Best Class B RVs

| Last Updated: July 12, 2022

Are you in the market for a Class B Motorhome? If so, you're in luck! In this blog post, we discuss everything you need to know about Class B RVs.

Choosing an RV is never a straightforward decision. The bigger it is, the more comfortable it will be, but of course larger Class A motorhomes have their drawbacks: cost, maintenance, and nowhere near as nimble.

Class B motorhomes are generally smaller and more mobile than other classes, they're also cheaper and within most people's budgets, making them an excellent choice for road trips and dry camping.

We review some of the best Class B motorhomes on the market today, saving you time and worry. We also highlight the features you should expect from a good quality Class B RV should have, and also go into detail the differences between Class A, B and Class C motorhomes.

So, whether you're a first-time buyer or an experienced RV enthusiast, this blog post is for you!

CLass B motorhome

Winnebago Revel (Source)

Are All Class B Motorhomes The Same?

All Class B RVs are not the same. Generally, vehicles in this class are grouped under one term, but there are two additional and unofficial classifications:

Class B+

These models are somewhat larger than your average Class B motorhome and may contain more amenities and accessories. One of the most notable features is, much like Class C RVs, they also have a cab-over bunk. However, it’s much smaller and not intended for sleeping. Instead, it serves as additional storage space.

RUV

This term was coined by Thor Motorcoach when the brand introduced the recreational utility vehicle (RUV). Although not limited to Class B motorhomes, the models that fall into that group are about 23 feet long and contain the same number or more features than Class B+ RVs.

In short, a Class B RV can be a small and straightforward campervan or a 23-foot luxury vehicle.

How to Choose a Class B RV

What qualifies a motorhome as one of the best Class B RVs? How do you find your best fit? Depending on your lifestyle and traveling goals, here are a few criteria you might want to consider before deciding.

Layout

Class B RVs aren’t large, and the floor plans should be optimized so that their limited space doesn’t feel cramped or underutilized. It should be easy to move around while on the inside without changing the layout to access any part of the interior.

Boondocking

Boondocking is also known as dry- or dispersed camping, and it’s a common practice among off-road explorers. Many of the best Class B RVs include propane, water tanks, and generators. Others also include solar prep or installed panels, allowing you to go adventuring for a week or two without needing to hook up at an RV park.

Bathroom Facilities

Most Class B motorhomes include a wet bath, which is a small room that combines the toilet and shower into a single space. If that doesn’t appeal to you, you may want to consider a larger model that includes a dry bath.

Photo credit: thewaywardhome.com

Sleeping Space

Since space is already limited, many Class B motorhomes either have a sofa or twin singles that convert into a double bed. Some larger models may have both. However, it’s rare for RVs of this size to comfortably sleep more than two to three people.

Review of the Best Class B RVs

If you are looking for a more detailed review, check out the models below:

Best Overall Class B Motorhome:
Winnebago Revel

Best Overall Class B Motorhome: Winnebago Revel

Pros

  • 5,000-pound towing weight
  • Equipped with solar panels, inverter, and batteries
  • Tank capacity allows for up to a week of dry camping
  • High quality, durable, and robust Mercedes-Benz 4x4 Chassis
  • Four-wheel-drive with hi/lo range, traction control, and electronic stability

Cons

  • One of the most expensive Class B motorhomes
  • Only one layout available, and it sleeps two people

Layout

The Revel is 19 feet and 7 inches long with only one layout that sleeps a maximum of two people. However, despite its limited size, it maximizes every bit of floor space without becoming cramped.

The Winnebago Revel is a great Class RV and includes a removable pedestal table for dining, galley, wet bath, and over-cab storage. There’s also a bench seat behind the driver, allowing for additional passengers.

Although there’s only one floor plan, the interior décor can be slightly customized. The standard style is “Intrepid” with darker shades and grays. There’s also the limited “Gravity” that includes more neutral and cream shades.

