When some people hear the word “Motorhome,” they instantly draw an image in their mind of hulking Class A motorhomes lumbering down the road in the slow lane.

Though the truth is, there are a lot of great smaller Class B and Class C motorhomes that have many of the amenities and comfort of the luxury Class A motorhomes. All without blocking up highways and trimming overhead trees at the campground. 

Of course, a wide range of RV manufacturers are keen on the high demand for compact motorhomes and are quick to load the market with a plethora of makes and models. Adding to the confusion is the fact that a lot of small Class B and Class C RVs are also available in different floorplans and trim levels.

This many small motor home options can be admittedly staggering and hard to choose from. 

You might be wondering what some of the best small motorhome are.

To start with, the Winnebago – Ekko 22A and Thor Motor Coach – Gemini 23TE are two strong contenders. Both are from well-known RV manufacturers who have a reputation for producing some of the best small motorhomes. Though they certainly aren’t the only options deserving of your consideration.

Take, for example, the Jayco – Melbourne Prestige 24LP, which has the features and water storage tanks to let you boondock off the grid for multiple days at a time. To help you find the best small Class C or Class B RV to meet your needs, we waded hip-deep into the field to review some of the strongest contenders you can consider in 2023.

The review process included things like keeping an eye out for material build quality, thoughtful layouts, and ease of handling. We also made sure to think about what specific niches each of these mini motorhomes might cater to.

9 Best Small Class B and Class C Motorhomes In 2023

Small class C motorhomes are a type of recreational vehicle (RV) that is built on a truck chassis. They are shorter and narrower than larger class C motorhomes, making them easier to maneuver and park.

Small class C motorhomes typically have one or two slide-outs, which can expand the living space when needed. They typically sleep four to six people and have a bathroom, kitchen, and dining area.

There are a lot of great small motorhomes in the Class B and Class C range.

Though the best small motorhomes often came from long-standing RV manufacturers who have decades of experience refining their trade.

This includes access to material build quality and experience in answering the needs of small motorhome enthusiasts of virtually every stripe.

Here are the list of 9 best small motorhomes to live an adventurous life with full amenities:

1. The Leisure Travel Unity U24RL

Leisure Travel Unity U24RL
  • GVWR of 11,030
  • 188 HP Diesel Engine
  • Total Fresh Water Tank Capacity of 25 gallons
  • Total Gray Water Tank Capacity of 29 gallons
  • Total Black Water Tank Capacity of 29 gallons
  • 16,000 BTU per hour furnace
  • Sleeps up to 4 people

The Leisure Travel Unity U24RL small class C motorhome was built on a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 3500 chassis and does not have any power slide-out sections. 

This helps keep the weight down, for nimble handling on the road, while still keeping it relatively compact for times when you might need to navigate tight campgrounds or RV parks. 

Yet for being one of the best small motorhomes the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 3500 also makes the most out of the interior space available.

This is thanks in part to a murphy bed that serves as the master suite bedroom. All told this Class B motorhome can sleep up to four people comfortably.

2. The Winnebago – Ekko 22A

Winnebago - Ekko 22A
  • GVWR of 11,000 lbs.
  • Towing Capacity of 5,000 lbs.
  • 310 HP Gasoline Engine
  • Total Fresh Water Tank Capacity of 50 gallons
  • Total Gray Water Tank Capacity of 21 gallons
  • Cassette Toilet
  • Sleeps up to 4 people

Winnebago made their name during the motorhome booms of the late 1970s through the early 1990s. They have continued to evolve with a high-quality small motorhome like the Winnebago Ekko 22A. 

This compact Class C motorhome packs a lot of features into a single, relatively lightweight RV thanks to thoughtful engineering features. All while making sure that it can truly sleep up to four people without everyone feeling packed in like sardines. 

Some of the features that help the Winnebago – Ekko 22A stay so compact and nimble includes using a cassette toilet instead of a bulkier large flushing toilet and the black water storage tank that would be needed to support it.

This ultimately translates into a larger bathroom as well as a more spacious kitchen area.  It’s also worth noting that the 310 horsepower Ford Eco Boost engine in the Winnebago – Ekko 22A gives it a lot of power for taking other toys with you.

The 5,000-pound towing capacity means you can bring your boat, a pair of jet skis, or a toy hauling trailer with you on vacation. 

