There are several different types of RVs available on the market, and choosing the right one for your needs can be overwhelming. In this blog post, we will discuss the key differences between the most popular types of RVs to help you make an informed decision.
Motorized RV Types
Motorized RVs require more maintenance compared to towables with regular engine and transmission service and have higher tire replacement and insurance costs. However, many owners opt for motorized RVs because they enjoy being able to move around the cabin to make food or use the restroom while traveling. Motorized RVs can be a great option for RV’ers planning to travel long distances or travel more frequently.
Class A Motorhomes: Class A motorhomes are usually the largest and most luxurious RVs available. They resemble buses in appearance and are built on either a truck or bus chassis. Class A motorhomes typically feature full-size appliances, a large living area, and a primary bedroom suite. They can be very expensive but offer unparalleled comfort and luxury on the road.
Class B Motorhomes: Class B motorhomes, also know as camper vans, are built on a van chassis and offer a more compact and maneuverable option for RV travel. They typically include a sleeping area, kitchenette, and small bathroom. Class B motorhomes are ideal for couples or solo travelers.
Class C Motorhomes: Class C motorhomes are built on a truck chassis and offer a more affordable option for motorized RV travel compared to Class A motorhomes while still featuring some of the same amenities like full kitchens and bathrooms. They typically feature a spacious sleeping area above the cab, living area, kitchen, full bathroom, and are ideal for small families or couples.
Towable RV Types
Travel Trailers: Travel trailers, or bumper pulls, are towed by a truck or SUV and come in a range of sizes and configurations. They offer a flexible option for RV travel, as they can be detached from the tow vehicle and used as a standalone living space. Travel trailers typically feature a sleeping area, kitchen, full bathroom, and in some floorpans, additional bedrooms. Travel trailers are ideal for families or couples.
Fifth Wheels: Fifth wheels are similar to travel trailers but are towed by a pickup truck using a hitch that is mounted in the truck bed. They offer a more stable towing experience and typically feature a larger living space, including separate bedroom area, residential style kitchen, taller ceilings, larger windows, and secondary bedrooms and bathrooms. Fifth wheels can also be towed by gooseneck hitches with the proper hitch configuration.
Pop-Up Campers: Pop-up campers, also known as tent trailers, are a lightweight and affordable option for RV travel. They are towed by a car, truck, or SUV and feature a fold-out canvas tent that provides sleeping space, as well as a small kitchenette and dining area.
Destination Trailers: A destination, or park model, RV is a type of RV that is designed to be parked semi-permanently in a designated location, such as a campground, RV park, or personal property where hookups are available. These RVs are typically larger and more spacious than traditional travel trailers, with some models measuring up to 400 square feet.
Destination RVs are built on a chassis and can be moved if necessary, but they are not intended for regular travel like other types of RVs. They usually feature full-size appliances and full bathrooms. They may also include amenities such as washer and dryers, dishwashers, and are also self-contained like other RV types. Overall, destination or park model RVs provide a comfortable and convenient home-away-from-home for extended stays at a particular destination, making them a popular choice for snowbirds and other long-term travelers.
Toy Hauler RV Types
Toy Haulers: A toy hauler is a type of RV that is specifically designed to transport and accommodate large recreational equipment such as ATVs, motorcycles, and other similar toys. It typically features a large, open cargo garage area in the back of the RV which can be accessed through a ramp or large door. This area is designed to accommodate the toys and also serves as additional living and sleeping space when the toys are removed. Toyhauler ramp doors also frequently offer patio conversion kits where the ramp door can be secured in place to create a patio that invites the outdoors in. The ramp doors are usually waterproof and rated to withstand thousands of pounds of weight making them safe and maintenance free when being used in this manner.
Toy hauler RVs come in various sizes and configurations, ranging from small bumper pulls or travel trailers, to fifth wheels, and large motorized RVs. They often feature all of the amenities you’d expect from a standard travel trailer, fifth wheel, or motorhome as well as fueling stations for toys, generators, etc. They are popular amongst outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy actives like off-roading, dirt biking, kayaking, mountain biking, and other adventure sports that may require large equipment.