Types of Recreational Vehicles
Class A, B, C, Fifth Wheel, Folding, Truck and Travel Trailers
Purchasing an RV takes as much research and knowledge as buying a new car or home. Having the family's specific needs in mind and the proper information on what is available will help in making the best decision possible. Keep in mind the number of people you will need to sleep in your motorhome or trailer and a budget amount when considering each option. If you are looking to rent an RV, an alternative widely available across the country, an excellent resource on the web is Cruise America, an RV rental company. However, if purchasing a new or used rig is on your agenda, RVTrader is a great place to start your research on what is for sale in your area. For the most detailed and latest information on a specific model, head directly to the manufacturer. Fleetwood and Forest River are among more than 100 manufacturers of RV varieties. Following is a listing of styles of recreational vehicles and the amenities of each.
1. CLASS A: This is the largest of the 3 classes of motorhomes. This class is most recognizable by the rectangular shape and box like appearance of the style. These RVs are the most expensive, costing more than $100,000, but have luxury amenities for the price. Big screen televisions, marble countertops and leather furniture are among the many top of the line accessories in this category. These units come in diesel and gas options with the ability to haul a car behind. This model is perfect for large families or retirees who want an easy travel lifestyle.
2. CLASS B: Units in class B are often referred to as camper vans because of their styling like a standard cargo van. These are the smallest of the motorhomes, or homes that are drivable within themselves. A class B rig will provide a small family or couple with sleeping, eating and bathroom arrangements for basic comfort.
3. CLASS C: This class is a mini-motorhome size with similar, but smaller amenities to class A. This version of motorhome looks more like a truck with a separate cab area in the front with large living quarters attached. New models of class C have the beauty and functionality of class A for a more affordable price and reasonable size. When buying a used RV, styling, condition and amenities available will depend on the make and year as well as how the previous owner cared for the unit.
4. FIFTH WHEEL: These trailers are designed specifically to be towed by a special hitch that is affixed in the bed of a pickup style truck. Models in this category can range in size from approximately 22 feet to 30 feet or more with all the amenities of home included in the rig. Campers such and this and ones that follow take more time to be set up than the motorhome variety. Additional living space can be obtained by furniture that is boxed to be pushed out from the main quarters and also doubles as sleeping space. The kitchen, bathroom, living and sleeping space are rather large and comfortable in this category.
5. TRAVEL TRAILERS: This variety of camper is very family friendly and can be hauled with a standard hitch on a car, SUV, minivan or pickup truck. Many models can sleep up to 8 people comfortably with daytime lounge and dining furniture converting to beds at night. Bathrooms and kitchens are equipped with all of the basic needs with the addition of extras including cable hook-up, freezer space, full-size microwave and plenty of storage.
6. FOLDING CAMPING TRAILERS: Also known as pop-up or tent trailers, this category is lighter to haul and affordable for all family types and sizes. When traveling, pop-up campers resemble a small box and are set-up on site. The top of the unit is lifted and the beds pulled out from either end, typically ranging from standard king to full size. Small bathrooms are available on larger trailers, however, a basic kitchen and living quarters come standard. Not all campers in this category are outfitted with air-conditioning, but it is an option that can be added on, even with used trailers. Pop-ups are great campers for beginners to the RV lifestyle or those who enjoy the natural environment of tent camping with more comfort.
7. TRUCK CAMPERS: Units of this type are small but very mobile, as the trailer is loaded into the bed of a pickup truck and affixed for travel.
