We have covered the topic of RV show shopping in the past, but wanted to update our tips for the current shopping environment in 2022. The red hot RV market of 2020 and 2021 has softened a bit, and while obvious bargains may not be returning anytime soon, pricing may be coming back down to earth a little bit. Dealers have more supply in stock, and demand has cooled off a bit. When it comes to RV show shopping in 2022, some of the advantage may be returning to consumers. At the very least--the environment for consumers is better right now than it was in 2020 or 2021. Simultaneously, there are more options for RV shoppers than ever before. Several independent manufacturers are making a splash, and the big three (Thor, Forest River, and Winnebago) each boast an incredibly diverse lineup of products.

If you are RV show shopping in 2022 for the very first time, chances are you may get completely overwhelmed. But thankfully, the RV Atlas is here to help you. After attending RV shows for over a decade here are our 18 best tips for success. These expert and hard won tips for RV show shopping in 2022 will help you navigate the shopping process like a complete champ.

1. Trading in Your RV? Consider Selling it Privately BEFORE the Show

Trading your rig in at an RV show may not be your best option to maximize the price you get for it.  Consider selling your rig privately (or to another dealer) before the show and heading to the show with that part of the deal done. This will provide clarity of mind and simplify the already complex process of RV shopping at a crowded and hectic show. This way you can take your time and get the best price possible instead of potentially accepting a bargain-basement price from a dealer at the show who thinks that they are your only good option for a sale.

2. Understand the Difference Between a National, Regional, or Local RV Show

There are only a few truly national RV shows in the country. The Hershey Show, and the Florida RV SuperShow are the two that dominate the landscape. These shows are terrific places to get to see as many RVs as possible. Virtually every manufacturer in the country brings rigs to these shows. Only the smallest and most niche manufacturers in the country are not present. So if you can, get yourself to Hershey or Tampa! These shows both have a carnival like atmosphere (especially Tampa) and they are loads of fun. Stay overnight if you can, so you can patrol the show for at least two days. Regional show are often excellent as well, but are very dependent on what dealers are attending, and what manufacturers those dealers carry. So if you want to see something specific, like an Airstream, or a Winnebago Motorhome, then you might be out of luck. Local shows are often nothing more than a single dealer or two renting out a minor league stadium and selling hot dogs and popcorn. We tend to avoid local shows and go camping on those weekends instead.

3. Consider Shopping at an RV Show, But Purchasing Elsewhere

RV shows are definitely the best places for shopping. You get to see tons of RVs and take your time looking at them. But are they the best way to actually purchase an RV? That is a very debatable question here at RV Atlas headquarters. Many people get caught up in the madness and emotion of an RV show and make regrettable decisions. Others score great deals and will only buy at RV shows. So it depends on who you ask. It also depends on your mentality when visiting a show. If you can stay cool, calm, and collected, then by all means--go buy your next rig at a show.

4. Do RV Show Reconnaissance Before You Attend the Show

If you are going RV Show shopping in 2022, then make sure you do some serious research before you go. If you want to get focused and only look at Class C motorhomes, then find out where they are on the show map, and go look for them. At a big show like Hershey,