Last updated on May 2nd, 2023 at 01:37 pm
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It’s the annual family camping trip, but this time, Grandpa wants to come too.
And oh wait, your aunts and uncles got wind of it and are planning to bring the cousins.
Your pop-up trailer that’s meant for three is looking a little small now, isn’t it?
If you’re looking for an upgrade or perhaps shopping for an RV for the first time, one huge question that might come up is: How many people can fit in an RV?
Class A RVs are the biggest type of camper, fitting upwards of 8 people inside. Class C RVs remain sizeable, carrying between 4 and 8 individuals. Class B RVs are considerably smaller and are only suitable for 2-4 people. Large travel trailers such as fifth-wheels have the space for around 10 individuals.
RVs are usually big vehicles, there’s no denying that, but when you want to take a vacation and get the whole family involved, it can be difficult to know how many people will comfortably fit inside without everyone feeling like squashed sardines.
If you’re in the market for an RV able to carry multiple passengers and comfortably sleep several too, you’ll need to be looking at larger RVs such as hefty Class C RVs and maybe even bigger ones.
So, let’s talk about each RV type individually and how many people they can fit!
How Many People Can Fit In An RV?
The number of people you can fit in an RV depends on a few things, the main one being the size of the RV itself! It’s unrealistic to try and fit 10 people in a small truck camper or travel trailer, but an enormous Class A RV on the other hand will handle 10 people without a problem.
When considering buying an RV, there’s so much to think about, from the size and type of the RV to the layout and if the rig will allow the whole family to enjoy camping vacations.
It’s essential to remember safety always comes first, and if there are more passengers than seatbelts in an RV, you’ll have to rethink things as driving without a seatbelt can be dangerous.
If you have a big family or friends who will be coming on regular RV trips with you, it’s best to purchase a bigger RV that’s suitable for several passengers. You’ll then never have to worry about being a seatbelt or two short, because your rig has already got you covered.
What Size RV Will Fit Most People?
An obvious answer to this question is this: the bigger the RV, the more people it can hold.
But there are still many different options depending on the layout inside the rig and the length and type of the RV. I’ve compiled a list of RV options, starting with the largest and moving down to the smallest, so you can work out which rig is the best fit for you.
Of course, every RV is different, and if you’re willing to renovate the interior or sacrifice some comfort, chances are you can squeeze one or two more people inside. But for the sake of this article (and the sake of your sanity!) let’s go ahead and break down RV options based on the manufacturer’s average suggested amount of people sleeping inside.
Class A RVs
If you’re looking to fit the extended family in one rig, look no further than Class As and longer towable trailers. Most Class As can house up to twelve (a mix of children and adults), but 8-10 might be a more comfortable fit, depending on how much you like who you’re traveling with.
With the invention of slide-outs, drop-down bunk beds, and just having more ample floor space, a Class A motorhome may be the right option for you.
It is an all-in-one option that most all of your passengers can safely travel in, so if you’re just looking to rent, you won’t have to worry about owning a truck capable of towing, and some Class As are outfitted with more than one bathroom! Not everyone will have their own queen-sized bed, but there should be ample space for your family and friends.
Fifth-Wheel Trailers
Fifth-wheel towable rigs are some of the largest RVs you’ll find on the road. Some are larger than 45 feet and usually contain many slide-outs, separate rooms, and house-like amenities.
You’ll need a truck capable of towing something so large as well as extra vehicles to bring your passengers along (riding in a fifth-wheel while it’s in motion is illegal in most states.)
But 30-50 foot fifth-wheels are some of the most luxurious rigs you will find out there! Your party of 12 will no doubt fit and fit comfortably with room to spare depending on the layout, and you’ll be able to enjoy many amenities that are impossible in a smaller rig.
Travel Trailers (30-50 Feet)
Travel trailers are very similar to fifth-wheels and can house up to ten people on the upper end, but travel trailers are usually built no longer than 40 feet. There are still slide-outs and drop-down bunk options along with multiple bathrooms.
There will be little difference when looking at fifth-wheels and travel trailers except for their hitches, so make sure you find the right rig to suit your needs other than the number of people it can sleep.
Class C RVs
Just like Class As, Class C RVs are a great self-contained option for any family. No need to tow; just hop in and buckle up! They are easier to drive than Class As based on their smaller frame, and can usually house up to 7 guests comfortably.
