Used Campers: Complete Winterization Kit

Last week we discussed how to winterize your camper and I posted a few links to some products you will need to winterize your camper.

I was just surfing campingworld's site and they just added a complete kit to winterize your camper. It comes with Kit includes Water Heater By-Pass, Freeze Ban Antifreeze (3 gallons) and Pump Converter. The total price is about $33, which was about $5-10 cheaper than buying each thing separate.

So if you have not purchased your winterization kit yet, head over here before they sell out.

Camping World: Winterization Kit

How To Sell Used Campers

Selling used campers doesn't have to be a frustrating task if you go about it the correct way. Whether you just need the money, have no use for it or want to upgrade selling your camper online is probably the best route for a quick sale.

The first thing you will want to do is make the used camper ready for sale. You need to make the camper appealing to those looking for used campers. This means thoroughly cleaning the inside and outside of the camper, making minor repairs and replace defective or broken features. One great tip is to use Febreze on the camper furniture and things. Also a good cleaning of the floor with Pine-sol would be wise. People, especially young families buying used campers buy used campers that smell good, not trashy.

Once your camper is presentable, you'll need to snap 5-10 good digital pictures. These should be crisp, clean photos that are not blurry. You will want to take several of the outside and several of the inside. Be sure to focus of the features of the camper.

Next, you will want to write out everything about the camper. You'll need to list the make, model, year and all the features you camper includes. Specifically highlight air conditioning, heating, hot water heaters, water pumps and any other feature that you camper has that can set it apart from the competition. The more accurate you are with your written description, the more money you used camper will bring in.

After you have prepared and documented the camper, you need a platform to sell it. Below are three of the best places to sell used campers.

• Craigslist.com- Your best bet for price and speed of sale.
• Local newspaper- You'll get a good price, but it may take you longer to see because your reach is limited to the local area.
• eBay.com- Your best bet to dump the camper quickly, but you will sacrifice on the price. People use eBay to get a bottom-basement deal. Not to pay top dollar.

Simply follow the instructions on each of these sites to list your camper. I'd personally start with Craigslist and then move to eBay if I need a quick sale.

From there, sit back and let the buyers approach you about your used camper. Please be prepared to show the camper when contacted and reply to all questions.

Good luck!

Used Campers: How To Level Your Camper

As I have written in previous articles, I purchased a used camper this summer and have taken it out several times for family weekend trips. Used campers are great, but one thing I soon found out was that leveling a camper can be tricky if you don't have the right tools.

The first trip out, we must have found the best campsite ever, because it took me all of 2 minutes to get the camper level. Naturally after that first trip, I thought it would be that easy every time. Not so much. I quickly found out in trips since then that all camp sites are not created equal. All camp site pads are not created equal either. However, there are tools that you can buy to make the job easier and get you to the fun parts of camping sooner.

First off, most campers have some sort of leveling jack on each corner of the camper. They are usually either a scissor jack or stabilizer jack. You should consult your individual product manual for the operation of your jacks.

Once you figure out how your specific jack operates, you can focus on leveling your camper. To level your camper, you will need two things.

Calibrated Level

RV Leveling Blocks

How To Level Your Camper

1. Secure the camper with your wheel chocks and unhook the camper from the tow vehicle. Move the tow vehicle a safe distance away from the camper.
2. Inspect the camper and your levels to see if the camper is leaning more and two inches toward one side.
3. Add 1 leveling block per 2 inches to the opposite side that the level bubble is reading. For example, if the bubble was 3 inches to the left of zero. I would add 1 block to the right side of the camper. Or, if the bubble was 3 inches to the left. I would add 1 block to the rear of the camper.
4. Crank down your scissor or stabilizer jacks to the point that they are just barely supporting the weight of the camper. For anything but larger RV's, you do not want to have the wheels off the ground. The wheels actually help stabilize the camper. So don't crank you jacks to the point that they lift the tires up.
5. Look at your calibrated levels. Each mark equals one inch that side should come down or the opposite side should come up.
6. Adjust each stabilizer based on the reading from the calibrated level.
7. Look at the calibrated level one more time to make sure they both read as close to zero as possible.

That's it, you have a level camper. Enjoy!

