Large Class A motorhomes, fifth-wheel trailers, toy haulers, and even Super C campers provide a wonderful, comfortable way to see the world without compromising on space or comfort. A big rig RV like this may require extra planning, but many people who own one are absolutely smitten with the room and accommodations it provides. In this article, we’ll look at what, exactly, a big rig RV is and help you determine whether one is right for you.
- What is a big rig RV?
- Why you might want a big rig RV
- Where can you camp with a big rig RV?
- Other considerations for big rig RVs
What is a Big Rig RV?
A big rig RV is going to be on the larger size of RVs, motorhomes, or trailers. And while they’re called RVs, the term can refer to any larger motorhome or trailer. This can include Class A RVs, fifth-wheel trailers, toy hauler trailers, and Super C RVs, among other models.
You’ll want to make sure any campsite you book is long enough for a big rig RV if you’re driving one. But there are other considerations as well. You’ll need to make sure your big rig can make the necessary turns to get into the campground and campsite – these rigs have a much wider turning radius than smaller vehicles. Winding roads on the approach to the campground will also be a concern. You’ll also want to consider the height of your RV and make sure there aren’t overhanging trees or other obstacles. Finally, you’ll want to make sure the campsite is wide enough to accommodate your RV, with any slideouts deployed that you have.
Big Rig RV Length
Most people consider a big rig RV to be any RV that is 40 feet in length or longer. However, the Campendium website considers any RV 30 feet or longer to be a big rig RV. If you’re booking with them, it’s important to pay special attention to the length of camper allowed at a campsite.
You’ll want to know the exact length of your RV and make sure that any campsite you’re booking can accommodate that length – not all of them can!
Big Rig RV Height
Big rig RVs can vary in height. Many fifth-wheel trailers are about 9 feet tall, while Class A motorhomes can range from 11 to 13 feet tall. You’ll want to know the exact height of your motorhome or trailer and check with the campground to make sure they can accommodate your height.
Big Rig RV Weight
Class A motorhomes range in weight from 13,000-30,000 pounds UVW (Unloaded Vehicle Weight), with big rig RVs being on the higher end of that scale. Fifth-wheel trailers usually have a UVW of about 13,000 pounds. But as with height and length, you’ll want to know the exact specifications of your own rig.
It may not seem like you need to know your weight for campground accommodations – the ground is the ground, right? But some campsites may have dirt, grass, or asphalt that could cause your rig to sink into a soft pad. Make sure you have the proper tools for leveling your rig, and make sure the campground can accommodate the weight of your big rig RV.
Why You Might Want a Big Rig RV
You may want a big rig RV if you plan to live full-time on the road but don’t want to give up any of the creature comforts of your sticks-and-bricks home. Class A RVs or large trailers can have extra bathrooms, washing machines and dryers, state-of-the-art entertainment centers, and even a fireplace or roomy kitchen. And all of those amenities take up room!
You may also need a big rig RV if you’re traveling with a large group. Larger motorhomes and trailers have more room to sleep more people, and you may also want a second bathroom with a larger group.
Large toy hauler trailers with plenty of room for ATVs and other toys, plus luxurious accommodations for campers like a chef’s kitchen, can also be considered big rig RVs.
Where Can You Camp With a Big Rig RV?
You’ll want to look for campgrounds that can accommodate big rig RVs while you’re on the road. Many RV resorts make sure to have sites specifically for larger rigs. They’ll cost more than a bare-bones campsite, but you can rest easy knowing they work to ensure those with bigger motorhomes or trailers will have a comfortable, easily accessible site.
Many national park campgrounds cannot accommodate big rig RVs, unfortunately. However, a lot of these parks have towns near the entrance, where you’ll find private campgrounds that might be more suited to your oversized vehicle.
Stores like Walmart, Cabelas, and Camping World offer free overnight camping (usually for just one night). Their parking lots often have enough room to accommodate larger RVs and trailers.
You can also camp for free on Bureau of Land Management lands, but you’ll need to find a place that is flat and large enough and with a hard enough ground surface to support your RV. It’s a good idea to drive out and survey any BLM area where you want to camp before you take your trip there, if you can.
Other Considerations for Big Rig RVs
There are a few other things to consider as you plan a camping trip with a big rig RV. Let’s take a look at what else you’ll want to research before you head out on your trip.
Read campground reviews
Just because a campground says it’s big rig RV-friendly doesn’t mean it will suit your rig! It’s possible that campground owners measured the campsite area and determined it would work. They may not have considered the road to access the campground or checked overhanging trees and obstructions or noted how close you will be to your campground neighbor. Reading honest reviews from other campers is one of the most helpful tools you have for determining if a spot is right for you.
Walk to your campsite before driving
It’s helpful to get out of your rig and walk over to your campsite first, especially if you’re concerned you may not fit. You can see any potential problems up close, and you can mentally plan how you will approach the campsite.
Look at the route, not just the campground
You’ll need to be careful about the campsites you choose in a larger RV, yes. But you’ll also need to consider your entire driving route if you’re operating a larger vehicle. Check any bridge and underpass heights before driving under them. See if there are any winding roads or sharp turns. Check for roads with weight restrictions. Watch for any highways or roads that are off-limits to large vehicles.
Check the weather
Everything is more of a challenge when you’re driving a large vehicle, including rain or thunderstorms! Check weather reports and make sure you’re comfortable driving in the predicted conditions.
Know that you won’t go as far or as fast as a smaller vehicle
You’ll likely be driving at a lower speed in a big rig RV than you would be in a car or even a smaller RV. You’ll want to plan on a lower mileage each day as a result of that. Driver fatigue can also set in faster when you’re managing a larger rig. You may want to consider more frequent rest days in between driving days. You could also consider shorter driving times each day to ensure you’re well-rested and ready to drive safely.
Add in extra costs
There can be added costs with operating a larger big rig RV than with a smaller camper or trailer. Class A diesel pushers obviously require diesel fuel, which can be more expensive than gas. Larger vehicles also get lower gas mileage, so you’ll be spending more on fuel. Campgrounds with full hookups that can accommodate larger rigs may also cost more.
Driving and camping in a big rig RV has some extra challenges. But many people who have these larger vehicles absolutely love them! The space and accommodations they provide without sacrificing the freedom of the open road make them the perfect option for many travelers. And the extra sleeping room and bathrooms make them a great option for large groups. They take a little extra thought, planning, and possibly money, but plenty of people would argue they’re worth it.
