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Buying a Used Travel Trailer Checklist

Are you looking to purchase a pre-owned travel trailer? Even if you are not a beginner when it comes to RVs and campers, you want to be 100% sure of the investment you are making. Whether it’s a new or used travel trailer, you must check every step of the process of selecting, inspecting, and purchasing the travel trailer to ensure complete satisfaction with the transaction you’re about to undertake. If you want to make sure you have a solid checklist for buying a used travel trailer and guide you through the process, you’re in the right place. In this article, we share our expert input for buying a used travel trailer checklist (Free Printable PDF).

The Checklist for Buying a Used Travel Trailer should include items like budget, floor plan, towing capacity, and must-have features. For a used travel trailer, you’ll also want to factor in things like condition, age, and miles. No matter which route you go, be sure to do your research and inspect the travel trailer thoroughly before making your purchase. This way you can hit the open road with peace of mind, knowing you made the best decision for your needs.

There are so many factors to consider when purchasing a used travel trailer.

This self-inspection checklist before buying a used travel trailer has more than 150 inspection points, and it is based on the manufacturers’ RV PDI but modified to look for particular details since you will inspect a used RV. You can download the “buying a used travel trailer checklist” Free Printable PDF, print it out, and bring it to the self-inspection (8 pages). It is perfect to guide you through the process and don’t miss any details when inspecting a used travel trailer before buying.

Self-Inspection Checklist Before Buying a Used Travel Trailer Free Printable PDF
Self-Inspection Checklist Before Buying a Used Travel Trailer Free Printable PDF (pages:8)
Download at the end of the post.

Also, I would recommend this checklist for a private seller trying to sell a used travel trailer (to the right trailer value). It’s the last chance for the seller to improve the trailer before selling and get the most out of your trailer.

Now let’s take a closer look at each of these items in more detail.

How to Buy a Used Travel Trailer Checklist

When buying a pre-owned travel trailer, your checklist should include:

  1. Budget: How much can you afford to spend on your new travel trailer? Keep in mind that there will be additional costs beyond the initial purchase price, such as insurance, maintenance, and repairs.
  2. Floorplan: What type of floorplan do you need to comfortably accommodate your family or group? Do you want a spacious living area or kitchen, or are you looking for more storage space?
  3. Towing capacity: What is the towing capacity of your vehicle? This is an important consideration, as you’ll need to make sure your vehicle can safely tow the travel trailer.
  4. Must-have features: What features are must-haves for your new travel trailer? Some examples might include awnings, slide-outs, or solar panels.
  5. When buying a used travel trailer, you’ll also want to factor in things like condition, age, and miles. For a used travel trailer, your checklist should also include:
  6. Condition: Is the travel trailer in good condition? Be sure to inspect it inside and out, looking for any signs of damage or wear and tear.
  7. Age: How old is the travel trailer? Older models may not have some of the same features and amenities as newer models.
  8. Miles: How many miles has the travel trailer been used? This can give you an idea of how much life it has left and how often it’s been used.

In this article, we prepared a Checklist for Buying a Used Travel Trailer covering in detail all the self-inspection step-by-step you need.

No matter which route you go, be sure to do your research and inspect the travel trailer thoroughly before making your purchase. This way you can hit the open road with peace of mind, knowing you made the best decision for your needs.

As you will see in the following paragraphs, the most important part of the process of purchasing a used travel trailer is the inspection checklist to prevent scams.

What to Look for When Buying a Used Travel Trailer

If you’re in the market for a used travel trailer, there’s a lot to consider. You’re about to embark on a whole new world of adventure. That’s why we create this “buying a used travel trailer checklist” and as you can see it is just for used travel trailers.

However, before you make your purchase, it’s important to do your homework and make sure you’re getting the best possible deal. Let’s see What to Look for When Buying a Used Travel Trailer.

We spoke with industry experts to find out the greatest red flags and signs to look out for, plus summarize our years of experience as RVers and engineers designing and manufacturing RVs and RV parts, as well as everything else you should keep in mind when buying an RV to create the perfect checklist for a used travel trailer. This checklist is different from the inspection points you should have for a motorhome, a fifth wheel, or a new RV. Use this “Buying A Used Travel Trailer Checklist” to help guide you through the process of buying a used travel trailer.

