Do you know the difference between motorhome classes?
Motorhomes are easy to drive and don't require any setting up when you arrive at your destination - but do you know all the different classes?
Like many other recreational vehicles (RVs), motorhomes have come a long way since their inception, to the point where today they are highly sophisticated pieces of machinery. But they’re not just highly sophisticated these days, they also come in a variety of classes which usually denote their drive type, size, configuration and level of comfort.
If you find the different motorhome classes and their names confusing, look no further than this short but informative guide. We aim to provide clarity and depth, ensuring you’re able to make an informed decision when buying your next rig. We also finish the piece with a few tips and tricks for prospective buyers. Read on to learn more.
Understanding motorhome classes
Class A motorhomes — the epitome of luxury on wheels
Class A motorhomes are the largest and most luxurious of the lot. They typically range from 24 to 40 feet, are built on a heavy-duty chassis and often resemble buses in their structure.
Key features:
- Spacious interiors — offers ample living space, often with slide-outs for additional room
- High-end amenities — equipped with full-sized appliances, sophisticated entertainment systems and sometimes even a washing machine and dryer
- Powerful performance — generally powered by diesel or petrol engines, providing robust performance for long journeys
Class B motorhomes — efficient and agile
Class B motorhomes, commonly referred to as camper vans, are the smallest in the motorhome family, usually built on van chassis.
Key features:
- Manoeuvrability — their compact size makes them easy to drive and park, ideal for both urban exploration and remote camping
- Efficient use of space — ingeniously designed interiors that maximise space, offering convertible beds, small kitchenettes and compact bathrooms
- Fuel efficiency — they often provide better fuel economy due to their smaller size
Class C motorhomes — the perfect balance
Class C motorhomes strike a balance between the luxury of Class A and the compactness of Class B. They are built on a truck chassis and are recognisable by their distinctive ‘cab-over’ design.
Key features:
- Versatile size options — typically range from 20 to 31 feet, offering various layout options
- Ample sleeping space — the cab-over area provides extra sleeping space, making it ideal for families
- Moderate amenities — often equipped with comfortable living spaces, full bathrooms and adequate kitchen facilities
The lesser-known classes
Class B+ motorhomes — the hybrid experience
Class B+ motorhomes are an unofficial category, often considered a hybrid between Class B and Class C.
Key features:
- Slightly larger than Class B — offers more interior space without the cab-over design of Class C
- Enhanced comfort — generally provides more amenities and comfort than a typical Class B
- Fuel efficiency — tends to be more fuel efficient than Class C motorhomes
Class Super C motorhomes — power and prestige
Super C motorhomes are built on a heavy-duty truck chassis and offer a luxurious experience akin to Class A motorhomes.
Key features:
- Robust performance — ideal for towing heavy loads, perfect for travellers with additional vehicles or trailers
- Spacious and luxurious — offers high-end amenities, large living area/s and sophisticated design elements
- Advanced technology — often equipped with state-of-the-art technology and systems for a premium travel experience
Factors to consider when choosing a motorhome
There are many factors to consider when choosing a recreational vehicle. Afterall, it’s no small purchase! When selecting a motorhome, we suggest you consider the following aspects, as a starting point if not anything else:
Travel needs
No matter what kind of RV you’re considering buying, the first step is to evaluate your travel needs. The type of motorhome for you will entirely depend on your desires and personal circumstances. What is the size of your travel party? Where do you intend to take your motorhome? Will you be travelling offroad on unsealed roads?
Budget
After establishing your travel needs, the next thing to consider is your budget. There are many subcategories within your budget such as purchase price, maintenance costs, fuel costs and storage costs. Remember to be realistic in your estimates.
Amenities
After establishing your travel needs and budget, you need to consider the level of comfort and facilities you desire. Do you have comforts that are non-negotiable?
Driving preference
Your driving abilities dictate what sort of motorhome you should purchase. If you’re not comfortable driving a massive rig, there are more compact motorhomes designed for the less experienced. It’s important that you assess your comfort level while driving larger vehicles and manoeuvrability requirements — it’s no use buying a huge luxurious motorhome if you can’t even reverse it out of your driveway.
Tips and tricks to enhance your motorhome journey
Before we head off, we’d like to leave you with a few tips and tricks which we believe will enhance your motorhome journey:
Plan your route
Ensure your chosen motorhome can comfortably navigate the routes and campsites on your journey. It’s a good idea to check the route carefully to see if there are any low bridges and/or tight roads.
Regular maintenance
Keep your motorhome in top condition through regular maintenance and checkups. Proper and regular maintenance extends a motorhome’s life considerably, plus your rig will look newer for longer if you take due care of it.
Personalise your space
Make your motorhome feel like home by personalising the interior to reflect your style.
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