Your Guide To The Different Types Of Camping Vehicles
Heading out on a campervan road trip is an opportunity to embrace the freedom and flexibility of the open road. But you have to be careful which road you choose. Or, more importantly, which campervan?
If this is your first time going on a campervan adventure and you get confused by the terms ‘Class C’ or ‘Class B’ Campervans then have no fear. This handy guide will tell you everything you need to know about the different types of camping vehicles and what kind of vacations they are suitable for.
Campervan Class C
A Class C Campervan is what most people think of when you say the word “motorhome”. These camping vehicles consist of one long ‘room’ with a driver and passenger seat up front and a lounge and bathroom in the back. Depending on the campervan, you can also find a kitchenette (including a fridge and stovetops) in the main cab section of the vehicle.
Sleeping arrangements differ among Class C vehicles. Some have single or double beds tucked away in the back of the cab. Others have a double bed on the roof of the vehicle that can be extended upwards if needed. And those that can accommodate more people tend to have both.
When Should I Use A Campervan Class C?
This is the best type of campervan for family vacations. The size of the vehicle, coupled with its ability to sleep up to six people, means that there will be a lot of space for families to relax during long stretches on the road. This also makes it a good option for road trips with your friends.
The size and weight of the campervan can limit your destination choices as you’ll struggle to drive it off-road or up steep hills. However, it is suitable for every kind of vacation (beach, hiking, sightseeing), as long as you stick to paved and (relatively) flat roads. If your campervan does come with a bathroom and kitchenette, you should preferably find a campsite with electric, water, and waste hook-ups.
Campervan Class B
A Class B Campervan is the only camper that is actually a van. These medium-sized vehicles often start out in life as regular vans before being retrofitted into comfortable campers. You can also find purpose-built vans, designed specifically with the camping lifestyle in mind. Class B Campervans are more compact than Class C vehicles, but most models still have a small lounge and kitchenette inside.
To increase the space available inside the van, these Class B Campervans often have double beds fitted under an extendable roof. Lounge chairs can also be folded into single or double beds within the main body of the campervan.
When Should I Use A Campervan Class B?
Class B Campervans are the best for road trips with friends and up to four people can sleep inside them. They are also great to use when traveling as a pair. There’s not as much space in a Class B Campervan as there is in Class C so you will need to use the storage space efficiently.
The advantage of the Campervan Class B is that they can travel on slightly rougher roads than the larger campervans, allowing you to visit more remote places. They are suitable for most vacation types, however, everything installed in the vehicle can weigh it down, so avoid very steep roads. Each campervan is different and they won’t all come with a bathroom, shower, and kitchenette. Make sure you book a campsite that has all the facilities that you don’t have in your camper.
SUV Camper
An SUV camper seems like your typical rugged vehicle but it comes with a special surprise: a pop-up tent that opens onto the roof of the car. The backseat and trunk of an SUV camper may also be altered to increase storage space. A few models will come fitted with a fridge/freezer, powered by solar panels.
By definition, SUV Campers are far smaller than full-size campervans. However, the addition of a roof-top tent, often layered with an air mattress, can allow up to four people to ride in the 4×4.
When Should I Use An SUV Camper?
SUV Campers are the best for couples. The size of the vehicle and its 2-person capacity means that whoever your travel buddy will be close by during your travels. So pick someone you really get along with.
This is the best vehicle for rough or remote destinations and is great for wilderness camping and out-of-the-way hiking spots. SUV Campers are very comfortable going up steep hills or on dirt roads. Pay attention when booking an SUV Camper as not all of them are able to drive completely off-road.
Towable Trailer
A Towable Trailer, as the name suggests, is a medium-sized campervan or pod that is trailed behind a strong car. Although they may not look too impressive from the outside, trailers can hold a surprising amount of amenities. Although every trailer is different, some are purpose-built and some are specially customized.
The best trailers have, not only a comfortable pop-up bed, but state-of-the-art kitchen facilities, a TV and sound system, and a kitchenette. Most trailers can accommodate two people but some can squeeze up to four in the deceptively small pod.
When Should I Use A Towable Trailer?
Towable Trailers are best for friends and couples who want the comfort of a car and the convenience of the trailer. If you’ve never towed anything, it can take some getting used to, but after a while, you forget it’s even there. A trailer is suitable for any type of vacation, as long as you stick to paved roads.
Reserve Your Campervan Now!
Now you know which campervan will suit your needs best, it’s time to go ahead and book your camper before they’re all reserved, but if still not sure which camper suits your needs? Get a personalized recommendation instantly
If you have your own camping vehicle and are interested in earning some hassle-free income then you can put your camper up for rent with TB Outdoors!
