RV Types

There are many different types of RV campers. On this page, I review some of the pros and cons of each and link to some used models with prices.

Class A RV

Pros of a Class A Motorhome

  • have larger water, gray and black tanks for longer dry camping

  • if feeling unsafe (bears, weather) can drive away without having to get out

  • steadier in winds and holds up better to weather than other models

  • usually have actual bedroom, class B and C models don't always have this

  • large front windshield and side windows provide great views while driving

  • have lots of space underneath, a "basement", for seasonal storage and outdoor gear

  • easy access to toilet, fridge, stovetop and bed for nap when taking rest stops

  • quicker and easier to set up in camp (auto leveling jacks)

  • cab chairs often swivel to create additional living room seating

I think I am in love with the Tiffin Class A motorhomes for a HOME

Cons of Class A Motorhomes

  • most expensive of the models

  • class A usually has lower mpg than other models

  • extra costs for TOAD (towed vehicle) needed for local travel

  • have to unhitch the TOAD if you want to back up

  • may require commercial license (considered a bus in some states)

  • size may limit access to more remote dispersed camping and state parks

  • any major repairs require leaving your "home" in the shop for weeks at a time

Diesel Versus Gas Debate

Pros of a Class A Diesel

  • quieter, smoother more powerful ride than gas model RVs

  • diesel engines have longer life and higher resale value than gas models

Cons of Class A Diesel

  • costs more than class A gas models

  • diesel usually costs more in USA

  • repairs are more expensive than gas models

  • fewer mechanics can work on diesel than on gas models

Examples of Class A Diesel (under 30 feet)

Pros of a Class A Gas

  • new gas models are cheaper than new diesel models

  • more mechanics (Ford) can work on the engines

  • regular gas cheaper than diesel

Cons of Class A Gas

  • other full-time RV drivers complain of engine noise, weaker power, rocking side to side and rougher ride

  • gas engines don't last as long as diesel engines

  • resale value is less than the diesel

  • some bloggers say overall quality is less than diesel (examples: plastic toilets & faucets, cheaper window shades)

Examples of Class A Gas (under 30 feet)

Camper Trailers

Pros of a Camper Trailer

  • separate truck and trailer, so can use truck to sight-see and leave trailer in camp

  • trailer has no engine that will need to be repaired

  • no special driver's license required

  • cheaper than other types of RV

Cons of Camper Trailer

  • If I feel unsafe (bears, weather), I have to leave trailer to get to truck

  • they tend to sway and have maneuverability issues like jack-knifing

  • less long-term storage space (usually there is no "basement")

  • more affected by wind and weather than the Class A models

Examples of Camper Trailer (under 30 feet)

RV Model examples found on https://www.rvtrader.com/ and http://www.rvt.com/