How to Schedule an RV Test Drive

To schedule an RV test drive, contact A&L RV Sales by visiting our website, calling your local dealership, or stopping by one of our eight family-owned locations. Our expert team will help you choose the right Grand Design, Brinkley, or Forest River model and ensure a relaxed, no-pressure experience to find your perfect home on wheels.

Why Testing Your Future RV Matters

Buying an RV is more than just a purchase; it is an investment in your family's memories and your future adventures. At A&L RV Sales, we have spent over 25 years helping families in the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic find the freedom of the open road. As a family-owned business, we understand that you need to feel the weight of the steering, the response of the brakes, and the visibility of the mirrors before you sign on the dotted line.

Scheduling a test drive is the best way to ensure that a luxurious Brinkley fifth wheel or a versatile Forest River travel trailer actually fits your driving style. Whether you are navigating the rolling hills of Tennessee or the coastal roads of North Carolina, the "feel" of the rig is something you can’t get from a brochure.

How to Schedule Your RV Test Drive at A&L RV Sales

We make the process as simple and neighborly as possible. We want you to spend less time on paperwork and more time in the driver’s seat.

Step 1: Browse Our Extensive Inventory

Before you head out, explore our online inventory to see the latest models from industry leaders like Grand Design, Jayco, Alliance, and Brinkley. We carry everything from lightweight travel trailers to massive Class A diesel pushers. Knowing which floorplan interests you helps us have the unit prepped and ready for your arrival.

Step 2: Choose Your Nearest Location

With eight locations across four states, there is likely an A&L RV Sales dealership right in your backyard. You can find us in:

Tennessee: Johnson City, Murfreesboro, Sevierville, Columbia, and Jackson.
Georgia: Lake Park.
North Carolina: Greenville.
Virginia: Richmond.

Step 3: Contact Our Team

You can schedule your appointment in three easy ways:

Online Form: Fill out the contact form on our website, specifying the model you’d like to see.
Phone Call: Give us a ring! Our staff is happy to chat about specs and set a time that works for your schedule.
Walk-In: While we recommend an appointment to ensure the specific unit is available, you are always welcome to stop by for a "relaxed, no-pressure" tour.

What to Bring and What to Expect

When you arrive at one of our dealerships, you aren't just a customer; you're part of the family. We don't believe in high-pressure sales tactics. Our goal is to be "The RV'er's Friend."

What to Have Ready

To ensure a smooth experience, please bring:

A Valid Driver’s License: Essential for any motorized test drive.
Towing Specifications: If you are looking at a towable unit (like a Grand Design Reflection), know your vehicle's towing capacity.
Your Co-Pilot: Bring the person who will be sharing the driving duties or navigating!

The A&L Experience

During your visit, one of our specialists will walk you through the unit's features while it's parked. We’ll show you how the slide-outs operate, the quality of the cabinetry, and the tech in the cockpit. Once you're comfortable, we’ll take it for a spin. We want you to experience the acceleration, the turning radius, and how the unit handles wind and road noise.

Evaluating Different RV Brands During Your Test Drive

Different manufacturers prioritize different road manners. Here is what to look for when testing the top brands we carry:

Brinkley and Grand Design

These brands are known for their "luxury meet logic" approach. When test-driving a Brinkley Z-Air or a Grand Design Solitude, pay attention to the suspension systems. These units are engineered for a smoother tow, reducing the "chucking" feeling often associated with large fifth wheels.

Forest River and Jayco

If you are looking at a motorized Class C or Class A from Forest River, notice the cockpit ergonomics. Jayco models often feature the "JRide" package, which includes stabilized sway bars and premium shocks. Testing these on a local road will show you exactly why Jayco is a favorite for long-distance travelers.

The "Warranty Forever" Advantage

One of the biggest concerns for any RV buyer is what happens after the drive. At A&L RV Sales, we provide ultimate peace of mind through our Warranty Forever program.

On qualifying new and used units, this program covers the most critical components of your RV for as long as you own it—at no cost to you.

100% Parts and Labor: No deductibles.
Comprehensive Coverage: Includes suspension, brake components, water systems, and even deluxe appliances like your refrigerator and AC.
Simple Maintenance: All you have to do is perform the annual maintenance outlined in your agreement.

When you are out on your test drive, you can drive with confidence knowing that A&L stands behind the machine for the long haul.

Tips for a Successful RV Test Drive

If this is your first time behind the wheel of a large rig, don't be nervous. Here are a few expert tips to keep in mind:

Check the Mirrors: Before moving, adjust all mirrors. In an RV, your side mirrors are your best friends.
Listen to the Engine: Accelerate as you would on a highway on-ramp. Listen for smooth shifting and power delivery.
Test the Brakes: Feel the "bite" of the brakes. If it's a towable, our team will ensure the brake controller is set correctly so the trailer assists in slowing down the truck.
Practice a Turn: Find a quiet area to practice a wide right turn. This helps you understand the "tail swing" of your specific model.
Ask About Technology: Many of our Alliance and Brinkley units come with backup and side-view cameras. Make sure to see these in action during your drive.

Why Choose a Family-Owned Dealership?

In an era of massive corporate conglomerates, A&L RV Sales remains family-owned and operated. Why does that matter for your test drive?

Personalized Service: We aren't just trying to hit a monthly quota. We want to find the RV that fits your family's lifestyle.
Community Roots: From Murfreesboro to Richmond, we live in the communities we serve. Our reputation is built on your satisfaction.
Long-Term Support: Because we are family-run, our staff tends to stay with us for years. You’ll see the same friendly faces in our service department that you saw on the showroom floor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a special license to test drive an RV?

Most RVs do not require a CDL

In Tennessee, Georgia, Virginia, and North Carolina, a standard driver’s license is sufficient for most consumer RVs. However, if you are looking at an exceptionally heavy Class A diesel pusher, our staff will verify the specific weight requirements for your state.

Can I test drive a travel trailer?

We focus on the "Tow-Experience"

While you don't "drive" a trailer, we can certainly hitch a unit to your truck (or one of ours) so you can feel how it tracks behind a vehicle. This is highly recommended for those new to towing Grand Design or Forest River travel trailers to ensure your vehicle is a comfortable match.

Does the "Warranty Forever" program cover the engine?

Yes, for motorized units

The Warranty Forever program is a lifetime powertrain warranty on eligible motorized units. It covers the engine blocks, transmission, and drive axle. For towable units, it covers the critical internal systems like the AC, furnace, and water heater.

How long does an RV test drive take?

Usually 30 to 60 minutes

We want you to have enough time to get a real feel for the vehicle. We typically plan for about an hour, which includes a pre-drive walkthrough and a 20-30 minute driving loop that includes both surface streets and higher-speed roads.

Can I bring my kids to the test drive?

Absolutely!

We are a family-owned business and we know that the kids' opinion on the bunkhouse or the entertainment center matters. While they may need to remain buckled or seated during the actual drive, we encourage the whole family to explore the unit while it's parked.

How to Schedule an RV Test Drive: Your Guide to a Confident Purchase