What Is the Difference Between a Motorhome and a Motorcaravan?

Going on a camping trip? Or just in love with life on the road? Then, you must be familiar with motorhomes and motor caravans.

Living on a motorhome or a motorcaravan may seem exotic for the uninitiated. However, the convenient features of motor homes make this vehicle alluring to many travelers. And with the different sizes and styles available, convenience now comes with function and luxury.

If you're brave enough to go for a road trip in a motorhome or caravan, this transport method is a terrific alternative. You'll understand what those who embrace the lifestyle have discovered—freedom.

But first, let's understand the terms. Discover the differences between a motorhome and a motorcaravan. Then, which one should you choose? And why? Let's try answering these questions before you enjoy your vacation or have your motorhome transported.

Motorhome vs. Motorcaravan: The Definition

There is little difference between motorhome and motorcaravan in terms of terminology. Both vehicles allude to a type of recreational vehicle that has everything you need in one vehicle. Motorhome is more like an umbrella term popular among campers to describe a recreational vehicle RV.

These terms can also be written as "motor homes" or "motor caravans." Geography influences where it's more commonly used. Motorcaravans are more prevalent in the UK and some parts of Europe. But North Americans, including those in the US, may prefer the term motorhome or motor home. Despite the differences, though, they all refer to the exact vehicle.

You can find these essential facilities in a motorhome or motor caravan:

• Sleeping area (one queen/king bed or multiple bunk beds)
• Kitchen and dining area
• Bathroom facilities (shower and toilet)
• Various closets (for storage)

You may wonder about a recreational vehicle called a campervan or camper van. This, too, is a motorhome, but it's usually smaller and with fewer amenities. As you will read later, this term only describes one type of motorhome.

Americans may also call a motorhome "RV." Again, this is only one type of motorhome. An RV is a larger vehicle with more amenities, usually more luxurious than a classic campervan. Nonetheless, both RVs and camper vans have the conveniences of home while on the road.

Standard Features of a Motorhome

You may look at the vehicle's size when looking for the perfect motorhome. Bigger often means more luxury and convenience. Here are the features you should look for when looking for a motorhome.

Kitchen set

One of the classic features of a motorhome is a complete kitchen set in mini size. You may call it a kitchenette, and it typically includes a stove, a refrigerator, and a sink. Travelers can cook and prepare their meals while on the road. Some kitchenettes may also have cocktail cabinets.

Sleeping area

The sleeping area of a motorhome can vary. Some motorhomes include a more extensive, queen-sized bed, plus a few bunk beds. Others may feature just the bunk beds. The sleeping area can double with the living space, with pullout sofas as another option.

Bathing area

Most motorhomes come with a shower and a toilet. These spaces may be separated or not, with options to have it indoors or outdoors. Many motorhome owners also consider portable toilets or outdoor showers (mounted on the vehicle's roof). Having outdoor showers can save space inside the motorhome. Not having their showers indoors also helps owners prevent leaks or mold.

Recreation area

The draw of traveling on a motorhome or campervan usually lies in the ability to enjoy the outdoors. The idea is for travelers to stop at a destination and enjoy nature at their stopping point. That said, many motorhomes may also include a television set. The living area in the motorhome can also be an alternative place to chat with fellow travelers, relax, or enjoy a quiet time when the weather is unfriendly.

Storage space

An essential feature of a motorhome is its storage space. They should provide ample storage space for your luggage and essentials, such as a generator, outdoor or camping gear, and solar panels (if any). Some motorhomes with slide-out sections can provide additional sleeping or living areas and storage space.

Different Categories of Motorhomes

There are three main categories of motorhomes, usually Class A, Class B, and Class C. Find out their differences below.

Class A motorhome

A-class motorhome is often called an integrated motorhome because the body of the driving and living areas are together. This motorhome class also offers a clear view of the road ahead thanks to its wide front window. Its shape may resemble more of a tour bus than a typical RV, that most people have in mind.

Compared to the other classes, class A motorhomes are among the largest and most luxurious. This vehicle's chassis is usually specially designed, and its interiors are spacious and well-appointed. All modern home amenities are available in class A motorhomes so the size may be more significant than that of other classes.

In addition, luxurious features may become a benchmark of class-A motorhomes. Leather seating, granite countertops, high-end appliances, and additional luxuries like heated floors or built-in entertainment systems are included.

Naturally, such luxury and conveniences come with a higher price tag. Plus, their larger size and weight can make them more challenging to drive and park. But there's no doubt that class A motorhomes will genuinely feel like "home" on the road.

Class B motorhome

This class of motorhomes is the smallest. Camper vans belong in this category. By definition, a class B motorhome is an automotive van that has been transformed into a living area. The standard RV features—kitchen, bedroom, and living space—are designed within the van's interior.

Its size is more compact than the other classes. Usually built on a van chassis and offering a smaller footprint than their larger counterparts, class B motorhomes are more accessible to maneuver on narrow roads and park in tight spaces. Their owners may even use these vans daily because the size is no larger than a regular van.

This makes them an attractive option for those who don't want a large RV but still have the convenience of a mobile living space. Another advantage of this class of motorhome is fuel efficiency. Because class B motorhomes are built on a van chassis, the gas mileage is better than larger RVs.

Class C Motorhomes

A class C motorhome is the one that most people usually think about when the term "recreational vehicle" is mentioned. Built with a cab or cut-away chassis, the front side of the vehicle resembles a van. It also has opening side doors like a van. However, the distinctive cab-over area provides additional sleeping space or storage, making them unique.

Class C motorhomes offer all the comforts of home, just like class A motorhomes, but without the more expensive price tag. Filling up the tank of a C-class motorhome is also less costly than that of an A-class.

Further, unlike class A, class C is more maneuverable as its size is more manageable. Novice drivers can still feel confident behind the wheel, while seasoned travelers will have no problem navigating it. F

Many class C models also come with unique features like slide-out sections. They expand the living space when parked, providing extra space for sleeping or storage. A spacious and comfortable interior gives travelers more room to relax and unwind during their travels.

Class C models can also become tow vehicles. It is possible to tow an automobile on a class C motorhome using a tow hitch. However, towing is regulated, and travelers must follow weight, speed, and distance rules.

Conclusion

Going on a motor caravan for your camping holiday can be fun and exciting. No matter what you call it, a motorhome or a motorcaravan can provide all the conveniences of home while on the road. And no matter what type of vehicle you choose, either an RV or a camper van, you will have a comforting space for when traveling wears you down.

Trust A1 Auto Transport to transport your motor home or recreational vehicles. Our years of experience make any vehicle type easy for us to move. Get your free quote today.