What is the typical height of a motorhome? Motorhomes can vary significantly in height, but most fall between 10 to 13 feet. Travel trailers and fifth wheels often have different height considerations.
When you decide to hit the open road in an RV, you’re embarking on an adventure filled with freedom and fun. But before you can truly enjoy that freedom, you need to be aware of a crucial aspect of your vehicle’s vehicle dimensions: its height. This is especially important for driving a motorhome, as hitting an unseen bridge or overpass can lead to costly repairs and dangerous situations. This guide will help you decipher the various motorhome height figures and ensure you can navigate safely, avoiding common bridge problems.
Deciphering Motorhome Heights: A General Overview
The world of RVs is diverse, with many types of vehicles, each having its own general height range. Knowing these figures is your first step to safe travel.
Class A Motorhome Height
Class A motorhomes are the largest and most luxurious RVs. They are built on a heavy-duty chassis, similar to a bus or a truck. Because of their size, they tend to be taller than other motorhome classes.
- Typical Height: Most Class A motorhomes range from 12 to 13 feet tall. Some taller models, especially those with raised ceilings or roof-mounted equipment, can even reach 13.5 feet.
This extra height is often due to their robust construction, basement storage compartments, and often higher interior ceiling heights.
Class C Motorhome Height
Class C motorhomes are built on a cutaway van chassis and are easily recognizable by their distinctive over-cab sleeping or storage area. They are generally smaller than Class A motorhomes, which impacts their height.
- Typical Height: Class C motorhomes usually stand between 10 to 11.5 feet tall.
While shorter than Class A models, it’s still vital to be aware of their specific height, as even a few inches can matter when encountering low clearances.
Camper Van Height
Camper vans, or Class B motorhomes, are the most compact of the motorized RVs. They are built within the standard dimensions of a van.
- Typical Height: The majority of camper vans are around 9 to 10 feet tall.
However, some custom camper van builds might add roof racks, solar panels, or pop-top roofs, which can increase their overall height. Always check the specific measurements of your camper van.
Travel Trailer Height
Travel trailers are towed by a separate vehicle. Their height can vary widely depending on their design and features.
- Typical Height: Travel trailer heights commonly range from 9 to 12 feet.
Features like air conditioners, roof vents, and awnings can add to the overall height. It’s crucial to know the exact height of your specific travel trailer.
Fifth Wheel Height
Fifth wheels are also towed RVs, but they connect to a special hitch in the bed of a pickup truck. This elevated hitch system often allows for a higher overall profile.
- Typical Height: Fifth wheels are generally taller than travel trailers, with most falling between 12.5 to 13.5 feet tall.
Some larger luxury fifth wheels can even exceed 13.5 feet, making them a significant consideration for bridge clearance.
The Critical Importance of Bridge Clearance
The primary reason for meticulously knowing your RV’s height is bridge clearance. Many roads, especially in older cities or rural areas, have lower bridges than modern interstate highways. Exceeding the posted clearance can be catastrophic.
What is Bridge Clearance?
Bridge clearance refers to the maximum vertical distance from the road surface to the lowest point of a bridge or overpass. This is the absolute limit for vehicles passing underneath.
Why is RV Clearance Such a Big Deal?
- Safety: The most critical reason is to prevent accidents. Striking a bridge can cause severe damage to your RV, the bridge itself, and potentially lead to loss of control while driving.
- Cost: The repairs for damage to an RV from hitting a bridge are substantial. Not to mention, you could be liable for damage to the bridge structure.
- Travel Disruptions: An accident involving a bridge can cause significant traffic delays and road closures, impacting many travelers.
Fathoming Your RV’s Exact Height: More Than Just a Guess
While general ranges are helpful, every RV is unique. Components like air conditioners, satellite dishes, and vent covers all contribute to the overall motorhome height.
Factors Affecting Actual Height
- Roof-Mounted Equipment: Air conditioning units, vent covers, solar panels, and satellite domes are common additions that can add inches or even a foot to your RV’s height.
- Tire Pressure and Load: The height of your RV can change slightly depending on how much air is in your tires and how much weight is inside the vehicle. A fully loaded RV might sit a little lower.
