Class A motorhomes are built using a very strong, heavy-duty frame. Class A motor homes are the ones that resemble large buses and are the largest recreational vehicle class available. There are usually a minimum of two slide-outs. For quality and luxury, the Class A motorhome is the way to go, as there is plenty of storage space and a roomy interior. Something to keep in mind is that some national and state parks limit the size of RVs that are allowed so if you plan on doing lots of camping in those parks, this may not be the choice for you.

Pros:

• Lots of space
• Lots of storage
• Many amenities
• Easier to maneuver than large towables like fifth-wheels
• Large holding tanks, good to have if you want to camp “off-the grid” , or boondock
• Most have auto-leveling systems

Cons:

• Large size may not be allowed at national and state parks
• Parks may only have 30 amp electrical service; some motorhomes require 50 amp service
• A vehicle for every day use has to be towed behind the motorhome
• Expensive to buy & insure
• Low gas mileage (7 – 13 mpg)

These look and drive like a van. They have a compact size and are built on a van chassis. They typically have a bed, small kitchen, storage space, and a combined shower/sink/toilet area – known as a “wet bath”. Class B motorhomes are easy to drive, and you don’t need to tow a vehicle since they are suitable for daily excursions. Campervans are included in this class of motorhome. Of course they don’t have as much space and are better for weekend getaways or limited travel – although some people don’t mind traveling full time in a Class B.

Pros:

• Affordable
• Easy to drive
• Better mileage (18-25 mpg )
• Don’t need to tow a vehicle, can use for daily driving:

Cons:

• Limited room
• Limited storage
• Fewer amenities
• Some “vintage” campervans can be expensive to insure

The Class C motorhome is a smaller version of a Class A. They are built on a van or truck chassis. They range from 20 – 33 feet long, and include large living and sleeping areas. They include extra space over the cab, which is typically a sleeping area but can also be a storage area. A full range of amenities is available. The Class C motorhome is able to tow a separate car for daily errands or excursions. The Class C motorhome has gas mileage somewhere between the Class A and the Class B motorhome.

Pros:

• Easy to drive
• Can tow a car
• Large living & sleeping areas
• Full range of amenities
• Cheaper than Class A and even some Class B models
• Extra space above driver’s cab
• Smaller size than a Class A, allowed in more parks

Cons:

• Many do NOT have auto-leveling systems
• May require towing a vehicle for daily use
• Can be costly to maintain, repair & fuel
• Lower gas mileage than a Class B ( 14 – 18 mpg)

Super C RVs are motorhomes that offer a design similar to a Class C coach, but with a large chassis, typically a Ford® F-550. Lengths available from about 21 feet to 40 feet. The design is similar to a Class C, with sleeping or storage space over the driver’s cab. They are more powerful and durable than a standard Class C. Extra space in a Super C allows more amenities and storage space, plus a wider variety of layouts. There is basement storage area similar to a Class A motorhome.

Pros:

• Wider Wheel-Base for added stability
• Lots of storage space
• Variety of floor plans
• High towing capacity
• High durability

Cons:

• Expensive
• Lower gas mileage than a standard Class C (8-12 mpg)
• Rougher, louder ride
• Travel / camping options can be limited due to size
• Requires more parking space

Fifth wheels are 20-40 feet long, and must be towed by a large pickup truck. The fifth wheel trailer connects to a truck via a pin-box which extends over the back of the towing truck and connects to a U-shaped coupling in the bed of the truck. This provides a stronger connection than a ball hitch. The overhang area that rests above the truck provides extra living space.

Pros:

• Very spacious
• Lots of storage
• Multiple slide-outs
• Affordable compared to a Class A
• Variety of floor plans
• Can use towing vehicle for daily trips

Cons:

• Generally illegal to ride in while in motion
• Requires a large towing vehicle
• More difficult to maneuver than a Class A, especially backing in
• Towing vehicle will have low gas mileage

From 4-foot “teardrops” to 35-ft models, there are a large range of options in this towable RV. Travel trailers connect to the tow vehicle with a standard ball hitch (NOTE: tow vehicle must be rated to handle the weight capacity). Once you arrive at your destination, the trailer can be disconnected from your tow vehicle, and the tow vehicle can be used for daily driving. Purchase price is lower than other RV options, and they retain their value longer. Insurance costs are also lower thatn motorized RVs.

Pros:

• Very spacious
• Lots of storage
• Affordable compared to a motorized RVs
• Variety of floor plans
• Can use towing vehicle for daily trips

Cons:

• Generally illegal to ride in while in motion
• Requires a large towing vehicle
• Smaller trailers have limited amenities
• Difficult to maneuver, especially when backing up
• Towing vehicle may have low gas mileage

Designed to transport motorcycles, ATVs, jet skis, etc., so if you have motorized toys you need to bring with you then this is a great option! They are available in lengths from 20 – 35 feet. Toy haulers are divided into a living area and rear section with a pull-down ramp. The rear section can be converted to additional living space when not hauling extra motorized “toys”.

Pros:

• Safe storage for your toys
• Ramps for easy loading of equipment
• Dual functionality of “toy” area
• Affordable compared to a motorized RVs
• Lots of amenities in the living space
• Can use towing vehicle for daily trips

Cons:

• Space used for the rear “garage” area reduces the living space
• Generally illegal to ride in while in motion
• Requires a large towing vehicle
• Difficult to maneuver, especially when backing up
• Towing vehicle may have low gas mileage