Buying an RV can be an exciting idea for those who want to work as digital nomads, sleep under the stars, or go on extended vacations and explore various regions of the U.S. However, potential new owners face one big question: What type of RV should I buy?
Although there is no definitive answer to this question, you can make the right decision by evaluating the most important features for your comfort, the type of tow vehicle you have, and the kind of RV camping you would like to experience. The engines used in motorhomes can run for hundreds of thousands of miles before requiring significant repairs. Thanks to modern engine design and technology, you can trust your vehicle to operate smoothly and avoid getting stranded, provided you perform regular maintenance.
At our Bretz RV & Marine dealerships, we’re here to help you find the best RV for your requirements. Here’s a look at the different types available.
Pop-Up Campers
Pop-up campers are small, lightweight trailers you can easily tow with most cars and crossover SUVs. They come equipped with the necessities for a comfortable living space while enjoying a vacation destination. Smaller pop-up campers can accommodate two people, while larger ones can sleep up to five without feeling cramped.
The drawback to a pop-up camper is that they’re typically soft-sided with a hard shell to contain all the interior elements. The soft-sided aspect limits their use to camping in the late spring through early fall as they can be challenging to heat. One type of camper uses solid panels that pop up into a tented roof, but these are smaller in size and typically only accommodate one or two occupants. Forest River and Jayco are two good brands for beginners.
A pop-up camper makes a lot of sense for someone who wants to get into RV camping but doesn’t want to spend much money doing so. These campers are relatively inexpensive, durable, and easy to tow and park, but they tend to have a lifespan of about 15 years. You don’t need to upgrade to a powerful tow vehicle, as the pop-up camper is typically lightweight and towable by smaller SUVs.
Camper Vans
Camper vans are vehicles a manufacturer or third party has converted into living quarters. The rear of the van gets converted into living space with a small kitchen, bed, and storage space. It also includes a commode, but shower space is rare. Larger vans can accommodate a kitchen table and extra seats.
This type of RV is popular among people who have shifted into a way of living known as van life. The reason is that it’s easy to park anywhere and be undetectable as someone living in a van. The camper van offers the ability to be stealthy and gives you more privacy. Thor and Entegra are two coach builders that build quality camper vans that are perfect for new owners.
This type of RV can be built into a van by DIYers or purchased from a dealership or conversion company. The major drawback to this type of RV is that it’s limited to two occupants and can be expensive to buy. However, many people choose camper vans because they’re easier to park, have diesel engines for fuel economy and durability, and can withstand rough terrain. A camper van can last for decades and hundreds of thousands of miles as long as the engine and body are maintained.
Small Bumper-Pull RV
A small bumper-pull RV, also known as a travel trailer, is similar to a motorcoach but is towed instead of driven. The travel trailer offers more flexibility in terms of inside layout, space, and parking options than smaller RV types. Some have setups for propane tanks to run a gas stove, and all have electrical systems to power the interior via an electrical hookup.
To transport this type of RV, you’ll have to upgrade your towing vehicle to a half-ton pickup at the very least. Travel trailers are heavier, have a higher center of gravity, and take longer to stop than a pop-up camper. They’re worth considering because you can have them customized to your needs.
Dutchmen and Keystone are two brands that are worth looking at as they’re high-quality and built to last. The bumper-pull RV can last up to 20 years and longer with proper maintenance. Seals, gaskets, and exterior plugs need regular inspection and replacement when they’re worn out.
Class C Motorhome
The Class C motorhome falls between the A and B classes in terms of size. It’s built on a truck or van chassis and features a cab-over design. The interior is similar to a home, with two-thirds of the space behind the cab dedicated to a comfortable living area. The Class C has several features, including slideouts to expand the room when you’re parked, a kitchen, a dining area, a bathroom, and multiple areas that serve as bedrooms.
This type of motorhome works well for new RV owners who want to reach campsites that may be a bit rugged and park in RV-friendly parking lots. Even if a lot isn’t RV-friendly, the Class C motorhome fits nicely into a parking spot for quick trips to the store. The average lifespan of the Class C is about 20 years or 200,000 miles. Entegra and Coachmen build motorhomes that work well for new RV owners.
Get the RV That Makes the Most Sense
You have plenty of options for RVs in terms of size, cost, and abilities. You need to examine your budget, consider the type of RV camping you want to do, and what comforts you want when you’re at the campsite to ensure you select an RV that delivers what you need at an affordable price.
How Bretz RV & Marine Can Help
At our Bretz RV & Marine dealerships, you’ll find experts in everything RV-related. Our staff can help you find a vehicle that won’t intimidate you and supplies you with the shelter and comforts you want to enjoy while on a campsite. Contact us today to learn more, or go online to check out our inventory of RVs and get an idea of what’s available.
Pop Up camper 3 by JBLM MWR is licensed with CC BY 2.0.
