Comparing Different Types of RVs: A Comprehensive Analysis

RVs come in many shapes and sizes—so many, in fact, that it can be overwhelming to try to figure out which type is best for your needs. Fortunately, we’re here to break it down for you. There are two main categories of RVs: drivable motorhomes (which have an engine) and towable campers (that require a truck or other vehicle to tow them around). Each category can be further broken down, as we’ll explore in this article.

The Importance of Understanding Different RV Types

It’s essential to understand the different types of RVs that are available so you can make the most ideal selection in terms of meeting your specific needs and preferences. Otherwise, you might end up with a bigger or smaller RV than you need—or one that doesn’t match your travel style.

Drivable Motorhomes

Motorized RVs are divided into the following classes:

Class A RVs

Class A RVs are the biggest motorhomes available, often measuring 21 to 45 feet long. These behemoths are typically built on a commercial bus or truck chassis and often feature two or more slideouts. Inside, you can expect to find full kitchens, bathrooms with separate wet and dry areas, large and comfortable living spaces, and multiple sleeping areas. Many feature large TVs, abundant storage areas, and even washers and dryers.

These big rigs are great for large groups and those who plan to live in their RV full-time, although it can be a challenge to drive such a large vehicle, especially in cities. They also require a huge storage space, are generally more expensive than most other RV options, and do not get very good fuel mileage. However, they are the closest thing to taking an entire home with you on the road in terms of comfort and luxury.

Search Class A RVs for sale

Class B RVs

Class B RVs (also called campervans) are the smallest of the motorized RVs, ranging from about 17 to 19 feet in length. These small rigs are nimble, easy to drive, and boast far better fuel efficiency than their larger counterparts. However, the trade-off is obviously less interior space, which means fewer amenities and a potentially cramped living area. But, many campervans are equipped with everything you need for both short and long trips, especially if you plan to spend the majority of your time outside. Many Class B RVs are designed with rugged off-road capabilities to enable campers to boondock, or camp outside of designated campgrounds or RV parks.

Search Class B RVs for sale

Class C RVs

Offering a happy medium between the previous two RV types, Class C RVs typically measure somewhere between 20 and 31 feet long. The cabover sleeping area is the hallmark of this type of RV, which is typically built on a van or truck chassis. With the bed overhead, there is usually plenty of room in a Class C RV for a full kitchen, a dinette, a bathroom with a shower, living space, and potentially another bedroom or sleeping area. These RVs are easier to drive and maneuver than a Class A, but still offer some of the space and luxury you would find in larger rigs.

Search Class C RVs for sale

Towable Campers

Towable campers do not have classes, but there are still three main subcategories:

Fifth Wheels

Fifth wheels are designed to be towed by a pickup truck that has a fifth wheel trailer hitch in the bed. These trailers can be anywhere from 22 to 48 feet long which means that when combined with a truck, the total length can be as much as a whopping 60 feet. Driving such a large rig is not for the faint of heart, but fifth wheels can be more stable when towing as compared to tow-behind travel trailers. Fifth wheels often have slideouts and can include all the luxuries that you might find in a Class A RV, with one crucial difference: you can unhitch, leave the fifth wheel at your camp spot, and use your truck to easily run errands or go on an adventure. Of course, with a Class A, you could also tow a small car behind your rig, which would serve the same purpose.

Search Fifth Wheels for sale

Travel Trailers

Travel trailers use a standard hitch and can range anywhere from 10 to 40 feet long. Some of the smallest travel trailers out there are exceptionally light and can be towed by an SUV or even a car. This is a significant advantage if you don’t have a truck already or the budget to buy a truck as well as a trailer. There are dozens of different types and layouts of travel trailers, so you can choose anything from a barebones basecamp or a luxurious home-away-from-home.

Search Travel Trailers for sale

Toy Haulers

Toy haulers are very similar to travel trailers, except that they feature a ramp in the rear that allows you to drive motorcycles, dirt bikes, 4x4s, golf carts, etc. into the back storage space. The front portion of the trailer features a living space similar to any other travel trailer. Toy haulers tend to be heavier—especially with the addition of your toys—so they typically require a truck with substantial towing capabilities. These RVs are an excellent choice for everyone from avid adventurers to snowbirds who can’t live without their golf cart to get around the RV park.

Search Toy Haulers for sale

Conclusion