What Is The Best Small Drivable RV?
Choosing the best small drivable RV is akin to choosing your favorite child. Each model has its pros and cons and comes in a wide range of prices. What is great is that many manufacturers offer their own version of these smaller motorhomes and because of their popularity, many more are in the works.
What is the smallest motorhome?
Typically these types of drivable motorhomes are known as Class B RVs. They are the smallest motorhome type and range in length from 18 to 24 feet long.
How much do Class B RVs cost?
Typically starting at around $50,000 they can go up to around $170,000. Most are built on a capable van chassis such as the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, RAM Promaster, and Ford Transit chassis. This allows for additional ease when it comes to taking them in for mechanical issues.
What are the pros of Class B RVs?
In the last year or so, Class Bs have actually become one of the most popular RVs on the market. While some buyers may be intimidated by a larger Class A or fifth-wheel, Class Bs are easier to drive, park, store, and outfit. They are also more fuel-efficient than their larger brethren and can be used as a daily driver.
The cons of Class B RVs
However, with their more agile footprint comes a few cons. Many Class Bs do not have a full-time bed. In fact, because they can also be used as passenger vans, the passenger seats usually transform into the bed. This can be convenient or annoying depending on what you prefer.
In addition, kitchens are small and may not contain an oven or full-size refrigerator. Bathrooms are smaller and are usually a wet bath. Storage can be limited and the dining space is usually the driver’s and passenger seat spun around on a swivel.
Which Class B is the best small drivable RV?
If these cons don’t bother you, a Class B might just be what you are looking for. So which model is the best one on the market right now?
While many independent outfitters can build out a van that replicates a Class B and pre-owned Class Bs are always available, we are going to go over some of the best 2021 models you can buy right now.
Winnebago Revel
Class B and off-road aficionados are drooling over the Winnebago Revel. Not only is this Class B four wheel drive, but it has some details that are missing in a lot of other drivable RVs.
The Revel does have a full-time bed and it can be raised up to create a “garage” in the back of the RV. It has an ergonomic kitchen, 21-gallon fresh water tank, and 125-amp hour LiFePO batteries charged by the rooftop solar panel. The wet bath doubles as a gear storage room.
All these great amenities also come with a hefty price tag to match. The Revel starts at around $175,000 to $185,000. The price might be enough to deter some first-time buyers from purchasing this model. However, Winnebago has now introduced the Solis (with its cool poptop) for around $107,000.
Thor Sequence
If you have sticker shock from the first Class B on this list, check out the Sequence by RV giant Thor Motor Coach.
The Sequence has the distinction of being one of the only brand new Class B RVs under $100,000. Built on a RAM Promaster chassis, this smaller motorhome offers a lot in 20 feet.
In two of the three floor plans, the wet bath and wardrobe is located in the rear so there is tons of room for either an expanding sleeper sofa or twin beds. The European styling is appealing as well as the optional poptop bed. Check out the full video tour on the Thor Motor Coach:
Roadtrek SS Agile
If you want to stick with someone tried and true, then Roadtrek is your Class B expert.
They have been building these types of motorhomes for over 40 years and offer six models for the new year. The difficulty is choosing the best one; each model has different layouts, amenities, and options.
If you want to stick with the smallest, look at the SS Agile (starts at $168,000). Built on a 144” long Sprinter wheelbase, a lot is packed into its interior. It has a roomy kitchen, a pullout bed, and an optional twin mattress that can be placed over the captain seats. This Class B RV also has 330 watts of standard solar and an outdoor shower.
Airstream Interstate 19
If price is still no option, why not go with one of the best manufacturers ever? Airstream has entered the Class B market with several models including the Atlas and Interstate.
The Airstream Interstate comes in two sizes: the 24-foot and 19-foot. The Interstate 19 has a hefty price tag of around $165,000, but this Class B is pure luxury.
The leather sofa at the rear of the Interstate extends into a queen bed with the push of a button. The side seats also fold down to expand out the sleeping space even further. The interior features Italian-built rounded cabinetry, plenty of closet space, a stylish wet bath, and kitchen with flip-up counters.
Coachmen Nova
The newest member of the Coachmen Class B family has already garnered a few RV News awards and is close to becoming a top contender for best in class.
The 20-foot long Nova is built on the RAM Promaster chassis and has two layouts. One with a rear wet bath and one with seats for up to six passengers.
Standard features include solid hardwood cabinetry, fiberglass showers, Lagun tables, roof racks with ladder access, and 220 watts of solar power. Options include extra insulation, grey water tank heaters, and an induction cooktop.
While there are many more Class B RVs to choose from, because of their massive uptick in popularity, they are getting more difficult to keep on the lots. Our advice would be to look at each floor plan you are interested in and pin the chassis options you want and the price you are willing to pay. This will help to narrow down the options.
Consequently, no matter which manufacturer and model you choose, you are bound to find a small drivable RV that is akin to a tiny house on the road. The best one might just be the one that gets you where you want to go in comfort.
Read more about Class B RVs:
I would like to see a small driveable camper. I am alone but would like to purchase a desent driveable camper. Please send me some photos.
I’m looking
Christina
We are 2 ladies in our late 70s . We have owned large class a rvs and now are ready for smaller. We live in WA, and we would like a comfy queen bed that we can add a foam topper to and leave made up. A bath with shower – some kitchen and 2 driver seats that swivel and you can out your feet up. We loved your article. What would you suggest?
Hi Mary: I’m looking at the same style, please let me know what you find out. I’m a newbie and looking into selling my home and travelling. Thank you!