The travel bug is going around this year. Records estimate that the United States will see a 35.6% increase in travel in 2022. With everyone hitting the road, you may want to get out and see the sights as well.
One of the best ways to travel the country is with an RV. Your family can ride along and you'll visit places you might never see if you chose to fly. But not all RVs are made the same and there is a lot to choose from. So how do you choose the right RV for a family?
We've reviewed the best RVs for families and complied with our favorites right here. Continue reading for our suggestions on which family RV is right for you.
1. (Coachmen Freelander 31MB)
Specifications
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (lbs): 14,500
Exterior Length: 32′ 11″
Exterior Height: 10′ 11
Exterior Width: 8′ 3″
Fresh Water Capacity (gals): 50.0
Sleeps: 6-8
Features
- Cab over bunk with a child safety net
- Private master bedroom with queen size bed
- U-shaped dinette that converts to a bed
- Systems command center
What We Like
The best feature of the Freelander 31MB has to be its bunk over the cab. The kids love climbing up into the bunk to see everything below. And with the attached safety net, you'll know that they're safe sleeping up there.
The Interior design provides plenty of space for the family to gather. With a folding dinette and outdoor entertainment space, everyone can have an enjoyable time without being cramped. Check out these RV batteries for the best power options to run your entertainment.
What We Don't Like
The Freelander 31MB is built with the outdoors in mind. While this is great for getting outside on sunny days, the design is harder to manage during inclement weather. Get ready to get cozy with your family, as the folding table tends to take up a lot of space.
And when it comes to affordability, the class C model is where things start to become an investment. For any new model Freelander 31MB, you're looking at over $100,000.
Pros/Cons Overview
Pros
- The sleeping areas are spacious.
- Large freshwater tank for longer outings
- Outside entertainment center for better space usage
Cons
- You have to pack up camp every time you're ready to leave
- Outside features are harder to use during bad weather
2. (Jayco Flight 32BHDS)
Specifications
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (lbs): 10,250
Exterior Length: 36′ 4″
Exterior Height: 10′ 6″
Exterior Width: 8′ 0″
Interior Height: 6′ 9″
Fresh Water Capacity (gals): 80.0
Sleeps: 8-14
Features
- J-Steel jackknife sofa with armrest
- 3-burner range with glass cover
- 8 cu ft gas/electric refrigerator
- 300 lb. rated bunk beds
- Queen mattress
What We Like
We really love the floorplan that Jayco provides for its bunkhouse trailer. There's plenty of space for the entire family, a private area for the children, and the option for an outdoor kitchen provides lots of extra space. Finally, the trailer's lightweight design makes it easy to tow with any truck.
What We Don't Like
The materials that the Jayco Flight is built of are light and prone to damage. Some of the features may come loose after usage. When considering this trailer, think about getting the warranty so you can fix any problems that might arise after you buy.
Pros/Cons Overview
Pros
- Inside and outside kitchen
- Its size makes it easy to clean
- Excellent floorplan
Cons
- Poor electrical designs
- Low-quality building materials
3. (Airstream Flying Cloud 25FB)
Specifications
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (lbs):7300
Exterior Length: 25′ 0″
Exterior Height: 9′ 9″
Exterior Width: 8′ 6″
Fresh Water Capacity (gals): 37.0
Sleeps: 4
Features
- Folding dinette
- Panoramic bedroom windows
- Exterior Shower
What We Like
What we notice first about the Airstream Flying Cloud is its iconic aluminum design. This is one of the most durable and reliable travel trailers on the market. With RVs having a history of mediocre craftsmanship, the Airstream really shows other manufacturers how it's done.
And although the trailer measures just 25 feet long (Our shortest trailer by nearly 6 feet), there's still a ton of privacy. The dinette folds out into a sleeping space, and added dividers make the dining area a complete second bedroom.
What We Don't Like
Of course, with expert craftsmanship comes a hefty price. Many airstreams will run a family for nearly $100,000. This is comparable to the class C in price, but you're missing out on all that extra space and an entire vehicle!
And as the Airstream is noticeably smaller than most RVs for families, it is less comfortable for those with more members. While it technically accommodates for 6, you wouldn't want to share a single hallway with that many people early in the morning.
