Decoding Motorhome Classes: A Guide to Motorhome Types and Features

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 various classes, which usually denote their drive type, size, configuration and level of comfort.

Look at this short but informative guide if you find the different motorhome classes and their names confusing. We aim to provide clarity and depth, ensuring you can 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.

Decoding 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 and are 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 Class A's luxury and Class B's compactness. 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 Motorhome 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 — it 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 similar to that of 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. After all, 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 you choose 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 off-road on unsealed roads?

Budget

After establishing your travel needs, you should consider your budget. Your budget has many subcategories, 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. Are there comforts that are non-negotiable?

Driving Preference

Your driving abilities dictate what sort of motorhome you should purchase. If you’re uncomfortable driving a massive rig, there are more compact motorhomes designed for the less experienced. You must 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 that 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 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.

Ready for Adventure?

Find your dream van online at OnlyVans.com.au!  We have great deals on caravans for sale including used caravans and caravans from private sellers. You can also find motorhomes for sale, camper trailers, and pop top caravans. No matter how you like to travel, we've got you covered. 

This article was written by Julija Zivanovic, and previously appeared at TradeRVs.com.au, now powered by OnlyVans.com.au. 

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