RV Classes Guide | Which Is Best for You?

Are you dreaming of hitting the open road in your own RV? With so many classes and types of travel trailers available, how do you choose the perfect one? Understanding the nuances of each RV class is key to unlocking the ultimate adventure.

RV Categories

Learn more about the two main types of RVs before choosing the best option for your needs:

Motorized: A motorized RV is also known as a motorhome, and it is one that you can drive. This eliminates the need to tow it behind another vehicle.
Towable: You must tow fifth-wheels and bumper-pull travel trailers behind another vehicle.

RV Motorhome Classes

These RV motorhome classes offer various benefits for different travel preferences:

Class A Motorhome

Class A RVs are the largest, most luxurious motorhomes on the market.

Size: Class A motorhomes range in size from 26 to 45 feet long and up to 8 feet or 8 ½ feet wide. They also range in weight between 13,000 and 30,000 pounds. Each Class A motorhome is built on a single chassis with one to three axles, and heavier coaches tend to have three axles.
Features: Class A motorhomes typically feature a fully equipped kitchen, appliances, luxurious furnishings and optional upgrades like fireplaces.
Slideouts: Some Class A RVs feature slideouts, which extend outward at the press of a button. This creates more space to enjoy time with friends and family.
Cargo capacity: Class A motorhomes reserve unparalleled storage space underneath the living area.
High-tech systems: High-tech turnkey systems make it easy to run appliances, level the RV and extend and retract slideouts.
Engine: Class A RV engines can be diesel or gasoline. Gas coaches are the most cost-effective to operate and maintain. Diesel engines usually offer a greater resale value, greater torque, a high towing capacity and a longer lifespan.

Class B Motorhome

A Class B motorhome is a smaller but well-equipped RV often known as a “campervan.”

Size: Class B motorhomes typically weigh between 6,000 and 8,000 pounds and range in length from 17 to 19 feet. They usually accommodate two to four people, but some models can sleep up to six individuals.
Features: A Class B motorhome often features a marine shower toilet, a small kitchen and creatively configured sleeping spaces. It may include a queen-sized bed in the back and folding sofas to sleep more people.
Slideouts: Some Class B motorhome models feature slideouts, which can create more sleeping space.
Storage space: Class B motorhomes have limited storage space.
Easy maneuverability: A Class B RV is easier to maneuver and park due to its smaller size.
Fuel efficiency: Class B RV engines offer excellent fuel efficiency, helping you save money on gas.

Class C Motorhome

Class C RVs fall between the size and luxuries of Class A and B motorhomes. You may recognize a Class C RV by its distinctive cab that extends over its cockpit.

Size: Class C motorhomes range in size from 20 to 28 feet and are typically 8 feet tall. They can weigh between 10,000 and 13,000 pounds, making them significantly lighter than Class As and slightly heavier than Class Bs.
Space: The inside of a Class C motorhome combines the spaciousness of a Class A RV with the van-like feel of a Class B cockpit.
Features: A Class C RV often features a private bedroom in the back and an over-cab sleeping area. Many models also include folding sleeper sofas and slideouts to extend living spaces. You may also find separate shower and toilet chambers, a dining table, built-in cabinets, a television shelf, and a small washing machine or dishwasher.
Cargo space: Many Class C RVs feature considerable cargo space under the rear bedroom, helping you haul items such as folding chairs and suitcases.
Fuel efficiency: Class C motorhomes offer greater fuel efficiency than Class A RVs, but they may consume more fuel than Class Bs.
Maneuverability: Driving and parking a Class C motorhome is typically easier than driving a Class A, but it can be slightly more challenging than maneuvering a Class B.

Types of RV Trailers

The following types of RV trailers are available for outdoor adventures:

Fifth-Wheels

Fifth-wheel trailers are the largest, most luxurious RV trailers. The front of a fifth-wheel is elevated off the ground and extends over the bed of a truck. It is fixed to the truck bed by a hitching mechanism, which enables it to track closely to the truck.

Size: A fifth-wheel trailer’s size is similar to a Class A motorhome. Fifth-wheels tend to stretch between 22 and 40 feet long and usually sleep four to eight people.
Comfort: Fifth-wheels are some of the most comfortable of RV trailers due to their size and features.
Features: A fifth-wheel trailer typically features a private bedroom with a shower, separate toilet chamber and steps that lead to a spacious living area. It is common for a fifth-wheel to feature three or more slideouts, which significantly expands the space.
Maneuverability: A fifth-wheel is easier to maneuver than alternative RV trailers because it pivots and swivels close to its towing vehicle.

Bumper-Pull Travel Trailers

A bumper-pull travel trailer is comparable to Class B and C RVs in size and comfort, ranging from small and cozy to moderately roomy. They connect to a standard trailer hitch and come in different configurations.

Pop-up and fold-out trailers are low-profile, lightweight options with the open-air feeling of a tent. Teardrop campers are small hardshell trailers with a compact, aerodynamic shape. Consider how bumper-pull trailers differ from RVs and fifth-wheels:

Size: Bumper-pull trailers are significantly smaller than motorhomes.
Space and comfort: Large bumper-pull trailers offer space and slideouts comparable to a fifth-wheel but without the addition of an elevated over-cab bedroom. Teardrop campers have enough space for a bed but no living area.
Features: Pop-up and pull-out campers often include mattresses, pull-out sofa beds, dining areas and small kitchens. A teardrop camper features a bed and opens up to a small outdoor kitchen in the back.
Maneuverability: Bumper-pull trailers are fairly easy to tow. You can pull smaller models with a sedan or small SUV and larger models with a truck.

How to Choose an RV or Trailer

Each type of motorhome and RV trailer offers its own advantages. The best one for you and your family depends on your camping style, budget, desired space and towing vehicle.