The Best Time to Buy an RV: How to Save Thousands Without the Stress
Learn the best time to buy an RV, including the cheapest months, dealer incentives, and simple tips to save thousands on your RV purchase.
David Kroeger
12/31/20253 min read
The Best Time to Buy an RV: How to Save Thousands Without the Stress
Buying an RV is exciting, but timing your purchase can make a massive difference in how much you pay and how confident you feel driving off the lot. Many first-time buyers assume spring or summer is the best time to shop because that is when RVs are everywhere. In reality, those months often come with higher prices and less flexibility.
If you want the best deal and the least pressure, timing matters more than most people realize.
Let’s break down when to buy an RV, why timing affects price, and how to use the calendar to your advantage.
Why Timing Matters When Buying an RV
RV prices are driven by three main factors:
Seasonal demand
Dealer inventory cycles
Manufacturer incentives
When demand is high, prices stay firm. When inventory builds up and buyers slow down, dealers become motivated. Understanding these patterns allows you to negotiate from a position of strength instead of urgency.
The Best Time of Year to Buy an RV
Late Fall and Winter: The Sweet Spot
October through February is widely considered the best time to buy an RV.
Here is why this window works so well:
Camping season slows down for most buyers
Dealers want to reduce inventory before year end
Floorplan interest costs pressure dealerships to move units
Sales staff are often more flexible with pricing
You may have fewer models on display, but the savings can be substantial. Buyers often see the biggest discounts during this period.
End of the Model Year
Most RV manufacturers release new model years in late summer or early fall. When that happens, dealers are eager to clear out the previous year’s models.
These RVs are still brand new, often with only minor cosmetic differences from the newer versions. Buying a leftover model year can save you thousands with no meaningful downside.
Best Time of the Month to Buy an RV
Believe it or not, the end of the month matters.
Dealerships often work toward monthly sales targets. Shopping during the final week, or even the final few days, can increase your negotiating leverage. Sales managers may be more willing to approve aggressive pricing to hit internal goals.
Tip: Be polite, patient, and prepared. End-of-month deals favor buyers who can move quickly.
When Not to Buy an RV
Spring and Early Summer
March through June is the most popular time to buy an RV, and usually the most expensive.
During this season:
Demand is high
Inventory moves quickly
Dealers have less incentive to discount
You can still buy during this time, but expect firmer pricing and fewer concessions.
What About RV Shows?
RV shows can be helpful for comparison shopping, especially for first-time buyers. You can walk through multiple floorplans and brands in one place.
However, show pricing is not always the best pricing.
Sometimes the real deals happen after the show, when dealers bring units back and want to move inventory quickly. Treat RV shows as a research tool first and a buying opportunity second.
New vs Used: Timing Differences
New RVs
Best deals in late fall and winter
Strong incentives near model year changeovers
End-of-month timing helps negotiations
Used RVs
Best selection in spring when owners sell before camping season
Best prices late summer and fall when owners want to avoid storage costs
Used RV pricing is more flexible, but condition, maintenance history, and inspection matter more than timing alone.
Pro Tips to Maximize Your Savings
Before you buy, make sure you:
Get pre-approved financing so you can negotiate confidently
Know your must-have features versus nice-to-have upgrades
Be willing to walk away if the numbers do not make sense
Shop multiple dealerships, even across state lines
Timing opens the door, but preparation closes the deal.
Final Thoughts: The Best Time Is When You Are Ready
The best time to buy an RV is when market timing and personal readiness align.
If you can wait for late fall or winter, you will likely save money and feel less pressure. If you need to buy in peak season, go in informed and prepared.
Either way, an RV is not just a purchase. It is a lifestyle shift, a freedom investment, and the beginning of countless stories on the road.
If you want more buyer checklists, negotiation tips, and RV ownership guidance, explore the rest of Enlightened RV Life and start your journey with confidence.
Check out my book: Your RV Blueprint: The Ultimate Guide from Dream to Drive: How to Buy Your First RV, Avoid Costly Mistakes, and Start Living the RV Lifestyle with Confidence