How to Buy a Class B RV in Phoenix

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Class B RVs are midsize camping vehicles, often seen as conversion vans or trucks with large camper toppers. Phoenix, Arizona has several recreational-vehicle dealers where Class B RVs are sold and traded. If you are looking to purchase a Class B RV and keep it in the Phoenix area, there are several things you should consider to get the best deal and rig suitable for the area's hot, desert conditions.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Step 1

Find Jefferson Street in Phoenix, as this street has several RV dealers in a central location. The Guadalupe neighborhood also has an RV dealer, and this dealer carries Class B RVs. Phone the dealers to see what Class B RVs are in stock, what could be ordered and what their RVs are equipped with for the hot desert conditions of Phoenix.

Step 2

Ask the sales agent about the air conditioning for the Class B RV you are interested in. Determine if the air conditioning unit with the rig is suitable for the hot temperatures, sometimes over 100 Fahrenheit for weeks at a time, the region is known for. Ask the agent about the standard features the Class B model comes with. Features to look for in the desert heat are awnings for the exterior, air conditioning units for the driving cockpit and the sleeping/living quarters, and a reflective roof.

Step 3

Inspect the inside of the RV and take it for a test drive. Ask the agent if they have a rental program where you can take one of the models you are interested in for an overnight trip to determine if it is the right one for you. If the RV dealership has the rental program, ask if the rental costs would be deducted from the price of the Class B RV if you purchase it after the test rental. When doing the overnight testing, check how the air conditioning affects the sleeping cabin--is it cool enough?--and how many awnings there are for sun protection needed in the desert and heat.

Step 4

Determine what extras and upgrades you want for your RV. Consider if you will be transporting sporting equipment such as canoes, kayaks, bicycles, skis or snowboards, and ask how much factory racks are. Will you be transporting these items to the trails in Phoenix, Sedona or other regions of the state? If so, ask if you wish to have them outside the RV to keep the interior clean from dirt. Negotiate a price for the extras and add-ons.

Step 5

Ask if the dealership has a vehicle registration program upon purchase, making one less step for you in not having to go to the motor-vehicles department. If you must go to the DMV, the main Phoenix DMV is at 20626 N. 26th Ave. in the city.

Article Written By Eric Cedric

A former Alaskan of 20 years, Eric Cedric now resides in California. He's published in "Outside" and "Backpacker" and has written a book on life in small-town Alaska, "North by Southeast." Cedric was a professional mountain guide and backcountry expedition leader for 18 years. He worked in Russia, Iceland, Greece, Turkey and Belize. Cedric attended Syracuse University and is a private pilot.

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