Campers, trailers, and motorhomes, Oh my! Picking the best rig for your RV lifestyle can be a real challenge when you consider all the different types of RVs and what they entail. After all, RVs can come with a wide array of features, benefits, and even disadvantages depending on the age and model of the RV.
While all of this may appear confusing on the surface, choosing an RV is a lot easier than it seems. And with this guide, you’ll find the right RV style for your tastes and needs. So, let’s jump right in and see what each of these moving homes on wheels has to offer you
Towable RVs Versus Motorized RVs
RVs can be broken down into two major types, towables and motorized. And each work as you may already assume. Towable is towed on the ball of a truck and motorized is powered by an engine. But this is not the only distinction that sets these two types of RVs apart.
Here are some other differences between a towable RV and a motorized RV:
- Towable RVs
On top of requiring a tow vehicle, towables are also known as trailers or campers. These types allow you to plop on a space, unhitch, and use your family vehicle. They are ideal for camping without the need for tents and you get to have your personal vehicle as well. There are six types of towable RVs that you can choose from. - Motorized RVs
Motorized RVs are simply RVs with an engine. They offer almost all of the comforts of home and vehicle in one. This type of RV is ideal for first-time RVers or those who may not be comfortable with towing a camper. There are four types of motorized RV, and many often offer a lot of high-tech features as well.
The only drawback is some of these motorized RV types can be expensive in comparison to towable RVs. With these types of RVs in mind, let’s begin with the different types of towable RVs.
Types of Towable RVs
Towable RVs can be broken down into six types of RV: travel trailers, fifth-wheel trailers, sports-utility trailers, truck campers, pop-up campers, and teardrop/tiny campers.
- Travel Trailers
Second largest to fifth wheels, these trailers offer a wide variety of floor plans to choose from. Many models come with multiple bedrooms, a full bath, kitchens, and so on. These are ideal for families and full-time RVers.
Pros:
- Capable of being towed by a variety of vehicles
- Affordable
- Comes with most amenities
- Spacious living quarters and storage
Cons:
- Hard to maneuver
- Tail swing for larger trailers
- Small trailers may not include all amenities
- Fifth-Wheel Trailers
The largest of the towable types without the engine. These trailers come with almost all of the comforts of a motorhome. Some models are multi-level and most can handle up to eight people.
Pros:
- Includes all amenities and conveniences
- Safer gooseneck hitching option
- Very spacious
- Ample storage space
Cons:
- Requires a towing vehicle
- Can be hard to maneuver
- Limited passenger space
- Sports-Utility Trailers
If you’re looking to have some fun with your dirt bike or jet ski while on the road, then this type of towable RV is for you. Sports-utility trailers come with a mini garage and you get the comforts of home in one. An ideal camper for full-time RVers and part-time adventurers.
Pros:
- The living area can come with all basic amenities
- Makes it easy to transport jet skis, ATVs, motorcycles and more
- Can come in a motorized version
Cons:
- Hard to maneuver and drive in reverse
- Tail swing
- Limited living space
- Truck Campers
A livable shed on wheels is what a truck camper is. And while it may not have all the bells and whistles of motorized types, it is a decent go-to camper for those who want to explore the great outdoors and come back to some basic comforts of home.
Pros:
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- Comes with some storage space
- Some models have extras such as microwaves and small dining areas
- Affordable to insure, buy, and repair
Cons:
- Need a vehicle that meets towing requirements
- Limited amenities
- Limited living space
- Pop-Up Campers
A pop-up camper is a combination of camper and tent. They are capable of fitting six people. This towable camper style is great for those who want to be close to the outdoors, but not too close.
Pros:
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- Inexpensive
- The hard-bodied section has a small kitchen and bathroom
- Sides fold out to become the sleeping areas
Cons:
- Limited storage space
- Limited living space
- Doesn’t protect you from the harsh elements
- Canvas tent material is susceptible to wear-and-tear
- Teardrop/ Tiny Campers
Teardrops are one of the more recognizable camper types. Their teardrop-like appearance offers couples and small families a nice camping experience with basic amenities. They are ideal for weekend getaways and short camping trips.
Pros:
- Weigh less than 4,000 lbs
- Come with a bed, swivel toilet, kitchen/dining area, wet bath, and foldable sinks.
- Easy to hitch and tow
- Minimalist design
Cons:
- Limited space
- No outside coverage
Types of Motorized RVs
With all of those nice towable RVs out of the way, we can move onto the more iconic RV types – motorhomes. Motorized RVs have four types: Class A motorhomes, Class B motorhomes, Class C motorhomes, and campervans.
- Class A Motorhomes
The dreamboat of motorhomes, the Class A motorhome comes with everything a full-time RVer could ever need and more. Some models include a type of basement feature, expandable living sections, full kitchen, and more. Not ideal for short-term campers or those who only want to vacation once a year.
Pros:
- Gas and diesel options
- Ample living space and storage space
- Comes with all amenities and conveniences
- Allows you to tow personal vehicles
Cons:
- Hard to maneuver
- Expensive to fuel, maintain, insure, and own
- May need special CDL licensing
- Class B Motorhomes
For travelers looking to take a spur of the moment vacation, couples, and solo campers, the class B motorhome is a great choice. While they are similar to campervans, Class B motorhomes offer more amenities and headspace than the standard campervan.
Pros:
- Gas and diesel options
- Affordable to repair and fuel
- Easy to maneuver and drive
- Enough overhead space to walk upright
Cons:
- Limited living and storage space
- Expensive to purchase
- May not have all amenities
- Class C Motorhomes
A nice combination of Class A and Class B motorhome models, Class C motorhomes are built on truck chassis. These motorhomes come with basic amenities, ample storage space, and decent sleeping areas.
Pros:
- Gas and diesel options
- Affordable
- More maneuverable than Class A motorhomes
- Extra space over driver’s cab
Cons:
- Not as easy to drive as Class B motorhomes
- Costly to maintain and fuel
- You may need to tow a smaller vehicle for day trips
- Campervans
If you ever thought of living out by the lake or going for destination camping trips, then a campervan is a good start. They offer enough comforts for solo campers and couples. Campervans, however, often fall under Class B motorhomes.
Pros:
- Easy to maneuver
- Comes with basic amenities such as swivel toilets, wet baths, and storage space
- Affordable
- Can be driven like a regular vehicle
Cons:
- Limited living space
- Insurance can be costly
Final Thoughts
Whether you choose the luxurious Class A motorhome or the humble teardrop camper, you’re sure to have a wonderful RV adventure either way. RVs don’t have to be brand new, and they can always be upgraded too. We hope this guide on different types of RV help you find the right fit for your RV lifestyle and more!
