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If you’re a family of five looking to hit the road in a motorhome, you’ll first need to find the right RV. Some manufacturers are better than others, and it may be hard to find the perfect rig for you and your family.
Heading out on an epic road trip in the wrong rig can result in a nightmare. This certainly isn’t something we’d wish upon you or any other adventurous family.
Today, we’re sharing some of the best motorhomes for a family of five. Could your next rig be on our list?
Let’s look and see!
What Is a Motorhome?
A motorhome is a type of self-propelled recreational vehicle. Unlike travel trailers and fifth wheels, motorhomes do not rely on a tow vehicle to get them from point A to point B. They come in various sizes and include everything from tiny Class B conversion vans to massive Class A buses.
Like many RVs, these self-contained vehicles have just about everything the user could need to live on the road. It’s common to find stoves, refrigerators, and even multiple bathrooms and bedrooms. Some will include slide-out sections that you can extend to increase living space when stationary.
Are Motorhomes Good for a Family of 5?
A motorhome can be a fantastic option for a family of five. However, it will significantly depend on the vehicle you’re considering. A small Class B motorhome may only have room to safely haul two or three occupants, which would be insufficient for a family of five. Some larger models allow families of many sizes to get out and explore without sacrificing comfort.
However, while motorhomes can be good, they’re not for everybody. Despite being large, they’re still substantially smaller than the typical home. There likely will be little room for spreading out and maintaining privacy. In addition, larger, more luxurious models can easily cost six to seven figures.
If you’re considering a motorhome for your family of five, renting one for a short trip may be best. This can help ensure you enjoy the lifestyle before investing significantly.
Things to Look for in a Motorhome for a Family of 5
When shopping for a motorhome for a family of five, there are some things you should first consider. Let’s examine some crucial items to help you decide which rig is best for you and your loved ones.
Sleeping Space
One of the most important things you’ll want to consider is the sleeping space. Everyone deserves a comfortable place to lay their head after a long day of exploring or adventuring.
Some rigs will state that they offer a large number of sleeping spaces. However, they often don’t tell you it may require converting couches or tables into a sleeping area.
This may be fine if you occasionally take shorter or weekend trips. However, it can be a huge deal if you’re considering a motorhome for extended or full-time adventures. It can become an annoying hassle, especially when you want to crawl into bed and get some rest.
If you don’t like using a sofa or converting a dining room table into a sleeping space, count the number of beds. Some manufacturers will maximize the use of space by using bunk beds. Just be ready to constantly hear arguments and fights between siblings about who gets the top bunk.
Storage
No matter how you plan to use your motorhome, you’ll likely have some gear and equipment you’ll want to bring. Some units offer more storage compartments and bays than others.
Large Class A models offer massive under-storage bays that could serve as additional sleeping space. However, storage space will vary considerably from one model to the next.
It’s important to consider storage space when shopping for a motorhome. If you don’t, you could have to leave gear, equipment, and other items behind. To make the most of your camping adventures, always closely examine the available storage areas.
Tank Sizes
Another mistake that many shoppers make is failing to consider tank sizes on motorhomes they’re considering. Unless you plan to camp in areas with full hookups exclusively, you’ll need to use these tanks to store fresh, black, and gray water.
It should be no surprise that small Class B have much smaller tanks than massive Class A motorhomes. The larger the tanks, the more freedom and flexibility you’ll have for how and where you use your motorhome. You’ll also be able to maximize the time between dumping and filling up your tanks.
Slide-Outs
Slide-outs are box-like spaces extending to maximize space use when parked. However, these are only available on some models or floorplans.
Some units will feature multiple slide-outs and can create a very open setting with a very residential feel. If your family of five will spend a significant amount of time in the motorhome, you’ll appreciate every bit of extra space.
However, like many things, slide-outs are great, but only when they work. Some shoppers specifically look for units without them, so it’s one less thing they have to worry about breaking or malfunctioning.
Best Motorhomes for a Family of 5
Now that you know what you’re looking for, what are some of the best motorhomes for a family of five? Here are some that we found that can get the job done.
