Whether you’re thinking about investing in an RV to explore the gorgeous Wisconsin outdoors or just exploring options and learning the camping lingo, the huge variety of campers, motorhomes, and travel trailers out there can feel more than a little overwhelming. Here’s a quick breakdown.
Motorhomes: Class A, B, and C
If you’re not towing it, you’re talking about a motorhome: a vehicle that connects the interior of the camper and the driver’s seat. Motorhomes are generally categorized as class A, B, or C recreational vehicles.
Class A
The biggest of the pack, Class A motorhomes are the longest, heaviest, and potentially the most luxurious RV’s on the road. Class A motorhomes are typically 26 to 45 feet long. They often feature slide-outs and an array of bells and whistles–from king-sized beds to washers and dryers, and generous bathrooms. If you’re traveling with a larger family or just want to hit the wilderness in as much luxury as possible, a Class A motorhome is a great place to start looking.
Class B
Contrary to logic, Class B motorhomes are the smallest of the bunch, significantly smaller than Class C’s. This category refers to campervans–compact motorhomes built on the chassis of a van, like a Ford Transit or Mercedes Sprinter. Campervans are among the most versatile RV’s out there; they’re available in 4×4 options, they’re small enough to take into a huge variety of camping situations, and they’re more affordably priced than their larger counterparts.
Class C
Class C motorhomes are mid-sized RV’s, usually in the 20-30 foot range. These motorhomes typically feature a sleeping area over the cab of the motorhome; some offer slide-outs, and they almost always include a separate bathroom area. Keep in mind that most Class C motorhomes aren’t powerful enough to tow another vehicle, so if that’s a priority for you, you might want to start looking at smaller Class A’s.
Travel Trailers
The “travel trailer” category encompasses a huge variety of camper sizes and types, from incredibly small, light campers fit for one or two travelers, to 30 foot long homes on wheels with slideouts and all the luxuries of a home away from home.
Pop-Up Trailers
Pop-ups are small travel trailers blending the light, open-air feel of a tent with a bit more comfort and shelter from the elements. Pop-ups usually measure 8 to 16 feet long and weigh somewhere between 700 and 4,000 lbs; they typically only sleep 2-3 people (at most) in sleeping areas on each side of the trailer. A great option for minimalist travelers, solo adventurers, or anyone who wants a versatile, glorified tent with a few homey amenities.
Fifth Wheels
Fifth wheels are unique travel trailers with front ends that extend over the bed of the truck. These are the largest travel trailers you can purchase, and they’re considered easier to tow than regular travel trailers, thanks to their unique hitching mechanism. These are perfect for those who want the space and amenities of a Class A with the versatility of being able to park and store it when not in use–or just the ability to disconnect and have a smaller vehicle for exploring their destinations.
Wondering how much it would cost to insure an RV before you purchase it? Give us a call at Leonard Insurance, and we’ll talk you through your RV insurance coverage options, get you a few quotes, and help set you up for success for your upcoming adventures.