Chances are there will only be one bathroom inside along with many unique sleeping arrangements and a smaller cabin, but Class Cs are a great option for a lot of folks, especially when you consider their ease of driving!
Medium Towable Rigs (20-30 Feet)
Fifth-wheels and travel trailers can also be found in a range of 20-30 feet and usually weigh around 5,200 to 5,800 pounds. If you’re looking at 20-footers, chances are you will only be able to fit a family of 4-5 inside, while you’ll be able to fit closer to 7 if you feel comfortable towing up to 30 feet.
There will most likely be only one bathroom, and multiple slide-outs, so be prepared to sleep on a drop-down bunk. But towing something smaller in length can bring you more peace of mind on the road!
Class B RVs
If it’s just you and your partner or your family that is quite comfortable with each other, a small rig might be best for you. Class B RVs are unique in that they are normally no larger than the average van but still equipped with above-average amenities.
Often these road vans will have a small slide-out or a raised roof height to accommodate more passengers, but your maximum sleeping capacity will most likely be no more than three. They are the easiest of all RVs to drive, and are perfect for weekend getaways, making them one of the most popular RV options on the road!
Small Towable Rigs (10-20 Feet)
Fifth-wheel trailers are not usually built smaller than 25 feet, so if you’re looking at a small towable rig, a travel trailer will be right for you. I own a 19-foot vintage trailer that was said to sleep 4-5. Being a full-timer and having a trailer that needed renovation, I find that number quite generous.
But if you’re just camping for a weekend and aren’t spending too much time inside the trailer, a smaller rig may be just the ticket for you! Most travel trailers less than 20 feet in length should comfortably fit 3-5, depending on layout and comfortability between your guest. The newer the trailer, the more perks they’ll have, including the usual slide-outs and drop-bunks.
However, going under 19 feet is a risk when it comes to a bathroom; most models can’t fit one, so that may be a deal breaker for some of your guests! If you’re new to the RV world and all the terminology is making your head spin, don’t worry! After getting familiar with the different types of RVs, you’ll be an expert in next to no time.
This video is a great watch if you want to go into the different types of RVs in a little more detail.
As you can see in the video, there are simply so many different types of RVs, you are sure to find the one that’s right for you and your needs. It can be useful to make a list of everything you want from an RV to help you make an educated decision, as you’ll want to get the right RV first time!
Can You Fit Your Family In An RV?
Depending on what you’re looking for, the number of family members sleeping inside, and your budget, you should be able to find a rig that perfectly matches your family’s needs! Sleeping in an RV is always a unique situation, but if you’re looking for the amenities you’re used to at home, there’s a rig for you.
Don’t be afraid to say how many guests you expect to sleep on average when shopping around, and make sure you feel comfortable and safe driving whatever size rig you decide on! With all the options out there, chances are you’ll find one that’s just right.
Can You Fit 15 People In An RV?
RVing is becoming increasingly popular, so don’t be surprised when everyone you know suddenly wants to jump on board and head to the sun with you and your rig! Fitting 15 people inside an RV may be possible, but it depends on the overall size of your RV.
Class A RVs are big rigs, able to comfortably sleep 10 people or more depending on the design and layout of the camper. Smaller RVs like Class Bs may not be able to sleep more than a couple of people, but a substantial number will be able to stand in the RV.
Can You Fit 11 People In An RV?
The smallest RVs tend to be around 10-20 feet big and usually can sleep a maximum of 4 adults, however, if everyone inside the RV is standing, it may be possible to fit more people inside. Fitting 11 people inside an RV is not impossible, but would be far more comfortable in either Class A or Class C RVs that have more space.
How Many People Can Fit In A 30 Foot RV?
An average size RV measuring at 30-foot will typically be able to sleep a maximum of 6 or 7 adults. Depending on the design and layout of the RV, it may be possible to fit several more individuals inside an RV, especially if everybody is stood up, taking up less space!
Although laws can vary from state to state, the general rule for the number of passengers you can carry when driving an RV is limited to the number of seatbelts within the rig. This is to maximize passenger safety, so it’s best to make sure the ratio of passengers to seatbelts matches.
Closing Thoughts
The number of people able to fit in an RV depends on the type of RV, layout, and other factors we’ve discussed in this article. Generally, the bigger the RV, the more people you’ll be able to fit inside and join in on all the RVing adventures to come. Just be sure to only carry up to the maximum number of passengers advised for your rig to ensure ultimate RV safety when out on the open road.