parking related extras, outdoor chairs, outdoor table, outdoor extras and fire pit, electrical extension cables x3, electrical power adapters, power filers 30&50 amp, sewer hoses x4, sewer adapters and fittings, electrical generator, kitchen gear and cooking gear, bedding, new shower head, special toilet paper, various inside cleaning agents, extra clothing to leave in the RV. And the list goes on... I still love it though!
Yeah.. it's never JUST the RV
Been living tiny for several years and full-time digital nomad for 2 years now... VERY GOOD video. Accurate on the challenges, which is surprising from a dealership. ❤
Thanks for sharing!
One of my sons worked for an RV manufacturer just out of high school. Yes, they were built fast, and mistakes were made. They had a saying; ***k it, shim it, send down the line!" He quit not wanting to be apart of that. He told me that with some of that, people could get hurt. Now, I know there have been a lot of advancements in the way they are built now. But they are still built by people. Love how Bish's keeps you posting honest information.
Just me personally. Camped on & of 50 years, now retired purchased a new TT. Rough figures comparing $100 per night hotel stay, 3 night camping trips times 52 weeks (not practical) recoup cost of Rv is 70 years. This is not factoring in cost to actually travel to camp. I don’t drink or gamble so I am ok with spending my money to camp 30-40 nights per year. Oh & I did not pay for a seat at the Super Bowl. Thanks for the reality check for all of us
My superbowl seat was my living room couch :)
The generations of people that will soon enter into the RV world that buy fast food to be delivered to their front door step, will most likely not be inconvenienced with the poor quality of dealing with RV maintenance. It’s fine with me because it will become easier to find a campsite lol. I truly enjoy the rv experience but I have much patience. Tell that to those that expect things right away, right now. I hope I’m wrong because many wonderful people are employed to provide us these rvs, that can create wonderful memories. Thankful for people and businesses like yours.
Dude door dash is magic
It turns $17 of Subway
Into $51 of Subway
A wise man once said RV stands for ruined vacations 😂
That a T4 in the background?
Anyhoo..
This is like people moving to Florida. More money than brains thinking it's a vacation every day. It's not. It's a lifestyle. And if you're not willing to live it you will be disappointed and make everyone else's life miserable 💯
It's work like farm life. Really fun and rewarding so that's the life. It's all about you! What other analogy do we need? We don't so like Florida, stop. You will find it difficult if you are new. And if you arnt willing to live like the locals and disturb them, we will get rid of you..
But on a good note!
You can do it till the money thing until it runs out. You will feel really rewarded taking care of things that will pop up. Hell, the wife and kids will do things that are shockingly rewarding to them and you!
The simplest of things you will do automatically will bring up a memory like when you level it and recall your first time or when the kids got it right. 😁
Wait till a skunk walks through your site!
So many priceless memories 💯 ❤❤
It all boils down to you. Don't do it because you can. Do it because it expresses a really good part that is already inside you! 🍻
I know a few people that literally thought that 'vacation every day' thing about Florida. You flat nailed it there.
They expected everything was supposed to cater to them when they got there. That's not how the world works
We are retired and yes, it is physically demanding. We don’t mind that. It is great for thinking on your feet. Our big issue is the incidents of frightening weather. We have been in scary stuff that was not predicted.
I've been doing this for a year now and I find my biggest irritation is commercial campgrounds. Trying to decipher each campground's policy and rules is a world class headache. Especially pet rules. I just saw a park in FL that charged a $100 pet fee and no pet over 20 pounds. Some claim to be pet friendly then when you get there or reading the fine print on their website (which frequently doesn't exist) you find they won't take you because you have either too many or too large or wrong breed etc. Then after they turn you away they won't refund anything. Some have rules as to what type of RV or how old you can be or who knows what else. I have definitely learned that using parks, be they federal, state, or local is the way to go if you possibly can. Corps of Engineers parks seem especially nice and are very reasonable priced.
BTW, I have found Josh's videos to be quite accurate when compared to my actual experiences. While I am happy with my selling dealer, I think if I were to trade I would definitely try to find a Bish's dealer.
