What Makes A Class B RV Different From The Rest?
A Class B RV or motorhome is often called a Camper Van or Sleeper Van. It has the amenities of a large Class A RV but within a smaller conversion van footprint. And because it’s a conversion van, there is less storage but the benefits of a Class B outweigh the lack of storage.
Typically, Class B RVs include a kitchenette, sleeping area, and a small bathroom. The kitchenette includes a sink, small cooktop, some counter space and a refrigerator. There is some cabinet space to store cooking supplies, ingredients and utensils.
In addition to the kitchenette, there is a sitting/dining area that converts into an additional sleeping space. Besides the possible small makeshift bed, there will be a sleeping area, likely in the back of the Class B RV. Expect a full or a queen sized mattress with a few cabinets for storage.
Some Class B Motorhomes will have a tiny bathroom area inside. The bathroom is typically a wet bath – meaning that there is no designated shower space. A wet-bath is a combination toilet/shower stall and is the most efficient way to get clean in a Class B.
What Are The Benefits Of A Class B RV?
Compact Size
Due to the size of the Class B RV, maneuverability is the biggest benefit. A Class B can travel roads that aren’t necessarily available to Class As or Travel Trailers so campsite options are extensive.
Class B RVs are also easy to drive and can fit in the smallest of campsites with little effort. For this reason, beginners may find a transition to driving an RV easiest in a Class B RV rental.
Fuel Efficiency
Since it’s smaller in size, the Class B RV is more fuel efficient than a Class A. In fact, expect a Class B to get 18 – 20 miles per gallon.
These motorhomes are made for light living on the road or for weekend adventures with another person (or furry friend).
Traveling in a Class B: Tips and Tricks
Clothing and Toiletries
Be considerate of what you’re bringing since there is limited storage space. There may be a small closet but you’ll find that space gets consumed quickly in a Class B.
For this reason, we recommend using airtight compression bags so that you're able to pack a fair amount of clothes.
Kitchen Supplies
While there is a kitchenette, remember that it is small. Consider using cast iron skillets and grill grates for cooking on a campfire.
With little storage, everything you bring into the kitchen must earn its space. Take bulky items such as cereal, granola bars, and other things that come in a box and transfer them to ziplock bags.
Prepare a meal plan before leaving for your adventure in your Class B RV. Prior to your trip, remove things like raw chicken from the grocery store meat tray, add to a ziplock bag and marinate, then transfer to storage.
This is all to say— Ziplock bags are your friend when traveling in a Class B. When it comes to packing, you’ll want to find where you can repackage things to fit within the storage tight RV.
Final Class B Overview
- Size: 16-19 feet, sometimes with extended ceilings or extra length (especially in the case of Class B+)
- Weight: 6,000 to 8,000 pounds
- Mileage: 10-25 miles per gallon
- Storage: Limited to moderate
- Sleeping Capability: 2-4 adults
- Extra Amenities: Slide outs, wet/dry bathroom compartments with showers, limited kitchenette facilities, leather sofas and sleeping surfaces, onboard plumbing facilities, generator
Overall, traveling in a Class B RV or campervan has it’s benefits – mainly being able to get into and out of tight spaces while still having the excitement of the adventure