The Ultimate Guide: Types Of RVs

Choosing an RV can be a remarkably overwhelming process, what with so many different kinds and class types. With the help of this guide, you’ll have no problem choosing the best recreational vehicle for a lifetime of adventures.

In this comprehensive review, you’ll learn the answers to these common questions:

What are the different types of RV trailers and classes?
What are the different types of motorhomes?
What are the different types of travel trailers?
What are the pros and cons of each RV type?

Whether you’re searching for your new home on wheels, or you’re looking for the best motorhome to bring you closer to nature, this guide will help you determine which recreational vehicle is best for you!

2 Standard Types of RV Trailers

The type of recreational vehicle you choose will greatly depend on what you intend on doing with the RV, how often you plan on using it, and how many people will be with you during use. While there are many different types of RV trailers, the list can be organized into two popular categories, which we will cover in detail.

Motorhomes

Motorhomes are typically the largest and most expensive type of recreational vehicle complete with additional storage space, a roomy interior, and hookups for plumbing, appliances, and other amenities. This RV option is for the truly dedicated travelers who plan on spending a whole lot of time of their vacation in their home on wheels. It can also be a diesel engine or a gas engine, depending on what you might need for fuel efficiency.

Pros of owning a motorhome

Provides ample space with a roomy interior and slideouts.
Operates as one whole unit, which provides freedom to move about the motorhome during travel.
Plumbing and appliances make for a comfortable home away from home.

Cons of owning a motorhome>

Difficult to maneuver and park due to a motorhome’s large size.
More expensive to own, insure, and repair than a travel trailer.
Eliminates the ability to take day trips unless a separate vehicle is brought along with it.

Travel Trailers

Travel trailers combine convenience and affordability in five different forms of towable RVs that hitch onto the back of your vehicle. A pickup truck, SUV, or minivan with towing capabilities is required to own this type of recreational vehicle.

Pros of owning a travel trailer:

A less expensive option to purchase, maintain, and repair.
Requires the use of a towing vehicle, which can be used for day trips and quick errands.
Easier to maintain, clean up, and store when not in use.

Cons of owning a travel trailer:

Requires an additional vehicle that is capable of towing a travel trailer
Requires an experienced driver for maneuvering in restricted areas
Provides less passenger space that isn’t accessible during long trips.

Once you’ve chosen your preferred type of RV trailer, whether it be a motorhome or a travel trailer, you’ll need to get even more specific before making the final decision. Below, we’ve provided a comprehensive breakdown of the different RV class types.

Popular Motorhome Class Types

Type A Motorhome

A type A motorhome is king of the road, as it is the largest and most expensive recreational vehicle one can buy. This is the best motorhome class for the dedicated travelers who spend almost more time in their motorhome than they do their actual home—if they still have one. Type A provides a seemingly endless list of possibilities for amenities like the bathroom and additional space like a bedroom, which makes it perfect for large families and cross-country road trips.

Despite its size, a type A motorhome does not require a special CDL license to operate, but it will require a confident and experienced driver.

Type B Motorhome

A type B motorhome (a.k.a. a camper van or truck camper) is a more practical option for many due to its smaller size. Although the interior is often cramped, most campervans offer enough room for one or two passengers to sleep comfortably and walk upright. In the limited space available, you’ll often find basic accommodations such as a small kitchen space, a working refrigerator, running water, and even heating and air conditioning.

A type B motorhome is a perfect choice for couples without kids or small families who take occasional trips.

Type C Motorhome

A type C motorhome can range from 20 to 33 feet long and is a pleasing compromise between type A and type B motorhomes. In these mid-sized RVs, you’re likely to find a comfortable living space with additional sleeping quarters in various styles of fold-out beds. You can expect a range of accommodating features and amenities such as a decent-sized kitchen, running water for shower, and more. A type C motorhome is a more budget-conscious option for large groups or families.

Popular Travel Trailer Class Types

Teardrop Trailer

A teardrop camper trailer is a 1930’s style trailer in the shape of a teardrop. It’s compact, lightweight, and easily towed by most vehicles with a hitch. A teardrop trailer provides enough space for two people and a small amount of luggage, and most models come with a gallery for cooking at the rear.

Hybrid Trailer

The hybrid trailer is a hybrid between a tent and a trailer (hence its name). The model is crafted with rigid sides and pull-out sleeping quarters that resemble tents. The hybrid trailer is lighter than most RV types and can be towed by common family vehicles.

Fifth-Wheel Trailer

A Fifth-wheel trailer is designed with an in-box hitch that attaches the unit to a pickup or truck so that part of the trailer extends over the truck bed. This RV type is usually equipped with the amenities one can expect from a motorhome, while also providing plenty of sleeping space for a family or group.

RV Financing

With the possibility of autonomous RVs on the horizon, there has never been a more exciting time to hit the road. Whether you choose a full-sized motorhome and all its amenities, or you find the perfect fit in a lightweight travel trailer, Southeast Financial can provide you with the help you need to finance your dream recreational vehicle. Contact us today for more information!