Here’s a checklist of things to keep in mind as you shop to help ensure you find the perfect travel trailer for your needs.

Determine Your Budget Before Buying a Travel Trailer

The first step in buying a travel trailer is to determine your budget. It’s important to have a firm idea of how much you’re willing to spend on a travel trailer before you start shopping. This will help narrow your search and prevent you from overspending.

How much can you afford to spend on a travel trailer? Determine your budget and stick to it.

Once you have a number in mind, you should not start shopping around until cover the rest of this checklist.

Research Different Types of Travel Trailers

There are many different types of RVs on the market, and travel trailers are very popular, so the variety of models on offer is huge. Whether you are looking for a new or used travel trailer, researching which travel trailer is the most attractive for your budget will take a lot of time.

Beginner buyers sometimes purchase campers practically on impulse, relying only on the look or floor design. Take the time to study the components, such as a water pump, plumbing, cabinet kinds, and so on. You will have to live with these intricacies, and you will not want to work with low-cost components.

Don’t be overwhelmed by the abundance of accessories and components, and consider carefully and critically if you require the extra capabilities supplied. Take some time to consider what type of life you want to live in your travel trailer.

Do your research to find the used travel trailer that best suits your needs. Figure out what size of travel trailer you need, regarding a length easy to maneuver, the weight according to the towing capacity, and the sleeping capacity you will need. Travel trailers come in a variety of sizes, from small “teardrop” trailers to large fifth wheels. Consider how many people you’ll be traveling with and what kinds of amenities you’ll want to have in your trailer.

Choose the right floor plan suitable for your purpose.  Are you looking to live in a travel trailer or vacation and go on weekend trips? How many people will be sleeping and what kind of beds do you need?

Just like with houses, there are a variety of floorplans available in travel trailers. Again, think about how you’ll be using the space and choose a layout that will work well for you.

Pick the right extras you will need for your purpose when choosing a travel trailer. From slide-outs to solar panels, there are a lot of optional features available on travel trailers. Decide which ones are must-haves for you and which you can live without. For example: Interested in using the travel trailer during the winter? Boondocking or Moochdocking?

Read reviews and compare different models to find the travel trailer that’s right for you.

  • Size, sleeping capacity, and types of beds: What kind of floorplan for your travel trailer do you need?
  • Think about how many people will be using it and what type of activities you’ll be doing.
  • Towing capacity: Can your vehicle tow a travel trailer? Make sure to check your vehicle’s towing capacity before making a purchase.
  • Features: What features are you looking for in a travel trailer? Make a list of must-haves.

Let’s review a few more things before diving into the buying a used travel trailer checklist. Let’s see the towing capacity you need to tow the used travel trailer and the right used value to prevent scams.

Towing Capacity to Tow the Used Travel Trailer You Want to Buy

Regarding the towing capacity to tow the used travel trailer, you want to buy be sure to check your number about your towing capability before starting to look for (highly recommended to not waste your time) or at least before buying a used travel trailer!

Always check the maximum towing capacity of your tow vehicle. Remember that you’ll be adding people, a lot of stuff, and water if you don’t reach 80% of your maximum! Check your vehicle identification number and the owner’s handbook. Do not purchase a used travel trailer if it puts you within 80% of your maximum!!!

If you’re not towing with a truck, be sure your car or SUV has an integrated brake controller. You must have a brake controller to tow a travel trailer. If you don’t have one, calculate you’ll have to spend an extra $400 to towing safely.

As you can see before any buying inspection, there are a lot of things to consider when looking for a used travel trailer.

There is so much to choose from in the market that it will probably take you weeks to choose the model and floor plan that best suits your expectations. There is a complete article about this that we recommend you read to help you in your choice and it is called What to Look at When Buying A Travel Trailer. You can access the article by clicking on the link. Believe me when I say this is the most important part of your final satisfaction. Following these tips, you’ll be sure to find the perfect travel trailer for your needs.

Determine the Value of the Used Travel Trailer You Are Looking For

Before moving on to the checklist for buying a used travel trailer, you should consider one more thing. Besides your budget, be sure the value of the used travel trailer you want to buy is aligned with the current market.

Whether you are going to a dealer or buying from a private owner, you want to have a fair market price for the used travel trailer, which in other words is the Private Party RV Value.

