What Size Camper Can I Drive?

The size and weight of a camper depend on your license, experience and regulations. But with enough practice and preparation, you can drive any RV. This experience seriously differs from towing a camper, and it can be a cheaper and less stressful alternative in the long run too.

Normally motorized homes or campers come in three different classes: A, B and C. The confusing part about sizes is that class A has the largest RVs, class B has the smallest campers and class C falls somewhere in the middle. Keep that fun little detail in mind while searching for a camper by class or checking the regulations in a park you are going to.

Camper Size by Type

Camper Class	Length Range (in feet)	Weight Range (in lbs)
Class A	21-45	13,000-30,000
Class B	17-19	4,000-9,000
Class B+	20-30	7,000-12,000
Class C	20-31	10,000-13,000

Larger campers, like class A tend to be harder to drive for inexperienced drivers. It handles very differently than your average car. It's sluggishness and low maneuverability can cause some discomfort at first. 

"The size of a camper significantly impacts the driving experience. Larger motorhomes require more careful maneuvering, especially around curves, in cities, or during parking. Additionally, bigger campers may have slower acceleration and require longer stopping distances", says Hailey Harris from Licenselookup.org.

But the people from Reddit who drive these RVs to camp in the wild say that it’s totally worth the effort. Especially if you like sleeping in your own bed instead of renting a room or staying in a tent. However, this opinion is subjective and depends on how ready you are to keep the camper maintained all year, not only while traveling.

What Size RV is Easiest to Drive?

The obvious answer is class B campers are easier to drive, but some class C campers are built on a generic truck or minivan chassis. This makes them comparatively easy to deal with if you have some experience driving larger vehicles. 

The size plays a huge role in the overall RV driving experience. Class A campers are too bulky, but the small class B does not differ from a car too much to cause major discomfort. Their weight and size offer enough maneuverability to feel confident in narrow spaces and during steep turns. 

Class B and some class C camper trailers are easy to park in most parking lots. Their size is comparable to a standard minivan which makes them quite versatile. So, if you want something plain and simple to drive, start camping with a class B RV.

What is the Maximum Size of a Camper You Can Drive?

According to Fiifth Wheel St, the largest camper length you can drive is around 45 feet. These campers belong to Class A, the largest motorhomes. Of course, some states have either more strict or more lax regulations, so check that before you go traveling. 

However, some parks allow RVs up to 60 feet in their camping and parking areas. So, 45 feet is not the largest campers can get. However, think twice about purchasing such a giant because they are more difficult to handle and maintain. Sometimes, less is more when it comes to RVing.

Is It Better to Pull or Drive a Camper?

It really depends on the end goal. If you enjoy an occasional trip to picturesque sites with a small family or a partner, then a towable small RV is the best option for you. They are cheaper, easier to maintain and store during the off-season. This option also works best for those who don’t feel confident enough to start driving an RV.

Andrew Kuttow, a camping & RV travel blogger at RV Camp Gear, perfectly outlines another valid reason why driving a camper can be better than towing for some people:

Pull-behind campers, or trailers, can be a good option if you already have a capable towing vehicle, like a truck or SUV. They can also be left at the campsite if you need to use your vehicle for other activities. However, they require some skill to maneuver, especially when backing up.

But, for larger families or avid RV enthusiasts, there is hardly anything better than driving their own full-sized camper. This investment is totally worth it if you dream about traveling across the states or spending more time outdoors.

As Robert Walden, an experienced mechanic, car enthusiast, and founder of VehicleFreak.com, puts it:

When it comes to pulling versus driving a camper, it's like choosing between an apple and an orange - both are fruit, but the taste, well, it's worlds apart. Pulling a camper, or towing as we in the industry say, gives you a bit more flexibility. You can unhitch at the campsite and use your vehicle for local errands or sightseeing. Plus, if something goes wrong with your vehicle, it's easier to get it fixed.
Driving a camper is an all-in-one experience - don't have to worry about hooking up and unhooking a trailer, which is nice. But if the camper breaks down, your whole home-on-wheels goes to the shop.

Can You Drive a Camper Van on a Car Licence US?

Yes, you can drive a camper with a regular car license, but this rule has an asterisk. If your RV is class A, and its weight exceeds 26,000 lbs or a max length limit (40-45 feet) for the state, you will need a special license to drive it. This is a rare occasion, but it’s still possible.

To get such a license, you will need to pass a safety test after a short course. Alternatively, you might need to get a CDL to drive your oversized camper. With enough practice and some confidence, you will nail it!

Are Bigger Campers Hard to Drive?

Larger campers are more difficult to drive compared to a car or a small class B camper. Their size makes handling tricky and restricts maneuverability in tight spots. You must be exceptionally careful while parking and cornering. But aside from that, you won’t even need a special license to drive a big camper if it stays within the size limits.

But larger camper trailers are definitely worth the careful driving. They can give you amazing memories and comfort during your stay wherever you go.