Which RV Is Right For You?
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So you’ve decided that you want to buy an RV! There are so many choices of RVs and campers available. How do you decide which RV is best for you? We are going to go over the different types of RVs to help you know the differences. Then you will have the knowledge to help you decide which RV is best for you!
Once you decide that you want to purchase an RV you need to think of your needs. How are you going to be using the RV? Are you looking just to go for the occasional weekend, travel long distances, or do you want to live full-time in your RV? Once you know how you will use your RV, then you will have a better idea of what will work for you!
Drivable RVs
In the RV industry, there are several RVs that fit into the category of drivable. These RVs are built with engines and you can drive them without the need of another vehicle. Many people enjoy the convenience of being able to just get up and walk back to make a snack or use the facilities! Within the drivable category, there are three main classes: Class A, Class B, and Class C.
Class A
Class A motorhomes are the largest recreational vehicles on the market. The sizes range from 26 to 45 feet and they are built on a single chassis that can have two or three axles. Class A’s come with either a gas or diesel engine.
One thing to note is that gas engine Class A’s come at a lower cost than the diesel engine Class A’s. However, diesel engines offer more power and have better fuel efficiency. Class A motorhomes also offer plenty of luxury amenities such as full kitchens, spacious living areas, and even multiple bathrooms.
Class B
Class B motorhomes are the smallest in size among the drivable RVs. They are often referred to as camper vans or conversion vans. These are built on a van chassis and typically range from 16 to 21 feet in length. Class B’s are great for solo travelers or couples who want a more compact and maneuverable RV.
They come equipped with basic amenities such as a small kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping area. However, due to their smaller size, they may not have as much storage space or luxury features compared to larger RVs.
Class C
Class C motorhomes are built on a truck chassis. They range from 21 to 35 feet long and can have one or two slide-outs to increase living space when parked. This type of RV is ideal for small families or groups of friends who want a bit more room than what a Class B offers. It typically has similar amenities to a Class B, but with more storage space and potentially additional features such as a larger kitchen or entertainment system.
Towables
Towable RVs are pulled behind a vehicle. When looking for a towable RV you need to first know what you can tow with your current vehicle or consider purchasing the correct vehicle to pull the RV you are interested in. Do not rely on the RV salesperson to know what your vehicle can tow. Do your homework and know before you go shopping! Within the towable category, there are a few: travel trailers, fifth wheels, toy haulers, and pop-ups.
Travel Trailer
Travel trailers come in many shapes and sizes. They are typically the most affordable option in terms of price. They come with various amenities such as a bathroom, kitchen, sleeping areas, and storage space. Some travel trailers even have slide-outs for added room when parked.
Fifth Wheel
Fifth wheels are larger than travel trailers and require a truck with a specialized hitch to pull them. They offer even more living space and amenities compared to travel trailers, making them popular among full-time RVers or those who want a luxurious camping experience.
Fifth wheels also tend to be more stable on the road due to their design.
Toy Hauler
As the name suggests, toy haulers are designed to bring along recreational vehicles such as ATVs, motorcycles, or snowmobiles. They come in both travel trailer and fifth wheel options and have a separate garage space at the back to store and transport your toys.
Toy haulers are perfect for adventure seekers who want to take their outdoor equipment with them on their travels.
Pop-up Camper
Also known as tent trailers, pop-up campers offer a more budget-friendly option for camping. They are compact when folded up but can expand into spacious living quarters when parked.
Pop-up campers are easy to tow and maneuver, making them a popular choice for first-time RV owners or those who prefer a more traditional camping experience.
Ready To Shop?
Well, let’s first ask ourselves what we really like about each RV! It is best to create a list of the items that you really like about each type of RV. Once you have your list, think about what your must-haves are! Your must-haves are the list of things that you can’t live without!
When touring RVs you may notice certain things that are important to you! We find being able to walk around the bed is important. Struggling to make the bed each day may make your experience less exciting! Storage is also something that is really essential, so be sure to picture you and your items inside the RV. We each have items that we need to make our RVing journey the best it can be! Looking at many RVs will give you a better understanding of what each type has and can make your decision a little easier!
In this video, we discuss what pitfalls to avoid before you purchase your RV.
RV Slang Terms and Lingo
Basement A storage area beneath the floor of an RV, often accessible from outside
Boondocking Camping off-grid in an RV without water,power, or sewer hookups.
Bunkhouse A section of an RV that contains bunk beds, typically located in the rear.
Bus A large motorhome built on a commercial bus chassis
Cab Driver’s compartment of an RV or the front section of a truck used to tow an RV
Coach A term used interchangeably with motorhome, usually referring to a Class A
Cockpit The driver's area of an RV containing the steering wheel, controls, & instruments.
Crackerdocking Overnight RV parking at a Cracker Barrel.
Diesel Pusher RV with a rear-mounted diesel engine.
Dogbone An electrical adapter that connects your RV to a power source.
Dolly A wheeled platform that supports the front wheels of a towed vehicle behind an RV
Dually A truck with dual rear wheels on each side
Full-timers People who live in their RV full-time, making it their primary residence
Galley The kitchen area in a camper
Garage Dedicated storage area in some RVs typically used for storing things like ATVs
Gasser A motorhome powered by a gasoline engine.
Glamping A combination of the words "glamorous" and "camping" - camping with luxurious amenities.
Honey Wagon A vehicle equipped with a pump and tank used for emptying RV waste tanks.
Moochdocking Staying in an RV on someone’s private property for free
Part-timers RV enthusiasts who use their RVs part-time for vacations or getaways.
PUP An acronym for Pop-Up Camper.
Rig Slang term for an RV or the combination of a tow vehicle and a towable RV
Skoolie A school bus that has been converted into an RV.
Snowbird An individual who travels seasonally, typically to warmer climates over the winter months
Sticks & Bricks A term used by RV enthusiasts to describe a traditional, non-mobile home.
Stinky Slinky Slang term for an RV sewer hose
Tin Can Nickname for vintage aluminum travel trailers
Toad A smaller vehicle towed behind an RV for transportation during RV stays.
Wallydocking Overnight RV parking at a Walmart parking lot.
