Comparing Class A RVs vs. Class B vs. Class C RVs

For most buyers, choosing just the right RV is an experience that requires some serious decision-making. From determining the size RV you need to choosing which amenities are must-haves for your family, shopping for an RV is a complex, occasionally confusing process.

However, choosing a motorhome doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Arming yourself with the right information might make it easier to navigate the variety of RV types, makes, and models on the market.

So, if you find yourself on the hunt for a new RV, check out the following guide for a breakdown of the differences between Class A, Class B, and Class C RVs. This guide will help you make choosing the right one for your needs easier.

What is a Class A RV?

Whenever you imagine a luxury RV, a Class A RV probably immediately comes to mind. Ranging anywhere from 29 to 45 feet long, Class A RVs are some of the largest motorcoach options on the market.

Not only are Class A RVs the largest included in this guide, but they are also the RV class most likely to feature high-end amenities and premium interiors, like custom cabinetry, customizable floor plans, tiled master bathrooms, and luxury appliances.

Class A RVs are the obvious choice for those who want to see the world without sacrificing any of the comforts of home.

What amenities are included?

Due to the more-than-ample space a Class A motorhome offers, these RVs are equipped with almost any amenity you can possibly imagine. All of the following are options for Class A RVs:

• Full kitchen, including a full-sized refrigerator and stove
• Full bathroom, including a sink, toilet, shower, and bathtub
• Multiple, often separated, sleeping spaces
• A master bedroom with a door that closes
• Closets with plenty of storage space
• Dedicated dining area
• Extra seating for passengers, complete with seat belts
• Slide-out decks
• Electric awnings
• Living room with couches and seating
• High-end entertainment center
• Slide-out storage on the exterior of the RV
• Built-in exterior tables, grills, and other camping equipment

The amenities that you find in any particular Class A RV depends on the make and model, but generally, if you purchase a Class A motorhome, you can expect the ultimate in luxury on the road.

When is a Class A RV the right choice?

Class A RVs are a great fit for large families, retirees, and anyone who desires traveling in the lap of luxury. Many Class A RVs are also available with premium interior upgrades, such as hardwood flooring, marble countertops, leather seating, and additional luxury appliances.

Class A motorhomes, however, are not a great pick if you plan to drive down tight roads with low clearance, boondock in remote areas, or stay in campgrounds with size limitations for campers.

What is a Class B RV?

On the other end of the spectrum from Class A coaches lie the boondocking vans of Class B RVs. These nimble motorhomes are designed to be compact, low-maintenance, and easy to navigate. Most Class B RVs range from 18 to 24 feet in length. They’re also sometimes known as camper vans or sprinter vans, since many are built on the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van chassis. 

While not all Class B motorhomes are built on a van chassis, many are. These smaller campers can be easily parked in a normal parking space and don’t require special storage spaces.

Class B RVs are often chosen by solo travelers, couples, and those who wish to traverse off the beaten road.

What amenities are included?

Although they are small in size, Class B motorhomes still manage to pack in the amenities. When shopping for Class B RVs, you can expect the following amenity options:

• A sleeping space that is often convertible or tucked away into a wall to free up space
• A small dining area
• A kitchenette
• A small bathroom
• Storage space
• Solar setup for boondocking
• Off-road capabilities, such as 4x4 options or upgraded trail tires

The precise amenities found in a Class B camper vary significantly, based on the size of the chassis and the manufacturer.

When is a Class B the right choice?

Class B RVs are ideal for one or two travelers. They are a wonderful choice for those who wish to visit harder-to-access campsites or campgrounds with strict vehicle size limitations. A Class B RV might not feature the luxury of Class A, but it makes up for it in versatility and easy maneuverability.

What is a Class C RV?

A Class C RV is between 21 and 41 feet long and offers a bit of both of the previously-mentioned RV classes, landing somewhere between the high-end luxury of a Class A RV and the adventurous spirit of a small Class B van.

These RVs are usually easier to maneuver than a Class A, but they offer a few more amenities and space than a Class B.

In many cases, a Class C RV is equipped with additional slide-outs that feature extra sleeping space, making them a great fit for families.

What amenities are included?

A Class C RV has enough space to feature a similar setup to a Class A RV. The following are all common features of a Class C motorhome:

• Multiple sleeping spaces
• A full bathroom
• A full kitchen
• A slide-out deck
• A built-in awning
• A dedicated dining area
• Extra seating for passengers
• Closets and storage space
• Outdoor storage

When is a Class C the right choice?

Class C RVs are a great choice for families who need more room than a camper van but don’t want to deal with the length or size of a Class A RV. They are permitted in most campgrounds and can handle many of the same roads that a Class B can tackle.

These RVs are an ideal blend of amenities and improved fuel efficiency.

What's the difference between a Class C RV and a Super C RV?

A Super C RV is similar to a Class C and a Class A RV in some ways, but it uses a different type of fuel and has a more powerful engine.

A Super C RV features a heavy-duty front-engine chassis and is powered by diesel fuel instead of standard unleaded gas. Super C RVs also often feature an overhead bunk and attached cab.

When deciding between a Class C, Class A, and a Super C RV, your considerations may include whether or not you need to tow vehicles or other equipment with your motorhome. A diesel Class A or Super C is more capable of this task due to its powerful engine. If you'd prefer to avoid using diesel fuel, a Class C RV may be better for you.

Shop Our Quality Inventory of RVs

The best way to determine which type of RV is best for your needs is to check out each RV class in person. At Transwest, we carry the highest-quality inventory of Class A, B, and C RVs from the industry’s learning manufacturers, including Newmar, Tiffin, Winnebago, Thor, Freightliner, Cimarron, Logan Coach, and more.

Our friendly and experienced staff will be more than happy to walk you through each type and size of RV, and we can help you determine which type will be the ideal pick for your adventures.

Come visit us today and find the right RV for your next adventure.