What Is the Difference Between an RV, Camper and a Motorhome?

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When looking for a vehicle to stay overnight in for camping trips or road trips, you can choose between campers, RVs and motorhomes. All three may sound the same, but they are distinct types of vehicles. The right vehicle for you depends on where you plan to travel and what you plan to do.

RV vs. Camper vs. Camper Van vs. Motorhome Micrographic

What Is an RV? 

RV stands for recreational vehicle, and it refers to a broad class of vehicles that includes many of the amenities of home. The word "RV" encompasses anything people use for travel and staying overnight. 

There are three main types of RVs: 

Class A

A Class A RV is a vehicle that usually includes a bathroom, kitchen and bedroom, ranging from a basic to luxury interior. 

Class B

A Class B RV vehicle that looks like a van and costs less than a Class A version, which is generally bigger. 

Class C

A Class C RV vehicle with a section that hangs over the front cab, usually offering a place to sleep. Generally considered the point between Class A and B vehicles. 

What Is a Camper? 

Campers include motorized homes that trail behind a truck or car. You can tow them to your destination and pop them up to access the living space. You may also hear them called trailers or pop-ups. 

What Is a Camper Van? 

Camper vans are small RVs, or Class C vehicles, with smaller living spaces and greater maneuverability. You can drive a camper van to your destination in a national park or a mountain overlook, whereas you may have trouble navigating a larger motor vehicle to those places. 

What Is a Motorhome? 

A motorhome is a type of RV. Generally, people referring to motorhomes mean Class A RVs, the larger, more luxurious form of mobile transportation. They offer more living space than other types of RVs and are larger, making them feel more spacious and livable. Sometimes you need a special license to drive a motorhome, depending on the size. 

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Which Vehicle Is Right for Me?

Trailer campers or campers are generally smaller and more compact. Each type of vehicle has benefits, depending on your needs.

The main difference between RVs, motorhomes and campers is size. RVs include bigger types of vehicles, such as motorhomes. Trailer campers or campers are generally smaller and more compact. Each type of vehicle has benefits, depending on your needs. 

For instance, if you want to go on a more extended trip, you may prefer the extra space, that an RV or motorhome can offer. A camper may be a more affordable and practical solution if you're taking a weekend trip closer to home. RVs and motorhomes are a more considerable investment and deliver more of the comforts of home. 

Get an RV, Trailer Camper or Motorhome Today With Help From My Financing USA

No matter what type of vehicle you want to purchase, My Financing USA can assist you. Learn more about our camper loans and financing or motorhome loans and financing, then apply for an RV or camper loan today. 

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