Traveling in an RV is an experience like no other. The ability to have your personal belongings and customizable personal space with you throughout your travels is very convenient and comfortable. It is also much more cost-effective than purchasing airfare and staying in hotels. But with all the different types of RVs, it can be difficult to choose the kind that’s best for you. After all, the individual needs of the traveler are one of the most important factors when selecting a class of RV.
If you are considering purchasing a new RV or switching to a different type, then you have come to the right place. We’ll be covering the features and pros and cons of Class C motorhomes. Continue reading to learn everything you need to know about them before purchasing one of your own.
What is a Class C motorhome?
A Class C motorhome is almost like a combination of a Class A and Class B, or rather a compromise between the two. Class Cs are built on a truck or van chassis that is built specifically for a motorhome. They are usually designed to have an overhang over the cab that is typically an extra bed or additional storage. This class of motorhome is revered for having the most sleeping space. Some of the newer, larger models can sleep up to 11 people.
These RVs usually run between twenty-one and thirty-five feet, making them a more compact solution than a Class A, but slightly bigger than a Class B. Due to their smaller size, they are fairly easy to navigate and park – some only take up a bit more than a parking space.
More recently, manufacturers have increased the size and capabilities of these RVs by designing the Super-C. This RV is built on a Ford F550 or Freightliner chassis. The front of Super-Cs sometimes look like a semi-truck and other types retain the overhang cab. Super-Cs are heavy duty and the largest of this class.
Features
Class C motorhomes retain great gas mileage, especially the diesel varieties. These motorhomes sometimes have the ability to tow around 5,000 pounds, depending on the model, and Super-Cs can tow up to 35,000 pounds.
Floor plans in these vary greatly, depending on the length and type of Class C. Generally, the newer models include up to four slide outs for additional space. Many Class Cs share similar features, such as a kitchen with a stove and cooktop, up to two bathrooms, and a dining area.
One of the biggest drawbacks of Class Cs is the lack of outdoor storage space. Class Cs are usually lacking in the number and size of outdoor storage bays, which makes packing large items such as chairs and coolers a challenge.
Traveling and set up
Driving a Class C is similar to driving a long van. They are not as high off the ground as Class As, which can ease the fears of some drivers. Class Cs are similar to Class As in their necessary campsite setup, although some Class Cs can back into parking spaces significantly easier than Class As can, due to their shorter length and height. Leveling a Class C is very important, but most do not come equipped with automatic leveling kits. The most efficient way to level these RVs is to use leveling blocks and a bubble leveler.
Long term
A self-contained RV is both a pro and a con. The pro is that, while driving down the road, travelers have everything they need in the comfort of their own home on wheels. However, with motorhomes, you can expect much more maintenance. If you are towing another vehicle, you can then expect to maintain two engines. In addition, repairs to self-contained RVs are almost always significantly more expensive, and RV mechanics are less prevalent than regular garages.
Depending on the size of the Class C you choose, a towed vehicle may be helpful for navigating tighter roads when your RV is stationary. When deciding whether or not to tow, there are many factors to consider, and many of those can add to the upfront costs of purchasing an RV.
Other considerations
Storing a Class C during the off-season is more expensive than storing a regular vehicle. The height and length of the RV impacts where you will be able to store it, and a specialty RV storage facility is likely your best option.
Class C RVs have most of the features of their big sister, the Class A, and can rival them in size. As we mentioned previously, the biggest drawback to these is their lack of outdoor storage. Owning a Class C is not for everyone, but if a Class C is your dream RV and fits your traveling needs, take a look at the new and used Class C RVs for sale on RV Trader.
0 Responses
I own a 2003 25' Bigfoot class C. It does have excellent storage but I wish it had a slide out, especially the rear bed area. This unit has only 11,000 miles on it. I'm thinking of selling it for something with a slide out and a bit longer.
We started out with a Class C, than went to a fifth wheel. Next we bought a Class A. We decided it was to big and a Class C was the most versatile option so we are back to a smaller Class C with 2 slide outside. It is the perfect RV for us.
Where are you located and how much? That is if you wish to sell it. j.snovel@yahoo.com
We own a 2006 Fleetwood revolution LE 40, it’s a bath and a half with three slides and we love it. Unfortunately my husband has cancer and traveling has become a problem. It is for sale. You can reach me at kahunaDL@yahoo.com, Diane, Little Rock Arkansas
I like the Class C for many reasons; 1) Safety-has entry/exit doors in the cab for quick exiting if necessary. Also has driver and passenger side air bags. 2) Common parts-for instance the windshield. A typical Ford or Chevy van usually fits the E-450 Ford or 4500 Chevy along with many other parts makes it easy to maintain and parts are usually plentiful. 3) Sleeping arrangements-usually a queen bed in the back and one in the overhead bunk if you don't have the entertain system. If my wife or I can't sleep or don't feel well, we can usually distance ourselves for the moment to allow the other to get the rest they need. The only downside on some Class C's is limited CCC (cargo carrying capacity). Usually the larger the Class C, the less cargo carrying capacity.
I have a 2006 40ft holiday rambler scepter 40pdq for sale.super clean unit with 39k miles. 4 super sized slide out with plenty outside storage. Please contact with further details
I am interested in purchasing a class C. Please reply with pricing. Thank you!
What is your selling price?
We have a Jayco Greyhawk 2017. Since my husband recently had surgery, we are also thinking of selling. We have enjoyed our time in our RV. Mainly just parked it to volunteer at Ridgecrest Conference Center near Asheville. Wish we could have spent more time traveling. I would definitely recommend the class C. Ours has 2 slide outs which feels nice and roomy. Being first time RVers, we also found it easy to drive and park. dwetherington2000@yahoo.com
Wish there were more diesel class C RVs
We have a Forest River Forester on a Mercedes chassis. We studied & shopped for 6 months before selecting this motorhome for its compact size that we could easily travel to National parks & beaches in. With a rear bed slide & a drivers side slide with 2 recliners it is the perfect size & space for us. Storage space was a high priorty in selecting this Class C. This model has large storage space underneath & in back.
A shower tall enough for me @ 6'3".
With the diesel engine it gets enough better mileage than gas engines to make it less costly to drive even though the fuel costs more than gas. Being travelers more than campers, it has been a great choce for our 1st RV.
What MPG do you average?
I have a 26.5 Lazy Daze, rear kitchen model. I love to cook and bake (homemade sourdough bread) so I wanted a real kitchen with oven and all. I also did not want slide outs as I am an old gal, traveling alone, and wanted to eliminate just one more thing to have to maintain or repair. I do have automatic levelers, which was a must for me. This particular model is a one or two person RV. It fits my needs perfectly. I tow a Honda CRV for shopping, exploring and trips to the dumpster. It is back up transportation in the event of a break down. I can't see making a change.