When you’re looking for a travel vehicle that you can sleep in and store all your essentials during a trip, you’ll find that you have several options. Many of these vehicles are referred to as camping vans and RVs. 

Is there really a difference between camping vans and RVs? We’ll explore that in this article to help you make an educated rental decision. Plus, we’ll provide information about what you get with a class B RV rental compared to other options. 

Basic Definition of a Camping Van

A camping van provides both transportation and sleeping space in one unit. Most camper vans also come with other amenities like kitchen equipment, extra storage, and foldaway benches and tables. 

The official camper van classification is a class B RV. You’ll also run into other RV classes called class A and C RVs, which are larger and harder to drive than class B models. 

Are Campers and RVs the Same?

When you look at the camper definition and RV definition, you’ll notice that they’re technically the same thing. All recreational vehicles (RVs) are defined as motor vehicles or trailers that provide sleeping space and living quarters. 

That said, since there are different classes of RVs, there was some need to differentiate between the larger class A and C models and the more compact class B RVs. That’s why class B RVs are often referred to as camping vans or camper vans instead. 

When you compare a camping van to an RV, you’ll notice that they’re smaller, easier to drive, and more manageable for the average person. Class B camper vans are oversized vehicles built on van chassis, which makes them feel like driving a larger car or truck rather than the big bulky class A or C RVs that require making big turns and driving with lower visibility around you. 

Here’s more about the pros and cons of camper vans.

What Is Classified as an RV? 

Any vehicle or trailer with sleeping and living space is given the RV classification. However, there are many types of RVs and RV features that vary between units. 

As mentioned, class B camper vans are the most compact option and will be easier to drive. However, their features are a bit more basic than other options since there’s less space available. 

Class A and C RVs are larger and might have more premium amenities, such as a full bathroom with a shower or a washing machine and dryer. That said, these extra amenities require more maintenance, and vehicles with them will cost more to buy and rent. 

Lastly, another type of RV is a travel trailer. These are units that you would tow behind an SUV or truck that provide living and sleeping space when you’re traveling. 

Why Is a Van Better Than an RV?

When you’re comparing a RV vs campervan, you may notice there are several advantages to camper vans. 

Most notably, the convenience of vans stands out since they don’t have much learning curve to drive them compared to larger RVs. They also provide enough space to keep all your essentials, and it’s much easier to park them in campsites and parking spaces wherever you travel. 

Camper vans are also more fuel-efficient than larger options, have lower maintenance expenses since they have fewer moving parts, and cost less to buy or rent, making them more affordable overall. 

Rent a Camper Van from Escape Camper Vans

Escape Camper Vans provides reliable and affordable travel vehicles for all your needs. We have over 600 uniquely handpainted vans for rent in 11 locations across the U.S. 

When you rent one of our vehicles, you get features like:

• Queen size beds
• Propane stove
• Refrigerator
• Sink with a water tank
• Foldaway tables and benches
• Extra storage 
• And mor

Reserve yours today, or contact us with any other questions.