The best way is to appraise the used travel trailer by using the NADA RV Guide. If you have the value in advance, when you go to the inspection, you can easily discuss the appropriate value with the seller and adjust it according to the condition of the used trailer you just it during the inspection. That’s the great advantage of basing your trailer value expectation on the NADA Guide for RV instead of websites that don’t apply rational fundamentals. If you want to learn more about why the NADA RV guide offers you the best way to quote and take care of your investment follow the links in this paragraph and it will take you to our articles where we explain how to get free quotes, how to use the guide and how to determine the NADA RV value by VIN. Remember there is no Kelley Blue Book for RVs.

Regarding the best time of the year for the transaction, for a buyer, I would strongly recommend doing your research in advance but waiting until the prices fall down by the end of the year. If you want to understand why this is the best time of the year, here is the link to my article What to Know Before Buying an RV

Get a Thorough Inspection

Inspect the trailer thoroughly before you finalize your purchase. It’s important to inspect the trailer thoroughly. You can do your self-inspection or get a pre-purchase inspection before you finalize your purchase from a qualified technician.

Take your time. Don’t rush into a purchase. This is a big decision and you want to make sure you’re choosing the right travel trailer for you and your family.

Check for any damage or wear and tear. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask the dealer. Before you finalize any purchase, be sure to have a professional inspect the trailer for any potential problems. This is especially important if you’re buying a used travel trailer.

This is the most important part of the purchasing process. The core of this buying process and to prevent scams is to understand the level of details you should check and look for during the inspection before buying a travel trailer and this is the checklist that will help you to be successful in your purchase. Now it is time to start with buying a used travel trailer checklist.

What to Look for When Buying a Used Travel Trailer pdi
What to Look for When Buying a Used Travel Trailer

Travel Trailer Self-Inspection Before Buying A Pre-Owned Travel Trailer

It is important to do a thorough inspection of any travel trailer before making a purchase, especially if you are considering a pre-owned model.

Bring the Checklist for Buying a Used Travel Trailer, Pencil, Flashlight, Gloves, and Ladder. Dress comfortably

When you go to inspect the travel trailer be sure to take a notepad or write down on this printed checklist, a pencil to take your notes, a flashlight, gloves, and although it may seem like overkill, include a ladder.

I know that bringing a ladder to the inspection to buy a used travel trailer may sound a little over the top. But believe me, 15 or 20 years ago I wish someone had given me that advice on how to properly inspect a trailer roof. If you don’t feel like carrying the ladder, you may be able to check from above with a drone. I prefer the ladder, but it’s true that when I was in my 20s or 30’s I wouldn’t have shown up with a ladder to the inspection.

Dress comfortably because you will be looking for the information above and below the trailer. And lastly, if you wear glasses, please don’t forget them! You will inspect the details of this used travel trailer, save money and ensure our investment. Keep that in mind while you read this text.

Extra Tip! Over the years I have also learned to ask my wife to go with me. Because if the seller wants to talk to me and distract me from my self-inspection job, she’s the one who takes care of it, and I can inspect without distractions. So, try to bring someone else on the inspection day to follow the seller’s conversation, and you will see how useful it is for you not to be distracted and save you from the seller who is insistent and nagging you all the time.

Print out this “Buying a Used Travel Trailer Checklist Free Printable PDF” and bring it to the self-inspection day, to help ensure that you are buying a quality travel trailer that will serve you well for many trips to come.

In the following sections, we will go through how to evaluate a travel trailer before buying it, using the checklist, step-by-step.

How to Inspect A Travel Trailer Before Buying It?

If you’re in the market for a travel trailer, it’s important to know how to inspect one before making a purchase. Here’s a checklist to help you out.

Before buying a used travel trailer, from a dealer or private owner, follow these important inspection tips.

You should include the entire exterior and interior. First, observe and then touch, and finally test if it works.

I advise you not to do this check with the trailer owner or dealer constantly talking to you. You will want to do this alone, objectively, and not be distracted so as not to skip any points of interest. The most important points of this buying a used travel trailer checklist is the following bullet point:

  • Look for any signs of damage, both inside and outside the trailer.
  • Check all of the windows and doors to make sure they’re in good condition and fully functional.
  • Inspect the plumbing and electrical systems to ensure everything is in working order.
  • Make sure the tires are in good condition and have plenty of treads.
  • Finally, test all the features of the trailer to make sure they’re working properly.

