Types of recreational vehicles
Buying an Airstream, Monaco, Beaver, Winnebago, Holiday Rambler, Jayco or HitchHiker RV? Well, you’re not alone, and despite high fuel prices, Class A motorhomes are the only category seeing a decline in sales. Mobile home shipments to dealers in 2006 fell 11.9%, but Class B and Class C mobile homes are showing slight increases. Travel trailers continue to lead the way with dealer sales up 15% over the year, so “peysimists” may find little solace in the RV industry. Still working pretty well, thanks.
Consumer surveys addressing “RV use” are surprising, as two-thirds of RV owners plan to use their RVs more rather than less and 37% responded that the cost of fuel would not affect how they would use. their recreational vehicles. However, this number seems high as surveys also show that 45% of motorhomes would simply travel shorter distances and 52% responded that they would simply stay in one area longer with their motorhomes. What it all boils down to is that rv’ers are using their coaches and rigs because they not only love the lifestyle but also feel that rv’ing brings their families closer together.
With so many RV options and options available, a return to the basics of RV types can serve as a timely reminder for the seasoned rv’er and is the starting point for the novice rv’er who just wants to learn. more. The following is a concise summary of the main pros and cons for all the different types of RVs. Choosing between an RV vs. a travel trailer is sometimes the most daunting decision, and sadly, the statistics will be of little help to you because RV sales and travel trailer sales are about 45% the same for each other. one, and the remaining 10% goes to folding trailers. Regardless, the following should provide a starting point in your quest to choose the right type of rv for your specific needs.
MOTORHOMES
A CLASS Box or bus style RV on a big truck type chassis
Pros:
Motorized, autonomous, it gives a feeling of “freedom”. Motorhomes are the best option for those who move a lot.
Cons
Emotion shuts down logic with class A buyers either buying the wrong type (the class A) or buying too much. Remember that stunning, brilliant and skilled salespeople sell these beauties.
CLASS B Van Camper (Do you remember them from the 60s and 70s?)
professionals
The camper van is still quite popular. Economical and easy to operate. It will go almost anywhere. It appeals to many, especially older people who don’t want to mess with anything big. Van camper also scores very high when it comes to RV safety issues.
Cons
Small and limited living and storage space, as well as fresh water, holding tanks and LP gas storage.
CLASS C Cutaway van chassis (different size chassis available)
professionals
Inexpensive to drive, great for family use, relatively easy to maneuver and park.
cons
Driving area restricted to driving (unlike Class A), can easily get overweight with slides or if they are too long
TRAILERS
FIFTH WHEELS Trailer hitch located on the truck bed
professionals
RV that feels more like a home, best for long term stays, relatively easy to tow.
Cons
Not for you if you don’t like towing or backing a towed vehicle.
TRAVEL TRAILERS Self explanatory. #1 SELLING RVs
professionals
Go from small to large floor plans that are limitless, versatile and flexible in use. Most households have a vehicle that can tow at least a small travel trailer.
cons
It must be carefully researched and investigated. Many manufacturers today use cheap materials and poor workmanship.
At first, RVs may seem cheap, but in the long run, inferior materials and craftsmanship will cost you money.
SPORT UTILITY TRAILER (toy hauler) The hottest RV innovation if recent years with manufacturers sometimes unable
to meet consumer demand
professionals
Take your toys and your family with you
Cons
Shaft location is key to safety. The weight of the hitch is heaviest when empty, it may be too heavy. Make sure the floor in the cargo area will secure its contents.
FOLD They are also known as pop-ups, tent trailers, and A Frame trailers.
professionals
Great for young families or anyone with their first rv’ing experience. Helps you get off the ground (versus a tent) Have basic RV accessories; stove, refrigerator, oven, water and sometimes more.
cons
The tent canvas is high maintenance. If ignored, it can become moldy and fall apart.
TELESCOPIC TRAILER Hard side, go up to wear, go down to ride
professionals
Low profile when towing. Safe and economical to tow. A very viable rv alternative
Cons
Rising costs have kept sales low.
TRUCK TRUCK Mounts in truck bed
professionals
Great option if you already have a truck. It still has the ability to tow boats, horse trailers, etc.
cons
Most truck campers are unstable when assembled. Prone to making the vehicle rock.
Note: Truck manufacturers limit the height of the cargo capacity to the top of the truck cab.