3. Thor Motor Coach – Gemini 23TE Class C

Thor Motor Coach – Gemini
  • GVWR of 11,000 lbs.
  • Towing Capacity of 5,000 lbs.
  • 310 HP Gasoline Engine
  • Total Fresh Water Tank Capacity of 31 gallons
  • Total Gray Water Tank Capacity of 37 gallons
  • Total Black Water Tank Capacity of 19 gallons
  • 13.500 BTU Air Conditioner
  • 1 Power Retractable Slide Out
  • Sleeps up to 2 people

The Thor Motor Coach Gemini 23TE was built on a Ford Transit van’s chassis and features a 310 horsepower Eco Boost engine to give it the power it needs to make the most of the compact nimble design.  Though it’s not as small as it might seem when you look at it driving down the road.

This is thanks in large part to the single power-retractable slide-out section with a convertible murphy bed. Of course, Thor Motor Coach goes a step further in maximizing the interior space of the Gemini 23TE by designing the floor plan to only sleep, two people.

There isn’t a convertible dinette or bench somewhere that can turn into additional sleeping. While this might preclude small families, it ultimately makes the Thor Motor Coach Gemini 23TE one of the best small motorhomes for a couple that loves to travel.

There’s even a 39 square inch flat-screen TV directly across from the convertible couch/murphy bed. 

In the back of the Thor Motor Coach Gemini 23TE, you will find a spacious full bathroom complete with a large, single bowl sink, a shower stall with a fair amount of elbow room, and a flushing toilet.

All of which are supported by modest water storage tanks that are just the right size for letting you stay off the grid for a few days of boondocking, without being so large that they ungainly add to the weight of this well-designed small motorhome.

4. The Airstream – Atlas Murphy Suite Class B Motorhome

Airstream – Atlas Murphy Suite
  • GVWR of 11,030 lbs.
  • Towing Capacity of 5,000 lbs.
  • 188 HP Engine
  • Total Fresh Water Tank Capacity of 23 gallons
  • Total Gray Water Tank Capacity of 31 gallons
  • Total Black Water Tank Capacity of 23 gallons
  • 15,000 BTU Air Conditioner
  • 16,000 BTU Propane Furnace
  • Sleeps up to 2 people

Airstream made a commanding name for themselves with their long-standing lineup of gleaming aluminum travel trailers. Though they haven’t let that success pigeon hole them, and they prove that in spades with the compact, yet comfortable Atlas Murphy Suite. 

Not only does it have a power-retractable slide-out section, but as the name implies, there is a comfortable murphy bed that converts over the front section sofa

Here again, the trade-off of interior space and the use of a murphy bed means that this small Class B motorhome will only really sleep, two people.

While it might not be the ideal motorhome for a family, it might be one of the best small RVs for a traveling couple who want an RV that also serves as an easy to drive runabout for touring the surrounding attractions.

5. The Winnebago View 24V Class C Motorhome

Winnebago View 24V
  • GVWR of 11,030 lbs.
  • Towing Capacity of 5,000 lbs.
  • 188 HP Diesel Engine
  • Total Fresh Water Tank Capacity of 31 gallons
  • Total Gray Water Tank Capacity of 41 gallons
  • Total Black Water Tank Capacity of 41 gallons
  • Sleeps up to 4 people

As one of the leading RV manufacturers of motorhomes, you had to expect Winnebago would have more than one model on our list of the best small motorhomes.

Their Winnebago View 24V was designed on the popular Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 3500 chassis, which makes for nimble use of the power produced by the 188 HP diesel engine. 

This particular iteration can comfortably sleep up to 4 people on paper as well as in the real world. In the rear, there is a “Flex Bed” pair of twin beds that can be converted into a single king-size bed if needed.

The single power-retractable slide-out section is great for maximizing the interior space and holds a couch that also converts into yet more sleeping space. 

This configuration not only helps balance out this small motorhome, but it also makes more efficient use of the kitchen and enclosed bathroom at midship.

This further gives families a greater sense of privacy in the rear master suite. All tucked into one of the best small motorhomes on the market today!

