NEW YORK, NY / ACCESS Newswire / May 23, 2025 / Often it seems like the terms RV and camper get used interchangeably. However, there are some distinctions between these two types of recreational products. Knowing if you're in the market for one or the other and inquiring about RV loans with potential lenders is important. Here's what you need to know about RVs and campers to help clarify the difference between the two.
What is an RV?
The abbreviation RV stands for "recreational vehicle." Officially, this term can apply to a wide range of products that are either:
Self-propelled: A vehicle with its own engine that can be driven, such as a motorhome or house car.
Towed behind: A vehicle that requires another vehicle for movements, such as pop-ups, trailers, and campers.
When most people use the term RV in everyday conversation, they generally talk about self-propelled vehicles.
RVs come in three major classifications:
Class A: These are the largest and most expensive of all RVs. They are usually built on a heavy-duty truck or bus chassis and can be as long as 45 feet.
Class B: These RVs will generally look more like vans with elevated rooflines. A Class B RV is typically between 18 and 24 feet; however, some Class B+ options are slightly larger.
Class C: These RVs are between Class A and Class B in size, measuring 20 to 30 feet long. They are usually easy to spot because of a bunk over the cab area.
In terms of price, RVs are generally more expensive than campers, but it also is highly dependent on the size. On the low end of RV motorhomes, you might pay around $50,000, but the price can rise into the six-figure range for larger Class A type. Campers are usually more moderately priced, starting at between $20,000 and $30,000 on the low end, but to around $100,000 for more expensive models.
What is a camper?
The term "camper" typically refers to any type of RV that must be pulled by another vehicle (such as a truck or SUV). This is why the terms RV and camper can be confusing. Although all campers are considered RVs, not all RVs are campers.
Similar to self-propelled RVs, campers also come in various shapes and sizes. Below are a few of the most common types.
Pop-up camper: These are the smallest and lightest of all recreational vehicles. It typically measures between 8 to 16 feet in length and gets folded down when not in use.
Travel trailer: These are campers that do not fold but are also not self-propelled. A typical trailer can be between 10 and 40 feet long.
Fifth wheel camper: These are generally larger in size than a conventional trailer. Owners of this type of RV will need a truck with heavy-duty towing capacity.
Campers can be ideal for RV shoppers who are on a budget or who already have a vehicle suitable for towing.
The bottom line
Even though the terms RV and camper seem interchangeable, there are some distinctions. Technically all campers are RVs, but not all RVs are campers. However, in most everyday usage, the line between the two is whether one is self-propelled or needs to be towed by another vehicle. Ultimately, deciding which one to get will come down to the buyer's budget, towing capacity, and personal preference.
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