RV Classes 101: Your Complete Guide to Towable and Motorized RVs
If you’re new to the world of RVs and travel trailers, navigating your way through the multiple classes of vehicles can be a bit intimidating. Use our guide to learn about the important attributes that distinguish each class.
Travel Trailer
A home that follows you almost anywhere. Versatile and compact, travel trailers are literally a mobile home on wheels. These towable, self-contained units range in a variety of sizes and are constructed with lightweight materials. Equipped with many amenities, such as a kitchen, sleeping quarters and a bathroom, they offer a home away from home. Some higher-end models even boast luxurious features like slide-out sections and entertainment systems.
5th Wheel
Luxury accommodations on wheels. A distinctive class of RV that combines practicality and luxury. Designed to hitch to a pickup truck via a unique fifth-wheel coupling, this class of trailer provides excellent stability and manoeuvrability. They offer spacious, multi-level living spaces and come with well-equipped kitchens, cozy bedrooms, and often multiple slide-outs for extra room.
Toy Hauler
For those who can’t travel without their toys. Larger in size than the usual trailer, they feature a spacious rear garage area designed to transport motorcycles, ATVs, or other recreational gear; however, the garage area can easily be converted into additional living space.
Class A
Travel without compromise. These majestic, bus-like vehicles epitomize the pinnacle of motorhome luxury and comfort. Built on a custom chassis, Class As have powerful engines that can navigate highways with ease and inside, a truly residential experience awaits, complete with a full kitchen, multiple bedrooms, and lavishly appointed bathrooms.
Class B
A simpler way to travel in comfort. Also known as a camper van, this class of vehicle represents a compact and versatile solution for travellers seeking mobility and simplicity. Although smaller than their Class A counterparts, they handle well and fit into standard-sized spots.
Class C
A motorized option that has it all for less. Offering a balance between size and versatility, this class of motorhome is easily recognizable by the distinctive over-cab sleeping area. Inside, you’ll find a well-appointed living space with a kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom.
Park Model
A second home untethered to a single address. Designed for long-term or seasonal stays in designated RV or mobile home parks. Larger than traditional RVs but smaller than permanent homes, park models feature a homey, residential-style interior.
Hybrid Model
Enjoy the experience of a tent with the amenities of a trailer. Their design features hard-sided walls and a solid roof, but also incorporates fold-out or pop-out tent sections that provide extra interior space.
Truck Camper
Just load it up and go. Designed to be loaded onto the bed of a pickup truck, these units range from lightweight pop-ups to hard-sided, fully-equipped models. They provide the convenience of a motorhome while allowing for easy towing of other equipment, like boats or trailers.
Tent Trailer
It’s like a traditional tent, only better. Also referred to as a pop-up camper or folding camper, these trailers are a compact and lightweight alternative to traditional RVs. Designed with collapsible walls and roof, they offer comfortable sleeping areas when expanded and fold easily for travelling.
Cargo Trailer
A multi-purpose option. A utilitarian, non-motorized trailer intended primarily for hauling goods and equipment; however, they can be converted into mobile workshops, offices, or living spaces.
Horse Trailer
Transport your hoofed companions comfortably and safely. They come in various sizes and configurations, and feature sturdy construction, a ramp or step-up entrance, and interior dividers.
Dump Trailer
Designed to get the job done. The trailer’s defining feature is a hydraulic lift mechanism, which allows the trailer bed to be raised and tilted to permit the dumping of the contents.
Utility Trailer
A multi-purpose option for work and play. They feature an open or enclosed design, often with a flatbed, making them ideal for hauling items like furniture, appliances, construction materials, or recreational equipment.