- Suspension: The type and condition of your RV’s suspension can also influence its ride height.
- Aftermarket Additions: Modifications like roof racks or even certain antenna types can increase the overall height.
How to Accurately Measure Your RV’s Height
- Park on a Level Surface: Ensure your RV is on perfectly flat ground.
- Check Tire Pressure: Inflate your tires to the recommended pressure for your vehicle.
- Measure from the Ground:
- Start by measuring from the ground directly beneath the tallest point of your RV.
- The tallest point is typically the highest roof-mounted item – usually an air conditioner unit, a vent cover, or a satellite dish.
- Use a long tape measure or a sturdy measuring pole with markings.
- Have a second person help you hold the tape measure straight up from the ground to the absolute highest point.
- Include All Protrusions: Don’t forget to account for anything that sticks up, even if it seems small.
- Record the Measurement: Write down the exact height, including any fractions of an inch.
- Consider a “Safety Buffer”: It’s wise to add a few inches (e.g., 6 inches to a foot) to your RV’s measured height. This buffer accounts for slight variations in road surfaces, tire pressure changes, and helps you react to unexpected lower clearances. So, if your RV is measured at 12 feet 6 inches, consider its operational height closer to 13 feet or even 13 feet 6 inches for planning purposes.
Navigating Low Clearances: Practical Tips for Driving a Motorhome
Knowing your RV’s height is only half the battle. You need a strategy for when you encounter potential low clearance situations.
Reading Bridge Clearance Signs
- Standard Signs: Most low clearance signs are posted well in advance of the hazard. They will clearly state the maximum allowed height in feet and inches.
- Metric System: In some countries, you might see metric measurements. Be prepared to convert if necessary.
- “Height X’ XX””: This is the standard format. For example, “Height 13′ 6″” means 13 feet and 6 inches.
What to Do When You See a Low Clearance Sign
- Slow Down: Immediately reduce your speed to give yourself more time to assess the situation.
- Check Your RV’s Height: Recall your RV’s exact measured height and your added buffer.
- Compare to the Sign: Is your RV’s height (including buffer) less than the posted clearance?
- If YES: Proceed with caution. Stay in your lane and drive straight through.
- If NO: DO NOT PROCEED. You must find an alternative route.
- Look for Detour Signs: Often, there will be posted detour routes to help large vehicles navigate around the low clearance.
- Use Navigation Apps: Many GPS navigation systems and dedicated RV apps (like RV Trip Wizard, Togo RV) allow you to input your RV’s dimensions, including height. These can help you plan routes that avoid low bridges and other obstructions.
Proactive Route Planning
The best way to avoid bridge problems is to plan your route carefully before you start your journey.
- RV-Specific GPS: Invest in a GPS designed for RVs. These systems factor in your vehicle’s height, weight, and length, helping you avoid low bridges, weight-restricted bridges, and narrow roads.
- Online Route Planners: Websites and apps like RV Trip Wizard allow you to input your RV’s dimensions and will plan a route accordingly, highlighting potential hazards.
- Google Maps and Other General GPS: While useful, always double-check these for RV-specific issues. They may not always account for low clearances. Sometimes, you can add your vehicle’s height as a preference, but this feature isn’t always comprehensive.
- Road Atlas and Local Knowledge: Don’t underestimate the value of a good old-fashioned road atlas. Also, consult with experienced RVers or local visitor centers for route advice.
Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
Even with careful planning, mistakes can happen. Here are some common pitfalls related to RV height and how to sidestep them.
Overestimating the Clearance
- The Problem: Assuming a bridge is higher than it is, or misreading a sign.
- The Solution: Always be conservative. If there’s any doubt, assume the clearance is lower. Use your buffer. Drive with a co-pilot who can scan for signs.
Forgetting About Roof-Mounted AC Units
- The Problem: Measuring only the base height of the motorhome and forgetting about the air conditioner or other protrusions.
- The Solution: Always measure to the absolute highest point of your RV, including all rooftop equipment.