Used Campers Of The Day: 2003 Fleetwood Bayside Elite

This one is a steal right now on eBay and will be ending in a few hours.

Description From eBay:

We bought this camper 3 years ago and enjoyed it Very much. It has NOT been used for the past 2 seaons. It is a GREAT camper! Very EASY to set up! One person can do it in 20 minutes. It weighs 3700lbs. The box is 12 ft and 26 ft opened w\8 ft slide-out that makes it so much roomier for those rainy days spent inside. The A/C works AWESOME which makes it enjoyable for those hot & humid days! It has cable hook up. A 3-way 1.9 cu. ft refrigerator. (propane, elec or battery) The working sink area has a Bay Window to enjoy the view! There is an Inside Stove as well as an Outside Stove to cook on. The Inside stove has NEVER been used. We always 'cooked out'! All of the propane and water lines work perfect. The Furnace is a 16000 btu and is very nice on those chilly Maine nights. Sleeps 8 comfortably. There are NO STAINS, RIPS or TEARS inside. You will truly enjoy camping with this camper. We did! We are selling it because we upgraded to a trailer now that we found a permanent spot in Maine. Please email me with any questions. Additional pix available upon request. Thank you for looking! p.s. with the awning comes a full screen in room. enjoy! p.s.s the damage on the trailer i back into it with the lawnmower it's mostly cosmetic.

Our Take:
I am very partial to Coleman/Fleetwood campers because they are the best. If you are looking for an outstanding and quality camper, this is the model.

The NADA on this is around $7,000. So if this auction stays below $5,000 it is going to make one very happy owner. This may be a good opportunity for a flip if you are in the Maine area. Early spring and summer this camper could go for $6,500 easy on craigslist.

This used camper auction is closed.

Disclaimer:
Please note that we have not inspected this camper, this recommendation is based on the owners description, pictures and estimated value. Please inspect this camper and ask the seller more detailed questions to get a better understanding of this camper.

Used Campers: The Folding Trailer Or Pop Up Camper

The average size of folding campers ranges from 15 to 23 feet when open and can sleep 4-8 people. The low end pop up camper can be purchased for around $7,000 new from a dealer. Folding campers top out at around $18,000 for the top of the line models.

Used campers can be purchased for as little as $1,000. Again, the quality may not be the same as a new camper, but for $1,000 the camper should still have plenty of life in it for a family to enjoy several times per year. You will also find that used campers, especially pop ups are extremely easy to work on and remodel. As long as the frame is solid, you can renovate that used camper into something that your family can enjoys and be comfortable in for years.

Features of the Folding Camper:

• Compact size allows for a variety of storage options ranging from an average size garage, driveway or storage facility.
• Light weight footprint allows for flexible towing options. Owners can tow with virtually any vehicle.
• Amenities can include all the comforts of home including functional kitchens, refrigerators, air conditioning, heating, showers and toilets.
• Tons of space for the family to relax in. Once expanded out, the folding trailer boasts impressive areas to sleep, eat, sit down and relax.

If you are in the market and a first-time RV buyer, check out the options and flexibility a used camper can offer you. For many, a used pop up camper is the perfect option to experience the camping lifestyle.

Get the most comprehensive resource.
Need more information? Check out the used RV buyers guide here: Used Rv Buyers Guide.

Winterize Used Campers

As fall approaches most of us are trying to fit those last one or tow camping trips in before the cold weather hits. When you decide your camping season is over, it is very important that you winterize your camper. Used campers require a great deal of care and winterizing and prolong the use of your camper, save on maintenance bills and problems down the road.

In order to get started, you will need a few things to winterize your camper. Most of these things can be found at your local camper supply store or online. I prefer to buy these things online because it is cheaper than any of the local camping supply stores in my area.

• Non-toxic RV antifreeze Not automobile antifreeze, which is toxic. You want the red RV antifreeze.
• A water heater bypass kit.
• Water pump converter kit.

Once you have these things, you can get started winterizing your used camper. It's important to note that the following list is just a general guide of things that you should do to winterize your camper. You really need to consult your owners manual for specific instructions on how to perform each task. If you don't have an owners manual, call the manufacturer or search the net for your make and model. Your owners manual should have detail instructions specific to your camper.