Ty Jeffrey
Appreciate the kindness at the end
When you buy an RV make you check everything don’t make the mistake I made I bought a RV it was missing a curtain a hair crack on a window missing a screen not to mention thermostat.went out and had be replaced fireplace heater stopped working a rubber piece on roof came undone and yes it was brand new . Keystone Hideout 30 foot.
Good advice
We had a 2020 travel trailer and used it seasonally from May to September in Canada. While the water conwnction in a cubby looked nice, it functioned poorly and let squirrels and mice enter via their poor design. Sold trailer for orher reasons...
Ty for the feedback. Thats a good point
Thank you, Josh, for your openness and honesty. Thank you to Bish's for being a confident enough company to allow Josh to do this his way. Much respect to both you, Josh, and Bish's......and when i've found the one i truly want and am ready to make the purchase, i will be heading to Bish's.😊
I think it's cool this video was actually our President's idea. I just fleshed it out and recorded it
Thanks for all the info. Looking onto buying an RV and you brought up some good points. Never thought of 3rd party inspection 🤔
Glad to be of service!
been watching your videos for 11 years now and still havent decided to get an rv
I appreciate you being here. What's funny is you're probably more knowledgeable now than most RV salespeople out there
@@JoshtheRVNerd well I know what we want but working full time doesnt leave much time for fun
Of all your great informational videos this is my favorite! It's made my wife and I rethink our plans to upgrade to a larger 5th wheel when we retire. We still want a new one as ours is well used, but not sure we need the new monster size 5th wheel we were planning on for our planned 2 to 4 months of travel per year. Really great thought provoking information!
Glad it was helpful!
I haven't got one yet because of the quality problem with all models 😮
You guys Rock!!!! I love my RV and we really enjoy it. But yeah it ain't exactly a trouble or dollar free "lifestyle". And it can be a full time job booking sites and planning your trips. Not for the faint of heart or pocket. But I dig it.
Yeah it's great when you get there but the planning and prep can take time. Not everyone realizes that
I have looked at RVs for several years, mostly from Josh😅. I like some RVs, but after seeing some RV campgrounds at state parks I visit, I’m not sure I want to stay in those areas. Lots of noise, bright lights, drinking, generators (where there are no hookups). With a nice tent, I have a bit more flexibility.
Tenting really does give you freedom for sure
I've only been RVing for about 3.5 years, and I've loved every minute it because I never had an unrealistic expectation. i didn't buy a truck to save on gas, I don't get all the amazon boxes to be fiscally responsible... heck I've gotten some whatchamacallits and doohickeys I later regretted. It's all about the experience, the trial and error to live, if only for a weekend, the life you want. You definitely have to go in knowing what you're getting and take the good with the bad. Well done on laying it out, all card on the table.
This is such a great, real world comment. TY
I bought my travel trailer to stay over the road working road construction. so i'm actually saving half of the money from motels, even with campground cost and payment.
nice!
Thanks for keeping it real. As for me, we have learned the hard way. Started with a really nice pop-up, and a truck that was just too small for the weight. Traded the truck for a larger truck that could handle the popup, then, had structural problems with the popup, so went to a really nice 2020 Jayco White Hawk 32RL. The dealer stated your truck can pull it fine. Well... Yes it can, but, right at it's max tow weight. The real problem is not the tow weight, but, the length and height of the trailer. Pulling 36.8ft, at 9000lbs with a 1/2 ton is not a comfortable experience. I think that you have to be realistic about what YOU think you need, as well as what really you are comfortable with. As for us, we are looking to upgrade our truck again, and this time, will over-buy as far as what it can tow. They just don't ever tell you this. Manufacturers state "10, 11, 12, 14, or 15K on that 1/2 ton truck...Ours is rated at 9240lbs max. That is great that it can pull it, but, reality is that you need a heavier truck to allow for the length and width you are actually pulling. Once you know, what you need, the lifestyle is fun. But, approaching with your own knowledge is key to a great experience.
I don't know everything about towing but I have learned I know more than most folks and man.. there is so much BAD towing advisory out there from completely unqualified people
As an experienced camper/RVer, you hit just about everything!! It is a commitment that you have to be ready for…don’t expect to make any money on the deal.
Ty! I appreciate that
Hi Uncle Josh. Another thing to add. If you’re not going to leave the campsite as good as or better than you found it, ie. NOT leaving it trashed! Then camping is not for you. Before the pandemic campsites were good, since the pandemic A Lot of people are leaving them in not so great shape for the next camper, very aggravating!