Pros/Cons Overview
Pros
- Best craftsmanship in the industry
- Comfortable and modern amenities
- Panoramic window views
Cons
- Would not accommodate more than 4 people comfortably
- An expensive option for such little space
4. (Winnebago Minnie Winnie 31H)
Specifications
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (lbs): 14,500
Exterior Length: 32′ 9″
Exterior Height:11′ 0″
Exterior Width: 8′ 6″
Fresh Water Capacity (gals): 44
Sleeps: 8-10
Features
- Rear private bedroom with queen bed
- Bunk over cab
- 8 cu ft refrigerator with freezer
- Optional theater seating
What We Like
One of our favorite aspects of the Winnebego Minnie Winnie is its versatility. The class C RV has many customizable options to accommodate a large number of people. Both the dinette and sofa can convert into sleeping spaces for those with large families.
However, if your family size is smaller, these areas can switch out for other options such as theater seating. Enjoy a wide living space and a large kitchen area for comfortable meals inside.
We trust this model coming from Winnebego, one of the industry's oldest manufacturers. With floorplans designed for space and comfort, you'll love spending time inside while out on the road.
What We Don't Like
While the Winnebego brand comes with quality customer service, we notice that its tech is a little outdated. After purchasing this class C motorhome, you may want to consider updating its amenities.
And as one of our larger RVs, we are not a big fan of the vehicle's gasoline engine. At 14,500 gross weight, we believe the Minnie Winnie would benefit from a diesel engine to give this RV more power in tough terrain or going up hills.
Pros/Cons Overview
Pros
- Maximum space and versatility
- Plenty of privacy and accommodations
- A recognizable brand with customer backing
Cons
- Older amenities
- Gasoline engine has to work hard to move this RV
5. (Grand Design Solitude 3550BH)
Specifications
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (lbs): 16,800
Exterior Length: 39′ 9″
Exterior Height: 13′ 5″
Exterior Width: 8′ 5″
Fresh Water Capacity (gals): 91.0
Sleeps: 8-10
Features
- 12 cu ft Refrigerator with four doors
- Private bedroom with queen bed (king bed options)
- Double size bunks
- 16′ awning
What We Like
This is the RV built for luxury camping. At over 39 feet long, there is enough space for everyone in the family to spread out. This RV trades capacity for comfortability, so while it doesn't come set to convert, everyone in the space will feel at home.
The Grand Design Solitude has some of the most modern amenities in an RV. The fifth wheel has a shower skylight, a kitchen island with a sink, an electric fireplace, and one of the largest refrigerators on the market. It also comes with some of the most storage of our RVs for families and a water supply that surpasses all.
What We Don't Like
Even with all the amenities, it's hard to wrap our minds around the size of this RV. This fifth wheel is almost 8 feet longer than any of our favorite models. When it comes to maneuverability, towing, and even parking, that much length is a big decision.
And while everyone sleeping in the Solitude will have more space than any other RV, there aren't many options for accommodations. With the RV's impressive length, we would expect it to have more sleeping space.
Pros/Cons Overview
Pros
- Luxury amenities and appliances
- Ample storage space
- Large water supply
Cons
- Extremely long and heavy
- Few accommodation options for its size
Buyer's Guide
Are They Suitable RVs For Families?
When we look at family-friendly RVs, we want to keep in mind a few aspects. Of these, take time to consider:
- Accommodations
- Space
- Safety
We want every family member to enjoy their time inside the RV. Everyone should feel comfortable in their beds. And on cold or rainy days, the RV should offer enough floor space to move around.
Is There Enough Kitchen Capacity?
It is often that RVs have limited storage, especially in the kitchen. You'll want to consider how much kitchen capacity you need to enjoy your time on the road. You'll want to think about how many people you need to feed and how long you plan to be in nature at a time.
Is the RV Driveable or Tow Behind?
There are advantages and disadvantages to both driveable and towable RVs. For those with a vehicle with towing capacity, a pull-behind trailer allows you to park at camp and still use your vehicle to explore. On the other hand, Driveable RVs can offer extra maneuverability and are all-inclusive.
What Special Features Does the RV Include?
You'll need to know how you plan on using your RV so you can determine which features you prefer. Those spending more time outside might want an awning or outside kitchen space. Those staying inside might enjoy luxurious seating and an entertainment center.
Conclusion
We definitely love the Coachmen Freelander 31 MB as one of the best RVs for families. Not only does its length provide all the space you need to accommodate your entire family, but the design takes to heart the safety of your children. This is a classic RV that won't do you wrong, but if you're looking for other features, the choices above have you covered.