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RV Classifications
Class A, Class B, Class C... What does it all mean? If you are a little
fuzzy on the different RV classifications, fear not. Below you can learn
more than you ever wanted to know about the different types of recreational
vehicles.
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Class A
The Class A is the largest and often most luxurious of motorhomes
available. Most models offer complete self-containment, with on-board
generator, large water and holding tanks, big batteries and a generous
propane supply. Such features also make these units especially good for
"dry" camping (without hookups), even for extended periods.
AVG Weight: 13,000 to 30,000 pounds
AVG Length: 30 to 40 feet in overall length
AVG Height: 10 feet high
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Class C
Class C motorhomes are built on RV cutaway van chassis that are designed
expressly for this purpose. They retain the cab section of the van with the
driver and passenger doors, which are definitely convenient. To most
drivers, Class C motorhomes "feel" more natural to drive than Class A's,
especially the first time they are driven.
AVG Weight: 10,000 to 12,000 pound gross vehicle weight
AVG Length: 20 to 25 feet in length
AVG Height: about 10 feet high
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Class B (Camping Van Conversion)
Camping van conversions, also known as Class B motorhomes, come in a number
of configurations, the smallest and least expensive being the plain van
conversion (street van) that retains the original van dimensions but
features a raised roof, usually fiberglass, and offers full headroom. These
models include abbreviated motorhome-style accommodations, such as a small
galley and a portable toilet. Camping vans using today's extended-van
chassis feature some very innovative packaging and floorplans with expanded
amenities, including full self-containment and quite acceptable livability
for two adults and occasionally one or two small children.
AVG Weight: 6,000 to 8,000 lbs
AVG Length: 17 to 19 feet
AVG Height: 7 to 8 feet
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Travel Trailers
Trailers in the under-4000-pound category range in size from compact
13-foot models up to those measuring approximately 22 feet. The larger
units are suitable for extended use, while the smaller units make great
weekenders. The 18-foot and larger models offer full bathroom facilities,
including a separate shower and a fully equipped galley. Living room and
dining-area space and furniture are governed in large part by the overall
size of the unit, with the more elaborate layouts being found toward the
upper limits in size, class, price and weight. The larger models in this
size class require some serious consideration of the tow vehicle selected.
AVG Length: 10 to 35 feet
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Fifth-wheel Trailers
For anyone seeking maximum living space for a given trailer length, the
fifth-wheel trailer category is the place to look. "Fivers," as they are
sometimes called, pretty much have become the RV of choice for most
full-time RVers. Models are available with a wide range of typical RV
appliances and some not so typical, such as a built-in washer and dryer.
Slide-out room extensions are common with the large, high-end models
offering triple slide-outs on both sides of the living room area, plus one
in the bedroom. These slide-outs greatly expand the available living space
and increase the total trailer weight.
Most of the large fifth-wheel units require, at the very least, a one-ton
pickup truck as the tow vehicle. It is extremely important to match the
weight of a fifth-wheel trailer to a truck of adequate towing capacity.
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Folding Camping Trailers (Tent Trailers)
The folding trailer or tent trailer is a good place to start. These
lightweights offer lots of sleeping capacity: usually a pair of double
beds, plus the dinette converts into a double bed in most models. Since
most tent trailers utilize canvas for side-wall construction, they offer
many of the advantages of sleeping in a tent -- you can still hear the
birds or the wind while being protected from most of the elements. Most
models feature minimum cooking facilities, with a two- or three-burner
stove, a sink and an ice box, or an optional small refrigerator. The living
area is quite pleasant, offering an open and spacious feeling because of
the large, roll-up vinyl windows in the canvas sides. Setup requires about
10 or 15 minutes. Most can be towed with just about any size smaller car or
downsized SUV, minivan or truck.
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Toy Hauler
A Toy Hauler is specifically designed for those who want all the
convenience of a trailer home and want to take their toys with them. So if
you have ATVs, motorcycles, or even a race car you can just put them in the
back and go. Living space will be sacrificed in many of these units
however, if bringing along the toys is mandatory, then this is a good
compromise.
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Why rent an RV? Freedom! See Arizona on your terms!
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Why rent an RV from Owner's Rental? Flexibility! Thinking of more than a few days or a weeks vacation? Long term rental on some rental units.
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