The Class B Motorhome, the Baby RV

"This Is The Economical Way To Go Camping"

The Class B Motorhome is the baby of the Motorized RV category

This little RV proves that good things do come in small packages.  It is in reality, a standard van that has been converted to a small RV. 

This RV is also known as a Van Conversion or Camper Van.  Their length varies between 15 to 20 feet.  They are also available with either a gas or diesel engine.

In this section we are going to discuss how they are made and what type of accessories they have.  We are also going to review the PROS and CONS of owning one.

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To transform a normal van into an RV first requires that the roof be elevated to allow people to stand up in them (if you are over 6'1" this may not be possible). 

The next step in the process is to add the living necessities.  This can be compared to putting 20 pounds of sand into a 10 pound bag.  

Some of the items you can expect to find in Class B RVs are small sink, small stove, small refrigerator and a couch or dinette that converts to a bed.  In addition, they have hookups for electricity and fresh and grey water tanks.  Some, not all come with a toilet or a portable potty.  If you haven't figured it out already the keyword for a Class B Motorhome is small.

Some Interesting Information

You would think that based on their size, these little RVs would not be suited for long-term camping.  That is not so, in some countries the class B RVs are the most preferred type of Recreational Vehicle for short and long term camping. 

When gas prices increase so does the popularity of this RV.  The fuel mileage of a converted van is far greater than their bigger siblings

Our family's first RV was a 1960s vintage Westfalia VW Campervan.  Believe it or not, we went on many camping trips with 2 adults and up to 3 kids and we were very comfortable.  Yes, it was a bit cramped at times, but if you use your ingenuity, you can make the limited space work well for you. 

It is a fact that quite a few RVers spend the majority of their time outside while camping and only use the RV for sleeping.  This is the ideal vehicle for these types of folks. 

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PROS

J  A Class B costs less than a Class A or Class C Motorhome.

J  Much better fuel mileage than a Class A or Class C Motorhome.

J  Can be used as a second family vehicle.

J  Can be used for local sightseeing or errands while camping.

J  Can be used to tow a boat or a small travel trailer (for the kids).

J  Very maneuverable, you will be able to travel and camp in areas that a Class A or Class C can't get to.

J  Will fit in your driveway, no special storage required.

J  Engine can be serviced by your local mechanic (don't need a special lift or giant garage to get an oil change).

J  Can be used for tailgating at sporting events.

J  It takes a lot less time to wash (this PRO is our personal favorite).

CONS

L  It is small, if you suffer from claustrophobia, this is not the RV for you.

L  Because it is lower than a Class A Motorhome, your view of the roadway and scenery may not be as good.

L  Limited in additional equipment you can add (no optional washer/dryer or dishwasher here).

L  Very limited storage space (you have a choice, either take the BBQ or your spouse).

L  Some RV parks may not allow you in as they are Class A parks only.

L  Not as easy to find where you parked in the WalMart parking lot as a Class A or Class C RV.  You can solve this by installing a 15 foot high fiberglass whip antenna with a happy face flag on it.

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Hopefully, the above information will be helpful in steering you in the right direction.  If you have decided that a Class B Motorhome is the right type of RV for you, you should now head over to the Buying a RV section of this web site to get some more helpful hints. 

If you are still not sure, continue browsing the other Types of RVs that are available.  One thing is for sure you will never regret becoming an RVer regardless of the type of RV you choose.

If you have any questions or suggestions, please Contact Us and help make Everything-About-RVing.com better.

Thanks for stopping by and Happy RVing.

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