• Drain the fresh water holding tank.
• Drain and clean out the gray and blackwater tanks. You will want to use a chemical cleaner on these tanks to kill any bacteria.
• Drain the hot water heater.
• Open all of your water faucets and turn on the water pump until all of the water has been drained from the lines. Close all of the faucets after they are drained.
• You will now want to install the bypass for the hot water heater.
• Install the water pump kit according to the kit's directions, connect the inlet tube into your gallon of RV antifreeze, and then turn the water pump on and pressurize the system.
• Open each faucet, open the hot and cold valves until antifreeze appears.
• If you have a toilette, flush it until antifreeze appears.
• You will also want to pour a cup or two of antifreeze down each drain.
• You may want to double check your holding tanks to make sure they have antifreeze in them.
• You will also want to pay close attention to the outer areas of your camper. Make sure the roof is in good shape because it will only get worse during the winter if you have any problem areas.
• You will specifically want to patch any cracks or seams that are worn to prevent rain, snow and ice from getting in. If this happens, come spring time you will have a terrible mildew and mold problem.

That should cover the basics of winterizing your used camper. Again, please consult your owners manual for the specific winterizing tasks that your used camper requires.

How To Buy Used Campers

Buying a camper is a great choice for recreation, but buying a used camper is an even better choice. Used campers can save you thousands of dollars over buying a new camper from a local dealer. Buying a camper can be an exciting time, but don't let your excitement lead you into a bad decision. Here are a few steps and things to look at when looking at used campers.

Always bring a second pair of eyes with you when you look used campers.

For eyes are better than two when it comes to used campers. Take a buddy with you and each of you thoroughly inspect the camper out top to bottom. Take note careful note of the negative things that you both notice.

Never buy used campers with water damage.

You are just asking for problems when it comes to water damage. Water damage leads to rot. Rot leads to malfunction. Malfunction leads to a camper that will sit in your driveway with a tarp over it. My father-in-law purchased an awesome 2002 Jayco pop up camper 3 years ago. He used it one time right after he bought it and stored it in his driveway. Three months later he went to raise the tent and the supports anchoring the entire lift system to the frame broke. All of the wood on the left panel had rotted out.

If you feel lucky, go to Vegas. Don't buy a camper with water damage.

Always check the appliances in used campers.

Plug the refrigerator in. Get the air conditioner going. Turn the shower on. Make sure the water pump works. Flush the toilet. Plug something all the electrical outlets to make sure they work. Test the hot water heater. Test the propane system and stove.

To save time, call the dealer or person you are buying the used camper from ahead of time. Tell them you will be looking at all of these things. Tell them to have the AC on and blowing and hot water heater going.

If they refuse, walk away as there is probably something wrong with it.

Inspect the tires.

Always inspect the tires for rot and wear.

Always get the title and receipts.

If you purchase the camper, always get the title. Make sure the actual owner signs the title over to you. Get a receipt or bill of sale. Also, ask the previous owner if they have any maintenance receipts for historical purposes.

Get the most comprehensive resource.
I'm not an eBook fan, but this book is worth it. You can check it out here: Used Rv Buyers Guide.

Used Campers: Great Deal On A 2005 Fleetwood Pop Up Camper

WOW, I love this camper by Fleetwood. A lucky person could walk away with a great camper here. This auction ends SOON!

eBay description

This camper is in perfect condition and has all options available from manufacturer plus Carrier brand 13.5K BTU A/C unit! It has been stored inside my garage since purchased NEW on 3/15/2007 from a dealer that also had it stored inside his showroom. Never pulled off-road, non-smokers, no dents, dings, or scratches whatsoever. Options list: Canopy, 6 gal. hot water heater, outside wash-down system with hot and cold water, Outside grill, Spare tire, 1.9 cu. ft. 3-Way Refrigerator, 16K BTU furnace, Sand pads for all Stabilizer Jacks, and the Double Entry Step is already installed for adding the 15" tires for even greater clearance if you wish! Camper box is 10 foot length and 7'5" width, overall tongue to bumper is 16'5". For even greater details, look at the Fleetwood RV website and the Evolution E1 model here: http://www.fleetwoodcampingtrailers.com/model_detail.aspx?mid=8&sid=3 This unit is heavy duty with gas shock suspension system for getting into those out of the way camping spots that no one else can get a camper into. This unit is pretty much self-sufficient when used off-road with it's large capacity potable water tank and pump system and a 12V battery for power. If you really wanted all the comforts of home, there's plenty of room on the front gear deck to strap on a generator(not included) to power the A/C unit as well.

