There are two distinct types of recreational vehicles or RVs: Motorized and Towable. The main difference in the two types is that motorized RVs are drivable and operate under their own power while towable RVs are “towed” behind another vehicle that provides the power. Under both categories there are a just five main types but literally thousands of combinations!
Motorhomes are divided into the following types:
- Class A
- Class B
- Class C
All motorhomes operate under their own power but that is where the similarity ends! There are three types of motorhomes but the variety within the different classes is seemingly endless.
Class A motorhomes tend to be the largest vehicles however new trends are dictating a wide range of sizes. Class A motorhomes are most similar to city buses or charter coaches. Most motorhomes utilize regular gas however there are some models that operate on diesel fuel. Many people tow vehicles with class A motorhomes. These “towed” vehicles are referred to as toads which obviously is a play on the word towed.
Class B motorhomes are generally smaller with fewer amenities. These motorhomes look like an oversize van. Many popular models are based on the Mercedes Sprinter van or the Ford Transit van.
Class C motorhomes traditionally have an overhang above the cab that provides either sleeping accommodations or storage. The front or cab of these motorhomes look like a moving truck. Class C motorhomes are usually built on a van frame or heavy-duty truck chassis like the Ford F-450. New larger models are sometimes classified as a “Super C” due to their length and a more luxury interior. Many are built with the capacity to tow additional vehicles. Jeeps are one of the preferred “toads” as they are easy to put into neutral and are nimble for sightseeing or just heading to dinner, trails or the beach.
Towable RVs are divided into two types. Like motorhomes there are many different variations.
- Travel Trailers
- 5th Wheels
Travel Trailers are available in a plethora of sizes ranging from approximately 8 feet long to over 40 feet. These consist of tear drops, popups, and full-size campers. Many people refer to travel trailers as tagalongs or bumper pulls. These RVs are attached to a hitch that has been installed on the bumper or frame of the tow vehicle. Depending on the size of the camper, the tow vehicle may be a car, SUV or a pickup truck.
5th Wheels are a special breed. They look similar to a livestock trailer with the front of the camper rising over the bed of the truck that is towing it. The camper connects to a hitch that has been affixed to the bed of the truck. There are two main connections to the tow vehicle. The most popular is the king pin. This is a puck like object that slides into the hitch and is secured for towing. The gooseneck connection consists of a ball that is secured by a special hitch.
It is important to note that for safety reasons you must properly size your camper to your tow vehicle. Each manufacturer rates its vehicles towing capacity. Exceeding your vehicles tow capacity is a dangerous practice so avoid it at all costs! In addition, it puts un-necessary strain as well as wear and tear on your vehicle’s engine, transmission, and brakes. Most if not all insurance companies will not cover an accident regardless of who is at fault if it is found that the tow capacity has been exceeded. In addition, properly loading your camper is a necessity. Tow vehicle capacity and RV loading will be the subject of another article.
Check out my other posts devoted to specific RV types!
