Types of Recreational Vehicles
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast or love road trips, recreational vehicles (RVs) are the perfect companions for your adventures. Whether you’re camping by the beach or exploring remote locations, choosing the right RV can enhance your experience. Let’s explore the different types of RVs you can consider, from camper trailers to luxury motorhomes.
Camper Trailers
A camper trailer is a separate unit that you’ll attach to your car. Depending on the model, it can feature various amenities, but at the very least, it will provide a bed, storage space, and an outdoor kitchen (sometimes inside for more expensive models). Camper trailers are smaller and easier to tow compared to caravans or campervans.
They’re a perfect option for those looking for a step up from tent camping or for caravanners who prefer something smaller and more manageable.
Key Benefits of Camper Trailers:
- Compact and easy to tow
- Outdoor kitchen for convenient cooking
- Ideal for beach or saltwater camping trips
Pop-top Caravans
A pop-top caravan is basically the same as a hard top caravan but it has an expanding roof that can be raised and lowered. The pop-top design offers increased headroom (up to half a meter) while keeping the caravan’s low profile for easy towing and storage. The roof is lowered during towing and can be raised once you’ve reached your destination.
These caravans often come with all the amenities of larger models, including ensuites, kitchens, and more. They’re perfect for those who want the comfort of a caravan but with a more compact and versatile design.
Key Benefits of Pop-top Caravans:
- Easy to store and tow
- Extra headroom for comfort
Slide-on Campers
A slide-on camper is a type of recreational vehicle (RV) mounted onto the tray of a ute (utility vehicle) or light truck. These campers offer features similar to a caravan or camper trailer, but they’re designed for those who want the flexibility of both towing a separate trailer and having a self-contained camper.
Slide-on campers are fully equipped with essential facilities like showers, toilets, kitchens, and power sources. This makes them ideal for off-grid adventures and remote camping, especially for those interested in recreational vehicles camping, where access to utilities may be limited.
Key Benefits of Slide-on Campers:
- Lightweight and portable
- Self-contained for off-grid camping
- Freedom to explore remote locations
Caravans
A caravan is a vehicle without an engine that’s towed behind a car or van. It’s equipped with beds, cooking facilities, and other home comforts, making it an excellent choice for longer trips or family holidays. Caravans come in various sizes, with some models reaching up to 10 metres long and featuring multiple berths.
These vehicles are often self-contained with amenities like showers, toilets, refrigerators, and even air-conditioning in some models. Perfect for both coastal and inland camping trips.
Key Benefits of Caravans:
- Spacious and comfortable for long-term travel
- Self-contained with many home comforts
- Ideal for families or those seeking a full RV experience
Class A Motorhomes
Class A motorhomes are luxury Recreational Vehicles that typically range from 7-12 metres long and can weigh 7-14 tonnes. Built on a robust commercial truck or bus chassis, these motorhomes offer ample space and come with all the luxury amenities you could need.
They are perfect for families or those looking to travel long distances with all the comforts of home. One thing to consider is that they require good roads and plenty of space to manoeuvre.
Key Benefits of Class A Motorhomes:
- Luxury amenities for a comfortable road trip
- Large and spacious for family or group travel
Campervans / Class B Motorhomes
Also known as camper vans, Class B motorhomes resemble large vans but are fitted with compact living spaces. These models can be driven with a standard car licence and are great for those who want the flexibility of using the vehicle as both a passenger vehicle and a camper.
While these motorhomes may have limited storage, they still come with essential features like kitchens, sleeping areas, and sometimes ensuites in larger models. They are perfect for shorter trips and easier to park in urban areas.
Key Benefits of Campervans:
- Easy to drive and park
- Ideal for short trips or weekend getaways
- Compact yet functional for saltwater camping adventures
Class C Motorhomes
Class C motorhomes sit between the Class A and Class B models in terms of size and amenities. Built on a cab-chassis with a caravan-style body, these motorhomes provide most of the luxury features of Class A models but in a smaller, more affordable package.
They are perfect for those who want a balance of comfort and practicality without the size and expense of Class A motorhomes. Many Class C motorhomes feature slide-outs to expand living space when parked.
Key Benefits of Class C Motorhomes:
- A balance of space and affordability
- Slide-outs for added comfort
- Great for longer road trips and adventures
FAQS
Travel trailers are the most popular type of RV due to their versatility and availability in various sizes and weights. These trailers feature solid walls and typically include a kitchen, sleeping area, bathroom, and a convertible dinette or living space that can serve as an additional sleeping area.
You can generally drive a motorhome with a GVM of 4500 kg or less on any current and valid car licence (Class C). As long as you have had your full licence for at least 12 months, you'll be able to legally drive a motorhome.
Before you hit the road, ensure everyone is wearing their seatbelt. Moving about the cabin or house of your motorhome while on the road is not permitted, and is very unsafe.
