Motorhome Classes Explained

Motorhomes, also known as recreational vehicles (RVs), have become increasingly popular in recent years.

As more people seek to travel and explore in comfort and style, motorhomes have emerged as an attractive option for both short-term and long-term trips. One of the main benefits of motorhomes is the ability to travel and live in them, all while enjoying the comforts of home. 

However, not all motorhomes are created equal. There are different classes of motorhomes, each with their own unique features, amenities, and driving requirements. 

Understanding the differences between these classes is vital for anyone considering renting a motorhome. In this article, we will answer the question ‘what are motorhome classes?’, including explanations of Class A, Class B, and Class C vehicles, and discuss the driving licence required to operate them.

What are motorhome classes?

Motorhome classes refer to the different categories of motorhomes based on their size, structure, and features. 

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) classifies these categories, and the UK government determines size limits and licence requirements.

What are Class A motorhomes?

Class A motorhomes are the personification of luxury! Whether you’re boarding with family or travelling with friends, Class A motorhomes have enough beds to accommodate several passengers comfortably. 

Class A motorhomes are the largest on our list, with European models typically measuring around 25-30 feet in Europe. However, even bigger models are available in America, with some Class A motorhomes measuring 35-40 feet long. 

Features and Amenities of Class A motorhomes:

• Class A motorhomes offer full-size kitchens, living rooms, bathrooms, and bedrooms. They often feature high-end finishes and appliances, including granite countertops, hardwood floors, and stainless steel appliances.
• Class A motorhomes also have storage tanks for freshwater, allowing extended stays in remote locations.
• Many Class A motorhomes also have entertainment systems, such as flat-screen TVs and surround sound speakers.

Class A motorhomes offer the most space and amenities of the three categories, making them ideal for long-term travel and living. They also provide a high level of luxury and comfort. However, there are some factors you should consider.

For example, they are the heaviest and most difficult to manoeuvre, making them less ideal for those new to motorhome travel. Due to their impressive size, they are also the most expensive type of motorhome to rent. 

What are Class B motorhomes?

Class B motorhomes are built on a van chassis, making them the smallest and most manoeuvrable of the three classes. Typically no longer than 25 feet in length, Class B motorhomes are known as ‘campervans’ and can include vehicles such as van conversions or ‘pre-built’ vans. 

They offer an ingenious way to combine a love of driving, adventure and DIY: many people design and build their own self-converted vans according to specific DVLA guidelines. As the smallest class of recreational vehicles, they have become increasingly popular with travellers who prefer to spend more time exploring than inside their van. 

Although Class B motorhomes offer fewer amenities than Class A and Class C vehicles, they are ideal for those who want a more agile and flexible travel experience. 

Features and amenities of Class B motorhomes:

• Class B motorhomes maximise space with compact kitchens, bathrooms, and sleeping areas.
• They often feature a raised roof or pop-up top, which provides additional headroom and sleeping space.
• Many Class B motorhomes also come equipped with solar panels or other renewable energy sources, allowing extended off-grid travel.

Class B motorhomes are the easiest to drive and park, making them ideal for drivers new to motorhome travel. 

They are also the most fuel-efficient and budget-friendly of the three classes. However, they offer fewer amenities and less space than Class A and Class C motorhomes, making them less ideal for extended travel or large groups.

What are Class C motorhomes?

Class C motorhomes are built on a cutaway van or truck chassis, making them larger than Class B motorhomes but smaller than Class A motorhomes. 

Perfect for medium-sized families, Class C motorhomes offer a variety of amenities for smaller groups of passengers. As the medium-sized option, they range between 20-33 feet lengthways and can comfortably sleep four to six adults. 

Class C and Class A motorhomes are very similar! In terms of size and amenities, Class C motorhomes offer a more compact way to travel in luxury without the hefty price tag of a Class A vehicle. 

Features and amenities of Class C motorhomes:

• Class C motorhomes typically feature a sleeping area over the cab and a separate bedroom in the back of the unit.
• They often have a full kitchen and bathroom; some models also have slide-outs to provide additional living space.
• Class C motorhomes also have storage tanks for freshwater. 
• You can choose between countless layouts depending on your passenger’s needs and travel requirements.

As you can see, Class C motorhomes offer a good balance between size and amenities, making them ideal for families or small groups. They are also easier to manoeuvre than Class A motorhomes. However, Class C motorhomes are typically more expensive than Class B motorhomes and offer fewer amenities than Class A motorhomes. 

What licence do you need to drive a motorhome?

If you plan to drive a motorhome, you may wonder what type of licence you need. Well, this depends on the size and weight of the vehicle. If you have a regular car driving licence (Category B), you can drive a motorhome with a maximum weight of up to 3,500kg.

But if you obtain a Category C1 driving licence, you can drive a motorhome between 3,500kg and 7,500kg. If you want to be a Category C1 licence holder, you should already have a valid Category B licence and be over 18 years of age. 

Obtaining a C1 driving licence can take several weeks or months, so plan ahead for any upcoming motorhome trip. Driving a larger vehicle requires additional training and experience, so spend time becoming comfortable driving a motorhome before embarking on any long journeys. 

Choose Melling Motorhomes for your Motorhome Rental! 

Motorhomes offer a unique and rewarding travel experience. With the right vehicle and driving skills, you can explore the world on your own terms and create unforgettable memories.

Now that you know more about them, why not hire one for your next holiday? Embark on trips around England, Scotland, Wales, Ireland and Europe in one of Melling Motorhomes’ luxury vehicles. 

After a long day of adventuring, you can cook, relax and enjoy all the top-of-the-range amenities our vehicles have to offer. Start your search for the perfect campervan with Melling Motorhomes.