Heading out on the road in an RV sounds exciting and it is tempting to jump right in. However, there is a lot to know before you start traveling! Most importantly, how to choose the right RV for you! There are models that are compact and nimble, and others that are spacious and luxurious! What’s certain is that there is a type of RV suited for every adventurer. So let’s take a look at some of the most popular types and what makes them great. This will help you make an informed decision on how to choose the right RV!
Travel Trailer RVs
A travel trailer is any type of RV that you tow behind your vehicle. It is a separate vehicle that gets hitched to your tow vehicle. Travel trailers may also be called a caravan or camper trailer. Arguably the most common type of RV, travel trailers come in all shapes, sizes, weights and lengths from 10 ft up to 35 ft!
BENEFITS
Versatility: Since Travel trailers come in such various sizes and configurations it is easy to find one that fits your specific needs. Depending on your family size you can find options that come with bunk beds, Murphy beds, or even pop outs! Some models have slide outs, that expand to create extra room when parked.
Affordability: Travel trailers are generally more budget friendly compared to other RV types because they do not have their own motor. This makes them a great, accessible starting option for many camper.
Tow Vehicle Flexibility: Since travel trailers are towed behind a separate vehicle you can easily unhitch at your destination. This is important if you plan to drive to other attractions in the area. Being able to unhitch and use your tow vehicle separately from your RV lets you explore without bringing the entire RV along.
Drawbacks
Towing Requirements: Since your tow vehicle is doing the work of pulling the camper, you will need to be sure it is up to the task! If you already have a vehicle, work backwards using it’s towing capacity to choose the right RV. If you don’t yet have a tow vehicle, be sure to purchase one that has adequate tow capacity and necessary tow package. It is important to do your research here! Towing over capacity can make for dangerous driving, and undue wear on your vehicle.
Parking Challenges: Since travel trailers are hitched to the back of your vehicle and can be quite long they are often hard to maneuver into a campsite. Narrow campsites and obstacles like trees or fire pits can add to this difficult task. When possible, book a “pull thru” campsite so that you will not have to back the travel trailer in!
Pop-Up RVs
A pop-up RV, or pop-up camper is another type of RV that gets towed behind your vehicle. As the name suggests, these RVs are stored in a collapsed position and can then “pop up” at your destination to provide ample interior room. This is another great option for beginners to choose as they are often small, light, and very manageable! Most pop-up campers are between 7 and 10 feet long.
benefits
Compact & Lightweight: Pop-ups are very compact when folded. Because of this they are very easy to tow and maneuver onto a campsite. Their light weight also allows them to be easy towed with most trucks, and even some SUVs. Since they are so small when compacted they can also be very easy to store in the off season.
Cost Effective: Since there is less to them, pop-up campers are often more affordable than larger RVs. Their low price point can make them a great entry point for new RVers.
Off-Road Capabilities: Some pop-ups are designed for “boon docking”, or an off road adventure. Their small size and flexibility easily allows you to explore more rugged terrains and get off the beaten path.
drawbacks
Limited Amenities: Since most pop-ups are on the smaller size they often offer fewer amenities. Compared to larger RVs you will find less living space, and need to spend more time outdoors. You will often find they only offer outdoor kitchens, and may not include a bathroom or shower.
Setup Time: Pop-ups need to be constructed and torn down at both ends of your trip. While usually simple, this requires more manual effort and may be time consuming. If you are only stopping for a few days at a time it may be a hassle to continually set up and breakdown the pop-up.
Fifth Wheel RVs
Popular among campers who stay parked for extended periods of time, fifth wheel RVs are designed to provide all the luxuries of home. Similar to commercial trucks and semi-trailers, a fifth wheel gets it’s name from the large “U” shaped hitch that connects it to the tow vehicle. This allows easy towing and turning for a very large RV. Fifth wheels generally start at 25 ft long and can range up to 45 ft long.
benefits
Space: A fifth wheel offers ample living room. They typically include separate bedrooms and multiple slide outs. There are even some models with lofted bedrooms! Having so much space creates for a very comfortable stay and the ability to pack all you need for your trip.
