There are so many options when it comes to recreational vehicles. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes, styles, and colors. Depending on your budget and how much work you are willing to put in your recreational vehicle will determine what you decide to purchase. In this article I will cover as many different recreational vehicles as I can think of.
Van
Many many people pick the van life! Van life however could feel like too much work and not enough space, to some. Many people purchase used or new vans and convert them themselves, or with the help of professionals, friends, and family. Sometimes you can find a partially or completely converted van. Two popular model are the Ram Promaster van or Mercedes Sprinter van. Many people have some type of solar system installed in order to receive electricity. For heating and AC there are a few limited options. Many people who live the van life have make shift showers and utilize some type of portable or composting toilet.
Pros
- Vans are easy to maneuver: due to size vans are able to fit in more places
- Vans are able to park in more places and blend in (free parking): At any time you can park your van on a public street and stay for extended periods of time.
- For newer vans, maintenance is rather simple and inexpensive: most vans have the same maintenance routine as any car. Unless you have a luxury model van, repairs are generally routine and not too crazy on the cost
- the build can be inexpensive, depending on materials and labor
Cons
- provide limited space, specifically height: this may not be ideal for tall people but many tall people still live successfully in vans or are able to convert the top of the van to a pop up.
- usually no true bathroom: many people wash off or have some sort of make shit shower on the outside of their van
- having a portable toilet in such a small space may be inconvenient or smelly.
- May not be accepted at some RV parks: some RV parks may not accept your van as a true recreational vehicle.
Box truck
Converted box trucks can provide a tad bit more space than a van, depending on the size of the truck. These are also a lot of work starting off. Many start empty and give way to many custom ideas. Just like a van many people convert them themselves, with friends, family, or professionally. They also usually use a solar power system for power. Some people go as far as to make the outside of their truck look like a work truck; by coming up with a fake business name and logo to apply to the side of the van. This may seem a bit extreme but it allows for you to park many places without being questioned or bothered.
Pros
- the possibility of more space than a van: depending on the size, trucks can provide ample space
- Maneuverability: due to size more people are comfortable driving these
- Trucks may be able to be parked in a variety of places, like vans. Trucks do stick out a tad bit more than vans and may not be able to park in all the same places as a van.
Cons
- limited space for some
- may not be accepted at some RV parks as a true recreational vehicle.
- may not have enough space to incorporate a true bathroom
Bus
Bus conversions may be one of my favorite to talk about and explore! I feel like the possibilities are endless with bus conversions. Some people buy small buses and others buy large buses, which has to do with preference of course. Buses are generally easy to find as well. Retired school buses and city buses are always posted on many online platforms. Some can be pricey but there are many that are not. Like vans and trucks, a bus conversion can be a lot of work. Sometimes you may luck up and find a bus that has been partially or fully converted! One important distinction to make with buses is that many are diesel powered.
Pros
- You can have as much space as you would like, depending on your budget and length you are comfortable driving.
- Very custom, if converting from start to finish
- Usually accepted at RV parks
Cons
- fuel economy
- possibility of expensive repairs with diesel models
- parking very limited
rv (motorhome):
RV or Motorhomes have three basic classes; class A, B, and C.
Class A
Class A RV’s are the larger of the RVs! They have about as much room as a bus, or more. These may also be more pricey than class B or C. Class A RVs are usually very luxurious. Class A motor homes come with or without slide outs. They can sleep anywhere from 2-8 people, depending on the model. These RVs are perfect for those wanting to reside or park at RV parks. They also have a decent towing capacity. They are great for long term living, in terms of comfort and amenities.
pros:
- spacious
- tow capacity
- ultimate comfort
- full bathroom option
- large bedroom option
- great for living at rv parks
- great for full time living
Cons:
- fuel economy
- maneuverability limited
- repair costs have the potential to be higher than average
Class B
Class B motor homes are essentially over sized vans. The may come with slide outs, but many do not. These are great for those off road adventures, since they are smaller they can move about better and easier. These are ideal for avid campers. They offer ample space and make use of all types of storage solutions. These can comfortably sleep 2-4 people. Of all the classes these are usually the least expensive.
Pros:
- size and maneuverability
- fuel economy
- full bathroom optional
Cons:
- not as much storage as a class A or C
- possibility of smaller sleeping space or less sleeping spaces
Class C
Class C motorhomes are generally a mix between class A and class B. One distinct characteristic of class C RVs is the loft style sleeping space above the the cab. They have moderate fuel economy and a good tow capacity. These RVs are good for campers and park dwellers. They may or may not have slide outs. They can generally sleep 2-8 people, depending on the model of course.
Pros
- moderate fuel economy
- more size than a van, truck, or class B
- full bedroom and bathroom optional
Cons
- less storage and space than a class A
Truck campers
Truck campers are mounted to the back of a truck, hence the name. Owners of truck campers, usually use them for short term or seasonal. Many hunters and fishers may utilize truck campers. Obviously the size is limited, but many models come with slide outs. Many models even have a small bathroom and kitchen. They sleep 1-2 people. This would also be a good option for those trying out tiny living, to see if they would actually like it.
Pros
- great for off road
- very limited mechanical maintenance
Cons
- size, limited space for long term living
- small bathroom
Pop Ups
Pop up campers are very versatile and like truck campers are suitable for short term or seasonal use. They are collapse-able and can be towed by most vehicles, due to it being light weight. Maintenance is limited, and tires may be the only thing that will require routine replacing. They can sleep 2-4 people depending on on the model.
Pros
- can be towed easily
- good for occasional campers
- very limited mechanical issues
Cons
- limited space
- best for short term
5th Wheel (travel trailer)
5th wheels are quite popular. They come in a variety of sizes and styles. They can be towed by medium to large sized trucks. It is important to know your trucks towing capacity before purchasing a 5th wheel. Most of them have slide outs that offer even more space. They can sleep 2-8 people and sometimes more, depending on the size and amenities. They usually come equip with a full bathroom and bedroom. In comparison to motor homes, 5th wheels are pretty moderately priced, especially if purchasing a used one. There is limited mechanical upkeep besides slide outs and replacing tires.
Pros
- price
- limited mechanical maintenance
Cons
- not as easily maneuverable
- limited in size depending on trucks towing capacity
Toy haulers
Toy haulers can be considered a type of 5th wheel. Even though some come in motor home form. Toy haulers work as a garage and living space, all in one. It provides space to transport your motorcycle, bike, ATV, go cart, rafts, race car and any other recreational items you can think of. Toy haulers are for the ultimate adventurer, providing ample space for extras as well as space for basic living amenities. These will vary in size depending on what you plan to tow and how many amenities you want. Toy haulers essentially have the same pros and cons as 5th wheels.
Tiny homes
Tiny homes are also an extension of 5th wheels. They are also my favorite to discuss and research. Tiny homes are the most custom, in my opinion. You can pick everything from the size to the roof. But for those who do not want to go through the process of picking everything, there are shells available and even fully built tiny homes. Tine homes also have the most variety in price. Many people build their own tiny homes, which automatically cuts down on labor costs. Many people also make use of recycled and cheap but reliable materials to construct their tiny home. Tiny homes are an extension of 5th wheels so they generally have the same pros and cons. Although many cons can be avoided with custom builds.
When picking a rig, just be sure to know what you want. The biggest aspects to look at are size, fuel economy, intentions for living, budget, comfort, and necessary amenities.