This used camper auction is closed.

Used Campers - Tent Cleaning

One of the first problem areas that go wrong with used campers relates to the canvas tent enclosure. Somewhat ironically, the tent enclosure is also one of the most important parts of a new or used camper. So, it is critical that you take care of your tent, keep it clean and repair it immediately when problems come up.

The tent enclosure should be cleaned after every use. If dirt is allowed to buildup on the canvas, it can become embedded in the fabric. If it gets to that stage, you will do more harm to the canvas than good by trying to over clean it.

You will want to brush off any dirt, leaves or other debris that fell on the canvas. Hose down the camper and clean with a mild solution of soap in warm water. I prefer to use Ivory soap because it is extra-mild. Rinse it thoroughly to remove all the soap.

Never, never use detergents on new or used campers. Detergents will eat at the canvas and water repellent.

In older canvases and used campers that have some wear and leak, Coleman does recommend treating the fabric with Scotchguard. It's the red plaid can.

You can use a soft brush with cold water on vinyl bed end covers.

If you have any specific concerns, it is better to ask before you clean your used camper with anything other than water. Contact your specific manufacturer for the fastest and safest answer to your problem.

Used Campers- 1994 Fleetwood Bounder

Ran across this deal on eBay this afternoon. It is a 1994 Fleetwood Bounder with a diesel engine. Right now the price is extremely low for the condition and NADA value.

Used Campers Detail:

• 36 feet long!
  
• DIESEL!
• WASHER/DRYER UNIT!!!
• WINTER PACKAGE (all tanks are insulated & have heating ducts)
• Queen size bed in a private suite with plenty of closet space
• Stand up or sit down shower stall with skylight
• 20" TV in front living space
• 13" TV in rear bedroom
• Kitchen includes: Double sink, 3 burner stove, Oven, Refrigerator/Freezer
• Dinette folds out into bed
• Sofa folds into a large bed
• 2 A/C units
• 3 Swivel chairs with a cafe table
• Towing package

We recommend a maximum bid of $20000 for this used camper. The current bid is $14,000.

This used camper auction is closed.

The Key To Buying Used Campers Is Patients

By nature most people are impulsive, I need it now, I'll pay for it later kind of people. This is not a good start for looking at used campers. In order to buy the camper of your dreams, you need to have patients. Without patients, that camper of your dreams could turn into the camper from your nightmares.

The first step in looking at used campers is to plan on a long process. Save the impulse buy for a candy bar. Buying the correct camper takes time, research and negotiation. You are completely upon the mercy of the seller if you appear anxious.

You have to realize that campers are mass produced, they are not like a one of a kind Picasso painting. They are mass produced in factories, sold in masses and resold in masses. Currently on eBay there are over 1,991 campers for sale. Likewise there are several hundred used campers for sale in each craigslist market. The point is, you don't have to feel rushed. If the camper you are looking at gets sold, so what. There are or will be five more like it on eBay next week.

What happens is we get in a hurry and lose our patients. Loss of patients equals impulse buy. Impulse buy equals compromise. Either we compromise our budget, we will over pay, compromise on a feature or overlook damage. These very things that you compromise on will be the same things that ultimately kill your camping trip and ruin your vacation.

The key: Be patient, don't compromise, don't be afraid to walk away and look another day!

Buying Used Campers From A Dealer

There are three reasons why you would want to buy a used camper from a dealer. Many of these reasons are the exact same reasons you would buy a car from a used car lot.

1. The warranty. Most used campers sold by dealers can come with an extended warranty. This can be extremely valuable because repair costs on used campers can get very expensive.

2. The selection. Dealers often have an enormous selection of used campers to choose from.

3. The inspection. Rarely do dealers sell lemons, they auction off lemons on eBay or Craigslist. However, their good used campers all go through a service inspection and anything that is broken gets repaired.

