Over the last few years, there has been an explosion of travelers hitting the road to experience the full-time RV lifestyle. Adventure enthusiasts come in many sizes from van dwellers to a 42-class A condo on wheels. One of the most popular recreational vehicles is the class C RV which fits somewhere in between. What is a class C RV you ask? Let’s find out!
What is a class C RV?
A Class C RV is a motorhome built with a cab or cut-away commercial van chassis. A cab/cut-away chassis provides a front structure that looks like a van, including seats, a dash, opening doors, and body sheet metal. These RVs can range from 17 feet up to over 35 feet. Most people find this type of RV the most relatable to driving their own vehicle at home.
The house of the RV is then built onto the back frame of the vehicle.
The class C recreational vehicle also usually comes with all the amenities of home. Bathroom/showers, kitchen, couch, dinettes, TV/stereo, and of course beds to sleep in.
As with most RVs, there is no special license needed to drive one.
Is it hard to drive a Class C RV?
Class C’s are easy to learn to drive, with some practice and a little common sense. Most class C RVs are around the same size as a moving van or truck. Take a few steps to familiarize yourself with the unit and get accustomed to how it handles and you will be camping before you know it.
RV 101: How to Drive an RV and Back it up like a Pro
What is a super C RV?
There is also what is called a super C that is similar to a Class C coach but with a larger chassis and powerplant. An attached cab and an overhead bunk are usually part of the RV’s design. It offers many of the amenities of a Class A RV and is more powerful than standard Class C motorhomes. Usually, the chassis is built specifically for the RV, unlike a class C that uses a cargo van chassis. With a larger more powerful engine a super C has a much better towing capacity, upwards of 10-20 thousand pounds.
What makes a class C RV and super C different?
How many people can sleep in these RVs?
Class Cs typically range anywhere from 25 to 35 feet long and can sleep up to eight people. However, extra large Super Class C RVs can be closer to 40 feet long and sleep 10 to 12 people.
Sleeping comfortably can be another story if you are a full-grown adult. Manufacturers boast about how many people their RVs are able to sleep, but don’t mention that they are counting fold-down couches, dinettes that lower into beds, and the bed over the cab that can be difficult to climb into.
Can you live full-time in a class C RV?
Yes, but this really depends on how comfortable you are with having little space of your own. For a couple or small family, this could be a great vehicle to travel and live in. If you need a little more space a larger RV might be what you need. Travel trailers and Fifth wheel RV provide more room to make your own, but a vehicle to tow it with is then needed.
The best way to figure out what fits you and your family best is to do plenty of research and plan to go to a few RV shows that have RVs of all sizes in one place. RV dealerships are a good place to see the different types of RVs, but many only represent one or two manufacturers’ models.
Conclusion
If this is the type of recreational vehicle that interests you, start with research both about the RV and also what you really are needing. I have searched for the perfect RV for years now and still have not found one that checks all my boxes.
Knowing what you want and what you must have should be decided before you begin the search for your dream RV.
Will you be traveling to National Parks? Remember, size matters!
How many people will it need to sleep? Do you need comfort?
Will you want to tow a vehicle? Not all RV tow ratings are the same!
Here are some great resources if this type of RV is in your future
5 Class C’s featuring a King size bed
Imagine
Close your eyes for a moment and just think about this. It’s sunrise, you roll out of your RV, morning air feeling brisk, fire from the night before taking its last breath as it’s trying to reignite. You find your favorite chair on the site, turn it to look out over the lake, and nestle in to relax. Birds chirping and fish jumping as the new day begins.
This is what it’s all about!………. Now imagine a hot cup of coffee in your hand. Life just got so much better!!
The GRIND coffee shop for all your caffeine needs and to smooth your morning EDGE
