05/19/12

Joe: An RV show is a dynamite way to comparison shop for an RV. A real RV show will have a half dozen or more RV dealers displaying a large variety of RVs in one convenient location. Obviously, the more dealers participating in the show the larger the number of RVs you'll find on display.

A big RV show will also include display booths with vendors of RV related products and services.

Today's RV shows recognize the growing popularity of RVs with young families. Some will offer clowns and other forms of entertainment.

And, of course, a really great RV show will feature RV seminars by folks like Joe and Vicki Kieva.

Vicki: Most RV shows occur during the months of January, February and March and again during September and October. Look for their ads in RV magazines and your local newspaper. The print ads frequently double as discount coupons for admission.

Look for ads that offer discount admission prices to seniors or RV club members who are willing to attend the show on weekdays. By the way, we have observed that the shows are less crowded on weekdays and early in the day on weekends.

A few preparations at home will make your day at the RV show more enjoyable. Wear comfortable layered clothing so you can adjust to any change in temperatures. Obviously, comfortable walking shoes are a must.

A stroller will make life easier for both kids and parents.

A tote bag or backpack can be handy for carrying sweaters, snacks and small purchases.

Serious shoppers may want to take a pen and notebook. We have seen some shoppers using video cameras so they could videotape the RVs that appealed to them.

Many show vendors offer prizes and other incentives to those willing to sign up for them. Avoid writers cramp by taking some of your return address labels. Simply stick the labels on the sign-up sheets. By the way, read the small print. Make sure you are not signing up for an unwanted subscription, service or product you will have to pay for.

Joe: Arrive early, it can take all day just to browse through a large show. We have been to RV shows that could take two or three days to see everything.

Read the show program as soon as you get into the show. Pay attention to the schedule of events. There may be demonstrations, entertainment or seminars you want to attend. Look at the map. Plan your route through the show to include the RVs, vendors and events you especially wish to see.

Experienced RV show shoppers make a point of visiting the building, room, tent or area that contains the vendor booths. They know this is where they'll find all those unique RV products, services and gadgets that add to the enjoyment of RVing.

Locate a vendor who is giving away plastic carrying bags. Now you have something to hold all that literature you'll be gathering. With any luck you'll be at a two-bag show.

Look at the RVs, ask questions, pick up brochures and take notes. Keep in mind the dealers have gone to a great deal of trouble to put the show together. The least you can do is buy an RV.