Popular Features

For off-the-grid adventurers and dry campers, it doesn’t get much better than the Revel. Winnebago’s Class B motorhome’s 4x4 chassis and four-wheel-drive is specifically designed for those folks who want to wander off the beaten path. The addition of solar power and larger-than-average water tanks also means that you don’t need to stop and hook up frequently.

Its off-road capabilities are just the tip of the iceberg. The Revel’s powerful diesel engine allows you to tow up to 5,000 pounds. The power lift bed can also create additional storage space if needed and grants easy access to the lithium system and freshwater tank.

For serious dry and off-road campers, the Winnebago Revel is one of the best Class B RVs available.

Runner-up:
Airstream Interstate 19

Runner-up: Airstream Interstate 19

Pros

  • Good mileage for its class
  • All-wheel drive for off-road escapades
  • 250-watt solar electrical system with inverter

  • The convertible sofa bed is the largest in its class
  • Excellent warranty covering Airstream and Mercedes-Benz engine

Cons

  • Sleeps a maximum of two people
  • Limited storage space for longer trips

Layout

Unofficially nicknamed “The Cabin,” the Interstate 19 has almost all the luxury for which the bestselling Airstream Interstate is known. And it all fits into a scant 19 feet and 5 inches, making it an agile, all-wheel drive, off-roading “glamper van.”

The rear sofa converts into a bed that’s larger than any of the other Class B RVs. Even though there’s a slide-out pantry and wardrobe, the number of features means that the Interstate 19 doesn’t have a lot of storage space. However, it can tow up to 5,000 pounds, so you can tow plenty of storage space if you really need it.

Popular Features

Aside from the luxurious bed, a few features make the Interstate 19 one of the best Class B RVs. Airstream went out of its way to include as many amenities from its 24-foot counterpart as possible.

Off-road and boondocking campers will love the 250-watt solar system and all-wheel-drive capability. While not as robust as 4-wheel drive, it’s still able to drive over most terrain. It also has excellent mileage for its class and comes with the top-notch Airstream 3-year/36,000-mile warranty and a 5-year/100,000-mile warranty on the Mercedes-Benz engine.

Finally, you can customize the interior to suit your individual taste. Choose from five different styles, including Formal Black, Lux White, and Refined Brown.

Best Class B RV for the Money:
Thor Motor Coach Sequence 20L

Best Class B RV for the Money: Thor Motor Coach Sequence 20L

Pros

  • Most affordable Class B coach on the list
  • The wet bath is in the back of the motorhome
  • 190-watt solar panel and a 1,000-watt inverter
  • One of the most affordable RVs on the market
  • Energy-efficient Truma Combi Eco Hydronic Furnace

Cons

  • Window screens don’t seal completely and may allow bugs to enter
  • Sky Bunk™ additional sleeping area is only available on larger floor plans

Layout

The Thor Sequence has three layouts, but we’re primarily including the 20L as the best Class B RV for its price range. Not only is it the second most affordable option that we’ve listed, it also contains several excellent features in its 20-foot, 11-inch body.

The 20L has a rear wet bath and an outdoor shower. The large opposing sofas also serve as a dinette, twin beds, or as one large 74-inch by 80-inch bed. The galley has an extendable cutting board, microwave, and fridge. The Sequence capitalizes on space as much as possible with different areas serving multiple purposes.

Popular Features

For dry campers, having enough power to support off-grid adventuring is essential. Luckily, the Sequence is designed to be energy efficient. It includes a 1,000-watt inverter and a single solar panel that can support most of the RVs systems.

If you prefer total independence, you can install the Re(Li)able™ Renewable Battery System, which can even run the air conditioner (AC).

Having the wet bath at the back of the RV is also ideal for adventurous campers. Since it allows easy access to the external and internal showers, it’s easy to rinse mud and dirt away before entering the motorhome.

While the 20L is perfect for the solo camper or couples, the larger models also include an optional Sky Bunk™, which adds sleeping space for two additional people.

