When thinking about purchasing an RV either for living or travel, it is important to narrow down what you are actually looking for. There are many different options of RVs that range from luxury vans, campervans, drivable RVs or towable RVs. Be sure to look into what kind of space you are looking for in your living spaces, and what level of comfort you are going to be content with on a daily basis. It is important to look at the differences in each option before settling on an RV for your family. Here, we will take a look at the different options available to you and the best features of each option.
Motorized RVs
Class A RVs
Class A RVs are the largest option for a drivable living space. Oftentimes their shape resembles a coach bus and they can be quite large in length. They are a top choice for people who choose to live full time in their RVs. They offer the most living space indoors and tend to resemble a full home more than other RV options. These are the top choices for people who want more leg room, more furniture options and who will spend the most amount of time inside their RVs. While some people have little need for space and luxuries, for others it could be a deal breaker for their experience. These RVs are also the best option for people who have little need for an alternative vehicle. While there is the option to tow a car behind a class A RV, it can make things trickier or decrease fuel efficiency greatly.
Class B Vans (Luxury Vans)
Class B RVs are what would come to mind when thinking about a campervan or luxury van. They are small RVs which are built inside a large cargo van. While some may have extendable areas or features, they are completely built on a van frame. While some people may choose these vehicles for full time living and ‘van life’, they are more often meant for vacations and short stays. There is very little space for amenities and leg room and often only have room for a bed and some small kitchen space. They do not come standard with bathroom facilities but they are the best for fuel efficiency and ease of use in terms of driving. They also allow you to take your vehicle into more places, as they require less space and generally have better suspension and drivability. In a van you could travel unpaved roads, beach fronts and forest ATV trails if you really wanted to. A large RV would likely not allow for these adventures.
Class C RVs
Class C RVs seem to be a great mix between a large RV and a campervan. They also offer the most range in their size options. While they are still built on the basic frame of a van, they can range in length from 24 to 40 feet. If you are looking for an RV only slightly larger than a campervan you can surely find one in this category. Equipped with basic bathroom amenities and slightly more living space. Or if you are looking for a larger rig around 30 feet you can find this as well, which will allow for leg room, possibly multiple sleeping areas and a roomier bathroom with shower and bath. However, the engine and frame are still that of a large truck and may offer less power.
Towable RVs
Travel Trailers
Travel trailers are a great option for any traveller that can handle towing them. They come in all shapes and sizes and the options are endless. They attach to the very back of the towing vehicle, which is what can make them hard to handle. However, any experienced driver with towing experience can manage easily. The downside to these RVs is that they do not have their own engines and therefore require a second vehicle with good torque. The bigger the RV the more powerful a towing vehicle you will need.
Fifth Wheel Trailers
Fifth wheel trailers are probably the most popular among the RV crowd. They are a great option for anyone who already owns a pick up truck. These RVs attach to the pick up truck inside the bed and therefore make it much easier to drive with, specifically for the turning radius. It also results in an easier towing experience power wise and is slightly more fuel efficient. Just like travel trailers they come in all shapes and sizes and there is an option for everyone. Since they are a favourite of full time RV living families, they are often made from much more durable material as the manufacturers are aware of the all season requirements for them. You can also find some great covers for both fifth wheel and travel trailers since they rarely are designed to fit within a garage.
Pop Up Trailers
Pop up trailers, or A-Frame trailers, are some of the easiest trailers to tow. They are a great starter trailer for anyone who is looking to get their foot in the door with trailer ownership. Although they require much more setup and work than other trailers in order to be livable, they are really great for storing and travelling. When not in use they fold down to a flat surface which helps with gas mileage and wind resistance. If you are someone who is less concerned with living space and storage, and more concerned about how tough the drive will be, then these are the RVs for you. You can also find some really handy pop up camper lift sets which will pop up your camper at the push of a button, which will save you a ton of hassle.
Overall, the main take away from this article is to be sure to look into your own vacation or living needs when looking for your next RV purchase. There are lots of options out there ranging from camper vans, luxury vans, towable trailers to class A, B or C RVs. The options are endless and you are sure to find something that is right for you.
