Do you know you want a Class C motorhome?
Are you overwhelmed by the many options?
We know how hard it can be to feel confident knowing you’ve picked the right Class C RV. We’ve helped thousands of RVers find the perfect motorhome, and we can help you!
Every RVer is different. This guide will help you decide which features matter the most to you, so you can choose an RV that’s a good fit for your needs.
Table of Contents
What is a Class C Motorhome Anyway?
Start with a solid truck or van chassis, attach a comfortable living space with all the amenities of home, and put it on the open road. That’s a Class C RV!
These motorhomes are 21 – 41 feet long and have an overhead cab for storage or sleeping space. They include fully equipped kitchens, a bathroom, dining space, and a bedroom.
A Class C coach may have up to 4 slide-outs to create extra living space at the push of a button.
You can expect a larger holding tank than you’d find in a travel trailer. A Class C also likely includes a generator on board so you can use the appliances in your camper without hooking up to external power and water hookups.
The features in a Class C RV make it a great way to camp further out in nature’s more remote areas without sacrificing comfort.
Class C RVers take their motorhomes all over the world! They use them to camp in the boonies and at campsites with family and friends, or even live in them full-time.
There are 3 types of Class C motorhomes – Class C Gas, Class C Diesel, and Super C Motorhomes. Learn more about these 3 types of Class C Motorhomes to decide which is best for you.
How Much Does a Class C Motorhome Cost?
New Class C RV Price Range:
$30,000 – $900,000+
Used Class C Motorhome Price Range:
$5,000 – $700,000+
It can be frustrating to see such a huge price range, but each Class C varies in features, floorplans, and available options – and the price will reflect the differences.
A Class C RV’s price changes based on its
- Age
- Condition
- Desirability (Determined by factors like size, niche, gas type, and chassis)
Some coaches cannot be listed online for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price. This is known as “MAP” pricing (minimum advertised pricing). In these cases you’ll want to reach out to the dealer, and ideally several dealers, to get a better idea of the price range.
Learn more about how much a Class C Motorhome costs and why.
Questions to Ask Before You Buy an RV
We recommend asking these questions before you buy any RV.
- Where and how do you want to camp?
- How many people will sleep in the RV?
- How often will you RV and how long are your trips?
- Where do you live and camp?
- Are you trading in something else?
- What have you liked or disliked about other RVs you’ve owned?
- What do you like in other RVs?
- How much do you want to spend?
- Do you want to pay cash or get a loan?
What to Look For When You Buy a Class C RV
Thoroughly research and compare different models, read customer reviews, and if possible, visit dealerships or RV shows to see the Class C motorhomes that appeal to you in person.
Take your time and consider the following factors to find a Class C motorhome that’s the right fit for you and your adventures:
BUDGET AND FINANCING:
Determine your budget for the motorhome purchase and consider your financing options. Compare prices, features, and value for money across different models and manufacturers.
Learn more about finding the lowest price for your RV and how to get the best deal on your RV loan.
Keep in mind, a dealer should respect your budget and not try to push you beyond it. A dealer that pushes you past what you can comfortably afford may not have your best interest in mind.
SIZE AND LAYOUT:
Make sure your motorhome has the sleeping space, seating capacity, kitchen functionality, bathroom amenities, and storage space you need.
CHASSIS AND DRIVABILITY:
The chassis of a Class C motorhome is typically a Ford, Chevy, or Mercedes-Benz platform. Each has different pros and cons you’ll want to consider.
Take into account fuel type and efficiency, engine power, how difficult the coach is to maneuver where you want to go, and how difficult it will be to drive in various conditions.
INTERIOR FEATURES:
Shop Forester Motorhomes
Does the coach have all the interior features and amenities you want?
Check the quality of appliances (stove, refrigerator, microwave, etc.), entertainment systems, heating and cooling systems, and overall comfort.
Be sure you can also access all of the controls and switches required to operate the vehicle.
BEDDING AND SEATING:
Look for comfortable and well-designed beds or convertible seating options.
The main bedroom may have a door, sliding door, or curtain. Choose which privacy level is best for you.
Check to make sure the coach has all the space to bring along the family or friends you plan to travel with.
Shop Redhawk Motorhomes
CLASS C MOTORHOME KITCHENS:
Look for a functional layout for your cooking and storage needs.
Shop View Motorhomes
Be sure there is a sink with hot and cold water, a stove or cooktop, a refrigerator, and enough storage space for your cooking utensils and supplies.
STORAGE OPTIONS:
Check for storage space both inside and outside the motorhome.
