We all know that camper vans have been extremely popular over the past few years, in no small part due to the #vanlife trend on social media. But more recently, Class C coaches have also seen a bump in popularity, with RVers appreciating the extra space and comfort that come with those rigs, often at a lower price. So, in the Class B vs. Class C debate, which is better? The video above offers some solid advice.
Now, I know what you’re thinking: this isn’t a fair comparison to start with, because a Class C coach is much larger than a Class B camper van, giving it an unfair advantage in terms of floor space, features, amenities, and so on. But, as you’ll see in the video, the RVs referenced in the clip are limited to micro Class C models, each of which is 22′ in length or less. This puts the two different styles of RV on a more level playing field, as many van-based models fall into that same size range.
With the size differences eliminated as a factor, the video still argues that a micro Class C RV may still be a better option, with four factors given to support this perspective. The first of those factors is that a Class C coach often costs less than a camper van, especially if they are roughly the same size. As you’ll see, there are several models given to support this perspective, all of which are roomier—most notably in the bathroom space—than a van-based counterpart. The fact that you can often get more RV for your money is a huge selling point for the Class C buyers.
Photo Credit: Jayco
Next, the video points out that a lot of Class C motorhomes ride on a Ford or Chevy chassis, rather than a Mercedes Sprinter. This not only goes a long way to keeping costs down, it makes it easier to find service and support when traveling across North America. Granted, you’ll find plenty of camper vans that use the Ford Transit or Ram ProMaster platforms, which also overcomes this challenge nicely. But the Sprinter is also very pervasive in the Class B space, far more so than in the Class C market.
Sleeping capacity is the third factor to consider when it comes to the Class B vs. Class C debate. Most camper vans are generally designed with couples in mind, with only a few offering more sleep space beyond the primary bed. Conversely, a Class C coach almost always comes with a cabover bunk that offers extra space beyond the primary sleeping area. This allows owners to bring friends and family along, which isn’t always quite so easy or convenient in a van.
Finally, the video argues that the camper van’s lack of space is a limiting factor in that it doesn’t offer owners room to grow. Things change throughout your life, which could impact how you travel and camp. Couples may have kids, which requires more room for the entire family. Changes in where you live, work, and play could limit when and where you camp, with a Class C camper allowing for a bit more versatility to the mix.
Photo Credit: Camping World
So, what are your thoughts? Are these arguments in favor of the Class C coach convincing? Obviously there is a place for both types of RV, and we always endorse buying a rig that makes the most sense for your budget, lifestyle, and travel needs. But there are certainly a few design elements that come along with a Class C model that gives it some distinct advantages over a similarly sized camper van. Check out the video above to get more details behind the factors mentioned.
And if you’re wondering about which Class C models are shown in the clip, here’s what made the cut. Keep in mind, these are all small Class C rigs, each of which is under 22′ in length. Those include the Thor Freedom Elite 19HE in both Ford and Chevy configurations, the Thor Coleman 19CX (also in Ford and Chevy configs), the Jayco Redhawk SE 20LF, and the Forest River Sunseeker 1950LE.
Kraig Becker is a writer in the RV, outdoors, and adventure travel space. Over the course of his career he has contributed to such outlets as Popular Mechanics, Outside Online, Business Insider, TripSavvy, Digital Trends, GearJunkie, The Adventure Blog, and countless others. An avid runner and cyclist, he enjoys camping, hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, and just about any other outdoor activity. His travels have taken him to seven continents and on many amazing adventures.
