Guest Author - Evanne Schmarder

Found at convention centers, fairgrounds, and other large indoor and outdoor venues, late winter/early spring means RV shows. All around the US dealers are bringing the latest and greatest RVs to one central consumer location. That’s good news. Whether you’re interested in seeing what’s new, trading up or down or simply dreaming, chances are there’s an RV show near you. Some events are free but most charge an admission. Discount coupons can sometimes be found in the local paper or online.

One of the really wonderful things about an RV show is that you can browse many – if not all – of the RV types out there. To help you along here’s a short RV type primer. I’ll offer my “sleep number” but in reality each RV and its sleeping configuration is unique. Consider your wants, needs, and most importantly usage when shopping the shows.

Pop-Up – sleeps 4-6

Usually considered a “starter” RV, a pop-up camper offers untold luxury and convenience over a tent. The ability to be towed with an SUV, van or small truck, their light weight and maneuverability, and ability to see and use the rear-view mirror make this a great pull behind. Soft walls provide a “camping” feel but the inside may sport a small refrigerator, sink, stove, a/c, and even a mini-bathroom.

Slide-in Truck Camper – sleeps 4

Truck campers fit in the bed of a pickup truck and expand over the truck’s cab. Ranging from bare bones to double slide outs, these campers can offer a small but full kitchen, bathrooms with either wet (shower in the room itself) or dry (shower stall) baths, booths, and more. This rig can be lifted from the truck on electric or manual legs freeing the vehicle for sightseeing trips sans the camper.

Class B – sleeps 2

A converted van chassis, the Class B is great for short trips or getting from point a to b in a semi-self contained camping unit. Inside a Class B you may find a small kitchen set up and a wet bath – it’s not roomy but it is functional.

B+ - sleeps 2

The B+ is much like the Class B but with a bit more space and luxury. Often you’ll find no bedroom – rather the dining room makes into the sleeping area. The bath and kitchen are slightly larger as well.

Travel Trailer –sleeps up to 6

This towable unit requires at minimum a half-ton truck and specialty tow bars to pull it safely but can be spacious inside. Travel trailers range from the precious teardrops (smaller tow vehicles can be used for these) to large multi slide-out campers. Inside you’ll find full size kitchens, bathrooms, separate living and dining areas, etc.

Toyhauler – sleeps up to 6 (or more)

A toyhauler is nearly identical to a travel trailer except for the garage in the rear of the unit. One of the newest RV offerings, GenXers are flocking to toyhaulers to bring along ATVs, golf carts, and other such, well, toys. The garage can also be used as extra living/sleeping space.

5th Wheel – sleeps up to 6

Like a travel trailer, a 5th wheel requires a pickup truck – but at the three-quarter ton or higher load capacity. You’ll spot a 5th wheel by the hitch that sits about halfway in the truck bed. Highly desired as a full-time rig, these units are roomy, offer multiple slide-outs and can have all the amenities needed to live in comfort.

Class C – sleeps up to 6

Similar to a Class B in that this camper rides on a van chassis a Class C is more comparable to a motorhome. Spot a Class C by the cabover which can contain a sleeping area or an entertainment unit – depending on your needs. These campers can have multiple slide-outs, a large kitchen area, full bath, separate living and dining area, and a bedroom in back.

Motorhome (Class A) – sleeps up to 6

Motorhomes (also called class As) come in both gas and diesel pushers, can have multiple slide-outs, and offer a roomy, livable interior. Like 5th wheels, these units are also sought after by full time RVers and come in a variety of sizes and amenities. An upscale motorhome may come with such niceties as Corian countertops, a Bose surround sound system, plasma televisions that rise up at the push of a button, tile bathrooms, and more. Sound intriguing? Expect a sticker price of half a million or more for a luxury coach.