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

Picking out an RV is an experience that requires making some decisions. From deciding on how big of an RV you need, to choosing which amenities are must-haves for your family, RV shopping is a complex process.

However, choosing a motorhome doesn’t need to feel overwhelming. Armed with the right information makes it easier to navigate the variety of RV types on the market.

If you are 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 think of a luxury RV, you are probably envisioning a Class A RV. Class A RVs are one of the largest options on the market, ranging anywhere from 29 to 45 feet in length.

Not only are Class A RVs the largest on this list, but they are also the RV type most likely to feature high-end amenities and premium interiors.

Class A RVs are a go-to choice for those who want to travel without sacrificing any of the comforts of home.

What amenities are included?

Due to the ample space a Class A motorhome offers, these RVs come equipped with almost any amenity you could 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 sleeping spaces
• A master bedroom with a door that closes
• Closets
• Dedicated dining area
• Extra seating for passengers complete with seat belts
• Slide-out deck
• Electric awning
• Living room with couches and seating
• Entertainment center
• Slide-out storage on the exterior of the RV
• Built-in exterior tables, grills, and other camping equipment

What amenities are found in a particular Class A RV will depend on the make and model, but generally, with a Class A motorhome, you can expect the ultimate in luxury on the road.

When is a Class A the right choice?

Class A is a great fit for large families, retirees, and anyone who desires camping in comfort. Many Class A RVs are also available with premium interior upgrades, such as hardwood flooring, marble countertops, and leather seating.

Class A motorhomes, however, are not a good pick if you plan to drive down tight roads or visit campgrounds with size limitations for campers.

What is a Class B RV?

On the other end of the spectrum of RV types are Class B RVs. These motorhomes are designed to be compact and easy to navigate. Most Class B RVs range from 18 to 24 feet in length. They’re also known as camper vans.

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

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 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 tucks 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 exact amenities found in a Class B camper vary greatly based on the size of the chassis and the manufacturer.

When is a Class B the right choice?

Class B RVs are an ideal pick for one to two travelers. They are a wonderful choice for those who wish to visit harder-to-access campsites or campgrounds with strict limitations on vehicle sizes. 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?

Landing somewhere between the high-end luxury of a Class A RV and the adventurous spirit of a small Class B van, a Class C RV ranges between 21 and 41 feet long and offers a little bit of both RV styles.

These RVs are easier to maneuver than a Class A but 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 maneuver the length of a Class A RV. Class C RVs are allowed in most campgrounds and can handle a lot 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 just like a Class C RV in many ways, but 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 RV and a Super C RV, your considerations may include whether or not you need to tow vehicles or other equipment with your motorhome. A 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 style in person. At Transwest, we carry a quality inventory of Class A, B, and C RVs.

Our experienced staff will be more than happy to walk you through each style of RV. We can help you determine which type will be the ideal pick for your adventures.

Not only do we carry a premium selection of RV types, but we also carry a variety of motorhomes designed by the leading RV manufacturers, including Newmar, Tiffin, Winnebago, Thor, Cimarron, Logan Coach, and more.

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