Winnebago Vista 33K
Length: 34 feet 3 inches
GVWR: 22,000 pounds
Features: The Vista 33K is a Class A motorhome from Winnebago. It features a layout that makes relaxing and hosting friends and family easy. It features a full bathroom at the rear of the unit in the main bedroom.
Additionally, there’s a guest bathroom in the middle of the unit near the spacious kitchen. With seven seat belts, you’ll have space for a couple of extra passengers for the adventure.
In addition to the king bed in the primary bedroom, it has a sofa bed, convertible dinette, and an optional loft bed above the cab. With two giant slides, you’ll have plenty of space to spread out and stay comfortable.
Pro Tip: Before you purchase an RV, these are the top 5 things you need to consider!
Forest River Solera 27DSE
Length: 29 feet 4 inches
GVWR: 14,500 pounds
Features: The Solera 27DSE from Forest River is a Class C motorhome that sits atop a Ford E450 chassis. If you want to move far and fast, you should consider this rig. It offers everything you need for a cross-country adventure or weekend trip to your favorite local campground.
It has two slide-outs that expand the living area and main bedroom. They’re not massive slides, but they’re large enough to create space to make moving throughout the rig easier. With two queen-size sleeping areas and a convertible dinette, families can easily get some sleep for whatever adventure is next.
In the kitchen, you’ll get a 12-volt, 10.7 cubic feet refrigerator. In addition, you’ll be able to cook up some delicious meals using the three-burner stove and 1.3 cubic-foot convection microwave. The large amount of storage cabinets can help ensure whatever supplies you need are readily available and easily within reach.
Thor Chateau 31WV
Length: 32 feet 4 inches
GVWR: 14,450 pounds
Features: The Chateau 31WV from Thor may only be just over 32 feet long, but it’s packed with incredible features. The massive full-wall slide on the driver’s side opens up the entire unit. With the extra space it creates, Thor was able to upgrade closet and pantry space, so you have plenty of storage room.
One favorite feature is the mid-entry and how open the area is, whether the slide is closed or not. A large 52-inch by 96-inch sleeping area over the cab is an excellent place for kids to sleep. It comes with an 8,000-pound trailer hitch, which means you can easily haul another vehicle or any toys you want to bring with you.
Keep in Mind: How Many RV Brands Does Thor Industries Own? Let’s find out!
Thor Hurricane 34J
Length: 35 feet 9 inches
GVWR: 22,000 pounds
Features: The Hurricane 34J looks good on the inside and outside. However, it’s about more than just looks that make this Class A motorhome a good option for your family of five.
The interior has an incredibly luxurious and residential feel to it. Its two-toned cabinets with black nickel hardware will make you question whether you’re in a recreational vehicle or a home.
You’ll get a solid night’s sleep whether in the massive king bed, the drop-down overhead bunk, or the mid-bunk bed. While it may only have one bathroom, it’s huge compared to many other models. You won’t have to worry about showering in a gross or sketchy campground shower again. With the tankless water heater, you’ll also enjoy hot showers.
Tiffin Motorhomes Open Road 32 FA
Length: 34 feet 3 inches
GVWR: 24,000 pounds
Features: Tiffin Motorhomes has a reputation for being the definition of luxury when it comes to motorhomes. Luckily, their Open Road 32 FA is no exception. Your family of five will cruise down the road atop a gas-powered Ford F-53 chassis. The living area opens with the full-side slide, creating a spacious floor plan.
The main bedroom features a king bed and a wardrobe closet with drawers. From the rear of the rig, the bathroom sits on your right, and the bunk beds sit on your left. You’ll then enter the kitchen with a massive fridge and dual sink.
When leaving the kitchen area, you can exit the rig at the mid-entry or continue to the dining and living areas. A convertible dinette creates another spot to sleep, and the sofa bed makes it easy to watch TV comfortably. A drop-down front bunk sits above the cab if more sleeping space is needed.
Which Motorhome Is Best for Your Family of 5?
So what are you waiting for? Your family of five deserves the best motorhome for your future adventures. With the proper rig, you can create priceless memories you’ll cherish deeply for the rest of your life. Take your time and thoroughly consider each model’s pros and cons before signing on the dotted line.
Which motorhomes are you considering for your family of five?