FACTS! Leave no trace
@@JoshtheRVNerd I say leave a trace, make it better!!!!
It's very cool that you give a realistic view of Recreational Vehicle life 😊
Man we try
Thank you for all the info you provide. I am trying to get my wife to pay attention to all this. I want her to know it won't all be roses. I have been researching for almost 2 years now. I will a least know what is going on, but no hands on. I can't believe people buy stuff and don't find out anything about it.
It’s so common though. It’s crazy
Spot on Nerd.....every newbee should watch this for sure!!!
TY Tim! Glad you like it :)
Outstanding advice Josh! People like myself that spent a career in the military love the life. My next unit will be for living full-time for two years!!!
Improvise. Adapt. Overcome.
That mentality comes in VERY handy when camping
#nerdherd checking in from Arizona. I will say this, if you are handy and mechanically inclined - then the RV life may be OK for you. I have leaned on my mechanical skills many times fixing little things on my Micro Minnie 2225RL. Things that someone else would have to send off their rig to the dealership to fix. Honestly, I wouldn't recommend RV ownership unless you have some skills or extra $$ to get things fixed. These aren't like cars, they have a lot higher maintenance requirements. Much like my airplane, I find myself performing more maintenance on the Micro Minnie versus my two trucks.
There are a lot of impostors trying to do what you can do when it comes to RVs not even close to you. I would like to see you explain the seasons campers are able to handle.
It's been a while but here's a common myth I busted a while back ua-cam.com/video/zGz07cC9QhQ/v-deo.html
TY for the idea. I may update that footage
Love our camper, spend a lot of time in it and on it. If either spouse goes into this hobby with the thought of.. “ let’s get a camper and we will save money on hotels and travel”, they are not ready to buy! 😊
Yep. I can stay in a lot of hotels for the cost of an RV and tow vehicle. Also with the increased prices for campsites they aren't all that much cheaper than a hotel room.
The fully loaded resorts are often more then a nice hotel in the same area, but we still love the RV life.@@oldengineer1519
Josh, thank you. I can agreed with you on most everything you said. Something that shocked me when my family started camping again after a few years off was the fees to use our state parks in Indiana. The first time we showed up and was charged a gate fee after paying for the site online I was like say what lol.
If you buy firewood from most camp grounds you will be charged a premium over gas station prices that are unbelievable in their self.
I find when buying food for most of our vacations I tend to spend more and stock the fridge and freezer better then we do if we just stayed home.
Overall would change a thing. Buying our camper from Bishs and meeting you the day we picked it up was a great experience. Maybe you will be in-house when we buy our next one 😊.
Firewood is definitely a tricky thing but you really shouldn't transfer firewood around that's not native to the area. It's a way to introduce things like bugs into an area where they don't belong and screw up local ecosystems a bit
So.. we get stuck overpaying for firewood
Storage. I live in the country so I don’t have an HOA or city ordinance telling me what I can and cannot do on my property so my camper is parked and connected to electric at my house. Many people are not allowed to park there camper at home so they have to pay a fee for storing their camper when it’s not in use
That's how I grew up - outside of the city limits. I enjoy being closer to town now (small town as it may be) but someone telling me what I can/cannot do on my property?
Man.. just never sits right with me
@@JoshtheRVNerd yep.
Thank you this was very informative
My pleasure!
DO NOT BUY ONE!!!!!
This is just the kind of video I expect from “Uncle” Josh. Giving you all the info and insight you need before buying or choosing the RV life. Can you think of another person who would talk to you out of buying and RV then this amazing guy? Outstanding job Josh👏🏻👍🏻
We just want to see our clients happy. Happy clients seem to be return clients and generate referrals
Crazy. I know.
Yep It's Like Haveing a Kid In School. & Geting a New Dog . And a HOA. 😎👍✌. All In All You Get To Go Camping.
Wish we had had a Bish's to buy from when we started out years ago! Thanks for the great tips and reminders!
We're here in the meantime when you're ready!
Thanks for the video. Love your videos as they are just informative and entertaining.
