Are you considering an upgrade in your RV lifestyle but unsure whether to choose a Class B or Class C motorhome? What if there was an option that combined the best of both worlds? Behold, the class B plus RV.
But what is a Class B Plus RV? Is it really the perfect middle ground between more space and maneuverability?
Let’s breakdown the differences between class B, class C, and class B plus RVs, so you can decide which one fits your RV lifestyle the best.
Classes of RVs Explained
Before we get into the pros and cons of Class B plus RVs, you need to know where they came from.
The class B RV, also called the “camper van” or “conversion van,” is a van that you modify with a living space behind the cab. They have kitchenettes, wet baths, sleeping, and storage, all expertly designed into one (small functional space. They’re great for those who want to travel to a destination and use their van as a base camp.
To maximize space, Class C RVs have the cab of a van but the boxy body of a Class A RV to maximize space. They come in longer models and have slide outs that open up the interior space. These are great for family camping because they sleep more people and allow comfortable travel options.
But the class C is harder to maneuver in tight places and can’t do as much off-roading.
Enter the Class B plus RV…
What Is a Class B+ RV?
A class B+ RV keeps the van cab but uses a truck chassis and a slightly wider and taller body. It easily goes everywhere a class B RV can go, with the added bonus of slide-outs that give more interior space and storage.
Class B plus RVs balance the need for more sleeping and storage space, like the class C RV, with the ability to go anywhere, like the class B. Actually, a class B+ motorhome can go further because it’s equipped with all-wheel drive options that a class B usually doesn’t have.
On average, Class B Plus RVs measure around 24 feet in length and comfortably accommodate between 2-4 people (more if your children are small).
What Is the Difference Between a Class B and Class B+ RV?
The main difference between Class B and Class B Plus RVs lies in their design. Class B is 100% van, while Class B Plus RVs are built on truck chassis, like the Ford Transit Chassis with a cut-away cab. This allows the Class B+ to carry the weight of extra amenities and more storage.
What Is the Difference Between Class C and B+ RV?
The main difference between Class B Plus RVs and Class C motorhomes is size. Class C motorhomes average between 25 and 35 ft long and carry wider, heavier loads than a Class B Plus RV.
The compact, aerodynamic design of the class B+ gets better gas mileage than the Class C and can go more places. But the Class C motorhome has more room for family camping and long-distance trips.
Popular Class B Plus RVs
#1: Thor Gemini AWD 23TW
The Gemini has a great reputation as a spacious traveling RV that lacks for nothing. You get a queen-size bed with cushioned seats beneath, a full bath (not a wet bath), and a full dinette that seats four.
#2: Viper 29V Class B+
NeXus offers uncompromising comfort with soft-touch seating for the sofa and the front seats. You also have a four-seater dinette space with a queen-sized bed and a split bath. The split bath has the toilet and sink on one side and the shower on the other.
#3: Leisure Travel Vans Wonder
This Leisure Travel Van maximizes space and usage while keeping the van length to a minimum. The living and sleeping area are combined by using a Murphy bed that pulls down over the seating area. With the bath located in the back of the van, you can enjoy an open living space.
The Advantages of Owning a Class B Plus RV
Class B Plus RVs present several advantages if your RV lifestyle falls somewhere between that of a Class B and a Class C RV owner.
Pro #1: Easy Driving and Parking
One of the major selling points of Class B Plus RVs is their easy driveability. Their compact design makes them ideal for boondocking and other off-road excursions.
This nimble nature, combined with the all-wheel drive options available on many models, allows owners to venture off the beaten path and explore a wider range of RV travel destinations. With a Class B Plus RV, you can enjoy the freedom and flexibility of the open road without the stress of driving a larger, bulkier vehicle.
Pro #2: Comfortable Living Spaces
Class B Plus RVs provide comfortable living spaces that cater to small families and couples. They offer:
- Spacious kitchens with ample counter space, cabinets, and modern appliances
- Comfortable sleeping areas
- Convenient bathroom facilities
- Cozy dining and lounging areas
In addition to the fully-stocked kitchens, Class B Plus RVs can have:
- Dry baths (a separate shower and toilet area)
- Ergonomic interior designs that maximize available space
- Cozy and functional living areas that make your time on the road feel like a home away from home.
Potential Drawbacks of Class B Plus RVs
One notable downside is that class B plus RVs are more expensive than their larger class C companions. For this reason, it can feel like you’re getting less while paying more. But what you’re paying for is superior maneuverability and AWD to go anywhere your adventure takes you.
What is a Super Class B RV?
A Super Class B RV is essentially a Class B+ RV built on a larger, heavier-duty chassis to provide more interior space and heavy-duty, go-anywhere power—I mean, like trekking through the jungle.
The superclass B RVs are for going where no van could hope to go: jungles, washed-out mountain roads, and unknown terrain.
Is a Class B Plus RV is Right for You?
To figure out if a class B plus RV is right for you, ask yourself…
- How many people does it need to accommodate? If you’re going to regularly sleep more than four adults, you may want something bigger than a class B plus—unless y’all really love each other.
- What kind of amenities do you need? If the thought of a wet bath freaks you out, then upgrading to a class b+ rv with a dry bath might be worth the extra cost.
- How much gear do you need to store? If your adventures need a lot of gear, then the extra storage space is a huge asset.
- Do you go places where four-wheel drive is necessary? When you need it, you need it. Four-wheel drive is a necessity in some places. So, if you like to explore those places, it’s worth it.
- What’s your budget? Class B RVs tend to be more expensive than bigger models because they’re built on higher-quality chassis with all-wheel drive.
Summary
You’ve officially bought a brand-new (or new-to-you) class B+ RV. Once the excitement has worn off, you realize that your new toy won’t fit in your garage. Even if you clean out your garage. It’s just too tall.
You need a place to store it. While you could park it in your backyard, that leaves it exposed to sun and storm damage.
And you weren’t planning on spending hundreds of dollars on RV storage every month?
That’s where Neighbor can help.
Neighbor is an RV storage marketplace offering RV storage up to 50% cheaper than other options. You’ll find everything from a traditional facility to a driveway pad down your street. Neighbor has storage options in all 50 states. You may even find storage spaces in your very own neighborhood.
