RV 101: Which RV is right for you?

If you’re new to RVing, or still considering joining the RV lifestyle, then there are many things for you to learn about RVs. We’re going to start with some of the basics to help you understand what kinds of RVs are out there, and which type will be best for you based on your needs.

There are three basic types of motorhomes: Class A, Class B, and Class C. These are either gas powered or diesel powered and have sleeping accommodations for at least 2 people. Some can house many more, based on their size and design. Let’s take a look at the different classes of motorhomes and what they mean.

Class A: Class A motorhomes are large and flat on the front. They have a lot of storage, plenty of room inside, and usually come with a big price tag to boot. However, they will give you everything you need when it comes to camping or living in an RV. No matter how much or how little time you spend in your RV, you’ll have your needs met with the Class A. You can tow a vehicle behind them which is very convenient for people who still want to keep their private vehicle with them. They also come with slides for more room when you are parked.

Class B: Class B RVs are van-based. They typically have at least a bed in them and some might have fold-out tables or even a small kitchen or wet-bath. On the outside, they may look like an ordinary van. They’re small and easier to drive and park, and they’re great for short-term camping, boondocking, or RVing with just one or two people.

Class C: These can vary a great deal in both size and pricing. There are smaller Class Cs that are not much bigger than a Class B and there are some that rival the Class As. Price is often based on size, as well as all the features it has. They typically have a space above the driver and passenger cab for sleeping, or for entertainment. They can tow a vehicle or boat behind them, or you can tow more storage if you have a lot of people traveling inside. Some also have multiple slides like the Class A so you can greatly expand your space once parked.

Another option if you don’t want to drive your RV is a trailer that you pull behind a vehicle. There are two basic types of trailers: The Travel Trailer and 5th Wheels. Let’s explore the differences.

Travel Trailers: These trailers attach to the frame of the towing vehicle with a special hitch. They come in a variety of sizes, options, and prices. Some of them come with slides like you will find on Class A and C motorhomes. Depending on the layout, some can sleep from 2 to 12 people. They have decent storage, although typically not as much as a motorhome will have.
5th Wheels: This is a type of trailer that you attach to your vehicle, allowing you to bring the camping trailer with you wherever you go. It’s slightly bigger than other types of travel trailers and has the best, comfortable pull behind the vehicle because of how it is attached to the center over the rear axle of the tow vehicle. They can range in size from 20’ to 40’ and can sleep from 2-10 people, depending on size and design. They can run you anywhere from $10,000 – $100,000.
Now that you know more about the different types of RVs, you are better prepared to choose the one that is right for your needs and budget. Just like buying any other type of vehicle, you can save when you buy pre-owned and there are other opportunities for savings if you shop around.