Purchasing a Used Pop Up Camper

Pop up campers are a popular choice for families who want to enjoy camping on a budget. Used pop up campers can be purchased from just a few hundred dollars to several thousand, and are often available in newspapers and online auction sites. Whether your budget for purchasing a pop up camper is big or small, there are a few guidelines you should follow to get the most for your money.

One of the most important things to consider when purchasing a pop up camper is the condition of the tent canvas. The canvas should be in good repair with no tears. The stitching should be strong and not dry rotted. Small holes or tears can be repaired with a canvas repair kit, but larger rips may not hold with such a simple repair. Replacement tents can be ordered for most pop up camper models, but this is an expensive repair that will cost a minimum of a few hundred dollars.

The interior of the camper should be moisture free. Moisture is the #1 enemy of pop up campers. Damage from mold, mildew, and leaking can be costly, and sometimes irreversible. If the ceiling looks wavy or wet, you should investigate it thoroughly. Check the roof to see if it has been sealed. All roof seams and corners should have a visible line of caulk for keeping out moisture. Leaky camper roofs can be repaired with caulking and sealers, but if the interior damage from past leaks is too extensive, you may want to look at other units. The floor of the camper should be solid with no mushy spots. Soft spots in the floor are an indication of past water damage. Floor repair is an extensive and potentially expensive project, as the old floor will need to be torn out, and new decking and carpet or other floor covering installed.

The tires on a pop up camper should be in reasonable condition. While they don't have to be brand new, they should not be bald, and should not have any cracks in the sidewalls. Cracks in the sidewalls of camper tires are most likely caused by over exposure to sunlight, and other elements. Of course, tires can be replaced, but one should take this into account when negotiating a purchase price.

Considering the condition of the wiring of a used camper is an important safety factor. Without properly working brake lights and turn signals, you could be placing your family in danger on the highway. While you may not be an electrician, a quick visual inspection can give you a good idea of the condition of the wiring. Be wary of bare wires, and torn insulation. If turn signals or brake lights do not work, you'll want to have this looked into. The good news is that wiring for turn signals and brake lights can be replaced for around a hundred dollars, and is a possible do it yourself project for anyone who has wired car stereos, or other electronics.

Enjoying the great outdoors with a pop up camper can be an economical way to break into the RV world. Pop up campers offer the ultimate combination in portability and affordability in camping. With a few simple checks, you can make sure you and your family experiences the benefits of purchasing a camper that is the greatest value for your budget.