It is fair to say that summer 2020 is shaping up to be…unconventional. We all want to have as much fun as possible, but we also want to stay as safe as possible. It may seem as though your summer fun is quickly becoming summer none, but a solution is in reach.
Enter: a recreational vehicle. Whether it be a boat, an RV, or even an ATV, summer excitement is just on the horizon.
With these extremely cool, yet different options, it may be hard to decide which one is right for you and your family. Do you want to take to the road, the water, or forested trails? You’ve come to the right place. We can help you prepare for this thrilling (but important) decision.
RVs
For many people, the thought of an RV vacation conjures images of your in-laws, asking if they can link up to your power supply. However, maybe your in-laws are on to something when it comes to money-saving, yet wholly enjoyable vacations.
Picture this: you and your family are on the open road. Your destination is ahead of you. Your children laugh as they play a card game at the table behind you. Best of all, you don’t have to stop for bathroom breaks.
A recent study found that RV vacations cost much less than other travel, even when factoring in fuel prices and RV ownership cost. According to the study, there are cost savings of 21-64 percent for a four-person travel party, while a two-person travel party saves 8-53 percent. That’s some serious cash. You can spend that money on food, experiences, and the all-important souvenirs. Why yes, you do need that airbrushed t-shirt.
Before purchasing an RV, be sure to do your research. Not all RVs are created equally. There are multiple packages and floor plans that may not be right for every family. Be sure to shop around to find the RV that fits your needs the best.
Keep in mind that, like most motor vehicles, an RV will require maintenance and upkeep. This is an expense that must be factored into RV ownership.
Boats
Did you know, Vitamin D deficiency affects 50% of the population worldwide? You know what is an excellent source of Vitamin D? Sunlight.
There are many ways to get under the sun, but one of the most fun is boating. Yes, this proves that being on a boat is beneficial to your health. Not only that, but taking to the water can be as relaxing or as exhilarating as you want. Gently float along soaking up that Vitamin D, or test your balance on a wakeboard. The possibilities are virtually endless.
You may find yourself asking, “who owns a boat?” To that we say, 2019 saw a six percent increase in the number of people who purchased personal watercraft, bringing the total to approximately 73,000 new boats on the water.
The next logical question, “what type of boat is right for me?” This is a good question as there are so many options you can choose. Do you want a sailboat or one with a motor? If you opt for a motor, what horsepower should you choose? What size boat is perfect for your needs? Am I going to take my boat to the lake? A river? The ocean? All of the above? It would be best if you considered all of these factors before purchasing a boat.
Those people with “Salt Life” and “Lake Life” stickers? That could be you.
Four-Wheelers
Gritty. Dirty. Fun. Four-Wheelers can be a major source of excitement, but they can also be dangerous in reckless hands. Before purchasing an ATV, be sure to research all of the safety required. There are other things to consider, like your four-wheeler brand, size, and tire size. Fun fact: at low speeds, a four-wheeler’s wheels move in opposite directions to make parking and maneuvering easier.
What will you do with your Recreational Loan?
There are so many things to consider when purchasing a recreational vehicle, and we are here to help with one of the most important, finances. We offer recreational loans that make financing your summer fun (and beyond) more accessible than ever, no matter which you choose. We’re your credit union. Contact us today to see how we can help.