Looking for a new (to you) RV can be an exhilarating experience. Visions of where you’ll go, what you’ll see, friends you’ll make and family bonding time dance in your head. Yep, you’ve got it bad…spring fever! In an earlier Bella Online RV article we talk about the finer points of an RV’s interior quality. Here we’ll examine what to look for on the exterior of an RV.

Start your exterior shopping by walking around the camper looking for signs of siding or “skin” delamination – bubbling and warping – that may indicate past or present water damage. If you do see delamination the only way to determine whether it’s a major issue is to look inside the walls…could be nothing, could be something big…buyer beware. Take a look at the caulking – is it plentiful and neat? That’s one big important tool to keep moisture out of the walls.

When you’ve determined the outside is in ship-shape it’s time to check the camper for several handy, helpful and downright required features. Where are the hookups – water, sewer, electric? Will they be convenient in most RV park situations? Do you need cable TV or a telephone connection? What about propane tanks – are they large enough and easily accessed for refilling? Make sure they meet the latest standards including an OPD (overfill protective device) or you’ll be purchasing new tanks when it’s time for a fill up. RV's typically come with one battery. Will you be dry camping? If so, make sure there's room for two batteries - you'll need them both.

Review the storage capacity. Are the doors roomy enough to get items in and out? Is the storage area large enough to meet your needs? Lighted storage compartments are always an appreciated amenity. In the best world the corners will be radius cut to avoid cracking not to mention scratching yourself.

Take a look at the dumping system. Are the handles convenient to reach? Do they look sturdy and durable? Some campers offer a black tank sprayer to keep the tank “clean” and flowing. How about the jacks and landing gear – electric is always nice – but not necessary. I do recommend rear stabilizing jacks to reduce rocking. Chances are if you don’t have them you’ll be putting some on after one or two trips out.

Do you require a rear bumper for sewer hose storage or to haul bikes? How about a spare tire…a must have. Does the camper have a roof ladder and is that really necessary for your use? Speaking of roofs, make sure the roof is in good shape – perhaps even a one piece rubber roof. Arched roofs allow rain to run off rather than puddle. If you can get up there take a close look at the caulking around the vents, a/c, etc. keeping an eye out for possible leakage spots.

Does the camper have an awning and is it easy to operate? Are the outdoor lights adequate and in a good place? Do you need or want outdoor speakers? Some campers come with a gas bbq that can attach to the side of the RV and a propane plug that supplies gas for ‘quing. It’s also handy for gassing up an outdoor gas fireplace. Nifty! All RVs have steps – is manual operation okay with you and can you easily operate them or do you require electric steps?

Take a close look at the tires. They should be less than a year old. See my Bella Online article about tire safety for important details.

Lastly, pay close attention to the information plaque listing GVWR, recommended tire pressure and tire size, axle ratings and more gotta know info.

Take some time to really consider how and where you’ll be using your new RV. Once you’ve ascertained the quality of the siding, caulking, roof, tires, etc. you can play around with the desired goodies. Make note of what’s important to you, pick up brochures of units you’re interested in (you can go online for specs and info on some older campers), and pen your thoughts right on the literature as you shop for a “just right for you” RV. It’s out there…what do they say…it’s the journey not the destination!