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What do all the
different classes mean?
Classes
are different classifications of body type. There are seven basic classes plus
the bus conversions and park models.
Fold-down camping trailer (towable): This is more commonly known as a tent
trailer and is great for family outings. Unlike the old canvas tent trailers of
years ago, today's versions come with hard-tops, slideout sections, some have toilet facilities, outside showers and much more. The
sleeping areas are at either end and extend out from the body of the unit.
Depending on the size, they can sleep up to eight and can usually be towed by
most V-6 engine vehicles.
Travel trailers (towable): A classic example of a
the original travel trailer is the
Airstream trailer. These RVs come in a wide variety of lengths and many have
extendable slideouts to create extra interior room. During the past few years,
new travel trailer lines have evolved and now you can buy lightweight units (can be towed
with a family van), larger models, hard bodies with 'extenda' sleeping wings (sort
of like the tent trailers), units with roofs that lower for travelling and more. Travel
trailers have a variety of floorplans including those with bunkbeds.
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Truck campers (towable): These units have
truly come "a long way, baby!". Designed to slide onto the bed of a
pickup truck, truck campers feature just about every amenity found in the
larger units. In Canada, most of the major truck camper manufacturers insulate
the units and furnaces can be installed. These units can sleep four and are
perfect for two. Sizes are available for just about every size of pickup bed
sold in North America.
Fifth wheels (towable): The king of the towables, fifth wheels are
high in preference for RVers who plan to stay on the road for long periods of time
(the Class A is its motorized counterpart). These units can be purchased with
multiple slideouts and just about every convenience found in a standard home. As
with all of the towables, make sure that your tow vehicle and hitch package is
rated for your fifth wheel's weight specifications.
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Class A (motorized): These are what most novice RVers refer to as a motorhome or a
'Winnebago' (all motorized units are motorhomes and a Winnebago is a brand name,
but sometimes the common name becomes the most well known). Class As are the
motorized equivalent to the fifth wheel. They come with all of the bells and
whistles needed for easy living - you can even have computer stations, freezers,
washer/dryer combos and
dishwashers and more installed. If you buy a Class A with an air brake, you should have
an air brake course/licence (It is the law in many states and provinces).
Class B
(motorized): Class Bs are built on a extended van chassis and are also
known as camper vans or van conversions. These units are quite easy to drive and
are scaled-down versions of a Class A. Although space is limited and each area
is multi-functional, most have a wide range of amenities and
they offer a compact choice for a couple or a single RVer.
Class C
(motorized): Built on a truck chassis, Class Cs traditionally have a
bunk over the cab. Some models have one or more slides. Some floor plans
convert this bunk space into storage space or entertainment centres. Most Class Cs also
feature a separate bedroom area, convertible dinettes (turn into a bed) plus
full kitchen and bathroom facilities.
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Bus conversions (motorized): These luxury units are in a class of their own.
Basically a bus conversion means a company (or an individual) converts a bus shell into very opulent living quarters. Extremely expensive and many who own
one are affectionately called "bus nuts".
Park models
(stationary): These can't be driven and must be hauled (not towed) to their
designated resting spot. Park models are usually set up in a seasonal campground
community and make a good alternative to a cottage.
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What is a tow
vehicle?
A
tow vehicle
is a separate vehicle required to move your towable RV from point
A to point B. Your tow vehicle ensures a convenient getaway is close at
hand when you are set up in a campground and want to spend the day touring the
countryside.
What is a toad?
A
toad is a play on words for
towed car. This is a separate vehicle that is towed behind your motorized RV. A
toad is used for running errands and touring when your RV is hooked up in a campground.
Many owners of motorized units find it extremely annoying if they have to
disconnect hoses and attachments simply to go into town for supplies. Most
motorhomes are also too large for touring out of the way destinations and for traversing
narrow roads in small towns. Toads can be towed behind with four-wheels down,
strapped onto tow dollies or on separate flat trailers.
To
read more about "toads" - click here to visit our Question & Answer
Page
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RV
tech
-
a terrific informative site maintained by a licensed Canadian RV technician, Les
Doll
Order
the Dummy's Guide To Buying A Pre-Loved RV
What is ERS?
ERS
stands for 'Emergency Road Service' - something every RVer should
never travel
without. When deciding which ERS provider to go with, carefully check the benefits
offered. For example, during breakdowns, owners of a towable, must ensure your provider
sends
two tow-trucks if required. You do not want your RV left sitting on the side of the road
while your tow vehicle is towed for service.
Remember, this is one service you don't want to skimp on - if the price is low
and "too good to be true" then you might be left spinning your wheels.
Most RV clubs have member discounts for ERS plans. It might be worth your while
to join an RV club (or two).
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