Pro’s and Con’s: A Comparison of Motorized RVs

Choosing the right RV is essential. This choice is based on several factors: use, personal preference, and budget. Here is some information other buyers have shared about the different types of RVs that might be helpful in making your decision.

Class A - Motorhome and Bus Conversions
 
- Extremely roomy and luxurious
- Sleeping capacity: 6
- Average MSRP price range: $50,000-$600,000

Pro’s

1.- With a motorhome, guests are free to engage in other activities and interests.
2.- No more long lines and public restrooms. There is a bathroom right there (and you know exactly who has used it).
3.- You can tow a vehicle behind a motorhome for exploring and cruising around.
4.- Set-up is a breeze!
5.- The self-leveling jack. No more hauling blocks of wood to put under the wheels.
6.- Certain classes of motorhomes are tax deductible as a second home.
7.- They are an extremely safe mode of transportation.

Con’s

1.- Price- While there is no doubting Class A is lavish, this is the most expensive of the RVs per linear foot.
2.- Don’t buy it for the gas mileage. Large RVs in this class do use quite a bit of gas. However, there are ways to maximize fuel efficiency. See our Saving Fuel  information for tips on how to conserve gas.
3.- Having your home as a mode of transportation can be an inconvenience. Going anywhere means “breaking down” your campsite. However, remember you can tow another vehicle.  
4.- Maneuvering a Class A may require some practice. Turning and backing up can be tricky, so make sure you practice before you hit the open road.  Consider attending one of our Beaudry driving courses offered throughout the year for help.

Class B - Camper Vans

General Statistics

- Feels like a van when driving
- Sleeping capacity: 4
- Average MSRP price range: $41,000-$74,000

Pro’s

1.- You can’t beat the versatility of a camper van. It drives like a van but serves as a camper.
2.- Because these are smaller and more efficient than other types of RVs, the gas mileage is much better.
3.- Class B RVs are easy to drive and can squeeze into smaller spaces, especially when going off-road.
 
Con’s
 
1.- While smaller, Class B Camper Vans are often more expensive per square foot than other larger RVs.
2.- Single adults or couples are ideal owners for Class C. Any more than two adults and living space gets cramped.
3.- Even though these are the size of vans, most campgrounds still charge the same per night as a Class A motorhome. You probably won’t save any money on campsite fees.

Class C

General Statistics

- Roomy with extra over cab space
- Sleeping capacity: 8
- Average MSRP price range: $48,000-$140,000

Pro’s

1.- Still offering many of the same amenities and creature comforts of a Class A, Class C RVs are usually less expensive.
2.- With the overhead compartment, Class C’s can sleep more people.
3.- Because Class C’s are built on a van or truck frame, replacement parts are easier to find and generally more cost effective to repair.

Con’s

1.- Storage is at a premium on these models. Unlike Class A models, Class C’s do not have storage underneath the main living area.
2.- Class C’s are not renowned for their stylish looks and appear most “camper-like”.