RV vs Camper: What’s the Difference?
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With more than 25 million Americans taking motorhome holidays each year, it’s no surprise that the RV vs camper conversation is at an all-time high.
The truth is that the best vehicle depends entirely on your family and the activities you want to do. And, to choose the right option, you need to know the difference between an RV and a camper.
RV vs Camper: What’s the Difference?
If you’re having a camper vs motorhome debate, the first thing you should do is learn the difference between the two. Let’s take a closer look.
What is an RV?
Recreational vehicle or RV is an umbrella term that encompasses all vehicles that can be lived and slept in, including campers. As such, campers are RVs by definition.
That said, when you visit a dealership or meet fellow motorhome enthusiasts you’ll notice that the term RV is usually used to specifically describe a drivable vehicle.
RVs come equipped with living quarters and can also include amenities such as a shower, toilet, awning, beds, storage space, and other features.
Not only this, but RVs come in 3 different classes, all of which have an engine and do not require towing.
Defining a Camper
A camper often refers to a type of recreational vehicle that doesn’t have an engine and therefore has to be towed by another vehicle, like an SUV or a pickup truck.
Like RVs, campers also come with living quarters as well as an array of features that vary based on the size, brand, and model. Additionally, campers are usually classified as travel trailers that come in many sizes, fifth-wheel trailers which tend to be more spacious, and pop-up campers that are compact and lightweight.
So, What’s the Difference?
If you’re comparing a camper vs RV, the biggest difference is that a recreational vehicle has an engine. However, this does create some inherent distinctions between both.
For starters, RVs are much bigger than campers, but they are also easier to back in because there is no swaying to make up for. In terms of interior space, RVs tend to offer less usable square footage because the chassis has to house front seats, an engine, and other mechanical elements.
Campers can offer more usable space because the entire interior is usable. That said, you also have to learn how to hitch and unhitch the camper, familiarize yourself with anti-sway components, set it up every time, and learn how to drive with a trailer.
There is no better or worse option. Instead, you should consider your preferences and choose an RV or camper based on your needs.
The good news is that you don’t have to choose without any help! Kirkland RV has knowledgeable experts who listen to your requirements and help you choose the best type of RV.
To Wrap Up
There is no formula to choose the perfect vehicle in the campers vs RV debate. In order to find the best vehicle you have to consider your budget, the activities you want to do, and your family members’ needs.
The good news is that you don’t have to take on this mission by yourself. At Kirkland RV, we’ve helped countless families find the perfect RV or camper, so our team will be glad to help you choose the right vehicle.
Check out our gallery or contact us today to learn more about the vehicles we currently have in stock.