So one of the big things that folks need to consider is their tow vehicle. Car dealers are seriously misinformed about what these trucks are capable of. I got sold a Nissan Frontier that I thought could tow a 6100 lb trailer max. Not the case at all. Turns out there are other things in the manual that seriously restrict the truck. Lucky for me I am really only looking for a pop up camper to take my kids camping and give my autistic daughter a safe place to be when we travel if she has issues. I don't know if you have a video yet or would make a video but I think so folks can avoid the issues I ran into maybe making a video about selecting a proper tow vehicle. The big limiting factor on my truck is the frontal area of the truck and trailer. I am limited to 30 square feet. No one knows what I am talking about but it is in the Nissan manual. Even the Nissan dealer has no clue about that. RV dealers look at me like a deer in the headlights not knowing what it is. So yeah buying a tow vehicle is seriously overlooked by most. I completely understand why folks just say buy a full size truck to avoid the problems of smaller trucks like the Nissan Frontier.
I've learned the majority of salespeople in almost any field have a painful lack of knowledge about the products they're supposed to be representing. I've found this true of cars, boats, RVs, electronics.. anything really
Bottom line is rv's are not very good. Quality is horrible
Unfortunately, owners keep making excuses for the shoddy quality.
I am 75, I have been camping my whole life, I discovered around 55. It was hard to get up off the ground after tent camping, so we got into an RV and we loved it ever cents.
Nice!
Uncle Josh... 💥YOU💥ROCK💥BROTHER!!!💥 (The Master of The RV Universe 🚀✨🌒🛰️✨✨🌕🪐🌏)
Ty Mr Moe
I greatly appreciate the info you provided to the UA-cam audience. It was an eye-opener. Now I know wish way to go in regards to the type of RV my wife and I are going to start looking for.
Glad it's been helpful!
Hello Josh! Very Solid and Meaningful Information!! We are a camping family, beginning with tents and moved on to simple travel trailer setups. The wife and I are empty nesters on the cusp of retirement, and we are now in the factoring process of which path to go; we have rented various RV models to get a better feel of what we need.
I believe that these days, it is easier to pick a camper rather than picking a campground; these reservation apps are making it more difficult. You have to "plan" in order to be "spontaneous" these days...which takes some of the fun out of it for us.....but we used to also be more of the "weekend warrior" set back then....
I really appreciate the candor you provided here; (actually, this is really smart marketing here, as you wont have as many negative views on the industry, especially if you keep someone from making a choice they later regret!)
Keep up all of your great work, and hope to see you down the road and at the campfire! All the Best! ~Lou
I hope tons of people watch this video and take the information into consideration. Due to the ignorance of many RV owners (especially first time casual owners) I was actually more afraid to buy used due to the potential for additional problems caused by negligence, the thought of dealing with those problems coupled with any unresolved manufacturer issues caused us to buy new. Any preventative maintenance issues are on us and we'll just have to fight the manufacturer for any caused by them, lol.
Small campers are becoming more popular but people need to think realistically about the size of their camper before buying. We liked our small camper until we encountered some really bad weather on a couple of trips. When we had to spend a significant amount of time inside, our opinion changed. And since we used our own bathroom/shower facilities, two people trying to get ready at the same time became something we had to work out a strategy for. And setting up/tearing down a campsite is a good amount of work and can make long trips a lot of work, too. Josh hit the nail on the head when he said there’s a degree of physical ability necessary.
That’s why we literally say the hardest part of our job is finding you the rv best fit for you
First time buyer in 2021, experienced all of it! 🤣
80% or more of Wisconsin state park camping has to be reserved several months in advance if not almost a whole year
Planning on an upgrade this spring. Bringing our 21 ft Jayco. We’re gonna get a motel room for two days of shopping. Get ready Jesse
Thx, JRVN. As usual, your honestly and forthrightness are both valuable for their insights & interesting in the presentation. Keep up the good work.
Thanks Josh. We do want INTERNET access for our online projects, producing UA-cam videos, and online computer programming as well as streaming TV programs even in remote areas. Starlink looks as though it will be our best solution. It is a bit expensive with $600 for the dish and router plus $150 per month for roaming in the USA. You can also buy global roaming. But you only pay for the months that you need to use it, with no contract. I will think about cancelling our home cable.
