Finding the right RV for you and your family can be challenging. There are many options to choose from. So, how do you know which RV is the best choice for your lifestyle? Keep reading to learn more about the different recreational vehicle types and discover which is best for your next adventure.
Motorized vs Towable
There are two different categories of RVs: motorized vehicles and towables.
Motorized vehicles, otherwise known as motorhomes, provide living and driving functions under a single roof and take the hassle out of hitching and towing. Motorhomes are great for first-time RVers who might not be the most comfortable maneuvering with a second vehicle in tow. There are three types of motorhomes: Class A Motorhomes, Class B Motorhomes, and Class C Motorhomes.
Towables, also called trailers, require a vehicle to tow them from place to place. Trailers are usually cheaper than motorhomes, and once you reach your final destination you can easily unhitch your vehicle, allowing you to have a set of wheels to easily explore the area outside your campsite. There are five towable RVs to choose from: travel trailers, fifth wheels, toy haulers, pop-up campers, and truck campers.
Now let’s take a closer look.
Class A Motorhomes (Motorized)
Class A Motorhomes are built on heavy-duty frames and are the largest motorhomes on the road. They typically range between 21 and 45 feet in length and are built on a special chassis. You and your family will have plenty of room to stretch out in the roomy living areas and will feel at home with several amenities included in the motorhome, no matter where you are.
Class B Motorhomes (Motorized)
Class B Motorhomes are also known as “camper vans” as they drive more similarly to a van due to being built on a standard van chassis. Living quarters are smaller since these motorized vehicles are more compact, but this does make them typically easier to drive. If you and your family love going on day trips or are spontaneous travelers, then a Class B Motorhome is a perfect choice.
Class C Motorhomes (Motorized)
Class C Motorhomes combine the top features of Class A’s and Class B’s into one mid-sized recreational vehicle. These motorhomes usually range from 20 to 33 feet in length and are built on a truck or van chassis. Many Class C owners tow their cars along to make running errands and day excursions easier.
Travel Trailers (Towable)
When it comes to Travel Trailers there are several different options to choose from. These RVs commonly offer a wide variety of amenities and floor plans making it easy to find a model that best fits your lifestyle and needs. Some larger models may have bunks, known as bunkhouse models, which can sleep between four and ten people, and some smaller trailers may only offer sleeping space for one to two people. Travel trailers can be towed by any vehicle that can handle their weight capacity.
Fifth Wheels (Towable)
Fifth Wheels are the largest, most expensive, and therefore most luxurious of the towable recreational vehicles. Due to the fact that these trailers are around 20 to 40 feet in length, these trailers must be towed by a large truck or a conversion vehicle. Fifth Wheel Trailers connect to your tow vehicle by a “gooseneck” extension which fits into a space in the bed of your vehicle. These towables typically have large kitchens and bathrooms, plenty of storage space and more sleeping room.
Toy Haulers (Towable)
Toy Haulers are designed to allow you to bring extra toys along like jet skis, ATVs, motorcycles, or even bikes and kayaks. These trailers are split into two sections: the front living quarters and the rear section featuring a pull-down ramp. If you and your adventure buddies like to bring extra camping gear along on trips, then a toy hauler is a great option.
Pop-Up Campers (Towable)
These compact trailers feature expandable side sections that are folded down during transportation and allow for easy camping. The hard-bodied central area contains a simple kitchen and a bathroom, and the expandable sides convert into sleeping areas. These trailers can be towed by most mid-sized vehicles by a ball hitch receiver. Pop-up campers, sometimes also referred to as fold-down campers, are a perfect option for those looking to upgrade from tents and sleeping bags while camping.
Truck Campers (Towable)
Truck campers are economical and easy to drive since they attach to an everyday pickup truck. These campers usually sleep two to four people depending on the model, and offer campers a small cooking, bath, and storage area. If you are a spontaneous traveler or weekend warrior who prefers affordability over luxurious amenities, this towable RV is the one for you!
Visit a ROUTE 66 RV Network Dealer near you to purchase the RV you have been looking for. Our network of independently-owned RV dealerships are here to help you!