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What are the different classes of RVs? (Motorhomes, Campers, Trailers and Haulers)

Different Classes Of RVs. Parked at campground.
Recreational vehicles known as RVs, come in a variety of sizes, shapes and styles. There are RVs that you can haul, and RVs that you can drive. To get the right RV, it’s important to study up on the options out there, so you get the one that best suits your needs.

 

RVs That You Can Drive.

A motorhome or motorcoach is an RV that you drive. It will function as a small house or an apartment with a steering wheel. What are the different classes of RVs when it comes to living space? A Class A is the largest, followed by a Class C, and a Class B is the smallest.

What are the different classes of RVs?

Class A: A Class A motorhome is about the size of a Greyhound bus. These motorhomes are quite comfortable and can make travel and life on the road a luxurious adventure. Learning to drive a Class A will take some time and practice; getting accustomed to the windshield can actually take practice and focus.

 

Class B: A Class B motorhome is about the size of a 15 passenger van, though most have an extended top so you can stand up. Class B’s tend to be very compact and may not be suitable for more than one person, but it is possible to stealth camp in the city in a Class B, while other RV’s make this nearly impossible.

 

Class C: A Class C motorhome is about the size of a moving truck. Of the different classes of RVs on the market, this is a popular one for multiple reasons. You can enjoy

  • space for more than one person
  • a driving space that isn’t overloading you with windshield
  • a turning radius that’s similar to a truck

One of the interesting things to get used to when you’re driving a Class C is the cab over. Many Class C’s come with a cab over bed, an ideal spot either for sleeping or for storage. Practice driving your RV in local parking lots so the cab over, which is often visible from behind the wheel, doesn’t feel oppressive.

 

RVs That You Can Tow.

A towable RV is by default a trailer. What are the different classes of RVs that need a tow vehicle? These can run the gamut from a small pod camper to a boxy toy hauler to a luxury fifth wheel. Of the different classes of RVs on the market, trailers that you have to haul offer the most variety.

 

Fifth Wheels: All trailers will need a hauling vehicle; a fifth wheel has a gooseneck that will also need a fifth wheel plate, so your hauling vehicle will have to be a pickup truck with a bed that you can’t use until you unhook.

There are many beautiful fifth wheels on the market today and it’s entirely possible to get one custom designed.

 

Different classes of rvs and trailers.

Bumper Pull: Bumper pull trailers attach to the back of a tow vehicle via a ball hitch.

While bumper pull trailers generally aren’t as luxurious as a fifth wheel, they do offer a bit more flexibility as to your hauling vehicle. For example, if you have a long trip planned in your bumper pull and are traveling with children, a large SUV will have not only the seat belts you need for safety but storage in the back.

A bumper pull might also be called a travel trailer. (In some parts of the world it is called a caravan.)

 

Haulers.

A toy hauler is a trailer that carries your fun stuff. If you love to camp but really need your dirt bike, ATV or water ski, a toy hauler is a great choice. It is possible to get a towable RV that has space for people and for gas-powered toys. A good toy hauler will have areas where you can strap down gear to protect it from tipping damage. These units are quite sturdy and have a high weight tolerance.

 

Conclusion – What are the different classes of RVs?

No matter your travel needs, the RV industry has some great offerings for those who love to wander. Consider how many seat-belts you’ll need, how many sleeping spaces, and how much time you plan to spend indoors. Two people can make a Class B camper van work if only using it for a bedroom, while one person can be very happy in a Class C while working from the road.

It doesn’t matter if you are touring the states on a long vacation, or just doing a bit of sightseeing or camping, there are plenty of options out there for RVs, trailers and motorhomes.

For some ideas for meals while camping and traveling, checkout, Ideas For Camping Meals.