If you’re just stepping into the RV lifestyle, then you know how overwhelming it is. The RV industry is a multi-million dollar industry, with models ranging from mansions on wheels to minimalistic camper vans and trailers (not to mention, an assortment of different RV classes to choose from)
So where do you begin to search for the best RV for beginners?
Do you look at the smallest RV classes? Class B camper vans are simple, easy to drive, and can sleep 2-4 people, depending on the model. But it’s not the cheapest option. You might be wondering: What if you buy it and then decide you don’t like this whole RV life?
Do you choose one that’s the most user-friendly? Pebble now makes an RV that practically parks itself, so there’s a load off your mind. But those high-tech models also come with special maintenance requirements and storage needs. So are they really the best choice for a beginner?
Before you can choose your first RV, you need to narrow down the field by setting expectations for your first RV. The right RV for you will boil down to how you plan to use it. Are you planning on living the RV lifestyle full-time (or are you just planning the occasional RV camping trip)?
Before we get into the finer details, let’s start by defining what a good first-time RV looks like and then share a few models that fit the bill – and your wallet.
Define Your Needs to Find the Best Starter RV for You
First, you need to define what your best starter RV looks like. Here are some questions that can help bring clarity to which RV would work for you.
- Where do you plan to take your RV? National parks? RV parks? Cracker Barrel parking lots?
- What do you plan to do?
- How long will your trips be?
- How much maintenance are you willing to take on?
- How much are you willing to spend?
- Where can you store it?
Once you’ve answered these questions, you should be able to narrow down your search to one category.
Now let’s look at specific categories and some examples.
Travel Trailers: The Affordable, Low Maintenance Option for Road Tripping or Full-time RVers
Travel trailers require less maintenance, and they’re less expensive because they don’t have as many moving parts. They come in sizes as small as 8 feet and as long as 45 feet, so whether you’re looking for a vacationing vessel or your own tiny home, there’s a trailer out there to meet your needs.
But there are some things you need to have in place to make a travel trailer a good choice for you.
Pre-requisites:
- Tow vehicle (Check out these top-rated vehicles for towing a camper).
- Confidence in driving and parking a trailer
- A safe place to store it (With marketplaces like Neighbor.com, it’s easy to find affordable RV storage)
Forest River Alpha Wolf 26DBH-L
Image courtesy of Forest River Inc.
First up, we have the Forest River Alpha Wolf 26DBH-L. This travel trailer is like the Swiss Army knife of RVs, offering a versatile floor plan that’s perfect for families or groups. It features double-size bunks, two entry doors, and a U-shaped dinette, ensuring everyone has their own comfy corner.
It can fit up to 10 people, so whether you’re planning a family vacation or a weekend getaway with friends, this RV has got you covered!
Winnebago Minnie Drop 170S
Image courtesy of Winnebago
Next is the Winnebago Minnie Drop 170S. If you’re looking for something compact and easy to handle, this RV is a solid choice. It’s a lighter RV that you can tow with a properly equipped SUV.
Don’t be deceived by its size. This compact trailer surprises with slide-outs, providing additional living space once the camp is set up. And with a fully-equipped kitchen, you’ll have everything you need to whip up a delicious meal after a day of adventure.
Jayco Hummingbird 17RB
Photo courtesy of Jayco
The Jayco Hummingbird 17RB is small but mighty. It’s perfect for solo travelers or small families looking for a relaxing weekend campout. Unfurl the awning to create a shady outdoor space to relax under after the day’s escapades. With a starting price of just $13,503, it’s a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on comfort or convenience.
NuCamp TAG- XL
Photo courtesy of NuCamp
The last travel trailer on our list is the NuCamp Tag. With the iconic teardrop design, this camper is for the outdoor enthusiast who spends their camping trips outside and only comes inside when it’s time to sleep.
The rear galley has a sink, microwave, and space for a refrigerated cooler. The solar panels provide 180 watts of power.
With a fully loaded weight of 2,200 lbs, even your crossover can tow this little guy.
Class B Motorhomes: It Drives like a Van; Sleeps like a Dream
If backing up a trailer intimidates you, no worries. The Class B motorhome is here for you. Class B’s have the body of a van with the interior of an RV and deliver decent fuel efficiency. So if you prefer something that you can fuel up and go, park almost wherever you want, and even go off-roading, then the campervan is a great option for you.
Drawbacks:
- Sleeps a max of 4 people – most only sleep two
- Outdoor shower or wet bath – meaning when you shower, everything gets wet.
- Kitchenette – not full kitchen
- Expensive – new models rack up to $120,000+
- Requires regular vehicle maintenance
Airstream Interstate 19
Image courtesy of Airstream
The Airstream Interstate 19 takes RVing to a whole new level. This Class B motorhome is packed with high-quality finishes and advanced technology, offering a comfortable and modernized travel experience. Despite the plethora of high-tech features, it’s compact and easy to park and drive, making it a great choice for beginners.
With ample storage space to accommodate four people comfortably, it’s an excellent option for small families or couples in search of a snug traveling abode.
Roadtrek Zion SRT
Photo courtesy of Roadtrek
If versatility is what you’re after, the Roadtrek Zion SRT has got you covered. This Class B motorhome offers ample storage space, a swivel TV mount, a hanging wardrobe, a fold-up countertop, and a refrigerator in the kitchenette.
Making it a great choice for extended trips and offering a smooth and hassle-free RVing experience.
Winnebago Revel 44E
Image courtesy of Winnebago
For those with a taste for adventure, the Winnebago Revel 44E is a dream come true. This Class B motorhome is designed with off-road capabilities in mind, offering a functional and rugged design that can handle any terrain. It offers AWD, an indoor dinette, and expanded kitchen space using the outdoor awning.
These features make it a joy to drive, whether you’re navigating busy city streets or exploring off-the-beaten path.
Top Class C Motorhomes for Beginners
If you’re looking for a little more space and luxury on your family road trips, Class C motorhomes are the ticket. These RVs offer a balance between size and amenities, making them an excellent choice for beginner RVers.
Boasting fully-equipped kitchens, full-size bathrooms, and entertainment systems, Class Cs offer a complete home-like experience while traveling.
Drawbacks:
- Expensive
- Wider than an average vehicle
- Not fuel efficient
- Requires more maintenance
Thor Chateau 22B
Photo courtesy of Thor Motor Coach
The Thor Chateau 22B is a great example of a Class C motorhome that’s both compact and functional. It offers a functional floor plan with comfortable sleeping spaces. The cab-over bunk can sleep two, and the master has a queen-sized bed, making it an excellent choice for families or groups.
Whether you have a weekend escape or an extensive cross-country expedition planned, the Thor Chateau 22B ensures a convenient and cozy mobile home.
Coachmen Freelander 21RS
Image courtesy of RV USA.com
Then there’s the Coachmen Freelander 21RS, which offers a spacious layout, ample storage, and user-friendly features. The banquette allows for extra seating, and the master has a closet with hanging storage space. The Freelander sleeps five comfortably, with one sleeper on the banquette, two in the queen, and two in an over-the-cab bunk.
Don’t Forget about Storing your New RV
One of the questions in the first section was; where do you plan to store your RV?
Proper storage is key to making sure your RV lasts for years to come. If you’re a first-time RVer, don’t overlook the importance of a quality RV cover, which will protect your recreational vehicle from damaging UV rays, falling branches, and debris.
This a big investment, after all, and it’s not one that fits in most garages. So if you settled on a larger option, but don’t have the space to store it properly at your home, then Neighbor can help.
Neighbor is a peer-to-peer storage marketplace where you can find safe, affordable storage near your home.
