Camping is often considered a relaxed past time that tons of Aussies enjoy every day. For camping rookies, or even those who have been prone to a good old fashioned camping trip every now and then, deciding which sort of transport/accommodation/travel companion is best for you can feel as if you’re stepping onto a new planet where everyone speaks in a language you don’t understand.
When it comes to chatter around the caravan park, camping can sometimes be one of those pastimes where if you don’t know the lingo, you feel really excluded. When it comes to camping, don’t feel like this has to be the case. Camping is about good times, the great outdoors and seeing our awesome country. But, it doesn’t hurt to be up to scratch on your camping knowledge. This blog will go into detail about all of the different camping options on the market.
There are a tone of products to choose from but we’re going to cut to the chase; there’s nothing better than a camper trailer.
Don’t believe us? Keep on reading and we’ll help convince you why there isn’t another camping option on the market that is as versatile, easy to use and affordable than a camper trailer.
If you’re already thinking about a camper trailer from Mars Campers, find out more here.
Camper Trailers, Camper Vans And RVs? What Does It All Mean?
Camping vehicles can be a rather confusing subject because some of the names for the cars, trucks and motorhomes have unclear definitions and can be used interchangeably with each other.
The other source of misunderstanding comes from the fact that we Australian’s have different names for some of our vehicles, compared to our American counterparts.
For instance, Americans will call any camping vehicle a motorhome, where we say RV.
Let’s get down to breaking it down:
The first set of terms you might be familiar with are recreational vehicle classes. While it may seem logical to compare from the top down; Class A is the top tier, followed by Class C and then Class B.
* Class A
* Class B
* Class C
Class A vehicles are your top of the range RVs, but wait, what’s an RV? An RV is the general term for all camping vehicles but also refers to the highest tier of RVs — a Class A vehicle.
It’s a little confusing but that’s the way it is. If you’re trying to picture what a Class A RV looks like it’s the one that looks identical to a bus.
RVs are your most expensive choice when it comes to a camping motor vehicle. They are the largest options complete with almost every type of feature/facility you could imagine.
– Price range: $50,000–$500,000
The lines between a Class B and Class C RV are increasingly becoming blurred and vague. It is also relevant to point out that hybrid options for Class B and Class C RVs are becoming more and more popular, further adding to the unclear definition.
Class B RVs; the lowest type of RV, are typically made up of campervans. They are the smallest of the options with the simplest designs and a minimalist approach.
* Price range: $40,000–$80,000
Class C RVs; the middle and second highest option, can contain a number of vehicle types including:
* Campervans
* Caravans
* RVs (smaller versions of a Class A RV)
* Any vehicle with a cabin chassis
Class C RVs are more expensive than Class B and often come with added features and facilities inbuilt with the vehicle’s design.
* Price range: $50,000–$100,000
It can be quite difficult to find a true definition for Class A, B and C RVs. Rather than get bogged down in the confusion, treat them as price ranges for you to consider. Is a Class B vehicle worth the money or should we go with a Class C?
The class system is often used as a gauge for the price range and features included, now we’ll go into detail about the different types of vehicles, their capabilities and features, as well as the pros and cons for each of them.
When it comes to the perfect blend between being useable, economical and flexible, there is no better choice than a camper trailer.
A camper trailer is a perfect companion for all types of campers, whether you’re heading into tough terrain or going away on a weekend camping trip an hour away.
Camper trailers allow you to use your own vehicle, provided it’s suitable for towing and outdoor adventure — which is likely the case if you’re already a camper or are interested in the idea.
Camper trailers come with a number of features both standard and optional ranging from batteries, showers, kitchens, bedding, storage, water tanks and more.
Perhaps the best reason to choose a camper trailer is the economical savings you’ll receive if you invest in one. It’s cheaper to buy from the onset, as well as lower fuel consumption and less maintenance.
Camper trailers also don’t take up a lot of space in the driveway compared to buying a completely new vehicle live an RV or campervan. An on and off-road trailer is also much safer than a fifth-wheeler or caravan.
Campervans are, as the name suggests, vans that have been created to suit camping needs for adventurers looking for an all in one vehicle. But, they’re bulky, restrictive, and expensive.
Campervans are an ideal choice for campers who want the simplest option for their holidays away. They are the most like regular cars and come with all the facilities you’d need for a basic camping adventure.
They are the cheaper choice when it comes to a camping vehicle that is self-sustained and can drive itself.
Some downsides include limited space due to the van’s design as well as some comfort limitations due to the simplicity of the campervan fit-out.
Caravans are likely the most iconic camping option on the market because of their iconic look and design.
If you go to any campsite around Australia, you will undoubtedly find a caravan parked under a tree. When it comes to choosing whether or not a caravan is suitable for you there are some things you must consider.
The upfront cost of a caravan can be quite steep, they’re an investment and you’re going to need something that can tow it. If you’re starting from scratch, then the cost of buying a caravan and 4WD can be very expensive.
However, for those who want an upgrade and would get lots of use out of a caravan will find they could use the extra space and facilities. Caravans are an excellent option for
large families who want to travel whilst still feeling like they’re at home, but it strips back the authentic feel of camping that a camper trailer gives you.
In terms of feeling like you’re at home, you’ll have everything from a TV to a fridge and toilet — all of which can be very hard to come by in the great Aussie outback.
The other type of caravan you might be interested in is a fifth wheeler, an RV type that is popular in America but has recently made waves in the Australian market.
As the name suggests, it’s a caravan with a fifth wheel.
A fifth wheel shouldn’t make much of a difference, right? Well, it does
A fifth wheel adds a much safer dimension to the vehicle as it’s easier to tow, it can go forwards and backwards and is much more stable.
The extra wheel also allows the manufacturer to make it comparably longer than normal caravans adding more room.
When it comes to camping, the undisputed king of all-purpose vehicles has to be given to the RV.
Where some camping options allow for modest room, comfy beds and maybe some electrical appliances; an RV says I’ll take all of that and more.
Some RVs rival houses in terms of sizes and amenities onboard; boasting baths, multiple toilets, complete kitchens and n double-decker designs for maximum extravagance. At some point, it’s not even really camping, which kind of defeats the purpose if you ask us!
Even the smallest RVs can set you back quite a lot of money. If you’re thinking about one, then you’re likely an avid camper who is going for extended road trips often. They will also require frequent maintenance which in itself can be pricy.
Camping is about adapting and problem-solving in the great Aussie outback. There isn’t a better option to give you flexibility and problem solving like a camper trailer. Take a look at our wide range of camper trailers on our website. If you’ve got any questions or would like to talk to someone directly, contact one of our Mars team staff for any help today.