Ready to untether yourself from the costs of traditional homeownership? You’ve come to the right place. It’s one thing to daydream about RV living and a whole other story to visit an RV dealership, RV show, or RV expo.
Once you make a decision on the right RV class for you, that’s where the rubber officially meets the road.
Whether you are just beginning your journey or are looking to change motorhomes, this guide will help you identify key points to consider when choosing between a Class A vs. a Class C motorhome.
Class A Motorhomes: The Luxury Choice
Class A motorhomes reign supreme when it comes to luxury on the road. These magnificent motorhomes are built on a bus or large commercial truck chassis and are known for their spacious interiors, high-end amenities, and superior-quality construction.
However, with luxury comes a higher price tag and potential challenges in usage.
Class A Motorhomes are often equipped with amenities such as full kitchens, bathrooms, living areas, and even entertainment systems.
However, in addition to the higher initial purchase prices, there are also higher ownership costs, including maintenance and fuel consumption. Customization options are extensive, allowing owners to customize their motorhome with high-end appliances, furniture, and fixtures. Due to their size, these motorhomes require substantial storage space.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Driving Experience | Generally more challenging to drive due to size and weight, requiring more skill and experience. |
| Amenities Offered | High-end amenities include full kitchens, bathrooms, living areas, and entertainment systems. |
| Customization Options | Extensive customization with high-end features, appliances, furniture, and fixtures. |
| Storage Requirements | Requires substantial storage space due to large size. |
| Initial Purchasing Price | Higher cost reflecting luxury features and larger size, Typically ranges from $100,000 to $300,000 |
| Ownership Costs | High maintenance costs, including fuel, insurance, and specialized service, ranging from $5,000 to $15,000 annually. |
Class C Motorhomes: The Versatile Option
Class C motorhomes, also known as C RVs, strike the perfect balance between luxury and practicality. Built on a truck chassis, these Class C models are smaller than their Class A counterparts but still offer a comfortable living space for families and travelers.
With a driving experience more similar to a car and an over-cab storage or sleeping area available, Class C motorhomes are an excellent choice for those seeking versatility and ease of maneuverability, as well as compatibility with a tow vehicle for additional transportation options.
Class C models provide practical and efficient use of space, including over-cab beds and well-designed interiors, accommodating up to five guests. While they may lack the luxury of Class A motorhomes, Class C RVs balance comfort and affordability with lower initial purchase prices and maintenance costs.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Driving Experience | Easier to drive and park due to smaller size and shorter wheelbase, ideal for new RV drivers. |
| Amenities Offered | Practical amenities with well-designed interiors, including over-cab beds and compact living spaces. |
| Customization Options | Limited but practical customization options, including interior upgrades and exterior paint. |
| Storage Requirements | Requires less storage space compared to Class A motorhomes. |
| Initial Purchasing Price | Typically ranges from $50,000 to $150,000, depending on size and features. |
| Ownership Costs | Lower maintenance costs, including fuel, insurance, and basic service, ranging from $3,000 to $8,000 annually. |
What Do They Have In Common, And Where do They Differ
Both Class A and Class C motorhomes offer a range of different amenities and features. In most cases, Class A motorhomes are acclaimed for their luxury and high-end features, while Class C motorhomes earn points for their practicality and versatility.
As a result, Class Cs tend to be more popular among families and budget-conscious travelers.
Let’s compare the luxury and practical aspects of these motorhomes, as well as their customization options.
| Feature | Class A | Class C |
|---|---|---|
| Luxury | High level of luxury and comfort | Practical and functional |
| Initial Investment | Higher cost due to luxury features | More affordable, budget-friendly |
| Ongoing Expenses | Higher maintenance and service costs | Lower maintenance and service costs |
| Customization Options | High-end features, additional slide-outs | Practical upgrades, limited slide-outs |
| Fuel Efficiency | 5-10 mpg | 8-12 mpg |
| Ideal For | Those seeking luxury and space | Families and travelers prioritizing functionality |
Luxury vs. Practicality
Class A motorhomes symbolize luxury with spacious interiors and sophisticated features—but those luxury features higher cost. Class Cs, while less luxurious, prioritize practicality and space efficiency, making them ideal for families valuing functionality.
Customization Options
Both Class A and Class C motorhomes offer customization options. Class A motorhomes often include high-end features, additional slide-outs, and customized materials. Class C motorhomes, on the other hand, zero in on practical upgrades like slide-outs, interior upgrades, and exterior customizations.
Price and Maintenance Considerations
Class A motorhomes require a larger initial investment and have higher ongoing costs. Class Cs are more budget-friendly, both in terms of initial investment and ongoing expenses.
Ongoing Expenses
Class A motorhomes have higher ongoing expenses due to factors like fuel consumption (5 to 10 mpg), specialized maintenance, insurance premiums, and storage fees.
Class C motorhomes, with better fuel efficiency (8 to 12 mpg), generally have lower ongoing costs.
Insurance premiums, storage fees, and maintenance and repair costs are typically less than those for Class A motorhomes, making them a more economical choice.
How To Choose The Right RV for Your Lifestyle
When it comes to choosing the right motorhome for your lifestyle, factors such as travel frequency, trip duration, and family size and needs play a significant role in making the right decision. One option to consider is a diesel or gas-engine motorhome, which can offer a balance between comfort and efficiency, especially when visiting national parks.
Here are a few things to keep in mind as you decide:
- Class A Motorhomes offer space and luxury for full-time living or extended trips.
- Class C Motorhomes are perfect for short getaways or weekend trips due to their compact design and easy maneuverability.
- Class A Motorhomes are ideal for larger families, providing ample space and luxury.
- Class C Motorhomes suit smaller families or couples, offering a cozy and practical living environment.
- Different models within the same class may vary in towing capacity, safety features, storage, and fuel economy.
Final Thoughts
Once you decide on a Class A or Class C motorhome, you’ll need to find a place to store it. Because a Class A won’t fit in a standard-sized, two-car garage, you’ll need to find a storage unit, RV storage yard, or warehouse space large enough.
If you don’t want to spend hundreds of dollars on RV storage every month, there is an option. Neighbor, a peer-to-peer RV storage marketplace, offers RV Storage for up to 50% cheaper. With Neighbor, you can find RV storage options in all 50 states. You’ll even find storage spaces in your very own neighborhood. Start looking for listings (from pre-screened hosts) nearest you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Is Better, Class A or Class C?
Class Cs are more flexible and nimble than Class As and offer more camping options. Class A RVs, on the other hand, boast more space but require more planning when it comes to traveling.
The question of Class A vs. Class C motorhomes is complex and depends largely on your needs and preferences when it comes to trailer travel.
Is It Worth Buying a Class C RV?
Yes, absolutely! Class C RVs are an affordable and flexible option for those wanting to explore the RV lifestyle. With a variety of floor plans available, they can suit any family’s needs and provide comfort while camping.
What Is the Gas Mileage for Class A vs. Class C?
Class A RVs consume between 18-29 liters/100 km (7-13 mpg), while Class Cs offer a more fuel-efficient 16-23 liters/100 km (14-18 mpg). The most economical choice is the Class B RV with 11-13 liters/100 km (18-25 mpg).
What Is It Like to Live in an RV?
RV experiences differ from person to person, of course. We recommend combing through testimonials from real-life RV owners to get a better idea of the benefits and challenges that define motorhome living. You can also check out our guide that offers a behind-the-scenes look into what it’s like to live in an RV full-time.
