Differentiating Class A, B, & C Recreational Vehicles and their Impacts on RV Insurance

Choosing an RV means picking one that best suits your travel style, the number of people you travel with at one time, budget, and so much more. There are three main choices when it comes to RVs: Class A, B, and C. Each has its different benefits and different opportunities, so it really comes down to how you wish to use yours and what your needs are. Moreover, as RVs are self-propelled, you’ll find that in many states they require insurance. It’s a little different insuring an RV than it is your average vehicle, but Hitchings Insurance has the know-how you need when it comes to recreational vehicle coverage. 

In this blog post, we break down the differences between Class A, B, and C RVs, as well as how to insure your beloved recreational vehicles.  

What is a “Class A” RV? 

Class A RVs are easiest recognized by their strong frames, built from either commercial busses, motor vehicle chassis, or commercial truck chassis. For those who are looking for something that can closest resemble a real home, the Class A RV does the trick. This is the largest among the RV classes but tends to have the worst fuel economy. There’s a larger interior and the Class A RV features 22.5-inch wheels, which help to support a much larger load and capacity for storage. Class A RVs can have a towing capacity of upwards of 5,000 lbs. The Diesel Pusher boasts a towing capacity on the higher limit of around 10,000 lbs. 

What is a “Class B” RV? 

If fuel economy is what you need, Class B RVs are the smallest of your options and have the easiest fuel economy. They also have less space, and typically the bathrooms are all conjoined into one area. They may also be referred to as camper vans – only slightly larger than average vans. There isn’t much space, but these vehicles are much easier to drive than their larger alternatives and far less expensive overall. 

What is a “Class C” RV? 

Class C RVs are the midway point between the much larger Class A and smaller Class B. They have an over cab sleeping area, which allows for a larger living space. You can also tow a separate vehicle behind a Class C RV, allowing you to leave your larger vehicle stationed while you use your car to travel elsewhere. Class C RVs may have a towing capacity of up to 3,500 lbs and may be around 30 feet long or longer.  

RV Insurance

Insuring an RV is similar to insuring a regular vehicle, except for some key differences. It’s easy to assume that because your RV isn’t a “car” insurance isn’t mandatory. However, in most states, you will be required to carry a minimum amount of liability coverage. Whether you use your trailer for a few weekends during the summer or you travel full-time, RV insurance is critical. Coverage may look a little different depending on if you have a Class A RV Diesel Pusher, a smaller camper van, or anything in-between. Here are the basics: 

RV Liability Coverage 

As our society becomes increasingly litigious, liability coverage has never been more important. Liability insurance may cover you if you injure someone else or damage their property while behind the wheel of your RV. Liability coverage can also be extended to premises liability, depending on your provider, to extend coverage to injuries and damages that occur in and around your recreational vehicle when it is stationed.  

Collision 

Not unlike personal auto insurance, you have the option of including collision insurance in your RV insurance package, which covers you for repairs or replacements if your RV is damaged in an accident with another motor vehicle or an object (like a street post or tree.)  

Comprehensive 

Comprehensive coverage includes protection against repairs or replacements due to perils that may damage your RV, including hail, natural disaster, fire, theft and vandalism.  

You may also select from several other coverage options for your RV, including the below list: 

• Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage 
• Emergency roadside assistance 
• Lock replacement 
• Sewer back-up and overland water 
• Umbrella liability 
• Permanent attachments coverage 
• Full-time RV coverage 
• Pet injury 

This list is not exhaustive, and you will find that your coverage may vary by provider. Discuss with a Hitchings Insurance agent about your circumstances and needs and we will help find you a policy that best suits your needs, budget, and vacationing style. 

How Is RV Insurance Different Than Personal Auto? 

Although RV insurance and personal auto insurance have some similarities, there are some key differences. Namely that RV insurance policies may be designed to include the contents within an RV, as an RV may have items particular to its operations, including detached structures like awnings and decks. A good RV insurance policy will be catered to the lifestyle of the owner. Moreover, if you use your Class A RV or any other RV type full-time, then you’ll need to consider asking about a package for full-time travelers. Most RV insurance providers will offer options for full-timers, including coverage for things like emergency roadside expenses, premises liability, and snowbird endorsements (if you drive south for the winter).  

Your RV might be a temporary asset where you spend family vacations roaming around every few weeks in the summertime, or it might be your actual full-time home. Whatever the case, it’s important to know the difference between RVs and how insurance works. For further assistance, consult with a Hitchings Insurance Agency representative. As experts in insuring RVs, we’ll help break down the coverages for you so you know exactly how you’re covered.