Let's assume you're among the ever-increasing number of Americans who have discovered the many benefits of RV travel. You're sold on the idea of being able to go whenever and wherever you choose while packing most of the comforts of home — all at a cost far less than other modes of travel.

Now it's time to select and buy an RV.

Purchasing a recreational vehicle is way more complicated than buying a car, and it can be an overwhelming experience if you haven't given it plenty of thought before hitting the sales lot.

Here's a list of five questions that you should ask — and answer — as you engage in the process of choosing and purchasing a motorhome or trailer. These questions can apply to first-time RV buyers as well to current RV owners looking to make a switch, perhaps to upsize or downsize, as often happens when needs and/or intended usage change.

1. New or used?

Depending upon your financial situation, this could be a primary consideration. But even if you're rolling in dough, there are some other considerations here. If you place a high priority on reliability and the protection of a warranty, or if you intend to keep your RV for a long time, new may be the way to go.

On the other hand, there are some exceptional deals out there on used units. Buying a previously owned RV certainly merits consideration, especially if you're mechanically inclined and able to make repairs that might be needed.

2. Motorhome or trailer?

RVs come in many types and sizes, ranging from drivable Class A, B and C motorhomes to towables — either fifth wheel or the broad category of travel trailers. Another subcategory is the truck camper, which is affixed to a pickup or flat-bed truck. Essentially, you need to decide whether you want to drive or tow your RV.

Driving a motorhome is easier and in some cases safer than towing and allows you to take passengers along, which is illegal to do in a trailer. Towing a trailer lets you disconnect and use your tow vehicle as a runabout, while driving a motorhome of any size usually dictates towing a smaller vehicle (or "dinghy") to get around once you've set up camp. Sans a cockpit, a trailer offers more living/storage space per foot than a motorhome.

Keep in mind too, if you're considering a trailer, that you must have or buy a tow vehicle with the towing capacity to haul your selected trailer. If you have to buy a tow vehicle — usually a heavy-duty SUV or pickup — you've obviously got to factor that into the total cost. There are any number of attractively priced fifth wheel and travel trailers on the market, but an appropriate tow vehicle can cost as much or even more than the trailer.

If you're still on the fence, your answers to the following questions will help guide a decision.

3. Gas or diesel?

Engine choice applies both to motorhomes and tow vehicles, and there are pros and cons to be weighed. Gas-powered vehicles are appreciably less expensive at purchase, and gas is cheaper than diesel fuel.

Diesel engines are noted for their efficiency, durability and good torque, or pulling power — but they can be noisy and some folks don't like the smell of diesel emissions. Worth considering too is that diesel-powered vehicles generally have higher resale values than comparative gas models.

4. How/where will you use your RV?

Analyzing the intended use of your RV is key to making the right choice.

Think about how often you'll use your rig — which could range from full-time to occasional vacations. This has a direct bearing on how much you'll want to invest in your rig and the types of options/accessories you'll need to fit your lifestyle while on the road. Consider as well how many people — kids and adults — you'll have onboard, mainly to help determine appropriate sleeping arrangements.

Another thing to contemplate is the kind of travel you'll be doing and where you want to go. Will you be sticking to main roads and camping in RV parks with full hookups, or will you be going remote, camping in national parks or possibly "boondocking" without any services at all?

In the latter instance, a 45-foot Class A motorhome or a trailer/tow vehicle rig of similar size wouldn't cut it. A smaller Class B or C motorhome or truck camper with higher clearance and equipped with a generator and/or solar power would clearly be the better choice. If you'll be doing any winter camping, an extra-insulation package would be worth considering.

The selection of options in general merits scrutiny. Seems there’s always a long list of them and some can be shockingly expensive. Slide-outs for more space, a built-in GPS and a power-retractable awning might make good sense, but ask yourself if you really need a flat-screen HD TV/DVD with surround-sound, or a washer dryer or Jacuzzi tub.

Such extras may appeal to you if you're seeking more than just a slice of life at home on the road — but likely not if you're into remote camping or on a tight budget.

5. Cash or finance?

When it comes time to zero in on your choice and to purchase the RV of your dreams, don't rush things. Go to recreational vehicle shows and make the rounds of dealers in your area to compare features and prices.

You also should check the NADA guide — it's online and free — to find the latest valuation of the RV you've chosen. Cash is always king, both for gaining the best deal and to save on finance charges. At present, however, interest rates are still quite low and most banks are willing to finance motorhomes and trailers — usually over terms almost as long as a foundation home.

Here are several other reputable sources for RV loans that may offer better rates (in the 3-4 percent range) and less red tape than banks: Good Sam Financial Center, Alliant Credit Union and Essex Credit.

Hopefully, this information will prove useful to you, and one day soon you'll be setting out with your new RV — where you're sure to find that the journey is as much fun as the destination.