The Types of Motorhome Explained

You may have seen many more motorhomes on the road and, with the market expanding, it’s important to firstly understand the different types of motorhome, the main features, and whether they are likely to suit both you and your budget.

There are three main types of motorhome:

A-Class Motorhomes

A-class motorhomes are renowned for being the most luxurious option on the market. As the classification featuring some of the largest vehicles on offer, A-class motorhomes offer plenty of interior space, which means they are great family vehicles. It’s not uncommon to find A-class motorhomes which sleep up to six people – perfect if you are looking to travel with children or guests and over long distances.

These motorhomes are known for offering a great variety of sleeping options, from fixed island double beds to electric drop down beds, giving you the ultimate home-from-home experience. If it’s maximum storage you’re after, many A-class motorhomes have their own spacious garages, perfect for storing all that outdoor gear. However, garages can also be a feature of many smaller motorhomes, such as sporty-style campervans or some of our coachbuilt models.

As explained in a previous blog, there are so many benefits that come with owning an A-class motorhome. However, it’s important to bear in mind that many A-class motorhomes – though not all – have a maximum laden weight in excess of 3,500kg, which means that they cannot be driven on a standard category B driving licence and an additional licence may be required. So, it’s not common to choose an A-class as a starter vehicle.

Coachbuilt Motorhomes (C-Class Motorhomes)

If you’re looking for a more affordable option, still with plenty of space, a coachbuilt motorhome may be for you. Coachbuilt motorhomes, sometimes called C-class motorhomes, are built with a cab or cutaway chassis, often with sleeping and living space for up to six people. Offering a number of clever design layouts, with bathrooms, double beds, large kitchen facilities and integrated storage space, coachbuilt motorhomes are packed with home-from-home living features. Low-profile type coachbuilt motorhomes don’t have a projection over the front cab, making for a more aerodynamic design. Many of the coachbuilt designs have swivel cab seats, giving the same sociable feel as an A-class for those who want a more manageable vehicle. Our specialty lies with coachbuilt motorhomes here at Auto-Trail, with five impressive ranges to choose from including the Auto-Trail Expedition and the Auto-Trail F-Line.

Panel Van Conversions

Panel van conversions remain a popular choice, showcasing smart solutions where no centimetre is wasted. They have room for all the family, sometimes with a pop-top roof for extra sleeping space. Often, panel vans are proof that being on the smaller side doesn’t mean compromising on the high-spec interiors that can be found in A-class and coachbuilt motorhomes. Panel van conversions are a great option which double up as an everyday vehicle if you’re worried about financing another vehicle. The ultimate no-fuss vehicle, the panel van conversions are large enough to live comfortably, but small enough to manoeuvre, even for the most nervous of drivers. We stock a number of panel conversions with up to four berths, including the Auto-Trail Adventure range and the Adventure.

Hopefully we’ve given you an insight into the types of motorhomes on the market. Spend some time thinking about your requirements, whether you’ll be travelling with a family, how far you’re likely to be travelling at any one time and determine a realistic budget. Find your nearest Auto-Trail stockist today to see some of our exceptional motorhomes in person to help you come to your decision.