Now, if you do decide to purchase a used camper from a dealer you will need to do your research and brush up on your negotiating skills. That's right, you guessed it. The benefits of warranty, selection and inspection come with the negative of a higher price tag.

Therefore, it is critical that you do your homework and accurately price the used camper using NADA and some competitive research. Don't be afraid to make a low offer and be prepared to walk away if the dealer doesn't come down on their price. Nine times out of ten you'll get a call from them before you pull into the next lot down the road.

Keep this in mind. Dealers have to sell their inventory. They have the sucker price they want you to pay and a break-even price that they won't lose money. It's your job to negotiate down as close as possible to their break-even price.

Always remember, YOU are doing them the favor of purchasing their used camper and they need to treat you accordingly.

How To Price Used Campers

There is no big secret, just common sense when it comes to pricing used campers. You simply need to do your research and pay close attention to the used camper market.

There are three steps in pricing used campers.

The first step is to figure out the NADA book value for the used camper. You can visit NADA and select "Recreational Vehicles" to get started. Simply fill out the online form, entering as much detail about the camper as possible. The more detail you add, the more accurate the quote will be. This number should give you a pretty accurate estimate of the value of the camper. Pay close attention to the low and average retail prices.

The second step is to adjust price for any defects or repairs that need to be made to the camper. For instance if the NADA is $5000 for the camper, but the AC doesn't work you will want to deduct $800 from the NADA. Also, if there is damage to the floor you will want to adjust a few hundred dollars to make minor repairs. Many used campers will need a new canvas, negotiate $900 off the NADA for that.

Once you figure out the NADA and subtract a fair estimate for damages or imperfections, you have your fair used camper value.

Next, you need to figure out the supply. You can use online tools like eBay and Craigslist.com to see how many similar used campers are out there in the marketplace. If luck is on your side, there will be plenty. But if you are like me, you will only find a few. When you do find similar campers, write down the prices and compare them to the NADA book and your fair market values. Ideally, you will want to be at or below the NADA value. You never want to be above the NADA value.

You will be at a great advantage if supply is on your side because you can walk away from one deal without sacrificing camper features. If the owner is not budging on price, just move on but always leave your contact information. You'll find that most people with come down on price to move the camper.

You'll also find that most people selling used campers have no idea that NADA for campers exists, so they are way over priced. It's your job to present the data to them and negotiate a fair price for the camper.

For example, I found a 1998 Coleman Westlake on Craigslist this summer. The owner wanted $5,500 for it, which was way higher than the NADA. I spoke with the owner and showed him the true value and some eBay listings for similar campers and he came way down on the price. Actually came a bit below the NADA and I saved a few thousand on the deal.

Do your research, negotiate a price that works for you and close the deal as soon as the price is set. It is critical that you have cash in hand and be ready to purchase when negotiating a price. You don't want the person to sleep on it or get approached with better offers.

Where to Buy Used Campers

Used campers are generally sold by either a dealer or private party. Dealers normally have a car lot with a variety of new and used campers of different classes and manufactures. Private party used campers are normally limited to one camper that they personally own and have a history of usage.

Your used camper dealer can be found in your local YellowPages. Most major cities have 4-5 dealers and are normally found on the outskirt of the city. For example, I live outside of Dallas, Texas and I pass 5 dealers or small lots everyday on my way in to work. Dealers also have their own Web page that you can visit, check inventory and contact a sales professional.

Private party sales on the other hand often take a more active approach using classified ads listed in local newspapers or online. The most common place to find a private party used camper is Craigslist.com or eBay.com.

So what's the difference between buying a used camper from a private party or a dealer? The primary difference between the two options revolves around the guarantee and warranty. Dealers provide some kind of warranty on their sales, where private party sales are usually final. Therefore, it is critical that you check the camper out thoroughly before any agreements are signed or cash changes hands.

Buying Used Campers- Plan Ahead

A used camper can either make or break your family vacation, weekend away or trip away from the city. There is nothing more frustrating than fighting with camper problems during a relaxing family vacation. Your goal in buying a used camper should be making an investment that will enhance your weekends, family vacations or time away from the city. The following article outlines some thoughts on buying a used camper and what you should be prepared for when shopping for used campers.

