As RVing increases in popularity (both as a form of camping and full-time housing), there seems to be more camper/motorhome options than ever. From monstrous Class A motorhomes and fifth-wheel campers to smaller and more compact travel trailers and Class B RVs, you’ll get to take your pick.
Also on this menu of options is the Class C RV. Class C RVs combine the perks of Class A and B motorhomes in that they’re fairly compact and easy to drive (while touting many of the same amenities as Class A motorhomes).
What Are Class C Motorhomes, and Why Are They So Popular?
As we said before, Class C motorhomes are a happy medium between Class A and Class B motorhomes. They are smaller than Class As but larger than Class Bs, which means they have more amenities than B’s but fewer than Cs.
Class C RVs are also the most affordable type of motorhome on the market, further contributing to their popularity. They are ideal for families or groups of two to six people who want to RV on a budget–without compromising on the living space and basic amenities they need.
The reliability of a Class C motorhome is another driver of popularity. Typically built on either a Mercedes Benz chassis or a Mercedes Sprinter chassis, a Class C RV will feature either a gas or diesel engine.
Navigating the Best Class C RV Brands
As with all types of motorhomes and travel trailers, there are a few Class C motorhome brands that stand above the rest. These Class C RV makers have earned a reputation that far surpasses other manufacturers on the market, thanks to their use of higher-quality components and greater stock variety.
As an added bonus, the brands below build rigs to fit any budget.
- Winnebago (Models: Ekko Sprinter, Ekko, View)
- Jayco (Models: Redhawk, Greyhawk, Seneca)
- Tiffin (Models: Allegro Bay, Midas, Wayfarer)
The Best Entry-Level Class C RVs for New Enthusiasts
If you’re new to the world of RVing, it’s best to choose a good starter RV to ease your way in. Class C motorhomes are a great pick for first-time RVers, as they’re large enough to include most of the amenities you’ll need but not so large that they’re difficult to drive. And, as any RVer knows, driving a motorhome is one of the toughest lessons for newcomers to learn.
While it’s safe to say that any Class C motorhome will be a better option than Class A and B rigs, some Class Cs are better than others. New enthusiasts do best with motorhomes that are in the middle of the pack in terms of cost and size and that have numerous floor plans to choose from.
Here are some of our top-rated picks for entry-level Class Cs.
Speaking as a full-time member of the RV community, these are also the models we most often come across at RV parks and on the highway.
The Best Affordable Class C Motorhomes
Although somewhat difficult, it is possible to find luxurious and amenity-packed Class C motorhomes (that are also affordable). In some cases, you can even find rigs for $100,000 or less, which is next to impossible to do with Class A and B rigs.
Most Class C motorhomes aren’t built with a diesel engine, as gas engines are cheaper to build and install. As a result, they also have less power and towing capacity, two other drawbacks of affordable class C’s. Finally, Class C motorhomes on the lower end of the pricing spectrum tend to be smaller, which means less storage space. While these are rules that typically apply to affordable Class C RVs, it isn’t always the case.
Here are some of the best Class C RVs on the market that come at a low price tag (but don’t skimp on quality).
Top Luxury Class C RVs for Opulent Travel
When most people think of luxury motorhomes, they think of grandiose Class A rigs. While it’s true that Class A motorhomes are bigger and have more space for luxurious details and amenities, plenty of top Class C motorhomes promise both that luxurious feel and maximum comfort.
Specifically, brands like Entegra, Newmar, and Thor offer a wide range of floor plans. Many of these floor plans include most of the RV features of Class A rigs but in a smaller space.
For instance, rather than having a master bedroom with a king-sized bed, Class Cs typically have master bedrooms with a queen-sized bed. Additionally, most of the top Class Cs that hold up to five people will also feature a table or over-cab bunk that converts to a queen bed.
Here are our top three picks for the most luxurious Class C coach in the industry:
With a starting price of just over $725,000, the Newmar Supreme Aire takes the top spot for the most luxurious Super C motorhomes. This diesel class C motorhome features an open floorplan, stainless steel appliances, hardwood cabinets, a 50″ TV, and much more. Newmar is the best in the business when it comes to Super C RVs, and the Supreme Aire is the top of the line.
Leading Class C RVs for Family Adventures
While smaller than Class A motorhomes, Class C models are actually more family-friendly. They’re stocked with additional sleeping space options—despite usually not having a bunk room.
Note that most family-friendly Class C RVs don’t sacrifice living or storage space in place of extra beds. Instead, they typically feature fold-out couches, fold-down tables, and an over-the-cab bed. During the day, each of these things can easily be converted back into living or storage space, giving you the best of both worlds.
If you’re in the market for a Class C RV that sleeps up to six people. Dig deep enough, and you may find Class Cs that can house up to eight!
The Best Compact Class C RVs
Bigger isn’t always better. If you’re only traveling with one or two people, you won’t want to haul around a massive RV, just like you won’t want to maneuver in and out of tight spaces. Go too small, and you’ll find yourself cornered into the tiny bathrooms and constrained living spaces of Class B camper vans. So what’s next? Tracking down the Goldilocks of Class C RVs.
Luckily, plenty of compact Class C RVs combine a small profile with a decent amount of living space. Here are some of our top options!
Best Class C Motorhomes for Full-Time Living
Living in an RV full-time and traveling the country is becoming more popular than ever. Some full-timers prefer larger fifth-wheel campers and Class A motorhomes, which have more living space. Others prefer the happy medium that is the Class C motorhome.
Class Cs deliver just enough living space not to feel cramped but are more fuel-efficient and easy to drive than larger campers and motorhomes.
Here are some of the top Class C rigs for full-time living:
Final Thoughts
As you can see, there are many great Class C options, regardless of your preferences. It’s important to consider what you need from your Class C RV before buying. Whether you prefer luxurious and spacious or budget and family-friendly, there’s a Class C RV for you.
Once you purchase your Class C RV, you’ll need somewhere to store it while it’s not in use. For RV storage, consider using Neighbor, a peer-to-peer storage marketplace that’s stocked with safe, affordable, and covered RV storage options nearest you! That way, your new RV is ready to go when you need it most!
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Class C RV for Beginners?
The Coachmen Leprechaun is one of the most beginner-friendly (and one of the most affordable) Class C RVs.
What Is the Best Class C Motorhome Under 30 Feet?
The Winnebago View, Minnie Winnie, or Vita are often considered three of the best Class C motorhomes under 30 feet.
Is a Class C RV Worth It?
Class C RVs offer the most bang for your buck when it comes to motorhomes. They are larger and more spacious than Class B camper vans and much more affordable than Class A rigs.
Who Makes the Best Quality Class C RV?
If you’re looking for quality and luxury over affordability, Newmar and Dynamax are two of the highest-quality brands in the industry.
What is the best Class C RV for a single person?
Class B camper vans are typically the best option for a single person or a couple. However, if you need more space than a Class B can offer, check out the Tiffin Wayfarer Class C RV.
