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Whether you already own a camper or an RV or you’re in the market to buy one, you may be used to hearing the words “RV” and “camper” interchangeably. In a lot of ways, these camping vehicles offer similar capabilities, but there are many key differences that separate the two.
Below, we dive into the main differences you should know about RVs and campers so that you can better understand the vehicle you already own or plan to buy. Let’s take a look.
What Is an RV?
RV stands for Recreational Vehicle. This broad term describes motorized vehicles that can be used to travel and camp for short or long periods of time. RVs are generally large and have their own engine and power capabilities.
These unique vehicles are designed with a sense of luxury in mind and offer comfortable living spaces, often equipped with a bedroom, kitchen, dining space, and even bathrooms on board.
Types of RV
Recreational vehicles are typically divided into classes. RVs come in numerous shapes and sizes, and each class listed below offers certain features that owners may be interested in having on board.
Class A
For a luxurious glamping experience, consider purchasing a Class A RV. These vehicles are the largest, most decked-out RV options on the market and are essentially condos on wheels.
If you have ever seen a tour bus or other bus-like RV on the road, you likely know exactly what a Class A RV looks like. While the exterior of these vehicles is certainly a sight to see, the real luxury comes with the features offered on board.
With this style of RV, you can choose from numerous layouts and even slide-out options that expand the living space when you’re parked. These are great for large parties of people who plan to travel for extended periods or for those who may even opt to live out of an RV.
Class B
For a more compact vehicle, you may be interested in opting for a Class B RV. These vehicles are smaller than their Class A counterparts, making them easier to drive and maneuver on challenging roadways.
Class B RVs have grown in popularity over the last few years as they’re a more cost-effective option than traditional Class A RVs. Class B vehicles refer to sprinter vans or similar trucks that offer a solid foundation for the camper to be built on.
Owners of Class B RVs can completely customize the indoor space of these vans to make the most of the limited room they have. Class B RVs are great for smaller travel parties and are easy to take on the go for extended periods.
Class C
For a middle-ground option, consider looking into Class C RVs. These vehicles are smaller than Class A options but larger than Class B, making them a great option for mid to large-sized travel groups that need a bit more space than what would be offered in a Class B RV but are okay with sacrificing some of the luxury that a Class A RV would offer.
Many Class C RVs offer an overhead sleeping option, leaving the rest of the cab open for general living space. These RVs are still more expensive upfront than Class B options or campers but may be the best vehicle for those considering purchasing an all-in-one recreational vehicle.
What Is a Camper?
Campers are typically smaller than RVs and offer a more basic, less-specialized camping experience. They don’t usually have their own engine and are designed to be towed behind a separate vehicle.
Types of Campers
There are many types of campers on the market, varying in size and power capabilities. Depending on what you plan to use it for, you will likely find one that fits your needs with the styles listed below.
Truck Campers
In recent years, truck campers have grown in popularity. Many people are opting to fit their trucks with these small camper options as a more affordable way to travel. Truck campers are designed to fit in the bed of most pickup trucks and offer little more than a space to sleep each evening.
These compact options are great for those who want something easy to maneuver and take with them wherever they plan to travel. However, there is limited space inside, which may not be suitable for larger travel parties.
Travel Trailer
Unlike truck campers, travel trailers are towed behind a separate vehicle and can vary in size. Some travel trailers can get close to the size of traditional RVs, though there are plenty of smaller, more compact options on the market as well.
While some travel trailers have power capabilities on board, not all do. By adding devices like the EcoFlow Wave 2 Portable AC and EcoFlow Glacier Portable Refrigerator, you can elevate the comfort of your space and make it feel like a home away from home in no time.
Pop-Up Camper
Similar to travel trailers, pop-up campers are easier to tow behind a vehicle as they break down into a smaller version when not in use. They’re also easy to set up and can be detached from your vehicle to set up as a longer-term campsite location.
What Are the Key Differences Between RVs and Campers?
Size
RVs are generally much larger than traditional campers. These vehicles are meant to be stand-alone options, allowing you to travel and camp within them throughout the duration of your stay. Some people will benefit from the larger living space and may enjoy the option of having everything they need within arms’ reach, while others may prefer to opt for a more compact option.
Campers are usually a bit smaller than RVs, though they do come in a variety of sizes and styles, including pop-up campers, fifth wheels, and travel trailers. These campers are often small enough to be towed on a traditional truck or vehicle with a high-towing capability.
Cost
RVs are generally more specialized and built to last, making them a larger upfront investment than campers. While the cost of RVs can range greatly, it’s safe to assume that you’ll spend a larger sum on one of these vehicles for both initial purchasing costs and upkeep than if you chose to go with a camper.
Campers are not cheap but are easier to service and attach to a separate vehicle, meaning you will not have to worry about servicing a separate engine or paying for fuel. Campers are more cost-effective but don’t have as many features to enjoy as a full-scale RV would have.
Electrical System
While both RVs and campers can have electrical systems on board, those found in an RV are usually much more advanced. These electrical systems are designed to provide power throughout the vehicle or camper and vary in power and strength.
Campers may have less powerful electrical systems on board or none at all. The good news is that there are ways to upgrade. Items like the EcoFlow DELTA Pro 3 Solar Generator or the EcoFlow Smart Generator 4000 (Dual Fuel) offer clean solutions to increase your camper’s power capabilities without having to make any drastic changes to its foundation.
Drivability
The large size of RVs makes them excellent for having plenty of space to relax when you park for the evening, but it should be known that driving these vehicles takes a certain level of skill and finesse—especially if you travel to places with mountainous landscapes and narrow, winding roads.
With a lot of practice and patience, you can safely man these vehicles and travel the whole country, but it’s important to know that driving an RV is incredibly different than driving a normal car. Some states even require you to carry a special license to get behind the wheel of these vehicles, so make sure to apply for all necessary permits before you head out.
While it still takes some skill to maneuver a car with a camper attached, it’s typically easier to bring these along to campgrounds. The added benefit of having a camper attached to your normal vehicle is that you can detach and leave it at the campsite to then use your vehicle on its own. This allows for more flexibility and the ability to drive wherever you please without the added stress of towing something behind you.
Frequently Asked Questions
In short, campers can be classified as recreational vehicles. That being said, campers typically fall into a separate category altogether. These vehicles serve a similar purpose to traditional RVs, though they are usually more compact or even camping attachments that are used alongside a traditional truck.
Yes and no. The words campers and RVs are often used interchangeably as they are used for the same thing: a place to sleep during a camping trip. That being said, RVs are stand-alone vehicles, often larger than most camper options on the market. Campers are more compact and don’t typically have an engine on board.
Generally speaking, you’ll require a lesser investment by going with a camper over an RV. RVs are large vehicles and are specialized to perform as a stand-alone unit. The engines in these vehicles are larger and overall more powerful, making the vehicle itself a more expensive up-front investment.
While there are many factors at play, pulling a camper is typically a cheaper option than driving an RV. Campers are pulled by a separate car or truck that has the capacity to tow the weight of the camper. These vehicles are often a lot less expensive than a traditional RV, making it a cheaper option with an overall similar experience to RV camping.
Final Thoughts
While RVs and campers have their differences, one thing holds true with either option—both offer you an elevated camping experience and a chance to travel on your own terms. Whether you prefer to travel by RV or with a camper, you’re guaranteed a great experience out on the open road.
Looking for ways to elevate your next camping adventure? The EcoFlow 800W Alternator Charger allows you to charge on the go, making it a great addition to any RV or camper road trip you may plan next.