Best Class B RV For Full-Time Living:
Coachmen Galleria

Best Class B RV For Full-Time Living: Coachmen Galleria

Pros

  • Certified Green by the TRA
  • Ample seating for larger groups while traveling
  • Optional Polar Package for camping in cold weather
  • Turbo-diesel BlueTEC engine with excellent fuel economy
  • High-quality, handcrafted Amish-made Maplewood cabinetry

Cons

  • Bathroom is relatively small for a motorhome this size
  • Some floor plans may make the interior feel somewhat constricted

Layout

Best Class B RV For Full-Time Living: Coachmen Galleria floor plan


The Coachmen Galleria Class B motorhome has four floorplans, each with a few unique features. The 24A model is the only one that includes a fixed bed with a power incline and storage. Other layouts have a power sofa instead, jump seats, slightly more galley space, and additional swivel seats.

The Galleria is packed with features to make it suitable for a couple wanting to live in the RV full time. These include a wet bath, galley, refrigerator and more. Some also have a pantry or microwave. As a result, the walking space in some layouts feels a little constrictive, and the bathroom is somewhat small for a motorhome this size.

Popular Features

One of the reasons why the Galleria is one of the best Class B RVs for full-time living is the optional Polar Package. It improves insulation and adds heating pads, keeping you warm during the colder months.

For environmentally aware travelers, the Galleria may be especially appealing due to its eco-friendly features. The coach is Certified Green by the TRA and includes a BlueTEC engine with good fuel economy. Additionally, the system consists of three 110-watt solar panels and a 2,000-watt Pure Sine Wave inverter.

If you want to enjoy nature in comfort without damaging the environment, the Coachmen Galleria is an excellent option. However, it’s not the best fit for larger families.

Best Class B RV For Boondocking:
Roadtrek Zion

Best Class B RV For Boondocking: Roadtrek Zion

Pros

  • A significant amount of storage space
  • Optional Thule accessory package available
  • 330 watts of solar with 3,000-watt Sine Wave inverter
  • Optional folding mattress for captains’ seats available
  • Heavy-duty magnetic bug screens at rear and side doors

Cons

  • Only one floor plan available with a single layout customization
  • Can only tow 2,000 pounds without additional equipment or passengers

Layout

The Roadtrek Zion is 20 feet and 9 inches long, and it’s built and optimized for boondocking. The Class B motorhome is a great fit for the outdoor couple, but the optional folding mattress means the RV can sleep up to three people.

The standard layout has two sofas facing each other in the van’s rear, serving as both the dinette and the main bed. However, you can swap these out for a forward-facing power sofa.

The motorhome includes a small galley and wet room, refrigerator, and coverable cooktop. The captains’ chairs also swivel toward a removable table, creating an additional dining area or workspace.

Popular Features

Although the Roadtrek Zion has a wide center aisle, it wasn’t designed for ease of movement or long-term living. Instead, it’s meant to store your sporting equipment such as kayaks or bikes. However, because of the broad aisle, the wet room is rather tight.

The Zion has everything you’d need for an extended camping trip, including 330 watts of solar panels, lithium batteries, an inverter, and a generator. It also has an impressive amount of storage space, which makes up for its lack of towing power.

Overall, the Zion’s features are an excellent match for campers who want to enjoy an active trip while still having a base camp with a touch of luxury.

Smallest and Cheapest Class B RV:
Pleasure-Way Tofino

Smallest and Cheapest Class B RV: Pleasure-Way Tofino

Pros

  • Most affordable Class B RV on our list
  • Blackout rolling shades with a magnetic catch
  • Expandable overhead bunk for extra sleeping space
  • Additional solar, roof rack, and roll up screen packages
  • More cargo space than most motorhomes in its price range

Cons

  • Gas engine with poor fuel economy
  • No wet room or bathroom facilities available

Layout

The Pleasure-Way Tofino is the smallest of our best Class B RVs, coming in at 17 feet and 9 inches. Due to its size, it has a lot fewer amenities than other motorhomes in its class. Most notable is the lack of a wet room or any toilet facilities, which means that the Tofino is better suited for campground use.