Some of the signs of deterioration we look for are not to haggle over price or because they are costly to repair. Rather, we look for them because they may be an indicator of other damage or give us an idea of how well the travel trailer has been cared for by its owners. Let’s see the buying a used travel trailer checklist (deep dive level!)

Inspection Looking for Water Damage

In the exterior of the travel trailer as well as in the interior we are going to look for any signs of water damage. During the inspection we are going to focus in:

  • Roof inspection (exterior and interior)
  • Floor inspection (exterior and interior)
  • Walls inspection (exterior and interior)
  • Doors, Windows, and Roof Vents from the inside of the trailer

Let’s see What to Look for When Buying a Used Travel Trailer.

Exterior Condition Inspection

Travel Trailer Exterior Condition Inspection. Take a good look at the outside of the travel trailer.

When inspecting the exterior the most important inspection covers the walls, floor, and roof. We are going to start with the less important exterior condition inspection to have the details related to walls, floor, and roof fresh in our minds when we go inside.

Exterior lights and reflectors

  • Also, check to make sure that all of the lights and reflectors are in good exterior condition (cracks? or broken?).

You may want to inspect the condition of:

  • Exterior Security cameras,
  • Entertainment center,
  • Outdoor kitchen,
  • Exterior shower,
  • Pass-thru storage or exterior storage compartments.
  • Check for corrosion and rust by opening all of the external panels. Give the walls a nudge as well.

Stabilizers

  • Inspect the stabilizers. Are they electric or manual? Are they in good condition and fully functional?

Only For 4 Season Used Travel Trailers

On 3 Season and 4 Season Travel Trailers, you should inspect the drain pipes, insulation on storage compartments, and heated and/or insulated underbelly of the travel trailer that must protect the water lines from bursting and provide a suitable winterization.

  • Are the drain pipes completely encased?
  • Is there insulation in the basement storage?
  • Is the storage in the basement heated?
  • Are the tanks heated with electricity or propane?

Roof: Look for any cracks, dents, bow spots, or other damage.

The roof inspection is one of the most critical parts on our checklist for buying a used travel trailer.

  • Use the ladder for the roof check so you can observe it from every aspect.
  • What I’m going to check for first is bending in the trailer’s skin, so if you’re in a place like this with a lot of snow or rain, if that snow stays up on the trailer and isn’t properly removed, you’ll have bowing between the framing and that skin will go down.
  • Is this trailer covered with a tarp?
  • If there isn’t a tarp on the trailer, does it look like the tarp has been there for some time?
  • Is a trailer covered with pine needles and sap? or Does it appear to be reasonably clean?
  • Is the roof in need of repair?
  • I’d go around the roof, inspecting each section. Has there been any roof sealant applied?
  • Are there any additional indications of roof repair?
  • I’d then go to the trailer roof vents.
  • Is there a lot of work going on near the vents?
  • Are there any flaws or cracks?
  • All of the objects you are inspecting on the trailer roof, even just the external examination with the ladder, will provide you with information about what to search for within the trailer.
  • Keep anything up there that remotely rings a bell, any type of red flag in your thoughts mind because when we enter into the travel trailer, here’s where you’ll take a closer look.

Solar Panels over the Used Travel Trailer Roof

  • Are solar panels installed? Are they in good condition and fully functional?
  • Are the solar panels adjustable so that you may turn them toward the sun while boondocking for a few days?

Exterior Walls: Look for any cracks, dents, bow spots, or other damage.  

  • A similar process as it was described for the roof, should be replicated for the travel trailer walls during the inspection. Especially next to joints, and openings such as windows, doors, roofs, lights, reflectors, etc.

Floor Inspection from the Exterior

  • I strongly advise you to look underneath the travel trailer, that’s why I suggest bringing comfortable cloth to the trailer inspection.

Now, you go inside and check every single thing that remotely may seem a red flag in the exterior inspections of this used travel trailer. You will search for evidence in the interior that correlates with the possible damage you find in the exterior.

Let’s move to the next phase of this buying a used travel trailer checklist: the interior inspection.

Interior Condition Inspection

Let’s start with the part of the checklist for buying a used travel trailer that covers the Interior Inspection. Take a look inside the travel trailer, smell it, jump and touch it!