Enhanced Stability: The special hitch connection of a fifth wheel provides a much better stability than other tow behind trailers. It also helps for easy pivots and turning while driving, and parking your trailer. This can make for a very smooth ride!
Upgraded Features: Most fifth wheel trailers boast high end finishes and modern conveniences. You can expect to see large island kitchens with luxury light fixtures, plenty of seating areas, and multiple rooms.
drawbacks
Towing Requirements: Since fifth wheels are so large they need a really high powered towing vehicle! In addition, the hitch gets installed in the bed of the truck, which can limit your ability to use the bed of the truck for other purposes.
Storage Challenges: The unique design and size of a fifth wheel limits your ability for easy storage. When not hitched to your vehicle or parked at a campsite you need to consider where you still keep the trailer. If you do not have room at home you may need to rent storage space at a facility or marina.
Class A RVs
A Class C RV is arguably the largest type of RV on the market. Similar to a coach bus, these RVs are built onto their chassis and may have 2 or 3 axels. You drive the Class A itself, and do not tow it behind another vehicle. Despite their size you actually do not need any special license to drive one! Typically the most extravagant RV options, the Class A is built for large families and long trips. Similar to a fifth wheel, a Class A can range anywhere from 25 up to 45 ft long.
benefits
Ample Space: Class A motorhomes provide a very spacious living area. They more closely resemble a small apartment on wheels, with living rooms, kitchens, multiple bedrooms and bathrooms.
Luxurious Amenities: These RVs are top of the line and boast very high end finishes. Often featuring tiled floors, built in entertainment systems, pop up TVs and full size appliances. Many Class A RVs also come with options for built in washer / dryers!
Power: Since the Class A is built on a dedicated motorhome chassis it is made to handle all it’s own weight. This provides probably the smoothest ride of all the RV types.
drawbacks
Maneuverability: While the massive size of a Class A is certainly a benefit, the drawback is it’s maneuverability. These motorhomes are large and it can be challenging to navigate tight spaces and crowded campgrounds.
Fuel Consumption: The size and weight of Class As can lead to much higher fuel consumption compared to other RV types. Typically they only accept diesel fuel and long trips can get expensive.
Class C RVs
Similar to a Class A, the Class C is built with a chassis and the front of the camper usually looks like a van. These are often much shorter than the Class C and drive more similarly to the everyday vehicles most are used to. This style also includes the increasingly popular “Sprinter Van”. One great characteristic of these campers is the “over the cab” sleeping and storage area that provides extra room in an otherwise compact layout. A Class C RV is typically between 25 and 35 ft long.
benefits
Maneuverability: Class C motorhomes are smaller than the Class A or a fifth wheel. This makes them easier to drive, and much easier to park. If you don’t bring another car along with you they are also easier to drive to other attractions or the grocery store.
Sleeping Capacity: The over-cab sleeping area makes for the perfect extra sleeping area. Some Class C RVs also feature additional slide outs to accommodate larger groups. These are often a good “middle ground” camper.
Cost Effective: Class C campers typically offer a good balance between price and amenities, which appeals to beginners and budget conscious travelers. While they do typically take diesel fuel, the tanks are smaller to fill and do not spend as quickly as a Class C.
drawbacks
Limited Space: As mentioned, these typically offer less interior space compared to a Class A or a fifth wheel. You may need to get creative – turning couches into beds then reverting during the day – to maximize your use of space.
Payload Capacity: The overall weight and limits of the Class C may limit the amount of cargo you can carry. It is also good to check your RVs exact specifications and visit a weigh station along your journey!
Choosing the right type of RV is a crucial decision when beginning your camp life. Choosing an RV model that will be comfortable and fit your needs will determine how much fun you have! Whatever type you go with, there are unique benefits and drawbacks. Ultimately, you need to consider what is best for you in regards to budget, towing capabilities, desired amenities and easy of travel to find your perfect match! I hope this guide will help you choose the right RV for you, so you can embark on unforgettable journeys and start making camp life memories! Once you’ve chosen your RV you can start building your RV Starter Kit for a smooth first adventure. Happy camping!
Still on the fence? Check out our blog post about the top 5 benefits of RV camping!
