Things I Wish I Knew Before Buying My First RV

1. Who Are You and What Sparked Your RV Journey?

Question: Can you tell us who you are and what initially sparked your interest in RVs?

Matt’s Take: “I grew up camping with my parents. My dad’s old slide-in unit was our ticket to family adventures—even if it meant sleeping in a tent while he enjoyed the comforts of the camper. Later, when I inherited his 1994 Monaco motorhome (a far cry from today’s luxury units), it set the stage for my personal and professional journey into the RV world.”

2. Transitioning from Truck Repairs to RV Repairs

Question: What inspired you to pivot your business toward RV maintenance and repair?

Matt’s Take: “My background in truck collision repair meant I already had a strong skill set with fiberglass, adhesives, and heavy-duty equipment. When the RV market began growing rapidly, it made sense to leverage those skills in a new arena. The construction of RVs—with their composites, aluminum, and riveted structures—is very similar to that of semi-trucks.”

3. Expectations vs. Reality: The First RV Experience

Question: What were your initial expectations about owning an RV and how did reality set in?

Matt’s Take: “My first ‘real’ RV was the one I inherited from my dad—a basic motorhome without slide-outs. I soon realized that RV life wasn’t just about hitting the road for family fun; it came with high repair costs, unexpected maintenance issues, and the realization that not all RVs are built for long-term comfort. For example, repairing a blown radiator or replacing tires could hit your bottom line hard.”

4. Budgeting for the Unexpected

Question: What unexpected costs or financial challenges should new buyers be prepared for?

Matt’s Take: “RV ownership isn’t a one-time purchase; it’s an ongoing investment. I learned the hard way on one trip—driving a 15,000-pound fifth wheel, we blew through four tires in a single outing. Not only are tires expensive, but maintenance costs add up fast if you’re not careful. My advice? Budget for things like upgraded tires (with a higher ply rating), regular maintenance, and even a few roadside emergencies.”

5. Routine Maintenance: Your Lifeline on the Road

Question: What are the must-do maintenance tasks that every RV owner should know about?

Matt’s Take: “First, change your tires every three years—even if they look fine. Keep an eye on tire pressure using the camper’s recommended settings, not just the tire’s max rating. Don’t forget routine checks on wheel bearings (and repacking them with fresh grease if necessary); this is also a great time to check your brake assemblies and inspect the roof seals. I even learned to use soapy water and our specialized Seal-Tech machine on seams to spot leaks. Regular generator exercise (about 30 minutes a month) is also crucial.”

6. Prioritizing RV Features: What Really Matters

Question: Which RV features turned out to be most important to you, and what would you have prioritized during your initial search?

Matt’s Take: “Layout is everything. A common oversight is not considering how slide-outs affect accessibility. When everything is tucked in, can you still easily reach the refrigerator or toilet? I also opted for a residential refrigerator in one of my newer units, even though it demands extra power. Other important features include having multiple air conditioners for hot climates and upgrading the mattresses with a memory foam topper for comfort.”

7. Safety First: Preventative Measures and Equipment

Question: What safety measures should every RV owner implement?

Matt’s Take: “Safety can’t be an afterthought. Always equip your RV with carbon monoxide detectors, especially if you’re using a generator. Consider installing a venturi technology (or Gen-Turi) stack to divert exhaust fumes away from slide-outs. And don’t forget to invest in a roadside assistance program—like AAA Plus RV Gold—which covers towing and offers campground discounts. Having the right roadside tools, such as a bottle jack, lug wrench, and reflective flares, can be a lifesaver.”

8. Avoiding Purchase Pitfalls

Question: What should first-time buyers check for when purchasing an RV?

Matt’s Take: “Always check the RV’s history. Run a VIN search to see if there have been any previous claims or damages. I recommend having a trusted service shop inspect the RV for water damage, delamination (those unsightly bubbles on sidewalls), and any signs of wood rot or mold. A thorough multi-point inspection can save you from costly repairs.”

9. The Learning Curve: Handling and Driving Your RV

Question: What was the steepest learning curve you faced with RV ownership?

Matt’s Take: “Learning that bigger isn’t always better was a real eye-opener. Driving a large fifth wheel isn’t just about size—it’s about handling, navigating tight roads, and dealing with clearance issues. I quickly discovered that state parks and mountain roads often have strict length limits, so sometimes a smaller, more nimble unit is a better choice for boondocking and off-grid adventures.”

10. Final Advice: Prepare, Educate, and Embrace Redundancy

Question: If you could go back in time, what one piece of advice would you give yourself—or what advice do you have for future RV owners?

Matt’s Take: “Education is key. Subscribe to RV blogs, watch YouTube channels, and never stop learning. Equip yourself with the basic skills for on-the-road repairs. Build redundancies into your system—like having both shore power and a generator and always be prepared for the unexpected. A little preparation can distinguish between a smooth trip and a roadside nightmare.”

Conclusion

Matt Sain’s journey into the RV lifestyle is a testament to the fact that while the open road offers unparalleled freedom, it also demands preparation, foresight, and continual learning. Whether it’s budgeting for unexpected expenses, prioritizing the right features, or simply understanding that routine maintenance is non-negotiable, his insights provide a roadmap for anyone considering the RV life. If you’re about to purchase your first RV, take a page from Matt’s book: educate yourself, plan for the unforeseen, and remember that every trip is a chance to learn something new.