Everything You Want to Know About a Class C Motor Home

The Class C motorhome is a hybrid-type of recreational vehicle that can measure as much as 35 feet, or a little over ten meters, in length and is easily recognizable by its distinct cab-over-bunk design. Built over an automotive-manufactured pick-up or van-type of chassis, the Class C style of motorhome has evolved considerably over recent years. Its popularity with the serious adventurer as well as the casual traveler due to its versatility and ease of maneuverability continues to grow as more and more people turn to RVing as the perfect way to travel, experience nature or to just get away from it all.

The Class C motor home, also referred to as the mini-motor home, features a cozy sleeping area above the cab of the vehicle that can be used as either a full-size or queen-size bed. When not in use this extra bunk conveniently doubles as added storage space. With the extra bedroom located in the back of the vehicle, as many as eight adults, depending on the model, can sleep comfortably in the Class C motor home making it a common choice for families.

This style of motor home, which resembles the regular full-size van, is ideal for family or group travel or for those needing a little extra space while traveling. With the added slide-out option this type of RV almost rivals the Class A motor home as far as roominess is concerned. Although slide-outs only typically add about three and a half feet or an additional meter of living, sleeping or even kitchen space, its still enough to give the vehicle an unrivaled air of spaciousness with the simple touch of a button.

These miniature two-bedroom apartments on wheels, as they are often called, feature amenities similar to those of the Class A type and can often be just as elaborately outfitted as their larger counterparts, but of course at an added expense. A variety of options and features to choose from makes the Class C motor home perfect for those looking for the true RV experience but without the cumbersome and awkward size of the larger vehicle.

Raised roofs along with much-welcomed features such as self-contained toilets, water tanks, portable water systems, and plenty of storage space greatly add to the popularity of the Class C motor home. Other options commonly found in the Class C type of motor home are ice boxes or refrigeration units, cooking areas with microwave and or convection-style ovens, sinks and faucets, as well as the usual heating and air conditioning system.

Modernized, pricier models of the Class C motorhome also feature washer/dryer combos along with DVD players, VCRs, televisions, antennas and complete entertainment systems. More expensive options can also include luxuries such as dishwashers, automatic ice makers, extra freezers and even trash compactors.

Class C motor homes are built to withstand years of travel making them a durable investment and they can also come in fully winterized versions for cold weather RVing adventures. Features such as BTU furnaces, heated tanks, double-glazed windows and reinforced insulation make traveling in colder climates or during the winter months possible as well as comfortable. Some models also come with awnings that can be removed or opened when needed. Awnings over the heating and refrigeration vents of motor homes during the summer months helps the efficiency of the unit by keeping it cooler.

Separate 100-125 volt electrical systems are also an attractive feature of this kind of motor home that can often be found in campgrounds where larger RVs aren’t permitted. The GVWR or Gross Vehicle Weight Rating of the Class C is at least 6,500 pounds but the net carrying capacity of the Class C can be on the small side, which is something to consider if you plan on hauling extras like bikes or boating equipment. However, this class of motor home is capable of towing small vehicles, ATVs, snowmobiles, boats and trailers which make up for the lack of net carrying capacity.

The Class C has also often been thought to be safer than the Class A due to required testing and safety standards such as air bags. Average prices for the Class C motor home can vary depending on criteria such as which special features are included and the size of the engine, but the usual cost is generally about $48,000 USD. Prices for this type of RV often start as low as around the $35,000 mark but can also be as high as $100,000 or more.