The small galley does include an induction stove with a single burner, a sink, and a refrigerator. There’s also a manual folding sofa that transforms into a bed. Combined with the pop-up roof bunk, the Tofino can sleep between two and four people semi-comfortably.

Popular Features

The Pleasure-Way Tofino isn’t designed for full-time living or extended periods of dry camping, despite the robust solar system and sleeping space. Instead, it’s an excellent base camp for active adventurers, serving as a luxury tent on wheels. The rear contains storage space, which makes up for its 2,950-pound towing limit.

Although it’s not the most luxurious of campervans, the Tofino is exceptionally cost efficient. The floor area is optimized and contains the most basic and vital necessities while leaving enough space for your luggage, friends or family, and sporting equipment.

For new motorhome owners or people looking for a small, comfortable, and affordable campervan, the Tofino is a good choice.

Largest Class B RV:
Winnebago Era

Largest Class B RV: Winnebago Era

Pros

  • Three floor plans available
  • 4x4 option for off-road experiences
  • Largest Class B motorhome on this list
  • Three-burner cooktop with a glass cover
  • 5,000-pound tow weight and 500-pound maximum vertical tongue weight

Cons

  • Little solar power for a motorhome of its size
  • Limited to a 12-month, 15,000-mile basic warranty

Layout

At 24 feet and 3 inches, the Winnebago Era is one of the largest Class B motorhomes available on the market, and is only a few feet shorter than a small Class A. There are three floor plans available, and you can choose one that suits your travel style.

The 70A has rear twin beds that can combine into a single large sleeping area. It also has a sofa bed for guests or kids, while the 70B and 70X models have a rear sofa bed.

All three floorplans contain a wet bath and a large galley kitchen. However, only the latter two have a movable pedestal table that can serve as a dinette. The size and layout of the Era mean it’s both well equipped and spacious.

Popular Features

Whether you’re traveling with friends or family, the Winnebago Era has a layout that’ll suit your needs. The wet bath and kitchen are spacious, with the flip-up counter extension making the prep area slightly larger.

Additionally, it has an exterior entertainment system, LED lighting, and speakers so that you can relax outdoors. The Truma Combi® Eco Plus Heating System lets you travel in the winter, while the Coleman®-Mach® 10 air conditioner keeps you cool during the summer months.

For a traveling couple or a small family, the Winnebago Era is one of the best Class B RV options.

What is a Class B RV? What is a Class B Motorhome? Are RVs and Motorhomes the Same?

The words “RV” and “motorhome” are often used interchangeably. However, there is a minor difference between the two.

An RV refers to recreational vehicles, and this is a broad umbrella. The category is usually broken down into four classes:

  • Class A
  • Class B
  • Class C
  • Towable

The term can include campers, motorhomes, travel trailers, fifth wheels, pop-up trailers, and more.

On the other hand, motorhome specifically refers to motorized, drivable vehicles with beds, kitchens, bathrooms, and other amenities. These are generally limited to Class A, B, and C recreational vehicles.

In short, all Class B motorhomes are RVs, but not all RVs are motorhomes.

Thor Motor Coach Sequence 20L

Thor Motor Coach Sequence 20L (Source)

RV Classes

There are multiple types of RVs. Below, we’re going to compare the three different classes and explain the differences and similarities between each pair.

Class A vs Class B Motorhome

The primary similarities between these motorhomes are that both are drivable and equipped with amenities such as beds, galleys, and bathrooms. However, there are notable differences in size, quality, and luxury.

Class A RVs are designed to be a home away from home and are the most luxurious motorhomes. They’ll often have a full kitchen, one or more bathrooms, entertainment areas, master bedrooms, and additional sleeping space. Since they’re built on the chassis of large trucks or busses, these motorhomes tend to be large and difficult to handle if you don’t have experience driving them.

Conversely, Class B motorhomes are perfect for short road trips or dry camping instead of full-time living. Generally, they’re about the size of a van, although some can be larger.

The most significant difference, aside from size, are the amenities. Even the best Class B RVs will only have one bed, a sleeper couch, a tiny kitchen, and a wet bath (combined toilet and shower).