Look in cabinets, closets, drawers, and other storage compartments. Be sure the space is sufficient for your belongings and easy to access.
POWER AND UTILITIES:
Learn about the power and utility systems of the motorhome you’re considering.
Check for a reliable electrical system, including batteries and inverters, as well as a freshwater tank, wastewater tanks, and propane system.
INSULATION AND CLIMATE CONTROL:
Will you travel in the early spring, late fall, or even winter? Consider the insulation and climate control features of the motorhome.
You’ll need enough insulation in the walls and ceiling plus efficient heating and cooling systems to keep comfortable in different weather conditions.
EXTERIOR QUALITY & FEATURES:
Check for any signs of damage to the exterior of the RV. Look at the condition of the roof, seals, windows, and doors.
You’ll also want to make sure it has the features you need. Things like awnings, outdoor storage compartments, bike racks, and easy to access utilities may matter to you.
MANUFACTURER REPUTATION:
Research the reputation of the motorhome manufacturer. Look for reviews, customer feedback, and the overall reliability and quality of their products.
A reputable manufacturer often indicates better construction and after-sales support.
Popular brands have had a lot of testing and an overall reliable reputation. See the 11 most popular class C motorhomes to find out if one is right for you.
See the Top 10 RV Manufacturers in America and learn why some manufacturers cost more than others.
WARRANTY AND AFTER-SALES SUPPORT:
Learn about the warranty provided by the manufacturer and what after-sales support is available. A good warranty and reliable customer service are very valuable when issues show up – and they almost always do with any RV.
Different dealers offer different levels of after-sale support. Ask your dealer what benefits they offer customers.
When you buy your RV at Bish’s RV we include a free year to our BishFix repair service and membership to our Diamond Club which includes these after-sale perks:
Find the Right Class C Motorhome Dealer for You
Take your time and shop around to get a feel for what’s available and what’s the best fit for you.
No dealership is perfect for every RVer. We even have a list of reasons Bish’s RV may not be right for you.
Check out this comprehensive guide to the different types of RV sellers for the information you need to decide where you want to buy your RV.
If you decide to purchase from a dealership, you can find out which dealers RVers in your state choose.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when you’re looking to buy a Class C motorhome from a dealership:
PROTECT YOURSELF FROM SURPRISE FEES
Dealers have different pricing strategies. You can learn more about why dealers have different prices on the same RVs to help you decide what type of dealership is best for you.
🚨 Pro Tip: Some dealerships price their RVs very low and then tack on extra fees at closing time – even thousands of dollars more. Learn how to avoid hidden RV dealer fees so you don’t get trapped paying more than you budgeted.
UNDERSTAND SALESPERSON COMMISSION
You may also want to ask your dealer how the sales commission is paid.
Commission based on how much you pay for your RV can influence a salesperson to push you into a motorhome that is more expensive than what you want to pay or can really afford.
Some dealers, like Bish’s RV, pay commission based on the number of RVs a salesperson sells. This frees the salesperson to find the best RV for you without worrying about their own bottom line.
If you have any questions or want to learn more about buying a class C motorhome from Bish’s – reach out anytime. We’d love to help!
Learn some of the other ways Bish’s RV is a different kind of RV dealer.
UNDERSTAND FINANCING
Planning to finance your motorhome? You’re not alone. 70-75% of buyers finance their RV purchase.
Learn the ins and outs of financing an RV to make sure you get the best deal on your RV loan.
Buy Your Class C RV
Now that you know what to look for in a Class C coach you can start shopping!
We want you to have all the information you need because we love to see you find your perfect RV – even if it’s not always from us! If we do have what you’re looking for, we’d love to help you get on the road making memories in your new motorhome
See our inventory to browse the new and used Class C RVs available at our Bish’s RV locations across the country.
If you like something you’ve seen here or have more questions – reach out anytime!
Our RV outfitters are experts at matching you with your perfect RV, so if none of the Class C options you’ve seen here are the right fit, let us know and we’ll help you find a better match.
Learn More:
- 8 Tips for First Time RV Buyers.
- Find out the cost of a Fifth Wheel, and Travel Trailer.
- Consider the Pros & Cons of a motorhome to make sure one is right for you.
- Check out these best-selling Class B campervans
Becki Johnson
Bish’s RV Content Editor & Writer
20 years in the RV industry and a lifetime around RVs have convinced me that nature is a lot better with a comfortable bed and working bathroom.
I love to use what I’ve learned to help RVers find the best RV for the best possible price.