ESCANABA -- Buying a camper can be a big commitment and a worthwhile investment...but only if it's used enough and fits a family's lifestyle.
Some of the models at Hilltop RV go from $4,500 to around $18,000. That's no chump change.
So a rental may be a good way to get started.
“Sometimes, for a first time buyer or second or third time buyer,” explains Hilltop RV General Manager, Steve Swanson, “if the right used unit is available, it offers the opportunity to save some money."
But other folks, like Beverly Delion of Calgary, Alberta, are ready to buy.
“It will totally be worth it,” explains Delion, “because the amount that we've spent on hotel rooms and restaurants, I would say that it's about $250 a day that we've been spending on meals and hotels for a family of five."
The purchase can be worthwhile if you enjoy traveling on the road and being able to sleep comfortably in your own bed.
Swanson said that travel trailer sales are on the rise because they're easy to tow and come with extras that are worth it: flat screen televisions, queen-sized beds, heaters, and air conditioning.
“If we have air conditioning or if we have the furnace, you know, we're not just limited to using the RV in the summer months," Delion said.
The family hopes to tour, not just their native Canada, but more places around the U.S. And after years of just having used campers, Beverly said the family's very excited to finally have one to call their own. They'll mainly use it in March when the kids are on spring break and in July.
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