For RVers, sometimes bigger is better, and sometimes it’s not. Buying a spacious new Class A diesel motorhome might feel like a good size for any person who is traveling cross-country. However, this is not the most ideal size for those willing to conserve space and spend less on a more practical rig. For that, RVT has provided a few factors to consider to “right size” your RV purchase, which will help you gain a better understanding of how much space you need in your new RV.
Lifestyle
First, it is important to assess your desired lifestyle in your next RV. This will dictate the type of RV you choose to buy. If you plan to live in your motorhome for a lengthy period of time, buying a larger RV will be more beneficial than a smaller type. Still, as fuel costs are increasing, nowadays RVers are considering smaller units for their camping adventures. If you plan to camp with your family, too small of a unit could make your camping life uncomfortable. On the contrary, buying a bigger rig might end up feeling like too much space if you do not use it to its full capacity. Before you purchase your RV, keep your lifestyle in mind and decipher between your wants and your needs.
Sleeping space
Since getting a good night’s rest is vital for long drives and late-night camping activities, one of the first places to start for “right sizing” your RV should be the sleeping area. These areas should have sufficient space to allow everyone traveling in the camper to sleep comfortably. If there are extra seats in your RV, these may also be used for sleeping purposes. For example, some RV models allow sitting spaces to transform into makeshift beds. On the other hand, smaller RVs, like new Class B camper vans—which are great for solo or duo travelers—might not be right if you need to find sleeping space for a large, multi-member family.
Storage space
Another important aspect to your motorhome is the amount of storage you need. Make a list of your traveling essentials to give you an idea of how much storage space will be required by your family:
- Bedroom – clothing and personal items
- Bathroom – toiletries, towels, and cleaning supplies
- Kitchen – pots, pans, dishware, and utensils
The amount of storage space you will need is reflective of your RVing lifestyle. For example, if you plan to boondock through middle-of-nowhere areas, having enough rations is essential for survival; therefore, you will need extra storage space for food. On the other hand, if your camping destinations are within close proximity to grocery stores, having less storage space for food might be acceptable.
Bathroom and Kitchen
Both the bathroom and kitchen are two areas on your rig that you should be willing to sacrifice some space. The bathroom should provide just enough space for you to do your business and have some room to store your bathroom essentials. However, since you will not spend much time in the bathroom, this space is not top priority. Likewise, your kitchen should be limited based on the time you plan spending using your appliances. If you plan to cook every meal in the comfort of your camper, consider a slightly larger kitchen area; however, if you are willing to cook outside your brand new motorhome, your kitchen space becomes less of a concern.
Small & Spacious
Bearing all these factors in mind, having a smaller RV camper is not only cost-effective, but may also be the most practical for many campers. Class B+ motorhomes are sometimes found to be an ideal option for many families, as they provide the best of both worlds – a spacious feel with a compact, economical design. Below are a few models that are worth considering (with many more great RVs that you can find on our marketplace!):
- Leisure Travel Vans Unity U24RL – with its sleek design, various amenities, and clever seating to sleeping areas, including a large Murphy bed, this may be one of the premier class B camper models to consider for your right sized camping lifestyle. Leisure Travel Vans
- Winnebago Ekko 22A – if you need the extra storage space, this model excels. This rig features a rear storage garage with enough space to fit your mountain bikes and conserves bathroom space with a pivoting wall to separate the dry and wet bath space. Winnebago Class C Ekko
- Thor Compass 23TW – a class B motorhome that has a class C feel, due to its full wall slide-out. This model is the perfect option for those needing a spacious feel in their motorhome, while providing plenty of sleeping and sitting space. Thor Motor Coach Compass Floor Plans
Choosing a smaller, more compact RV for your traveling adventures can be a practical choice for would-be owners. Though the aforementioned models are smaller than many Class A and C models, they provide a spacious, comfortable feel that ticks all of the “needs” boxes without adding extra space. On the other hand, since smaller RVs are currently high in demand, you may be able to find a great deal for a larger motorhome. Small, large, or somewhere in between, find the RV that’s right for you by browsing all the new and used motorhomes and campers for sale on RVT.com.
By Alex Hoyes
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