Types of Recreational Vehicles

The first step for anyone interested in the RV lifestyle is to know what kinds of recreational vehicles are available.  RVs come in two basic types - self-propelled and towable.  Lets take a brief look at what each category has to offer.

Self-propelled RVs:

Class A Motorhome

The Canadian Recreational Vehicle Association defines a motorhome as a vehicle built on, or as an integral part of, a self-propelled motor vehicle chassis containing at least four of the following features - cooking, refrigeration, toilet, heating or air conditioning, potable water system, 100-125 volt electrical system, liquid petroleum (LP) gas supply, and sleeping facilities.  The Class A version is built on a bare, specially designed motor vehicle chassis and looks something like a bus.  Amenities can also include a generator, microwave/convection oven, coach batteries, holding tanks, and slide-out rooms.  The larger physical dimensions of a Class A motorhome often require a heavy-duty chassis and extended stopping distances.  However, full facilities are available while on the road, as long as you keep in mind seat belt laws and safety.  Long term livability is exceptional and smaller vehicles can be towed behind for local transportation.  Prices range from $50,000 to over $750,000.

Class C Motorhome

According to the  Recreation Vehicle Industry Association, the Class C model has many of the same features as the Class A, but is built on an RV cutaway van chassis.  It retains the cab section of a van with the driver and passenger doors.  This allows a sleeping compartment to be included above the cab, with models over 25 feet in length also featuring a regular bedroom.  This model is generally easier to drive than the Class A with  gross vehicle weight ratings (GVWR) of at least 6,500 pounds.  The Class C is usually shorter than most Class A motorhomes, but newer models are now even offering fancier features like slide-out rooms and sometimes more sleeping options than their larger cousins.  Prices usually range from $30,000 to $75,000.

Van Conversions

Also known as Class B motorhomes, the camping van conversion is just that - a van converted for self containment with a raised roof and amenities that can include sleeping facilities, kitchen and toilet facilities, 110 volt hookup, fresh water storage, and city water hookup.  The great advantage of a Class B van conversion is its ability to remain a fully self-contained motorhome while retaining the versatility of a large family car.  Van conversions are economical, efficient, easily drivable, and could tow small trailers.  Prices range from $35,000 to $70,000.

Next Page - Towable RVs

Graphics courtesy of  Retha's Camping Icon Collection and the Canadian Recreational Vehicle Association.