One of the biggest debates that prospective RV owners have when purchasing a motorhome is whether they should buy a Class B or Class C model. While these RVs are close together alphabetically, they are very different in terms of layout, style, and features. However, because they are comparable in price and size and are much cheaper and smaller than Class A motorhomes, Class B and C RVs are a good alternative.
Key Takeaway
- Class B motorhomes are ideal for solo or couple travelers.
- Class Cs provide more space and amenities suitable for family/group travel.
- Class B motorhomes are superior boondocking options thanks to their off-roading capabilities.
What Are Class B Motorhomes?
Class B motorhomes are typically the smallest, most compact, and most economical type of motorhome on the market. These agile vehicles, including the popular Class B camper van, are typically constructed on a van chassis and are perfect for solo travelers or couples.
Despite their smaller size, however, Class B motorhomes can come with a higher price tag due to the labor-intensive process of converting a van into a livable space. However, for those looking to save money and customize their RV, DIY options are available to build the perfect Class B motorhome to meet your needs.
What Are Class C Motorhomes?
If you’re seeking more space and amenities, Class C motorhomes may be the right choice for you. Built on a truck chassis, these larger vehicles offer ample room for families or groups, with features such as a full kitchen, bathroom, and spacious living and sleeping areas.
Thanks to these extra features, Class C RVs are a popular option for travelers who value additional space, storage, and amenities. These larger motorhomes provide a comfortable environment for extended trips or full-time living, making them a top choice for families and groups seeking the ultimate RV experience.
Comparing Class B and Class C RVs: Key Factors
In your decision-making process between Class B and Class C RVs, you should take into account several critical factors, including the following.
Driving and Maneuverability
If you test drive a Class B motorhome followed by a Class C, you’ll quickly notice a huge difference in driving and maneuverability. Because they’re essentially the size and style of a 15-passenger van, Class B motorhomes are much easier to drive, navigate, and park than Class C motorhomes.
While a Class C motorhome is smaller and easier to drive than a Class A motorhome, they require more practice and have more of a learning curve than Class Bs.
Fuel Economy
As an additional benefit of their smaller size, Class B RVs also have the best gas mileage of any type of motorhome. While Class C RVs have better fuel economy than Class A models, they are lacking compared to Class Bs.
Space and Storage
If you value more living space and storage over maneuverability and fuel economy, Class C RVs are the way to go. Class C motorhomes are typically from 20 to 33 feet long, which means more room to spread out on extended trips. Because of their larger size, Class C motorhomes also offer more sleeping areas and accommodations, and some models can hold up to 8 people!
While Class B RVs may not offer the same amount of space and storage as Class C motorhomes, their compact size provides a more minimalist and efficient approach to RV travel. Measuring between 16 and 22 feet in length, these smaller motorhomes can be an ideal option for solo travelers or couples who prioritize a simple, minimalistic RV experience.
Amenities and Comfort
In addition to less storage and living space, a smaller rig also means fewer amenities and comforts of home. Therefore, if you need an RV with all the bells and whistles, a Class C RV is the way to go because it provides the following advantages:
- Larger kitchens and bathrooms
- Expanded sleeping areas
- Additional entertainment options, such as a TV and entertainment center
- Slide-outs, which provide even more living space
Cost
As with all things, your budget will play a significant role when choosing the right RV for your needs. Despite their different sizes and layouts, the average cost of Class B and C RVs is fairly similar, at right around $80,000 to $100,000.
However, because Class C RVs are typically bigger, you have more customization and layout options and could end up spending between $150,000 and $200,000. Class B motorhomes, on the other hand, typically top out at around $120,000 at most.
Lifestyle and Travel Needs
In addition to cost, amenities, fuel economy, and the other factors listed above, there are two other considerations to look at when choosing between Class B camper vans and Class C motorhomes.
Household Size
If you plan to travel with more than one or two people, you’ll have a hard time fitting your household comfortably into a camper van. Therefore, most families and groups traveling under one roof prefer Class C RVs because of the additional space and amenities they offer.
However, for one or two people who want to travel as economically and minimalist as possible, Class B motorhomes are ideal.
Off-Roading and Boondocking Capabilities
Finally, for those who enjoy off-roading and boondocking adventures, the size, weight, and agility of a Class B RV are superior to Class C options. Their compact size and increased maneuverability make them an ideal choice for exploring remote areas and navigating challenging terrain.
The only real disadvantage to using Class B motorhomes for boondocking and off-roading is that they have smaller gray and freshwater tanks, making them less suitable for extended stays in off-grid locations. However, if you can find ways around these shortcomings, Class B van conversions are perfect for off-grid adventures.
In contrast, Class C RVs offer more fresh and waste water storage than Class B options. However, their larger size and decreased maneuverability can make them less suited for navigating challenging terrain or accessing remote areas.
In Conclusion
While deciding what type of RV or motorhome you want to purchase is a huge decision, it’s also important to have a plan in place once you purchase your new or used rig. Typically, this includes finding a safe, reliable place to store your RV while it’s not in use.
Consider using Neighbor, a peer-to-peer storage marketplace, to find the perfect storage space for your RV. Neighbor can connect you with hosts and storage facilities in your area so that you can keep your rig safe from burglars, the weather, and more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Class B better than C?
If you value fuel economy, easy maneuvering, and the option of going off-grid, Class B motorhomes are ideal. However, if you prefer additional living space, amenities, and storage compartments, Class C motorhomes take the cake.
Is Class B bigger than Class C?
Class C motorhomes are generally larger than Class B models, typically ranging between 20 and 33 feet in length compared to 16 and 22 feet for Class Bs.
Furthermore, Class. Cs offer more interior living space and exterior storage.
Which type of RV is more fuel-efficient?
Class B RVs are more fuel efficient than Class C due to their smaller size and lighter weight. Conversely, Class C motorhomes are much more fuel-efficient than Class A RVs.
