45th Annual Detroit Camper & RV Show is coming to the Suburban Collection Showplace in Novi

The Michigan Association of Recreation Vehicles and Campgrounds (MARVAC) is sponsoring the 45th Annual Detroit Camper & RV Show, Feb. 16-20 in Novi at the Suburban Collection Showplace, formerly Rock Financial Showplace (located on Grand River, just 1 mile west of Novi Road).

Over 250 new recreation vehicles will be on display including folding campers, motorhomes, travel trailers, truck campers, toy haulers and fifth wheel travel trailers. Special discounts include folding campers from $4,999; trailers from $8,999; and motorhomes from $49,999. Plus, manufacturer will be offering rebates on select RVs. Booths featuring parts and accessories, campground information, on site RV financing and RV rentals make this the complete RV show experience.

At the show, enter to win the Ultimate MIS Race Experience package from Michigan International Speedway. Includes tickets, camping and VIP access (valued at nearly $3,000).

A coupon is available at www.marvac.org, southeast Michigan CVS Pharmacies, Big Boy restaurants and in area newspapers. With this special coupon, all consumers can get a $1 off any adult or senior admission. Consumers can also register to win free tickets on www.marvac.org, courtesy of Big Boy.

The new, 2011 RV & Campsite, a guide to camping in Michigan, will be available free to consumers.

Tips for Selecting an RV that's right for your family
Many factors should be considered when purchasing a recreation vehicle, as you will find many choices when beginning to shop. To put it simply, RVs can be used for most everything. From brief leisure activities such as road trips, vacations and camping to full-time living, you’ll be able to find an RV fit for your needs and style.

A folding camping trailer is a lightweight unit with sides that collapse for towing and storage. The compact size allows for quick setup and easy storage between uses. Most camping trailers are available from $4,000 to $13,000. When fully set up, they provide a kitchen and dining area, sleeping accommodations and, in many models, bathroom facilities.

A travel trailer is a unit designed to be towed by your car, van or pickup by means of frame hitch or bumper. They can range anywhere from $8,000 to $65,000 depending on model and size, and can accommodate up to eight or 10 people comfortably. They provide sleeping accommodations, kitchen areas and electric and water systems. A fifth-wheel is a type of travel trailer, however, it is designed to be towed by pickups with a special hitch.

And finally, a motor home. There are a few types of motor homes. Class C and class A. The class C motor home has the convenience of a larger motor home, but in a miniture version. They range from $48,000 to $400,000 and sleep up to eight. Class A motor homes are the largest and most luxurious of the “home-away-from-home” on wheels. Both include sleeping accommodations, bathroom facilities and a kitchen, as well as electricity, heating, air-conditioning, water and propane gas.

If you still can’t decide, renting an RV may be your best option. Many dealers offer the option to rent, with packages ranging from three to 10 days. Take it for a weekend getaway or short road trip.

Tips for Buying your First RV
Deciding to buy, and ultimately own an RV can be an exciting moment in your life. RVs offer a number of great benefits to those who own them. Today’s RVs also provide travelers with the comforts and convenience of a “home away from home” as they participate in activities and hobbies of interest to families, not limited to camping. Remembering a few simple guidelines can prepare you for the purchase process.

When applying for an RV loan, be sure your credit history is where it should be. A credit score of 700 will allow for the best financing. RVs are considered luxury purchases, so lenders are especially cautious.

Before investing in an RV, look around for the best deal. Keep in mind that purchasing an RV isn’t as simple as purchasing an automobile. You may need to spend at least a couple of hours at the dealer before you drive away with your RV.

Once you purchase your RV and sign the appropriate papers, you’ll likely experience a walk-through orientation. Many beginners are surprised at how lengthy these orientations can be. Try not to get overwhelmed with the abundance of information being passed onto you. As thrilling as RV ownership can be, it also takes some preparation, so it’s important to absorb what’s being communicated to you during the orientation. You may want to consider bringing a notebook or another set of eyes and ears with you, so you don’t miss anything.

Above all, remember to enjoy your RV! RVs are the perfect way for families to escape the stresses of everyday life. Packed with essentials—bathrooms, kitchens, and sleeping accommodations—RVs provide a convenient way to travel with all the comforts of home. Plus, RVs have all the “extras” like TVs, stereos, air conditioning and even computer stations and game systems.

The 45th Annual Detroit Camper & RV Show will be held in Novi at the Suburban Collection Showplace (formerly Rock Financial Showplace) and is open weekdays 2-9 p.m., Saturday 11 a.m.-9 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m.-6 p.m. The cost for adult admission (ages 13 and up) is $9; senior admission is $8; children ages 12 and under are admitted free!

The show is sponsored by the Michigan Association of Recreation Vehicles and Campgrounds (MARVAC), a member organization representing all aspects of the camping and RV industries.