Smell Inside

  • Cigarette: What does the inside smell like?
  • Storage smell/Mold smell: What does the inside smell like? Might it just be a musty odor that goes away shortly? Allow it to air out for 20 minutes while you look about, then smell it again.

Used Travel Trailer Walls and Ceiling

  • Check for any signs of water damage, molds, or mildew. Also, check inside cabinets and drawers looking for signs of water damage.
  • Examine the corners of the ceilings and floors, look up and down the walls, and especially inspect the corners and caulk around the fixtures in the bathroom. Also, uncover cupboards and closets and use a flashlight to check for mold growth.
  • Inspect ceiling joints and wall joints.
  • You will check around to see whether it has recently been painted. I’d look at least twice.
  • Is the fresh paint covering up water damage?
  • If the water damage in the walls has been covered up, it may be more difficult to discover.
  • Water damage would be visible. You may look for water damage in mattresses, inside cabinets, damaged furniture, etc.
  • Water damage appears brown or produces waves on surfaces like wood paneling on trailer walls.
  • If you find molds in walls or ceilings, pay extra attention in the next step when checking the used travel trailer floor.

Used Travel Trailer Floor

  • If the trailer has a spanking new floor, don’t get too thrilled. Think something like “What are they covering?”
  • Even if the floor is brand new, I will thoroughly check it before purchasing the travel trailer.
  • I mentioned how a travel trailer floor might conceal possible water damage; I would argue the same thing regarding paint. If the trailer was recently painted, there is a chance of water damage inside.
  • How do you evaluate the travel trailer floor before purchasing one? I’m just going to push about on the floor, stepping in every single spot. Look for a bouncy floor. Search for humps and elevated spots.
  • Examine the flooring’s joints. Was that flooring used to cover up water damage?
  • If the water caused damage to the inside of the trailer, you should be able to detect it using the techniques in this article.
  • Were the cabinets harmed by water? Check between the cabinets and the floor.
  • Were the walls harmed by water? Return to the “Trailer Walls Inspection” bullet points if needed.
  • Another suggestion for examining the trailer floor is to remove and elevate carpets and rugs. Use your gloves.  
  • What’s hidden beneath the trailer rugs? I would recommend taking some gloves with you to work comfortably throughout the trailer inspection checklist. Removing the rugs and carpets may not always be the most pleasant chore. Simply be prepared to get messy and shift things about to view what you need to see.
  • You could overlook minor water damage on the floor. If you find molds of walls or ceiling, jump up and down in a few places, notably around the kitchen and bathroom, where water is used the most. All of the floors should feel strong and robust; any give might suggest deterioration.
  • After evaluating the whole travel trailer inside, go back outside and check to see if there is any damage to the flooring. Check below the trailer.

The bathroom will be included when inspecting the plumbing system.

Openings (Windows, Doors, Roof Vents, etc.)

  • Check all of the windows and doors. Are they in good condition and fully functional?
  • Open and close each window to ensure that it is straight and that the latches are snug when closed. Make sure it’s not too sticky.
  • Is there a day/night shade or simply curtains on the windows?
  • Examine the windows and roof vents for water damage.
  • Go up to the roof vents and inspect each window. Look for discolorations, mushy areas, and any other indications that water has been there.
  • Check to see whether they’ve made any repairs.
  • Look for cracks in there since water damage may not have arrived yet, but it will.
  • Examine the gaskets on the windows and doors.
  • Look for signs of deterioration, such as fractures and weak structures.

Lights, Reflectors, Electrical Outlets

  • Make sure that all of the lights and reflectors are in good working condition.

Awnings

Are awnings in good condition and fully functional?

  1. When the awning is fully opened, examine the fabric.
  2. Is it fading?
  3. Ripping?
  4. Starting to drift apart?

Slide Outs

Are slide-outs in good condition and fully functional?

  1. Open the slides and observe the course they take along the floor. Look for scratches on the floor, twisted floor vents, or other signs that the slide isn’t working properly.
  2. Inquire with the prior owner if the slide has ever become stuck.
  3. Examine the seals surrounding the slide.
  4. Check that they are not damaged.
  5. Close the slide and have someone shine a flashlight around its perimeter. Check that you can’t see the light from outside.