6. The Forest River – Sunseeker 2400b MBS Class C Motorhome

Forest River Sunseeker
  • Payload Capacity of 1,079 lbs.
  • Towing Capacity of 4,200 lbs.
  • GVWR of 11,030 lbs.
  • Hitch Weight of 420 lbs.
  • 188 HP Diesel Engine
  • Total Fresh Water Tank Capacity of 35 gallons
  • Total Gray Water Tank Capacity of 35 gallons
  • Total Black Water Tank Capacity of 35 gallons
  • Sleeps up to 6 people

The 2021 Forest River – Sunseeker 2400B MBS is another well-designed Class C motorhome that uses the very popular Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 3500 chassis and 188 horsepower diesel engine for superior handling and comfort. 

They take the design a step further from similar competitor models by engineering a large driver-side power-retractable slide-out section. This keeps the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 3500 chassis compact while driving down the road, yet provides tons of interior space once you set up camp. 

There is a true master suite in the rear of the Forest River – Sunseeker 2400B MBS, which makes it one of the best small motorhomes for families that still prioritize a little privacy when traveling. 

There’s even a large bathroom adjacent to the rear master suite that is complete with a shower, toilet, and a sink with a medicine cabinet.  On paper the Forest River – Sunseeker 2400B MBS can sleep up to six, though two adults and two teenagers are more realistic. 

You also have to like that there’s a TV in the front living area as well as one in the rear master suite.

This means the adults and kids can both watch their own shows at the same time without squabbling. While this might not seem like a big deal on paper, it can be a real saving grace during a long vacation.

7. The Dynamax Corp – Isata 3 Series 24FW Class C Motorhome

Dynamax Corp - Isata 3 Series 24FW
  • GVWR of 11,030
  • Towing Capacity of 5,000 lbs.
  • 188 HP Diesel Engine
  • Total Fresh Water Tank Capacity of 35 gallons
  • Total Gray Water Tank Capacity of 32 gallons
  • Total Black Water Tank Capacity of 32 gallons
  • 15,000 BTU Air Conditioner
  • 20,000 BTU per hour furnace
  • Sleeps up to 6 people

Dynamax Corp’s RV line is closely affiliated with Forest River, though they are still allowed to maintain their own brand identity.

This is handy for giving them access to Forest River’s quality components, while still being able to put their own unique twists on small motorhomes like the Dynamax Corp – Isata 3 Series 24FW. 

This includes things like the reliable Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 3500 chassis and 188 horsepower diesel engine for superior handling and comfort. There’s also a massive side slide-out section on the driver’s side of the Dynamax Corp – Isata 3 Series 24FW.

This means you get a sleek, nimble small motorhome driving down the road, but still, get to enjoy a lot of open floor space when you set up camp. 

8. The Winnebago – Solis 59P Class B Motorhome

Winnebago – Solis 59P
  • Towing Capacity of 3,500 lbs.
  • GVWR of 8,900 lbs.
  • 280 HP Gasoline Engine
  • Total Fresh Water Tank Capacity of 21 gallons
  • Total Gray Water Tank Capacity of 20 gallons
  • Cassette Toilet
  • Sleeps up to 4 people
  • 7,500 BTU Propane Furnace

Once again, Winnebago brings their acumen and experience in the motorhome niche to bear in a compact small motorhome that is easy to drive.

Tipping the scales at only 8,900-pounds the Winnebago – Solis 59P drives very much like the Pro Master van chassis it is built on. 

It also helps make the most out of the 280 horsepower generated by the 3.6-liter gasoline engine that powers it. 

You also have to like the towing capacity of 3,500 pounds. This is enough to confidently tow a boat or a trailer with other outdoor toys.

The 80-inch width also makes it easy to keep any trailer you tow in your mirrors.

So, you won’t have to suffer the awkward reversing problems that a lot of larger motorhomes have to deal with when set into a small campsite. 

There isn’t any sort of slide-out section. Though like many traditional class B campervans the roof of the Winnebago – Solis 59P pops up.

This gives you more interior living and storage space. On paper, you can sleep up to 6 people though four is more realistic.

9. Jayco – Melbourne Prestige 24LP Class C Motorhome

Jayco - Melbourne Prestige 24LP
  • Towing Capacity of 5,000 lbs.
  • GVWR of 11,030 lbs.
  • 188 HP Diesel Engine
  • Total Fresh Water Tank Capacity of 43 gallons
  • Total Gray Water Tank Capacity of 31 gallons
  • Total Black Water Tank Capacity of 31 gallons
  • Sleeps up to 6 people
  • 20,000 BTU Propane Furnace
  • 15,000 BTU Air Conditioner

Jayco is another one of the stronger names in the RV industry with a knack for producing high-quality compact models like the Jayco – Melbourne Prestige 24LP. 

