RVs by Jimmy

Tag: Riverside Camping Center

  • Top 10 Questions Families Ask Me Before Buying Their First RV

    Top 10 Questions Families Ask Me Before Buying Their First RV

    By Jimmy Gerhold | RV Specialist at Riverside Camping Center
    📞 Call or text me anytime at 252-404-9207

    If you’re thinking about getting your first RV, chances are you’ve got a million questions—and you’re not alone. I’ve worked with hundreds of families just like yours, and over time, I’ve noticed the same questions come up again and again.

    Here are the top 10 questions families ask me before buying their first RV — and the honest answers that help them feel confident about their decision.

    1. What type of RV is best for a family?

    That depends on your lifestyle, how many people you’re bringing, and what kind of travel you plan to do. Most families lean toward travel trailers with bunkhouses, or Class C motorhomes with overhead sleeping space. You want sleeping and storage space without overcomplicating things.

    ✅ My job is to help you balance space, weight, and ease of use.

    2. Do I need a special license to drive an RV?

    In most states — including North Carolina — no special license is required for anything under 26,000 lbs. That covers most travel trailers, fifth wheels, and even some big Class A rigs. But it’s always smart to double-check with your local DMV.

    3. What kind of vehicle do I need to tow it?

    This one’s huge. If you’re looking at travel trailers or fifth wheels, your tow vehicle matters a lot. You need to consider:

    • Towing capacity (check your truck’s manual)
    • Tongue weight
    • Hitch type
    • Payload and suspension

    ✅ I’ll help you find an RV that works with the truck you have — or show you what you’d need if you plan to upgrade.

    4. How much does RV maintenance cost?

    It’s not as scary as people think. Basic upkeep like tire checks, sealant touch-ups, and systems testing is very manageable — especially if you do some of it yourself. Most families spend a few hundred bucks a year if nothing major goes wrong.

    ✅ I’ll even walk you through a beginner maintenance checklist when you buy.

    5. Where do you even camp with an RV?

    The real question is: Where can’t you? Families love:

    • State parks
    • KOAs
    • National parks
    • Private campgrounds
    • Boondocking on public land (if you’re more adventurous)

    There are apps and memberships (like Harvest Hosts and Passport America) that help you find great, affordable spots.

    6. How hard is it to drive or tow an RV?

    If you can drive a pickup or SUV, you can learn to tow or drive an RV — it just takes practice. I always tell people: go slow, plan wide turns, and practice in an open lot before your first trip. After a weekend or two, you’ll be way more confident.

    7. How do the hookups work (water, sewer, power)?

    It seems intimidating at first, but it’s actually pretty simple once you learn:

    • Water hose connects like a garden hose
    • Sewer hose connects to a dump station
    • Power cord plugs into the campground pedestal (30 or 50 amp)

    ✅ I’ll walk you through it all during your delivery day — no guesswork.

    8. What’s the best time of year to buy an RV?

    Honestly? Right now. When the market’s soft or during off-peak months (like early spring or late fall), dealers get aggressive on pricing. Waiting for “the season” can mean higher prices and limited inventory.

    ✅ We’ve got some amazing deals right now I’d love to show you.

    9. How much should I budget monthly?

    That depends on your down payment, credit, and the RV you choose. I’ve helped families get into great campers with payments under $200/month. If you want something newer or more spacious, you could be looking at $300–$500/month.

    ✅ I’ll help you find something that fits your lifestyle and your budget.

    10. What if I buy the wrong RV? Can I trade it in later?

    Yes — and a lot of families do just that after a year or two once they know what they really want. RVs hold their value well if maintained properly, and I can help you trade up or down if your needs change.

    Thinking About Taking the Leap?

    If these are the questions on your mind, you’re exactly the kind of person I love helping. No pressure. No gimmicks. Just good advice from someone who knows how big this decision is for your family.

    📞 Call or text me anytime at 252-404-9207
    Let’s figure out what’s right for you. I’ll help you get started the smart way — and make sure you enjoy the journey.

    See you soon,
    – Jimmy

    Riverside Camping Center

    With a passion for revolutionizing the buying experience, I’ve dedicated myself to breaking the mold in automotive and RV sales. At Riverside Camping Center, I’m proud to offer a wide range of campers and RVs that cater to all kinds of adventures. But my commitment doesn’t stop there—I continue to sell cars, trucks, and SUVs with the same dedication and integrity that my clients have come to expect, now by appointment through Riverside Automotive. I’m not your typical salesperson. My approach is rooted in transparency, empathy, and genuine customer satisfaction. I believe in building long-lasting relationships, ensuring that every purchase, whether it’s a vehicle or an RV, is an informed and enjoyable journey. My reputation is built on active listening, personalized guidance, and a commitment to truly understanding your needs. Let’s redefine the way you buy—whether it’s hitting the open road in an RV or driving off in your dream car. Schedule an appointment today, and let’s make your next purchase a memorable one.
  • Spring Maintenance Checklist to Get Your RV Trip-Ready

    Spring Maintenance Checklist to Get Your RV Trip-Ready

    By Jimmy Gerhold | RV Specialist at Riverside Camping Center
    📞 Call or text me anytime at 252-404-9207

    Spring is here — which means it’s almost go time for RV season. But before you hitch up and roll out, a little spring maintenance can save you a lot of headaches on the road.