1. Realize used does not mean abused. Campers come in all variations and have many different features. None of those features matter if you purchase the proverbial lemon. Naturally, the focus when used camper shopping should be saving money, but not at the expense of quality.

2. Make a checklist. Shopping for used campers can be intimidating, so make a list of features that you require. Some people divide their list into two sections, must haves and nice to haves. Do not separate your list into those two sections. You need to have one list that combines the two. If you don't, I guarantee that you will purchase the wrong camper for your needs and you will be sitting there on your first trip thinking, "I should have bought the camper that had..."

3. Set your budget and commit to that budget within 10%. Sometimes you have to spend a little more then you would like to get what you want. A 10% difference is not that much in the big picture.

4. Do your research. You need to figure out what kind of used camper fits your need and budget. Once you figure out the type of camper, research the major manufacturers and models.

Once you have completed steps 1-4, you can begin to search for used campers.

Used Campers: The Pop Up

I was looking online for used campers earlier this year and started to get overwhelmed by the options. Used campers come in all sizes and many serve different purposes. You have teardrop, travel, pop up, 5th wheel and so on and so on. For my family, a used pop up camper was our best option and here are a few reasons why.

First and foremost, a great benefit of buying a used camper is the price. Specifically, a used pop up camper will be your most cost effective option and you can get the most bang for your buck. I went down to several dealers that specialized in new and used campers and was shocked by the price difference. I was looking for a pop up with AC, refrigerator, hot water heater, water pump, toilet and shower. New, I was looking at $9,000 minimum for the baseline. Having a bit of sticker shock, I spent the next few afternoons on Craigslist.com. Within 5 days I found a 1998 Coleman in pristine condition that was garage kept that had all that I wanted but was over half the price I ran into at the dealer.

The pop up is also very light weight and can be easily towed by most vans, light trucks and SUV's. I tow my Coleman with a 2007 Chevrolet 1500 Silverado and notice no great difference in gas mileage. I average about 17 miles per gallon with the load, 19 without the load.

In addition to cost, size and features the pop up camper is ideal for a family of four. The family sleeps comfortably in the two fold outs. I personally have two small girls and they love the space they have on their side. Personally, the only recommendation that I have is to purchase some egg-crate foam for any adults sleeping in the camper. Most used campers come with the standard camper mattress. This can get uncomfortable as the evening goes on, especially if you weigh more than 180 lbs.

In addition to spacious fold outs for sleeping, most pop up campers have a small dinette, three way refrigerator, storage areas under the seating benches and a cooking area. It's a great advantage if you can find a used camper that has a full kitchen area that has a sink with hot water, four burner cook top and ample storage. Again, if you are looking at used campers to save some money it would greatly benefit you to purchase one with a cassette toilette and shower. First, both are handy to have in an emergency, if the location you are camping doesn't offer facilities or if the facilities are just nasty. Second, used campers hold their resale value better than campers that don't have they additional features.

The last great feature of the pop up is it's ease of setup. Pop up's are easy to setup and most can be taken from fully packed to ready to sleep in 15-20 minutes.

Most used campers have plenty of life in them, so if you are in the market check out the pop up camper!

Remove Mildew From Used Campers

One of the things that plagues used campers is mildew.

To start, mildew in used campers usually starts in the tent area, caulking around doors, windows, under sinks, cabinets, ceiling vents, refrigerators, bath room and shower. This can be from leaks during rain and storage or general careless use of the camper. This water goes unchecked and not properly cleaned up.

For instance, I purchased a used camper this summer that was in pristine condition. The owner walked me through the detailed steps of how he unpacks and packs the camper each time he uses the camper. He gave specific attention to the air conditioner. When the air is running, condensation runoff builds up on the roof. If enough accumulates, it can start running off the roof and onto the tent that encloses the side-out bunk. This condensation can soak the tent material in a very short amount of time. So, you must dry off the effected areas before the camper can be let back down. If you don't, the moisture will turn into mildew.

Treating Used Campers
Treat moldy areas of used campers using a water and soap (Ivory) solution or a store bought cleaner. Let the cleaner soak for a few minutes to kill the germs that caused the mold or mildew. Be sure to completely dry any areas that you treat. The most effective way to combat mold and mildew is to keep a dry atmosphere inside your RV.