This small motorhome is built on the popular Mercedes-Benz Sprinter chassis, which makes it very easy to drive.

Especially if you need to navigate tight RV parks and narrow campsites. 

When you get to your intended destination the massive slide-out section in the driver’s side of the Jayco – Melbourne Prestige 24LP maximizes the interior floor space.

This gives you a truly massive-feeling living room area with a comfortable U-shaped dinette that is perfectly positioned to view the flat-screen TV that comes in the standard package.

It also means you get a true queen size bed and a spacious bathroom in the rear of this relatively small Class C motorhome.

Do I Need A Special Driver’s License Endorsement To Drive A Small Motorhome?

One of the nice things about Class C and Class B small motorhomes is that most states don’t require you to have any sort of special driver’s license endorsement to legally drive it down the road.

Though there are some states like Wisconsin that do have total length requirements for times when you might be towing an excessively long trailer behind it. 

Which One Is Bigger A Class C Or Class B Motorhome?

In general, most Class C motorhomes are larger than their Class B counterparts.

Though neither one is anywhere near as large as the massive Class A motorhomes that dominate the slow lane on many an interstate highway. 

Which Small Motorhome Is Easier To Drive Class B Or Class C?

Most people will tell you that the camper van or transit van chassis that most Class B motorhomes are built on makes them easier to drive down the road.

They also tend to have a better turning radius for navigating through small RV parks and tight campsite.

It’s also worth noting that Class B motorhomes are less affected by high wind warnings, compared to a lot of Class C motorhomes with a bunk area over the cab.

Is A Diesel Or Gasoline Engine Better For A Small Motorhome?

This depends on how you plan to use the small motorhome. If you are going to be towing trailers a lot or going on frequent long drives, then you might want to prioritize a small motorhome with a diesel engine.

If you are going to be using the small motorhome for short summer time trips, then a gasoline engine might be the best option for a small motorhome. 

Where to Find Small Motorhomes for Sale in the USA

Small motorhomes are a great option for people who want to experience the freedom of RVing without the hassle of driving a large vehicle. They are also a good choice for people who are on a budget, as small motorhomes can be much more affordable than larger models.

There are many places where you can find small motorhomes for sale in the USA. Here are a few of the most popular options:

  • Online marketplaces: Websites like RV Trader, eBay, and Craigslist often have a wide selection of small motorhomes for sale. You can search by make, model, year, price, and location to find the perfect RV for your needs.
  • RV dealerships: Many RV dealerships also sell small motorhomes. This can be a good option if you’re looking for a new or certified pre-owned RV.
  • Private sellers: You can also find small motorhomes for sale by private sellers. This can be a good option if you’re looking for a good deal or a unique RV. However, it’s important to be careful when buying from a private seller, as there is no guarantee of quality or warranty.

While you’re shopping for your future small motorhome, it’s important to consider your needs and budget. Small motorhomes can range in price from a few thousand dollars to $100,000 or more.

Before approving the deal to purchase, think about how you’ll be using the RV.

Do you plan on doing a lot of off-road camping? then, you’ll need an RV with four-wheel drive and a larger fuel tank. Are you mostly interested in car camping? you can get away with a smaller, less expensive RV.

No matter where you buy your small motorhome, be sure to do your research and inspect the RV carefully before you make a purchase. This will help you avoid any surprises down the road.

How to find a small motorhomes for sale near me

Finding small motorhomes for sale near you can be as easy as checking your local RV dealerships and classifieds.

Here are some tips to help you locate the perfect compact RV:

  • Check RV dealerships: Local RV dealers are a great place to start your search. They often have a selection of new and used Class B and C motorhomes for sale. Test drive different models to see what layout and features you prefer.
  • Browse online marketplaces: Websites like RV Trader and RV Gurus list thousands of RVs for sale across the country. Use filters to narrow down listings by location, make, model, and price to find motorhomes near you.
  • Scan local classifieds: Sites like Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace are worth checking for private sellers offering small motorhomes for sale in  your local area. You may find a good deal on a used RV this way.
  • Attend RV shows: RV shows and expos are a great opportunity to see many small motorhomes under one roof.  Talk to representatives from different manufacturers to compare options and get recommendations. Shows are typically held seasonally.
  • Consider rental fleets: Some RV rental companies sell their used rental motorhomes at discounted prices. 