Furniture

  • Check all the cabinets, drawers, storage compartments, etc.
  • Remove the cushions and inspect both sides. Are there any stains being concealed?

Let’s move to the next phase of this buying a used travel trailer checklist: electrical system, including appliances, plumbing, and gas system.

Electrical Inspection

  • Let’s talk about electricity. Now take out the solar portable generator and connect it to the shore power; you’ll be able to power anything in the trailer.
  • If possible, hook the travel trailer up to a power source and test everything out.
  • Are the lights turned on?
  • Is the refrigerator turned on?
  • Is the shower pump operational?
  • Consider everything that requires power and put it to the test right now.
  • Examine the electrical appliances and the control panel.

Appliances Inspection

In this part of the checklist for buying a used travel trailer, the main idea is to test all the appliances, try them, inspect working conditions and write down notes to discuss with the owner. This will give you a good approach to whether you need to invest in new appliances (or not).

  • Some points were included in the electrical inspection.
  • When inspecting the kitchen, have the sink countertop coverings gone missing? Not all the models include a sink counter-top
  • Turn on all of the appliances to make sure that they are in good working condition.
  • This includes all the kitchen appliances such as the stove, oven, refrigerator, and microwave oven, and the cooling system such as the air conditioner, a heating system, etc.

Air conditioner or Cooling System inspection

  1. For 3 minutes, turn on the air conditioning. The air flowing out of your used travel trailer should be ice-cold throughout your examination.
  2. Is there just one air conditioner? If the used travel trailer you are inspecting is larger than 30 feet, you should be aware that one air conditioning unit will most likely not enough on 100-degree days unless you have plenty of shade surrounding you.
  3. Are the air conditioners noisy?
  4. Examine the ceiling vent fans.

Kitchen Appliances

  1. Place a cup of water in the travel trailer’s microwave and heat it. A microwave can turn on and appear to function while not producing heat.
  2. Will the fridge be large enough to meet the demands of your family? Is it in good working condition? Is the fridge just powered by electricity or by a combination of electricity and propane?

Plumbing Inspection

  • Check all of the faucets and toilets to make sure during the plumbing inspection they are in good working condition.
  • Also, test all of the drains to make sure that they are clear.
  • Include the bathroom and shower tray in the inspection.

Check the toilet to ensure that the closing hatch completely seals.

  1. Pour a tiny amount of water into the toilet and ensure that it pools rather than drains.
  2. Return in 5 minutes to ensure the water is still present.

Although you have selected the floor plan and that is why you are inspecting the used travel trailer for buying, now you have the chance to understand if besides the floor plan you like the interior, spaces, and for example the space in the shower.

  1. Is the shower big enough for you? Taller people may need skylights.
  2. Is the toilet made of porcelain or plastic?
  3. Is the bowl long enough to accommodate men?
  4. Is there a nice head on the shower? This is one of the first improvements the RV owners make.
  5. Is there space for a bench in the shower so that women may conveniently shave their legs?
  6. Is there a nice size lip on the bottom of the shower so that water doesn’t run out?
  7. Is there any mold or mildew in the shower?
  8. If it is a wet bath, Am I comfortable with that? Is there a hand basin included or do I just realize there is not?

Water Supply System

  1. Fill up the fresh water tank before testing the gray and black tanks. Hookups must be included in your used travel trailer inspection checklist. This allows you to fill the gray tank by simply taking a shower.
  2. It’s a good opportunity to check to see whether the shower head is leaking.
  3. As you take a shower, check the status indicators to determine if it appropriately gauges the quantity of water in the gray tank.
  4. Check the water heater to ensure it is heating the water appropriately.

Gas Inspection

Heating

  • Check that the heating on/off system works properly. At least five times, turn it on and off. Examine the plug distribution.

Gas Box and Gas Connection

  • Examine the floor’s condition. The floor must be firm. The gas box must be spotless.
  • If the floor is unstable and the gas box is dirty, this might suggest a problem. All gas lines should be in good condition.
  • Now we’ll go to the gas. Check the propane connection, stove, oven, and heater/furnace.
  • Is everything up and running?
  • Is everything functional?
  • If the gas system works, you will have saved a lot of time when you arrive home.

Refrigerator/Cooker

  • In gas mode, the flame must ignite.

