What to Look for When Buying a Used Travel Trailer: A Comprehensive Guide

So, you’ve decided to dive into the world of RVing and are considering a used travel trailer? Excellent choice! Buying used can save you a significant amount of money, but it’s crucial to inspect the trailer thoroughly before making a purchase. This guide will walk you through What To Look For When Buying A Used Travel Trailer, ensuring you get the best deal and avoid costly surprises down the road.

Before you even meet the seller, preparation is key. Showing up with knowledge and the right tools can save you thousands during negotiation.

Essential Tools to Bring

Having the right tools will allow you to conduct a comprehensive inspection. Consider bringing these along:

Strong Flashlight: Essential for examining dark areas.
Screwdrivers (Phillips and Straight-Slot): For removing panels and checking components.
Small Metal Pry-Bar: Useful for gently prying off covers and checking for hidden damage.
Wrench Set: For tightening loose connections and inspecting plumbing.
Circuit Tester: To verify electrical functionality.
12V Fuses (Various Voltages): To test the electrical system.
Multimeter: For checking battery voltage and electrical continuity.
Gardening Gloves: To protect your hands from dirt and grime.
Paper Towels: For wiping surfaces and checking for leaks.
Cardboard or Plastic Sheet: For comfortable undercarriage inspection.

Knowing Your Needs

Understanding your travel style and needs is crucial in determining if a particular travel trailer is the right fit. Ask yourself these questions:

Where will you be spending most of your time? If you’re a desert dweller, consider features like awnings and AC. For colder climates, prioritize insulation and heating.
How much time will you spend inside during the day? More time indoors requires more space. A small teardrop trailer might feel cramped quickly.
What will your propane usage be? Propane powers many RV appliances. Consider the tank size if you plan on extensive cooking and heating.

Alt text: Propane tanks on a travel trailer, illustrating the importance of considering propane usage when buying a used travel trailer.

Will you be hosting friends or family? Consider sleeping arrangements and living space if you plan on having guests.
What type of roads will you be driving on? For off-road adventures, look for trailers with better maneuverability and rugged construction.

The Inspection Process: Inside and Out

Now, let’s dive into the inspection itself. Start with the exterior and work your way inside.

Exterior Inspection: Protecting Against the Elements

The exterior is your first line of defense against the elements.

Doors and Windows: Check the sealant (caulk) around doors and windows for cracks or gaps. Test the operation of each door and window, ensuring they open, close, and lock properly. Check for cracked glass. Ripped bug screens are easily replaceable.
Exterior Walls: Look for cracks or holes that could allow water or pests to enter. Warping can indicate frame damage.
Roof: This is a critical area for leaks. Inspect the seals around vents, exhaust fans, and windows. Use a pry bar to check vents for blockages or critter nests. A dirty AC filter can signal poor maintenance.
Awnings, Slide Outs, and Jacks: Operate all awnings, slide-outs, and jacks, listening for unusual noises. Check awning fabric for tears and slide-out gaskets for damage. Jacks should support the trailer’s weight without buckling.
Leak Test: Simulate rain with a hose, focusing on doors, windows, and vents. Have a helper inside with paper towels to check for leaks around window and door edges.

Alt text: A person using a hose to perform a leak test on the exterior of a travel trailer, a critical step in identifying potential water damage.

Undercarriage: Look for excessive rust, especially on the transmission, suspension, or exhaust. Check waste tank brackets and hoses, and look for damage to freshwater overflow tubes.

Electrical System Inspection: Ensuring Power and Safety

Head inside with your tools and begin testing the electrical systems.

AC Power System: Test all AC outlets with a circuit tester. Locate the AC breaker and ensure all breakers are functional. Don’t forget exterior outlets and the shore power connection.
DC Power System: Check each fuse in the 12V fuse block. Replace blown fuses with the same voltage. If the new fuse blows, the appliance may have a short and require repair.
Battery Bank: Inspect the batteries for corrosion. Use a multimeter to check the voltage (12.6-12.8 volts when unplugged). Check the battery’s age; batteries older than 6-7 years may need replacing soon.
Lights: Turn on every light, including those in storage compartments. Check if bulbs are easily replaceable.

Alt text: Interior lights of a travel trailer, highlighting the importance of testing all electrical components when assessing a used travel trailer.

Plumbing System Inspection: Water In, Waste Out

Proper plumbing is essential for comfortable RVing.

Freshwater Tank: Fill the tank and check for leaks in tubing.
Faucets and Shower: Run faucets and the shower, ensuring the water pump provides steady pressure. Check the water heater for leaks or overheating. If it runs on gas, sniff for gas leaks. The water heater should provide consistent warm water.
Toilet: Verify the toilet flushes and drains properly. Check the seal around the base for cracks.
Pipes: Look and listen for leaks in hot and cold water lines.
Grey Water Tank: Check for leaks and ensure proper draining.

Appliance Inspection: Comfort and Convenience

Test all major appliances to ensure they function correctly.

Furnace and AC: Turn on the furnace and check for consistent warm air without gas smells. Ensure vents are clear. Run the AC and check for cold air and any water damage around the unit.
Refrigerator: Turn the fridge on and check if it cools to around 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Test both electric and gas modes.

Propane System Inspection: Fueling Your Adventures

Safety is paramount when dealing with propane.

Propane Tanks: Examine for damage or corrosion. Check the age; tanks older than 10 years may not be refillable. Sniff for gas leaks. Test the valves and ensure brackets are in good condition.

Safety Equipment Inspection: Protecting What Matters

Finally, check all safety equipment.

Smoke Alarms, Carbon Monoxide Detectors, and Fire Extinguishers: Ensure they are present, modern, and functioning. Replacements are inexpensive and easy to install.

Alt text: RV safety equipment including a fire extinguisher, smoke detector, and carbon monoxide detector, essential items to check when purchasing a used travel trailer.

Conclusion: A Thorough Inspection is Key

Remember, thoroughness is the most important aspect of inspecting a used travel trailer. Take your time, pay attention to detail, and don’t hesitate to ask questions. By following this guide on what to look for when buying a used travel trailer, you’ll be well-equipped to make an informed decision and enjoy countless adventures on the road. Don’t forget to negotiate the price before finalizing the purchase. Happy Camping!