What Is a Class B Plus RV? Everything You Need to Know

As the RV lifestyle continues to grow in popularity, so do the demands of travelers looking for the ideal balance between mobility, comfort, and amenities. Among the many Class B motorhomes available today, the Class B Plus RV (also called B Plus motorhomes) stands out as a hybrid solutionโessentially a Class B in size and drivability, but with many of the comforts found in larger RVs.
This guide covers everything you need to know about Class B+ motorhomes: how they differ from Class B motorhomes, how they compare to Class C RVs, and why they might be the perfect choice for your next adventure. Whether youโre new to RV buying or comparing multiple RV types, youโll find insights here to help make an informed decision.
Why Class B+ RVs Are Gaining Popularity
The rise in the popularity of van life has led to a surge in demand for RVs that are compact yet comfortable. Class B+ RVs strike a perfect balance between other types of motorhomes, combining the best features of each. Larger and more comfortable than a traditional camper van, yet significantly easier to drive than a Class A motorhome and more compact than a Class C, Class B+ RVs offer an ideal blend of convenience, comfort, and drivability.
People love these small RVs because they provide:
- A larger living area than smaller Class B motorhomes.
- Better fuel economy than larger Class A or C motorhomes.
- Drivability for those new to RV camping.
- Smart use of space, with many models including slide-outs, solar panels, and dry bathrooms.
- A home-like feel without needing to jump into a larger class of RV.
This blend of compactness and comfort makes B Plus motorhomes especially appealing to retirees, couples, solo travelers, and even weekend warriors.
What Is a Class B Plus RV?
A Class B Plus motorhome is a compact RV built on a cutaway chassisโsuch as the Ford Transit, Chevy Express, or Mercedes Sprinter. Most are built on a Ford chassis, offering strength and durability for extended road use. Unlike a Class B van that retains the factory van shell, a B+ has a wider, custom-built coach body for increased living space and amenities.
Key Characteristics:
- Wider than traditional Class Bs, typically 7.5 to 8 feet.
- Often no over-cab bunk, giving it a more streamlined profile.
- Features a dry bathroom, a full kitchen, and queen or murphy beds.
- Offers slide-outs in some models for an expandable floor plan.
- Many come pre-wired for solar panels and include advanced power management.
- Spacious enough for full-time travel, while still smaller than a Class C RV.
Think of it as behind the cab luxuryโcombining the agility of a camper van with the roominess of a small Class C RV.
Class B vs. Class B+ RV: Whatโs the Difference?
Understanding the difference between a Class B and Class B+ is essential in the RV buying journey. While they might look similar on the surface, there are important differences between Class B motorhomes and B+ models when it comes to structure, interior space, and amenities.
Feature | Class B Motorhome | Class B Plus RV |
Chassis | Factory van body | Cutaway van chassis with wider body |
Profile | Compact, stealthy | Wider and taller, but still aerodynamic |
Bathroom | Wet bath | Dry bath (separate shower/toilet) |
Living Space | Limited | More open and flexible floor plans |
Ideal Use | Stealth camping, city travel | Long-term trips, scenic routes |
A Class B motorhome is best for quick, agile travelโespecially in urban settings. In contrast, a Class B Plus offers an advantage of a Class B with more space and comfort. Itโs like a Class C, but smaller and more efficient.
Class B+ vs. Class C Motorhome: Which One Is Better for You?
When comparing a Class B Plus vs Class C, consider your travel needs. While the differences between Class B+ and Class C RVs may appear minor, they can significantly affect your experience on the road.
Feature | Class B Plus RV | Class C Motorhome |
Size | 20โ23 feet | 23โ39 feet |
Over-Cab Bed | Rare | Common |
Sleeping Capacity | 2โ4 people | 4โ8 people |
Storage | Moderate | Extensive |
Drivability | Superior | More challenging |
B Plus motorhomes are easier to maneuver, especially for first-time drivers. Meanwhile, Class C RVs offer more room for families or larger groups. If youโre looking for comfort but want to avoid the bulk of a larger class RV, the B+ could be your perfect match.
