What is the shortest length for a Class B motorhome? It depends on what you’re looking for in a recreational vehicle. Maneuverability, storage space, and price are all crucial factors to consider when choosing the length of your Class B motorhome.
The quick answer: The shortest length for a Class-B motorhome is 19 to 20 feet long. These RVs are easier to drive and park than their longer counterparts, making them an excellent choice for those new to RV driving. They also tend to be more affordable than longer Class-A style motorhomes.
This article will give you an overview of the shortest length for a Class B motorhome and some of the pros and cons of choosing a smaller RV.
Why Should You Care About the Length of Your Motorhome?
You should care about the length of your RV because it determines how easy it is to drive and park. A longer motorhome is more challenging to maneuver, and you’ll need more space to park it. However, the smaller RV comes with less storage, and the bathroom situation is usually less than ideal.
So, if you want to use your motorhome as a primary residence in New York City, you’ll want a shorter model. This will allow you to find parking more easily and make driving in the city less daunting.
A Winnebago Revel is just right for this situation, as it is 19.5’ (5.9 m) long and 7.1’ (2.1 m) wide. It is shorter and narrower than most other Class B motorhomes, making it easier to drive and park.
But don’t be fooled by its small size. The Revel is built on a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter chassis, so it has a very comfortable interior with plenty of storage space. And it comes with all the amenities you need for full-time living, such as a queen-size bed, a kitchen, and a bathroom.
Now compare that to what you’d get with a Commander 8X8, which is a 39.4’ (12 m) RV with two stories. The amount of space you get with this thing is enough for a small family to live comfortably on the road.
However, the idea of traveling is not about spending your time indoors. So, all that space is nice but not necessary.
What Are the Best Dimensions of a Tiny Class B Motorhome?
The best dimensions of a tine Class B motorhome are anywhere between 16’ and 18’ (4.8 and 5.4 m) long. This gives you enough space to comfortably sleep two people while still small enough to fit into most parking spots.
Class B motorhomes are typically built on a van chassis, making them easy to drive and maneuver. And, because they’re not as long or wide as other RVs, they’re less likely to get damaged in windy conditions or tight spaces.
If you’re looking for the shortest length possible, 19’ (5.7 m) is probably your best bet. But, if you want a little more space to move around, 21’ (6.4 m) is still a reasonable option. A good example of a smaller RV is the Carado Banif.
It measures 19.6’ (5.9 m) long and 6.7’ (2 m) wide, making it slightly longer than the Revel.
The Hymer Active, a bigger alternative to the Carado, sits pretty at 21’ (6.4 m) and 6.8’ (2 m) wide. While this is not the smallest RV in the world, it’s still much smaller than most Class A and Class C motorhomes.
How Do You Measure the Length of a Class B Motorhome?
You measure the length of a Class B motorhome from the front bumper to the back bumper. This measurement does not include storage compartments or external features like awnings or bike racks.
Still, you don’t get to use the entire length of the RV. You must account for the space taken up by the engine and driving compartment.
The length of a Class B motorhome is typically between 19’ and 22’ (5.7 and 6.7 m). But, some models are shorter or longer than that. For example, the Airstream Interstate EXT is 22’ (6.7 m) long, while the Winnebago Travato is only 19’ (5.7 m) long.
Pros and Cons of a Short Class B Motorhome
There are both pros and cons to choosing a smaller Class B motorhome. Here are some things to consider before making your decision.
Pros
- Maneuverability: A smaller car is always easier to park than a larger one, which is especially true when dealing with motorhomes. They don’t have great visibility at the back, which could cause issues when reversing or parking in tight spaces.
- Convenience: You can take a compact RV to almost any place, including cities and other countries. You can still do this in bigger motorhomes, but it will be expensive and cumbersome.
- Cozy: You don’t need a lot of room to be comfortable. In fact, some people prefer smaller spaces because they are easier to clean, decorate and upgrade.
Cons
- Smaller holding tanks: You’ll need a holding tank to carry your clean and greywater. But, the smaller the RV, the smaller the holding tank will be. This means you’ll have to plan your trips around finding places to empty your gray water and refill your clean water,
- Smaller or portable bathroom: This one is self-explanatory. If you’re used to having a large bathroom, downsizing to a movable one can be a bit of an adjustment.
- Less storage space: Again, a compact RV means less storage space. This can be an issue if you like to bring a lot of gear to your trips.
What Are the Absolute Must-Haves in a Tiny Motorhome?
The absolute must-haves in a tiny motorhome include a kitchenette, bed, and enough storage for your essentials and gear. Some might say an inbuilt bathroom is another essential they cannot live without, and that is totally understandable.
However, you have the option to bring a movable composting toilet or a porta-potty inside your RV. This way, you do not have to live in a cramped space.
RV makers have also come up with innovative ways to arrange extra small motorhomes. An overhead bed is one example, as it uses the space above and leaves more room for other activities during the day.
When looking at different models, also consider a towable RV and the kind of vehicle towing it. A large SUV can tow a longer, heavier RV than a smaller car. However, you might get away with a smaller RV if you have a small car with a 2.0 L engine.
Is DIYing a Small Motorhome a Good Idea?
DIYing a small motorhome is a good idea, and it can be helpful for those who want more control over their design and floor plan. It can also be a fun project if you have the time and resources to pull it off.
Before you start, research the different types of RV construction, which can help you understand the process and what materials you’ll need. You’ll also want to consider how much weight your vehicle can handle.
I’ve seen people build RVs in small vehicles like the Toyota Hiace conversion van, which is only 15’ (4.57 m) long. The results are not always impressive, but most people end up with livable motorhomes.
Closing Thoughts
Small Class B motorhomes have pros and cons, just like any other type of RV. However, it’s important to consider what you need in a motorhome before making the final decision.
If you’re okay with giving up some conveniences, a shorter model might be the right choice. Keep in mind that there are many options available, so take your time and find the perfect one for your needs. Happy RVing!
Up Next In Class-B RVs:
What is the Best Class-B RV for the Money?
Winnebago Revel Review: 6 Owners Tell All
What Is the Smallest Class B RV?
Cheapest Class-B RV? (10 Affordable Favorites)
(featured image: esplori.com)
Erick is a freelance writer and outdoor enthusiast. Growing up in Nairobi Kenya and now calling Glasgow, United Kingdom home. Sipping on homemade spiced swahili tea and enjoying a good book is his idea of bliss.