RVs give one the freedom of going where they want, whenever they want. Because there are varieties of RVs to choose from in the market, picking the right one can be difficult. There are two main categories of RVs; motorized and towable RVs. These are further categorized into different types of RVs, and the following are the most common for camping.
1. Fifth Wheel Trailers
Fifth wheel trailers are the most luxurious, and expensive. They are also the largest towable RVs in this category. This is perhaps because they do not have a cockpit. Some of these trailers have a length of 20 feet while others are 40 feet long, meaning you can only tow them using a conversion vehicle or a large pickup truck.
The tow vehicle is connected to the fifth wheel trailer by a ‘’gooseneck’’ extension, which usually goes over the rear of the towing truck. The extension is stronger and provides better maneuvering capabilities than ball hitches. They feature a full-size kitchen, bathroom, toilet, ample storage and a sleeping area that can accommodate up to 8 people.
2. Travel Trailers
Travel trailers are available in all sizes and shapes. Large travel trailers come fitted with a spacious kitchen, a toilet, a bathroom and multiple bedrooms that can accommodate up to 8 people. The smallest model offers a sleeping area for up to two people and basic cooking amenities.
This towable RV is connected to the towing vehicle using a ball hitch receiver that allows it to be towed by any vehicle that can handle its weight. One thing you should know about a travel trailer is that performing maneuvers with it can be difficult, even for the most experienced drivers.
3. Sport-Utility Trailers
Sport-utility trailers are commonly referred to as ‘’toy haulers’’. They are relatively new to the existing RV marketplace. The main purpose of sport utility trailers is to make the transportation of motorcycles, ATVs and jet skis easier. Their length range from 20 to 35 feet. Sport utility trailers are usually split into two sections; the rear section, which is also the storage area and features a pull-down ramp, and the front section, which consists of a living quarter with all the necessary amenities.
Other than using the cargo area as a portable garage, you can turn it into additional living space or a home office. Just like other towable RVs, maneuvering this trailer is not easy. If you are thinking of taking your motorized sports vehicle on vacation with you, this is the RV for you.
4. Truck Campers
These types of RVs are both economical and relatively easy to drive. Truck campers are sometimes known as cab overs or slide-ins. They can be attached to literally any pickup truck using the hard-sided camper shell. These RVs provide a sleeping area for up to four people. They also feature small storage, bathroom, dining and cooking facilities.
Truck campers are great for people who tend to make spontaneous travel plans since they are efficient, highly drivable, flexible, and affordable. A truck camper’s design focuses on efficiency rather than luxury.
5. Pop-Up Campers
These RVs are also known as tent trailers or fold-down campers. Pop -up campers consist of side sections that are extendable and can be folded away when travelling. The central part of this RV has a hard body that contains a basic bathroom and kitchen amenities. The extendable sides are made of tents that can be converted into a sleeping area that can accommodate up to six passengers. Because of their design, these RVs are not ideal for long term living.
However, these types of RVs are a perfect choice for occasional camping trips since they are light and have better maneuvering capabilities than others in the same category. The main advantage of a pop-up camper is that it is capable of being towed by standard passenger vehicles such as minivans, SUVs, and sedans. It uses a ball hitch receiver to connect to the tow vehicle.
6. Class A Motor Homes
These trailers fall under the category of motorized RVs and are the largest in the lot. Needless to say, they are also costly. Their length ranges from 21 to 45 feet and can weigh about 20,000 pounds or more depending on the model. Class A motor homes consist of spacious living space and a sleeping area that can accommodate up to ten people. It also features a bathroom, toilet, laundry machines, ice makers and a kitchen that is sometimes better than those in traditional houses. Class A motor homes are the definition of luxury RVs.
7. Class B Motor Homes
Class B motor homes are more compact in size compared to others in this category, making them easier to drive. These RVs drive and look like a van, a factor that makes towing an extra vehicle irrelevant. They come equipped with a queen-sized bed, storage space, a small kitchen, a shower, a toilet and a sink. It can comfortably accommodate up to 4 people.
Any of the above RVs is perfect for camping. However, the type you settle on depends on your camping needs, your budget, and how many people are coming with you.
