By Brad East
Learning about the different types of motorhomes might seem insignificant. However, those wanting an RV will be stunned to learn about the options available.
The different types of motorhomes vary between three distinct classes and this impacts their size, cost, equipment and running efficiency.
These types extend from luxury vehicles the size of a double-decker bus to just a small campervan no bigger than a 4×4. These are all perfectly functioning types of motorhomes.
However, finding what you want makes a difference to the whole camping experience. So to find out just what’s best for your needs, what are the different types of motorhomes you need to know about?
The different types of motorhomes
When talking about motorhomes, everything can be separated into three classes:
- Class A
- Class B
- Class C
These classes are determined by the size of the vehicle and what they have packed inside of them. So what will you find?
Class A Motorhomes
If you want a Class A motorhome, you are looking at the highest range of the market. These models are not only going to break the bank but take a lot of effort to maintain. For starters, these units are not small – many models are the equivalent size of a large bus or lorry. This means the vehicle itself will be extremely heavy and be at least 8m long.
Class B Motorhomes
Ironically, Class B motorhomes are the smallest type of motorhomes you can buy on the market. These models are more commonly known as campervans and it’s easy to understand why. Their chassis is based upon a van and comes with a compact layout stretching around 4m long. It will have small sections for sleeping and cooking loaded inside. They are generally the cheapest type of motorhome available and are a great way to enter the world of RVs.
Class C Motorhomes
Slightly larger than their Class B cousins, any Class C motorhome is a way to get the best of both worlds. They can often hold more people than a Class B motorhome generally accommodating up to 6 people. The vehicle itself is around 4-6m long and comes with a bit more space and added room for living and sleeping when required. They are often the standard bearer when you think of a motorhome.
What are the main differences?
When it comes to finding the differences between each motorhome type, then it falls to several factors including accessibility, running costs and features. But what does this all entail?
Living Features
Firstly, let’s talk about the living features of each type. When looking at the different types of motorhomes, it’s here where a Class A motorhome comes into its own. More often than not, these models have two living areas – one at the front and one at the rear. These areas also double up as sleeping areas with a separate bathroom and kitchen.
Class C and Class B motorhomes will feature a much more compact design. For example, many models will place the sleeping area above the driver’s cabin rather than at the rear. They will also combine the dining and lounge areas to suit the smaller shape. In some Class B motorhomes, the smaller nature of the vehicle means that it might not come with a bathroom. Instead, you would need to use the amenities at the campground. This isn’t a worry with Class C motorhomes as they come with a bathroom – often at the rear of the vehicle.
Running Costs
It’s in running costs where the smaller classes come into their own. The smaller design of Class B & C motorhomes makes them much more efficient to run. This covers all amenities such as fuel, power and gas. Furthermore, they often will into a standard camping berth only taking up the one slot when fully packed out and extended. This isn’t the case with Class A models where they may require 2 or 3 berths at a campsite to be enjoyed at full capacity.
What many people won’t realise though is that not just anyone can own a Class A motorhome. This is because they are covered by standard driving licences.
This is because they almost always weigh over 4.5 tonnes – the maximum allowed to be driven on an ordinary road licence. Instead, owners would need an MR/HR licence (mid-heavy weight vehicle licence) to drive it legally. This is no such problem for anyone owning a Class B/C motorhome as they can be driven on a regular licence.
FAQ
Are all motorhomes 4WD?
No – only smaller models in Class B or Class C come in 4WD. Most Class A motorhomes are rear-engined vehicles meaning they have RWD only. This means they might not be suitable for driving on unsealed surfaces.
Do motorhomes all have sleeping facilities?
Yes – all motorhomes and campervans have sleeping facilities. However, the locations vary depending on the different types of motorhomes. Larger RV’s will have sleeping areas as part of the body. Meanwhile, smaller models will have bunks located on the roof of the vehicle or above the driving cabin.
Do all motorhomes have bathrooms?
Not all. Class A or Class C vehicles will have a dedicated bathroom/toilet and they are usually located towards the rear of the body. However, not all Class B motorhomes will come with one. The compact nature of campervans means that the smaller models will forgo this and comprise just a small dining space and sleeping area.
Conclusion
Understanding the different types of motorhomes is pivotal for you to get the most out of your overall choice. When it comes to convenience, smaller models are generally going to be more popular. This is because they are 4WD, cheaper to run and don’t require any extra licensing to be driven on the road.
However, anyone wanting to live off-road in luxury may opt for a Class A model. They give you all the space like a portacabin or holiday chalet however you have the luxury of driving it yourself. Even if they are expensive to run or buy. However, no matter what option you choose, knowing the different types of motorhomes is essential for getting the most from a camping holiday.
When you’re ready to purchase your perfect motorhomw, Dealify Caravan Finance can offer you unbeatable campervan finance deals, customised to your needs, with loan approval as fast as within the hour. Our award-winning team of caravan finance lending experts are ready to serve you. Call us on 1300 28 57 67 or email approvals@dealify.au today, and take your understanding of different types of motorhomes to a whole new level.
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