Class B vs Class C Motorhome

There’s a notable size difference between Class B and C motorhomes. For example, Class B RVs generally range between 17 and 19 feet. However, there are some exceptions, such as the Winnebago Era, that are over 24 feet long.

Winnebago Era Class B motorhome

Winnebago Era (Source)

Class C motorhomes range between 21 feet and 41 feet on average, which is significantly larger and longer than the smaller Class B. Although, size alone isn’t enough to differentiate between the two classes of motorhome.

Depending on its length, either motorhome may have more amenities and luxuries or have limited features and be more agile. The easiest way to recognize a Class C RV is by the sleeper bunk, or cab-over bed, directly above the driving cabin.

How to Level a Class B RV

Although Class B motorhomes don’t generally need leveling, it’s a good idea to be ready for the worst-case scenario. If the campgrounds don’t have even or stable parking spaces, it’s critical to know how to level your RV.

Step 1

Ensure that you always have a kit with you. You’ll need 2 to 4 plastic, rubber, or wood leveling blocks, depending on how severe the slant is. You’ll also need chocks.

Step 2

Put your bullseye bubble levels in place. The best spots are generally the rear bumper for judging side-to-side balance, while one by the driver’s side door is perfect for checking the front-to-back position.

Step 3

Place blocks behind or in front of the low tires. Ensure that they’re on solid ground. You can place larger wooden blocks underneath them to spread out the weight.

Step 4

Pull onto the blocks. If you have a traveling companion, have them check the rear level and alert you when the RV is even. You can check the one on the driver’s door.

Step 5

If you’re happy with the motorhome level, chock the wheels and set the parking brake. If the campervan has stabilizing jacks, you can set them at this point.

Never have someone hold onto the leveling blocks while the motorhome is moving. If it shifts or the RV misses the block, it can cause serious injury. Also, ensure that you never use hydraulic jacks to raise your camper’s wheels off the ground. If one fails, the drop can damage your vehicle.

Whether you plan to live in your new motorhome full time or want to go boondocking on occasion, there’s a Class B RV that fits your lifestyle.

Roadtrek Zion (Source)

People Also Ask - The Best Class B Motorhomes FAQs

Is a Class B RV Worth It?

Whether it’s worth buying a Class B RV or not depends on you. If you’re looking for mobility, comfortable camping, affordability, and don’t mind the lack of luxurious amenities, this class of motorhome may be a good fit. The best way to find out if it’s a match for you is to talk with other Class B owners.

Is It Cheaper to RV or Stay in Hotels?

There’s no definitive way to say that one option is cheaper than the other. It depends on how you break down your costs. For example, hotels can get ridiculously expensive, especially around the holidays. You’ll also have to account for take-out meals, room service, and taxi fees.

Similarly, you’ll need groceries, fuel, and parking spots for your trip. Depending on the travel distance and the campground's hookups, you can keep costs low or rack up quite a bill.

Calculate a budget for both options to see which one comes up more costly, depending on your preferences and projected expenses.

How Much Does a Class B Motorhome Cost?

A Class B motorhome’s cost varies depending on its size, features, and age. On average, prices will range between $50,000 to $200,000. However, some of the best Class B RVs can cost a lot more. For example, B+ motorhomes can cost over $300,000, but you can pick up a second-hand pretty cheap.

How Much Can a Class B RV Tow?

The towing capacity of your motorhome will depend on its chassis, size, and engine. On average, the limit ranges between 3,500 and 5,000 pounds. 

Class B Motorhomes - Perfect for Camping Trips

The best Class B RVs make for unforgettable camping trips. They aren't ideal for large groups, but a couple or a small family can enjoy a short trip in one.

They come in various shapes and sizes, each with unique features and amenities. Before you decide to buy a a Class B motorhome, take the time to research your options and choose one that fits your specific needs.

We recommend all of the above, and have experienced either our own camping trips or visiting friends in all of them. Whichever Class B RV you go for, make sure you're comfortable with the space on offer. That said, you can always take a tent along with you for that extra space.