    I put together this no-BS checklist to help you get your camper, travel trailer, or motorhome road-ready, safe, and fully functional — so you can focus on making memories, not emergency repairs.

    🔋 1. Check Your Batteries

    Winter storage can be tough on batteries. Start here:

    • Reconnect terminals if you disconnected them
    • Clean off any corrosion with a mix of baking soda and water
    • Top off fluid levels if using lead-acid batteries
    • Fully charge and test voltage before hitting the road

    Pro tip: If it’s been over 3 years, it might be time to replace.

    🛠️ 2. Inspect Seals and Roof for Leaks

    Leaks can destroy an RV. Catch ’em early:

    • Check the roof seams, vents, and skylights for cracks or lifting sealant
    • Inspect windows, doors, and slide-outs for bad seals or gaps
    • Reseal any areas with RV-safe sealant

    If you’re not comfortable climbing on the roof, give me a shout — I’ll point you to someone I trust locally.

    🚿 3. Flush and Sanitize the Water System

    You don’t want last year’s water in your tank.

    • Reconnect any lines you winterized
    • Fill freshwater tank with 1/4 cup bleach per 15 gallons of water
    • Run through all faucets, shower, and toilet
    • Let it sit for 12 hours, then flush the system with fresh water until bleach smell is gone

    🔌 4. Test All Electrical Systems

    Plug into shore power or run your generator and test everything:

    • Interior and exterior lights
    • Outlets and USB ports
    • A/C and furnace
    • Fridge, microwave, and water heater
    • Slide-outs and leveling jacks (if equipped)

    Check your fuses and breakers too. Better to find out now than in the middle of a campground.

    🛞 5. Inspect Tires

    This one’s critical — and often overlooked.

    • Check tread depth and sidewalls for dry rot or cracking
    • Confirm the DOT date (tires 5+ years old? Replace ’em)
    • Inflate to the proper PSI (when cold)

    Don’t forget to check the spare tire too.

    💨 6. Check Propane System

    You’ll need propane for cooking, heating, and hot water.

    • Inspect tanks for rust or dents
    • Open valves and use a soapy water spray to check for leaks (look for bubbles)
    • Test stove burners, water heater, and furnace

    Smell gas? Shut it off and get it checked immediately.

    🧽 7. Give It a Good Cleaning

    Inside and out. You’re about to live in it — treat it like your home:

    • Wash the exterior to remove winter grime
    • Clean the roof, awnings, and slides
    • Vacuum, wipe down surfaces, and disinfect the kitchen & bathroom
    • Air it out — open all the windows and let the spring air roll in

    🧾 Bonus: Double Check Your Paperwork

    Before you hit the highway:

    • Make sure your insurance and registration are current
    • Keep your roadside assistance info handy
    • Pack your manuals, service records, and warranty docs

    Ready to Hit the Road?

    A well-prepped RV = a stress-free trip. If you need help with any of this — or just want a walkthrough of what to check — I’ve got your back.

    📞 Call or text me at 252-404-9207
    Whether it’s your first season or your fifteenth, I’ll make sure you’re ready to roll.

    See you soon,
    – Jimmy

    Riverside Camping Center

    With a passion for revolutionizing the buying experience, I’ve dedicated myself to breaking the mold in automotive and RV sales. At Riverside Camping Center, I’m proud to offer a wide range of campers and RVs that cater to all kinds of adventures. But my commitment doesn’t stop there—I continue to sell cars, trucks, and SUVs with the same dedication and integrity that my clients have come to expect, now by appointment through Riverside Automotive. I’m not your typical salesperson. My approach is rooted in transparency, empathy, and genuine customer satisfaction. I believe in building long-lasting relationships, ensuring that every purchase, whether it’s a vehicle or an RV, is an informed and enjoyable journey. My reputation is built on active listening, personalized guidance, and a commitment to truly understanding your needs. Let’s redefine the way you buy—whether it’s hitting the open road in an RV or driving off in your dream car. Schedule an appointment today, and let’s make your next purchase a memorable one.