These RVs tend to be well-maintained and can be a cost-effective option.

Do your research. Read consumer reviews and check reliability ratings to identify the most dependable makes and models. 

Narrow your search based on features that matter most to you.

Inspect thoroughly. When you find an RV that interests you, arrange an in-person inspection. Check for signs of water damage, mechanical issues, and general wear and tear.

Conclusion

Small motorhomes are very popular with small families, couples, and retirees that hear the call of the open road. They tend to be much easier to drive than larger Class A motorhomes that dominate the open road.

This makes them convenient for finding places to camp in rustic campgrounds or RV parks that have space requirements that limit larger motorhomes. The best small motorhome for you will vary depending on your traveling preferences.

If you are looking for a small motorhome that can tow a boat or a heavy trailer behind you, then the Forest River – Sunseeker 2400W MB Class C Motorhome with its 7,500-pound towing capacity might be the best option for you. 

If you have more than one child and you want to have enough space for everyone to sleep comfortably, then the Dynamax Corp – Isata 3 Series 24FW might be the best small motorhome for your family.

The massive side slide-out section and the copious storage really let everyone stretch out and feel like they have their own space. Yet it’s also compact, sleek, and easy to drive down the road. 

If your family loves to boondock off the grid, and you need the fresh and wastewater storage tanks to support you, then the Jayco – Melbourne Prestige 24LP might be the best small motorhome for you.

Not only can it hold the water you need for multiple days of off the grid camping, but it also has enough sleeping space to let the entire family sleep comfortably. Whatever your family’s needs happen to be, chances are good that the best small motorhome for you is somewhere on this list.

FAQs

Mini motorhomes: What are the benefits of owning a mini motorhome?

I can tell you that there are many benefits to owning a mini motorhome. Here are a few of the most notable:

  • Easy to drive and park: Mini motorhomes are much smaller than traditional motorhomes, which makes them much easier to drive and park. This is a big advantage if you plan on doing a lot of city driving or camping in tight spaces.
  • More fuel-efficient: Mini motorhomes are also more fuel-efficient than traditional motorhomes, which can save you money on gas. This is especially important if you plan on doing a lot of long-distance driving.
  • More affordable: Mini motorhomes are typically more affordable than traditional motorhomes, which makes them a great option for budget-minded RVers.
  • Less maintenance: Mini motorhomes require less maintenance than traditional motorhomes, which can save you time and money in the long run.
  • More versatile: Mini motorhomes are more versatile than traditional motorhomes, which means you can use them for a variety of purposes. For example, you can use a mini motorhome for camping, road trips, or even as a daily driver.

Mini camper van: What are the different types of mini camper vans available?

Here are some of the different types of mini camper vans available:

  • Pop-top camper vans: These vans have a roof that can be raised to create extra sleeping space.
  • High-top camper vans: These vans have a taller roof than standard vans, which provides more headroom and sleeping space.
  • Conversion vans: These vans are converted from cargo vans into camper vans. They can be customized to your specific needs and preferences.
  • Vans with slide-outs: These vans have sections of the interior that can slide out to create more space.

Mini motorhomes for sale: What are the most popular mini motorhomes on the market?

The most popular mini motorhomes on the market:

  • Winnebago Revel
  • Airstream Interstate Nineteen
  • Roadtrek Zion
  • Westfalia Marco Polo
  • Nissan NV200 Campervan

Mini motor home: What are the features to look for when buying a mini motorhome?

Here are some of the features to look for when buying a mini motorhome:

  • Size: Mini motorhomes come in a variety of sizes, so it’s important to choose one that’s right for your needs. If you’re planning on traveling with a lot of gear, you’ll need a larger van.
  • Sleeping arrangements: How many people do you plan on sleeping in the van? Most mini motorhomes can sleep two to four people, but there are some that can sleep more.
  • Features: What features are important to you? Some mini motorhomes come with features like a kitchen, bathroom, and shower. Others are more basic and only have a sleeping area.
  • Budget: How much are you willing to spend on a mini motorhome? Mini motorhomes can range in price from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands of dollars.