Buying My Dream RV - What's Available?

RVs, recreational vehicles, come in two broad types, motorized and towable. Both groups combine accommodation for those seeking recreation in the outdoors with transportation and there are a wide range covering most budgets and needs. These can range from the simple camping trailer to the full motorhome, the size of a small backwoods cabin!

Motorized recreational vehicles fall into 3 classes, A, B and C, generally self-contained with waste water treatment, appliances, gas supply etc. Class A motorhomes are the ones that offer just about every creature comfort that you could ever require! They are generally around 30 to 40 feet in length and built on a truck chassis. This naturally comes at a price and these are the most expensive. Some even have a 'slideout', this is a portion of the exterior wall that will slide out from the RV at the touch of a button, immediately extending the habitable area. Class B motorhome are the smallest of the categories, at around 20 long at most. These are the camper van style of home, where the accommodation has been added to an existing van chassis. They are sometimes referred to as van conversion motorhomes. There is no change to the length or width of these, the main change is to the height and often the accommodation is extended out above the cab. Although the space is quite limited, they offer many home comforts and can be used as a day to day vehicle. They are also the most economical of the motorhomes. Class C motorhomes are regarded as smaller versions of their class A big brothers. There is usually a bunk above the cab and they are fitted with just about every modern convenience you could need out on the road. They are generally 30 feet or less in length and built on a large van chassis.

The towable options are great for people who want the convenience of a family automobile and the comfort of a recreational vehicle. The camping trailer is simply a trailer with a folding tent built on. These take up little storage room and are quick and convenient to set up at your destination - an RV on a small budget! Truck campers (also known as pickup campers or slide-on campers) are also convenient. You simply slide on and clamp a hard shell, containing the camper van accommodation and appliances, on to your pick-up and away you go. The room in these is fairly limited but they are ideal for frequent weekend trips. Travel trailers range in size from a small 'bedroom on wheels' to a monster 'cabin on wheels' that would rival any class A motorhome. You may need modifications other than the towing bar if you get yourself one of the larger ones. A variation of the travel trailer is the fifth wheel trailer, so called because it has a circular coupling that articulates the rig. They are big, generally designed for full-size pick-ups. They are a good alternative to the travel trailer as the load is distributed centrally in the towing vehicle.

Whatever RV you choose to buy, consider your needs and choose carefully. It is also worth seeking advice before proceeding with such a major purchase as you are likely to own it for many years so you need to get it right first time.

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