Motorhomes come in a wide range of sizes. However, they tend to vary most in terms of length. The length that’s right for you depends on several variables as well as your preferences.
In this post, we’ll examine the different types of motorhomes and their common lengths. In addition, we’ll also touch on some of the things you should consider when choosing your motorhome.
What is the Standard Length of a Motorhome?
In general, the standard length of a motorhome ranges from between 20 and 45 feet, or between 6 and 14 metres.
Average RV dimensions tend to vary depending on the class of the motorhome.
What is the Length Variety in Different Motorhome Classes?
The length of a motorhome varies depending on a modern motorhome layout. For example, how much space is taken by beds, lounge areas, and even the types of beds.
That being said, it is possible to categorize the length of a motorhome according to its class and type.
What is the Average Length of a Class A Motorhome?
The Class A section of the RV market includes some of the largest motorhomes. They range in length from 25 to 45 feet (8 to 14 meters).
Class A motorhome models are large enough to sleep between 6-8 people comfortably. It will also include all the perks from home such as a full kitchen, dining spaces, comfortable sleeping spaces, and shower.
What is the longest length of a Class A motorhome?
The longest Class A motorhome you can buy is the Entegra Cornerstone 45B. It is 45 feet and 5 inches (13.84 metres) long.
What is the shortest length Class A motorhome?
The shortest Class A RV is the Thor Axis 24.1. It’s just 25 feet and 8 inches (7.82 metres) in length.
How Long is a Class B Motorhome?
Class B motorhomes are a little more compact and mobile than Class A motorhomes. On average their length is typically between 18 to 24 feet (5 to 7 meters). A Class B motorhome can sleep between 4-6 people.
Class B motorhomes are generally the smallest models you can buy. The benefits of a small motorhome are that you can park them anywhere you might park a car or van. In addition, they are also more fuel efficient
What is the Length of a Class C Motorhome?
Class C motorhomes are the most popular length of motorhomes. Typically, they range between 20 to 32 feet (6 to 10 meters) in length.
Fifth-Wheel Trailers
A fifth-wheel trailer ranges in length from 20 to 40 feet (6 to 12 metres).
Fifth-wheel trailers are not your typical motorhome, but they’re very popular so deserve a place in this post. Fifth-wheel trailers are typically towed by a pickup truck.
A 5th-wheel trailer has no engine, so there’s more room inside for your living space. However, a heavy tow vehicle is required to tow these larger trailers.
Travel Trailers
Travel trailers range in length from 12 to 35 feet (4 to 11 metres). Technically, a travel trailer is not a motorhome. It’s towed by a vehicle, much the same as a fifth-wheel trailer. They are available in a wide range of styles and sizes, and you don’t need such a large tow vehicle.
What Length of a Motorhome is Best?
Deciding what length of motorhome is best comes down to several factors. For example how many people will travel with you and how far you plan to drive.
When it comes down to the decision, however, personal preference tends to be the overriding factor.
What is the Longest Motorhome Allowed on the Road?
If you’re going to register your motorhome in the UK, it can’t be more than 12 metres long and 2.55 metres wide.
However, if the motorhome has an Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) certificate, it can be a maximum of 2.6 metres wide.
Something else to consider is that many campsites have restrictions in terms of motorhome size. If you’re planning to use your motorhome in the USA or across Europe, also bear in mind that many National Parks have size limits when it comes to RV’s.
It’s not possible to park anywhere with a motorhome or campervan in the UK. However, it is possible to camp in the wild at some National Parks, such as the Lake District and Dartmoor National Parks.
Things Keep in Mind When Choosing the Length of Your Motorhome
It might be tempting to go with your gut when it comes to your current motorhome length. However, the more thought you put into it the better. It’s far less hassle if you’ve bought a motorhome that’s just right, rather than too big or too small.
Here are some things to consider when buying a new motorhome.
- Maneuverability: A long motorhome is going to be very difficult to maneuvre, certainly more so than a shorter motorhome. Think about where you’re going to travel with your motorhome as this can make a difference. In the UK, for example, you’re likely going to encounter narrow roads and tight spaces. You might also want to visit one of the many National Parks If you have a long motorhome, you may limit your options when it comes to exploring. Wind can also be an issue if you’re driving a long RV. The smallest gust of wind can leave you white-knuckling the steering wheel. An average-length motorhome still has to deal with wind, but it’s a more subdued experience.
- Parking and storage: The longer your motorhome, the more space you’ll need for parking and storage. Before you make your purchase, check out where you can park and store your motorhome when you’re not using it.
- Comfort and space: How many people are going to travel in your motorhome? Is it going to be just you and your partner or have you got a family that wants to tag along? If you purchase a longer motorhome, there will be extra living space and more comfort. Larger motorhomes are also perfect for large families as there is more space at night along with greater internal space for general living.
- Cost: In general, you can expect to pay more for a larger motorhome. It will also be more expensive to operate and maintain. Consider the size of your budget because a larger motorhome might not be worth the additional expense..
- Licensing and driving restrictions: In some countries, there are restrictions on the length of motorhomes that can be driven without a special license. In the UK, for example, anyone can drive a motorhome up to 3,500kg with a standard driving license. However, if you passed your driving test before 1 January 1997, you can drive a motorhome up to 7,500kg. If you passed your test on or after 1 January 1997, you need to pass an additional driving test to drive a motorhome up to 7,500kg. One other consideration is your age. When you reach the age of 70, you must renew your driving licence. To retain the right to drive motorhomes between 3,500kg and 7,500kg, you must pass a medical.
- Storage requirements: RV lengths offer various storage layouts. Typically, there are two kinds of storage: interior and exterior. A shorter RV will offer less storage space while a longer motorhome provides extra storage space and more freedom for packing all your favourite gear. ,
Where to Buy a Motorhome?
You have lots of options when it comes to buying a motorhome. There is the option of buying a used motorhome privately. A reputable dealer is also a good place to shop, with the added bonus that they may have a good selection of brand-new motorhomes on their forecourt.
OMC Motorhomes is a reputable campervan and motorhome dealer in the UK. Located in Nottinghamshire, you’ll find a wide selection of used motorhomes and a reasonable price range. This family-run business has a team of experienced staff with many years service. With every motorhome purchase, you get a free 3-year RAC warranty, free 1-year MOT, free full pre-delivery inspection, plus free 1-year road tax.
Conclusion
If you’re in the market for a motorhome the variety of options can be very overwhelming. There are lots of things you need to consider, such as budget, motorhome type, features, and fuel economy. However, the length of your motorhome is something you can’t gloss over. It affects comfort, fuel economy, enjoyment, maneuverability, and much more. It’s definitely not a decision to be made lightly.
Picking the right RV length is important because it determines your ability to experience more when you get out on the open road. There might be extra living space and more space at night which makes life on the road more comfortable.