Connectivity Inspection

  • Is the travel trailer equipped with a radio, antenna, Wi-Fi, cell phone booster, and satellite internet for RV antenna?
  • Is everything up and running?
  • Is everything functional?

Finally, the last part of this buying a used travel trailer checklist: the test drive.

Used Travel Trailer Test Drive Inspection Before Buying  

The test drive is essential for me. I strongly disagree with a seller who says I can’t test it out for a few kilometers and with the seller. A test drive, if possible, is one of the greatest methods to acquire a general sense of the trailer.

Request a test drive with the seller onboard to answer any queries, and allow the seller to perform some of the driving as well.

Tires Inspection

Tires Inspection. Inspect the condition of the tires.

  1. Check for any excessive wear or damage.
  2. Also, be sure to check the air pressure in all of the tires.
  3. Determine the age and depth of the track. If the tread wear is asymmetrical in different areas of the tire, this indicates a misalignment inside the wheels or poor inflation.
  4. The standard rule of thumb is to replace your camper tires when they reach the age of 5 years. Tires must be no more than six years old, regardless of the aesthetic examination.
  5. Look for the DOT label on the sidewall of the tire to determine its age. The four-digit code that follows will reveal the week and year that the tire was manufactured. The number 2022 indicates that the tires were made in the 20th week (May) of the year 2022.

Additional Inspection

  • Check the Trailer Hitch
  • Taillights within the Trailer
  • Tongue Weight

Final Thoughts about Buying a Used Travel Trailer Checklist and The Purchase

Final thoughts after you complete the self-inspection and the “buying a used travel trailer checklist”.

Just because you encounter certain damage, doesn’t mean you shouldn’t buy the travel trailer. It is only an indicator that you should invest a certain amount of money if you want to leave the travel trailer in good condition. It will also allow you to haggle over the price based on the find.

On the other hand, if the investment is considerable, you may want to give up and look for another travel trailer in better condition.

After completing the used travel trailer inspection checklist before buying you should have a good idea of additional investments needed.  

Some repairs can cost several thousand. Especially those that have their origin in the water systems, plumbing, leaks, etc. Not only will you have to repair leaks and water leaks, pipes, and connections, but you will also have to repair all the water damage such as the floors, insulation, carpeting, mattresses, etc.

Finally, take some time to talk to the previous owner. They’ll be able to tell you everything you need to know about the travel trailer. Pay close attention to how they’ve maintained it over the years. With this checklist in hand, you’ll be able to find the perfect travel trailer for your needs.

Once you have thoroughly inspected the travel trailer, you can then make an informed decision about whether or not it is the right one for you. By taking the time to do a self-inspection, you can be sure that you are getting a quality travel trailer that will serve you well for many trips to come.

RV insurance, like vehicle insurance, is generally required in your state. Before hitting the road with your new purchase, think about the insurance. The responsibility for a towable RV, such as a travel trailer, extends from the tow vehicle. It’s critical to get enough coverage to safeguard your assets in the event of a major accident or litigation. You risk going into debt or losing the things you’ve worked hard for, such as your house, car, RV, personal belongings, and life savings, if you don’t have enough liability coverage.

Self-Inspection Checklist Before Buying a Used Travel Trailer Free Printable PDF

You should download the Self-Inspection Checklist Before Buying a Used Travel Trailer Free Printable PDF. Print and bring it to the inspection day.

By following these simple tips, you can be sure you’re getting the best possible deal on your used travel trailer. As you can see, there are a lot of points to pay attention to. Take your time and use this buying a used travel trailer checklist (including a pdf free). It should be very useful to you.

About John Smith

For more than 30 years I worked in the exciting world of RV manufacturing. I liked knowing that I could improve the campers with customer feedback and see the improvements and upgrades on floor plans, delivering the best designs and the best quality RVs, year after year. After traveling with my family in RVs and small rented campers across the USA, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and even North Africa, I feel that I must share personal experiences, guidance, concerns, tips, and news. At Camper Outdoor, we share our biggest passion, weekend getaways in a camper, RV vacations, extended stays in RV parks, the quiet life of senior couples who choose to spend more time enjoying their RV, and boondocking experiences (which as in the beginning was unsuccessful, we have good tips to avoid the same thing happening to you!). Enjoy this website created just for you!

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