You may remember all the time I poured into fixing up an old camper: refinishing the cabinets, removing rust, painting the curtain rods, etc.

I absolutely love camping, in all forms, and in this past year, I've spent some time with the folks at Bretz RV & Marine. Between those two experiences, I have some advice to share on how to buy an RV:

1) Think about how you will use it. Will you be camping throughout Montana, or across the country? Is it important to be able to sleep more than two people? How much cooking do you plan to do? How much storage do you need throughout the RV?

2) Consider how much you can tow. Motorhomes are an option if you don't have a vehicle that can tow your new purchase, but if you're planning to rely on your current truck or van, keep its towing limit in mind while you're shopping.

3) Budget for hidden costs like storage, fuel, insurance and campground fees. Once you purchase it, you'll want to use it! Bretz RV & Marine offers a year of free storage and a voucher for two free nights at two RV camps! Your insurance agent can explain policies and rates for various sizes of rigs, too.

4) Consider old vs. new. A new RV likely will be more expensive, but it probably will have newer technology, better options for customizations and a great warranty. Used models are more affordable but likely will need more maintenance. (If you decide to buy used, know that Bretz RV & Marine inspects pre-used models so you have that added layer of protection and can answer questions that sellers from Craig's List and other online classifieds can't.)

Here are two (of dozens and dozens) options for new RVs at Bretz' Missoula location:

2019 Airstream 16FB Nest: Its compact styling sleeps up to four and includes a 3-cubic-foot fridge.

Bretz RV & Marine
Bretz RV & Marine
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Bretz RV & Marine
Bretz RV & Marine
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2019 Entegra 26X: This spacious motorhome features an outdoor 13-foot electric awning and a galley kitchen with an eight-cubic-foot electric refrigerator, a three-burner range and a microwave.

Bretz RV & Marine
Bretz RV & Marine
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Bretz RV & Marine
Bretz RV & Marine
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And here are two pre-owned options:

2018 Coachmen Leprechaun 200CBT: This features a spacious kitchen and seating area, plus a private bedroom.

Bretz RV & Marine
Bretz RV & Marine
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Bretz RV & Marine
Bretz RV & Marine
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2018 Imagine 2600RB: As the Bretz website says: "The Imagine 2600RB features a rear bath, a walk around queen bed, tri-fold sofa, and a u-shaped dinette."

Bretz RV & Marine
Bretz RV & Marine
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Bretz RV & Marine
Bretz RV & Marine
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And don't miss out on Bretz' latest promotion!

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