Camper RVs - What are the Different Classes?

Okay, time to go to class, RV class that is. When choosing which camper/RVs to rent or buy, it helps to know the different classes of Camper/RVs there are to choose from. (By the way, a camper in Europe is referred to as a "caravan.") When considering Class A to Class C RVs, just remember that it goes from larger and more expensive (Class A) to smaller and least expensive (Class C) with Class B in the middle.

1. Class A RVs

These are the most expensive and the largest among the RVs. They are built on another manufacturer's chassis and buses. It can accommodate 2 to 8 people and comes complete with furnishings and living systems. It is coined as the ultimate movable home away from home. Class As handle more like a car (albeit a very large car). Often times people will tow a car, which is referred to as a "toad," which allows them mobility when they reach their destination. (Hopping in the RV for a quick trip to the market can be a but cumbersome).

2. Class B RVs

Class B Camper RVS are built on a van chassis with a raised roof. Class Bs are smaller, compact, and very easy to drive, and contain much of the amenities of a Class A RV, but on a smaller scale.

Their size can be compared to ordinary cars, so parking is not a problem. They can also be used as an everyday vehicle. However, because of its compact size, it is most suitable for people who will take short trips. The Class B RVs are said to me more fuel-efficient compared to Class A RVs.

3. Class C RVs

The least expensive of the Camper RVs, the Class C is a truck chassis with an RV unit built on it, with the sleeping area over the driving compartment. The great thing about the Class C is it contains many of the amenities of the Class A, but you can take it to more places. The Class C Camper RVs can accommodate 4 people, plus two children.

4. Travel Trailers

A travel trailer belongs to the class of "towable RVs" and is towed by a car or truck. Less expensive than a fifth wheel, travel trailers are more lightweight than other RVs but the towing vehicle must always be considered as well. The good thing about pulling your RV is the mobility when you reach your destination, as you can unhitch your trailer an use your car for smaller trips. The bad thing is that longer trailers tend to sway and don't complete turns as easily as the fifth wheel, and they are more difficult to back in to a campsite.

5. Fifth Wheel RVs

This vehicle got its name from the device used to mount the trailer on the middle portion of the truck bed. This structure offers a wider variety of floor plans, making it possible to deliver the luxury of other RV types. The bad thing about a fifth wheel is you may have to purchase a medium-duty truck to haul the fifth wheel, depending on the weight of the fifth wheel. A medium-duty truck may not be the most convenient vehicle to take for smaller trips once the fifth wheel is unhitched. It also is more expensive in fuel consumption. In addition, a fifth wheel can be difficult to back in a campsite.

6. Pop-Up Trailer

What a handy camper this is! It's another towable camper/RV and looks like a box when being towed. But, once popped up the front and back open and occasionally the sides. Amenities can include a small kitchen area, tables, two beds and shower. The good news is it's towed easily by a car or van, so you don't have to go out and buy a truck. Also, the cars are easier on the gas. The bad news is that you have to set it up and tear it down each time you go to a new location, so it's best if you stay at one site for awhile.

7. Slide In Camper

The slide in camper is a camper shell that you can take off your truck, allowing you to take your truck on smaller trips without carrying the camper around. This is a good option for a couple people who want to camp out, but with nicer sleeping arrangements than a tent. Some models also have "slide outs" which provide more space. The more expensive models offer amenities such as refrigerator, microwave, stove, bathroom and shower.

Which Camper/RV is right for you?

It all depends on your needs, financial abilities and comfort level. If you're retired, financially stable and wish to tour the country, then perhaps a Class A is for you. If you and your family want to take frequent camping trips and will stay put once you're there, then perhaps a pop-up trailer is for you. Finally, consider your comfort level. You may not feel comfortable driving a big Class A RV. Perhaps a smaller Class B or Class C camper is more your style, or, again, a pop-up trailer. It's good to test-drive all the different types of RVs to determine of which you're most comfortable behind the wheel.

Synonyms:  Caravan, camper, RV and motorhome are often used synonymously. R V camping and RV camping are used synonymously.

cmper, caper, capmer, camer, camepr, campr, and campre are typos and mispellings for "camper."