A Class B Camper Van is just that, a Camper Van. It will have an automotive type build and the living space is neatly tucked inside. From the exterior these can look like any normal conversion van. For this reason you can typically find these units setting ocean-side with surfboards on them. They can get away parking where a traditional RV cannot. With a trained eye, and attention to detail, you can see the camper that hides inside! The most well known brand would be a Road Trek.

Each of these units are different and will offer a different experience for their user. Up front you will have your captain chairs. These are for when you are driving down the road. These seats typically swivel and can be used both for driving and the living space. Behind the driver and passenger seats can be more seats for passengers or the living quarters can start. Depending on the size of the camper van and intended use. There is normally a sliding door behind the passenger as a traditional van would have. This is the “camper” entrance. When stopped and utilizing the camping area, you will  go in and out of this door. A screen on it is very common and from here you can have an entertainment system for outside. 

Once you step in, there will be a kitchen close by and a bathroom and shower area. Since these are compact units, the kitchen will have at least 1 burner and a microwave/convection. A stove can be found in some, but is rare. It simply takes up too much room. There will be a countertop and a sink here also. Typically on the adjacent side will be the bathroom. These are more often than not a wet bath. Meaning once you enter the bathroom to shower, the toilet will get wet also. Some units will have a shower curtain that will pull out into the main walkway. With this set up the water from the shower will drain down special openings in the walkway. It is a good way to get more space out of a small area, but it can make a mess as the water is less contained. When you move onto the rear, this is where you will find the master bed and/or a couch and chairs for sitting or traveling. Each unit will differ. Some couches make into beds, others fold up and down, and still others will drop from the ceiling. It will be unit specific, but each layout will have its advantages and disadvantages. Make sure you know how you will be using your camper to get the most out of its design.

There are now a handful of 4×4 class B campers available. Most are quite small and you can take them off road and really get off the beaten path. If you travel in winter with snow and ice, this will be a great option to keep you moving. If there is no four wheel drive present, you could become stranded. Especially off road or in the mountains when it’s snowing. That said, most people will not truly utilize 4×4 to its fullest, or even require it for how the unit will be used. Don’t worry if it has 4×4 capabilities unless you plan on requiring it. For the vast majority of people, it is not needed. 

Another difference in these units is power generation. Most units today have solar capabilities. Some are as easy as a panel on the roof, and others will add lithium batteries. Some will have a separate generator for boon docking while others will add another alternator to the engine compartment for power. That said, some units will need full A/C power to run things like air conditioning, while others will utilize a 12V air conditioning system. You will really need to do your work here as each unit will be different and will have its own power needs. 

A class B camper is a great small unit that will get you around to almost anywhere! The only downside is for most people they are rather small and will not fit their idea of what camping means to them. Still others, this is exactly what they are looking for and will fit the needs perfectly!