The third generation systems have a flat "dish" which can be mounted successfully on the flat roof of an RV, and this does not need the motorized dish positioning system. Apparently you can put a plexiglass cover over it for additional protection. It has a 110 degree view of the sky with its phased array antennae, and doesn't really need to be aligned in any particular orientation. However, obstructions like trees can block the signal and even if it is boiling hot weather you cannot park in the shade if you want a roof mounted antenna to work. The alternative is to set up the antenna by hand some distance away from your RV. But there are stories of other RVs driving right over them. Some UA-cam videos show methods of mounting them on a flag pole attached to the ladder or A-frame or elsewhere, but there is a daily overhead in labor to set it up.
One snag is that the power consumption has increased to about 50-100 Watts in the 3rd generation unit, but generally at the lower end of this range. If we have a single 200 Watt solar panel we might need one hour of bright sunshine for every 2-4 hours of internet use and batteries to match. The 3rd gen. unit uses 110 volt AC household supply which can be provided by a 12 volt inverter with some loss of efficiency, possibly requiring up to 120 Watts DC. Since Watts=Amps x Volts this equates to 10 amps. Four hours of use at 10 amps would require a 40 Amp.Hour battery, not counting other electrical requirements such as the fridge freezer, fans and lighting. You would need extra to cover rainy days with little sunshine. The device uses an internal voltage of 57 volts, but unfortunately, Starlink have not considered it necessary to provide a DC power input socket. So, some people cut a hole in the dish to get access to a DC input and use a 12 volt DC to 57 volt DC converter. Of course this voids the warranty. But improvisation is half the fun of RVing!
About May 27th 2024 (2 days ago) StarLink reduced the price of 3rd Generation RESIDENTIAL hardware from $599 to $349 in selected states. During registration it asks you to enter your location. When you start typing it shows a map of USA. Move the big dot to your area and click to order. If it is one of the selected states it will show $349, otherwise $599. If your state has the more expensive option you can choose a state which does have the selected price, indicating that you intend to use it there, but enter your own address for delivery. This works. In my case I believe it is legitimate because I live near Bristol, TN which straddles the border between TN and VA. It happens that VA is included and TN is not. So I ordered it this way and it worked. They sign you up for a residential plan, but after you have tried it out at home, you can switch to the regional roaming plan which is $150. StarLink also doubled the monthly fee for Global Roaming from $200 to $400. However, regional roaming includes USA, Canada and Mexico.
I love your videos, and I mean this in a nice way, but every time you do the laugh I think of this guy...
ua-cam.com/video/1glJgOtyM8k/v-deo.html
“RV’ing” has become a 1% activity. You have to have A LOT of money to own (purchase and upkeep).
6 yrs ago we bought our first unit and the equivalent unit today is 2.5x the cost. There is less wiggle room on price and quality is drastically down.
100% spot on Josh. In our first 3 seasons, we've spent over $7k in accessories... Maintenance is a must... proper tow vehicle is a must... the cost of things while at the park... something always comes up... but it's my happy place 😊 Marc and Trish from KYD said it best: "Start where you are" camp on your budget. Rent First, try it out!!!
I totally agree with that "start in your buddget" and rent first concept for sure
We just sold our TT after owning it for 5 years. I have to say, it was one of the happiest days of our lives getting rid of it. They are a money pit, period. Yes, we had a few good times in ours, but for the money we spent including payments, insurance, registration and maintenance, we could have stayed in nice hotels while traveling. Plus factor in the lousy gas mileage you get towing one. And many campgrounds aren't cheap anymore. I can see owing one if you are living in it full time. But to own one for recreational trips, they are not worth it. From now on we are traveling by car and staying in nice hotels. And most hotels even offer free breakfast to boot!!
Really appreciate videos like this. I'm heavily considering full timing in a travel trailer for a year or two. Main goal is investing in myself and bucket list traveling a few times a year. Thanks for all the info.
I was kidding about my earlier comment. I should have said I appreciate your bringing this type of truth to your viewers for those who havent really thought about the ins and outs and what if's
There's a dealership that will give you a 30 minute lesson on driving a Class A. 30 minutes to see if you can do it - I think it should be a 3 day process.
That’s still 30 mins more than most places offer