Class A vs Class C Motorhomes: Choosing the Right RV for Camping!

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Every veteran and new RV enthusiast must have thought about the Class A vs Class C motorhome differences at one time or another. These two classes don’t have many exterior differences despite being put into different categories. Nevertheless, there are still some distinct features that separate them from one another.

Basics of Class A vs Class C Motorhomes

Though there are three main types of RVs in the market and most users prefer Class A or Class C. Before going deep into the comparison, learning about their basics will give you a headstart.

Class A vs Class C
What are the difference between Class A vs Class C RVs. Photo: Pakin Songmor | Getty Images

At the first look, Class A appears nothing else than a large, spacious bus. It seems significantly more voluminous than Class C RVs. In fact, a Class A motorhome has a driver cabin attached to the living quarter.

Contrarily, the driver bay of the Class C is separate from its living area. You will also find the sleeping beds above the driver area.

Difference between Class A and Class C RV

There is no need to hurry before choosing the right motorhome between Class A vs Class C. Check out the differences between Class A vs Class C RV and find out the most compatible one for your needs.

Space for Living

Since Class A RVs are far larger in size, they have spacious living space. The usual length of Class A is 26 to 40 feet. Campers often consider it as an apartment on wheels. The kitchen space is bigger and most Class A motorhomes have a residential-sized fridge.

Class A vs Class C RV
A Class C motorhome. Photo: Torresigner | Getty Images

For a better and more comfortable sleeping time, they are equipped with queen and king size beds. Although these beds are also standards in Class C RVs, they are mostly convertibles. You will notice some compromises in other living areas of a Class C that may have either sofa or dining space. However, if a Class C has slides, it may look equally roomy as a Class A.

Some states will need you to get a special license to drive large vehicles like the Class A. Remember this when making a decision between Class A vs Class C.

Storage

Class A motorhomes are here to offer huge storage space. Both closets and pantries of this RV are large. In terms of exterior space too, this camper will have ample storage.

For Class C models, which are usually 21 to 35 feet in length, it is difficult to say how much space will be available there. Large Class C motorhomes might have moderate space for camp chairs and gear. Smaller models will have minimal exterior storage space but may offer overhead cabinets, under bed storage, and drawers.

While considering this point, remember that bigger RVs will need more parking space when not in use. So, there will also be a need for bigger garage space for Class A motorhomes.

Towing and Maneuvering

When it comes to driving a motorhome, Class C wins the race. This trailer is easy to maneuver, and it almost feels like driving a small truck or a van. On the other side, driving a large Class A RV is similar to bus driving. So, for something quick and lightweight, Class C has a lot of options to offer.

Most of the Class A RVs need a tow vehicle because you won’t want to drive this huge thing for short trips from the camping destination. Having a tow vehicle means there is one more thing to maintain before and after reaching the camping spot.

For a Class C RV, getting a toad (a vehicle to tow behind the motorhome) is optional. This motorhome can also help in traveling and sightseeing without an additional car. As a result, the whole business of maneuvering becomes hassle-free. So, for an easy and worry-free driving experience, a Class C is undoubtedly the right RV.

Facilities

Due to its larger size, a Class A motorhome can provide several additional facilities. For example, it has better bathroom and kitchen facilities than Class C models. Usually, Class A RVs tend to have multiple kitchens and bathrooms. Even their outdoor kitchen offers more options than Class C. Some Class C have washers and dryers but Class A motorhomes are the best option for these appliances.

Coming to the point of the air conditioner, most Class C models can offer only one. In a Class A model, there will generally be two air conditioning units. As a typical Class A motorhome has more residents, its freshwater, greywater, and black water tanks are significantly larger than Class C trailers.

Price and Maintenance Cost

Take one thing for granted that a Class A will cost more than a Class C. Even if you can find Class A motorhomes at a suitable budget, it will be higher than Class C models. So, choose the latter if you have a limited budget.

Class A vs Class C motorhome
Class A RVs need more maintenance cost. Photo: Getty Images

Apart from the price, the Class A RVs have higher campground fees and storage costs. Moreover, you may have to spend more on Class A models as some states charge extra fees for heavy travel trailers. Lastly, repairs of a Class A will need highly skilled mechanics, so its maintenance costs will also be higher.

Fuel Economy

When it comes to fuel economy, Class C RVs are the efficient ones. With a small motor and lighter weight, they will need less amount of fuel.

On the opposite, a Class A will need more energy to carry its larger engine and huge body. Usually, Class A or Class C motorhome, both types come with diesel and gas options.

Conclusion

So, that is the discussion on Class A vs Class C motorhomes. Keep in mind the pros and cons of owning both types of motorhomes. However, there is no clear cut winner between these two.

For those who want maximum comfort within a limited budget, a Class C is the best option.

But if you have no budget constraint and want to enjoy the ultimate luxury on the road, a Class A RV is the right choice.

About Chris Coleman

Chris Coleman is an interesting travel blogger and outdoor photographer with a great sense of humor. He owns an RV Accessories shop in New York City so he has the knowledge necessary to provide thorough reviews and give advice on how to choose the right products for RV travel. He puts all that RV knowledge and experience to good use in his sharing posts. Besides product buying guides/reviews, Chris also writes informative articles, how-to articles and RV camping guides in his own interesting viewpoint. Chris’s blog is one of the most reliable information sources for RV campers no matter if you're an expert or a determined beginner.

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