I'M NOT CHEAP, I'M THRIFTY.

This post...some might call it a rant, is focused on the high prices most RV stores charge on their inventory. C’mon people (that means store/dealership owners), haven’t you heard that campers are a damn savvy group of people, with many of us borderline obsessed with frugal living (both on and off their campsite).  So, I hate to be the one to break it to you, but gone are the days that we are willing to pay the high prices listed on the inventory on your shelves, within your showrooms, and in your catalogs. Most campers and full time RVers have heard of, and are now utilizing something called the "internet". SSSHHH....not too loud, it might catch on! With free shipping and competitive pricing, it's doubtful I will be stopping in for a $50 camp chair any time soon.  And, kudos to Walmart, for stepping up to the plate and filling a local void by stocking reasonably priced camping/RV supplies.

We now have greater options on more than just parts and supplies too. Facebook Marketplace, and outlets such as Craigslist have become a haven for seasoned hobbyist to find terrific deals. Additionally, social media outlets like YouTube has made it easy to view a potential purchase without leaving your house. Watching thousands of actual camper's review videos and how-to maintenance videos are just a click away.

I’m not discounting that  RV dealerships have trained sales staff on their showroom floors or at local shows. It seems their job is to perform a robotic walk thru, convince you they can secure financing, and then provide you with all the shiny documentation you can haul home.... but when it comes to buying a gently used (or new) RV, I gotta doubt that any salesperson you deal with, has spent no more than 1/2 hour total (and no actual camp time) in the vehicle they are trying to sell you on. Honestly, if part of my money is going towards paying for anyone's knowledge of the vehicle, I’d rather deal directly with the previous owner who's been there, done that ( and is willing to tell you all about it).

I am also not saying that any dealership's mechanics don’t know how to do their job. I suspect 90+ percent of them do. However, for the price you get charged, it’s probably cheaper to pay the tuition to send yourself (or an offspring) to a two-year tech school and learn how to do it.  It seemed that the time frame for my rig to be ready (and fixed correctly) was about the same.


RVers, and campers in general, are crafty folk. Whether miles from nowhere, or just too stubborn (and thrifty) to pay RV superstore prices, we are the kings and queens of DIYs. Spend five minutes browsing camping boards on Pinterest (hint, hint : Bound4Burlingame's boards can be found here) and your eyes will be opened to a whole new world of tips and ideas on frugal camping.


Of course, these are just my views, and it is your choice to agree or disagree with some, or all of it.  Due to your own experiences, chances are you see enough truth in the words to nod your head once or twice. I’m all about campers helping campers....and I’m happy to save a dime, whether it be yours or mine. Sharing knowledge is just as important as sharing in the adventure.



At Bound4Burlingame, we are always looking for quality content to share on our social media pages and website. If you have created something, or know of a product that is worth it’s weight in gold, feel free to reach out.  Save the stamp money, and just email us at bound4burlingame@gmail.com.