How Class B+ Compares to Class A and Other RV Types
There are multiple RV types, and each serves a different kind of traveler. If youโre choosing between a Class B and a Class A, or wondering about Class A vs Class C, hereโs a general breakdown:
- Class A RVs: Largest and most luxurious; great for families or full-time living
- Class C RVs: Built on truck chassis; more space than B/B+ but harder to drive
- Class B Motorhomes: Great for quick, agile travel with minimal amenities
- Class B Plus: B and A Class B benefits combinedโcompact yet luxurious
RV Type | Chassis | Key Features | Best For | Ease of Driving |
Class A | Bus or custom chassis | Most spacious, luxury amenities, full kitchens & baths | Full-time RVers, families, luxury travelers | Difficult (large, wide turns) |
Class B | Van chassis | Compact, fuel-efficient, minimal amenities | Solo travelers, couples, city campers | Very easy (like a van) |
Class B Plus | Van chassis with extended coach body | Adds space, separate sleeping, better amenities than B | Couples, part-time RVers seeking comfort | Easy to moderate |
Class C | Truck/van chassis | Over-cab bed, separate living spaces, moderate luxury | Families, first-time RVers | Moderate (truck-like) |
When evaluating the best RV for your needs, consider size, ease of driving, amenities, and maintenance costs. The luxury Class B and B+ motorhomes are emerging as top picks for modern RVers wanting the best of both worlds.
Key Features of Class B Plus RVs
B Plus motorhomes offer a compelling feature set that combines compact design with upscale amenities.
Core Features:
- Dry bathroom with private shower and toilet.
- Functional kitchen: stove, microwave, fridge, pantry.
- Dedicated sleeping areas with queen, murphy, or convertible beds.
- Smart storage options in every room.
- Solar panel ready, many include inverters or lithium battery upgrades.
- Entertainment systems with smart TVs and surround sound.
- Insulated for four-season use.
- Premium interiors in some luxury class models.
Whether youโre downsizing from a Class A RV or upsizing from a smaller Class B, the Class B+ delivers comfort and flexibility in equal measure.
Pros and Cons of a Class B+ RV
Before making a decision, itโs worth weighing the pros and consโespecially to understand what to avoid before buying, based on your travel style, group size, and expectations.
Pros:
- Easier to handle than larger RVs.
- More spacious than smaller Class B motorhomes.
- Fuel-efficient compared to Class A or Class C RVs.
- Great for couples or solo travelers.
- Can visit more campgrounds due to its size.
Cons:
- More expensive than Class B camper vans.
- Limited sleeping and towing capacity compared to Class Cs.
- May require specialized service centers.
- Not ideal for large families or long-haul towing.
Is a Class B+ RV Right for You?
A Class B Plus RV is ideal if you:
- Travel solo or as a couple
- Want something bigger than a camper van might offer
- Prefer driving a compact class RV over a bulky rig
- Prioritize a full kitchen and bathroom
- Enjoy RV camping in national parks and smaller campsites
- Are looking for a luxury class B experience in a manageable size
- Are in the process of buying your first RV and want a balance of comfort and drivability
However, if youโre traveling with a large family, or need extensive gear storage or towing capacity, a Class C RV or even a Class A may be more appropriate.
Final Thoughts: Is the Class B Plus the Best RV for You?
If youโre evaluating Class B vs Class B+, or comparing B and B layouts, the Class B Plus offers something unique. Itโs the RV for those who want a little more room, a little more luxury, but without committing to a full-sized rig. Many owners say they wish theyโd known just how well a Class B+ RV strikes the balance between interior space, driving ease, and overall comfort.
Key Takeaways:
- Perfect for full-time travelers, part-time RVers, and weekend explorers
- Blends compact drivability with upscale amenities
- Fits a wide range of camping sites and storage facilities
- Offers great value for its size and feature set
- Stands out as one of the best RV options in todayโs hybrid category
For many, the Class B Plus RV is not just a stepping stone between Class Bs and Class Csโitโs the destination.
And when itโs time to store your RV between trips, RecNation has you covered. With secure, well-maintained storage locations across the U.S., we make it easy to protect your investmentโwhether youโre parking a compact camper van or a fully loaded Class B Plus.
Reserve a storage space with RecNation and keep your RV ready for the road, year-round.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Class B+ RV?
A Class B+ motorhome is a compact RV built on a van or cutaway chassis with a wider, custom coach body and upgraded amenities.
How is a Class B+ different from a regular Class B?
Class B+ RVs are wider, often feature dry bathrooms, and offer more interior space compared to the van-style Class B.
Are Class B+ RVs good for full-time living?
Yes, especially for solo travelers or couples who want comfort in a compact, drivable format.
How fuel efficient are Class B+ motorhomes?
Most average between 12โ16 mpg, which is more efficient than larger RVs but slightly less than compact camper vans.
Can Class B+ RVs be parked in regular driveways?
Many can fit in extended driveways, though it depends on local zoning and the RVโs length.