Road Conditions and Variations
- The Problem: The road surface leading up to a bridge might be higher or lower than a perfectly level surface, changing the effective clearance. A dip in the road just before a bridge could mean your RV is now closer to the lowest point.
- The Solution: Always drive slowly and cautiously in areas with potential low clearances. Be extra attentive if the road condition changes.
Unexpected Obstructions
- The Problem: Sometimes, temporary signs or construction equipment can reduce actual clearance below what’s posted.
- The Solution: Stay vigilant. Look for any signs, cones, or workers that might indicate a lower actual clearance than posted.
Driving in the Wrong Lane
- The Problem: The center lane of a multi-lane overpass is usually the highest. However, if you are in a lane that is slightly lower, or if one lane has a different clearance, you could be in trouble.
- The Solution: Whenever possible, try to stay in the center lane when driving a motorhome under an overpass. Pay attention to lane markings and signs that might indicate different clearances per lane.
Specific Height Considerations for Different RV Types
Let’s revisit some specific types to highlight their unique height challenges.
Class A Motorhome Height: The Giants of the Road
As mentioned, Class A motorhomes are the tallest. This means their owners must be extra diligent.
- Impact: Their substantial height makes them more susceptible to issues with standard underpasses, older overpasses, and even some tunnel entrances.
- Mitigation: Rigorous route planning is paramount. RV-specific GPS is almost a necessity for Class A owners. Always confirm bridge clearances on your intended route using multiple sources.
Class C Motorhome Height: Still a Consideration
While shorter than Class A, Class C motorhomes are not exempt from clearance issues.
- Impact: The over-cab bunk area can be the highest point, and if not accounted for, can cause problems.
- Mitigation: Ensure your measurements include this extended section. They are generally more versatile than Class A but still require careful route checking.
Travel Trailer Height and Fifth Wheel Height: Towing and Height
When towing, the height of the trailer itself is critical, but the tow vehicle can also add to the overall height profile, especially with raised hitches on fifth wheels.
- Impact: The combination of tow vehicle and trailer height can be deceiving.
- Mitigation: Measure the entire rig – from the ground to the highest point of the trailer or the tow vehicle, whichever is taller. For fifth wheels, the gooseneck connection can significantly elevate the front of the trailer.
Camper Van Height: The Nimble but Not Invincible
Camper vans are often the easiest to maneuver due to their smaller size.
- Impact: While generally safe, custom builds with roof additions can be taller than a standard van.
- Mitigation: If your camper van has any modifications above the standard roofline (racks, awnings, pop-tops), measure them carefully.
Summary Table of Typical RV Heights
Here’s a quick reference guide to common RV heights. Remember, these are typical ranges, and your specific vehicle may differ. Always measure!
| RV Type | Typical Height Range | Key Height Factors |
|---|---|---|
| Class A Motorhome | 12 – 13 feet | Basement storage, high ceilings, rooftop ACs |
| Class C Motorhome | 10 – 11.5 feet | Over-cab sleeping/storage area, rooftop ACs |
| Camper Van (Class B) | 9 – 10 feet | Standard van dimensions, potential roof additions |
| Travel Trailer | 9 – 12 feet | Rooftop ACs, vents, antennas |
| Fifth Wheel | 12.5 – 13.5 feet | Gooseneck hitch, high profile, rooftop ACs |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What if I accidentally hit a bridge?
A1: If you suspect you have hit a bridge, pull over safely as soon as possible. Do not continue driving. Assess the damage to your RV. If the bridge seems structurally compromised, do not attempt to drive under it again. Contact the authorities or highway patrol immediately to report the incident.
Q2: Are all highway overpasses the same height?
A2: No, overpass heights vary significantly. Interstate highways and newer roads generally have higher clearances (often 16 feet or more), while older state routes, county roads, and city streets can have much lower clearances.
Q3: Can I rely solely on Google Maps for RV route planning?
A3: While Google Maps is a powerful tool, it’s not specifically designed for RV routing. It may not always account for low clearances or other restrictions that affect larger vehicles. It’s best to use it in conjunction with RV-specific navigation apps or by manually checking potential problem areas.
Q4: How much buffer should I add to my RV’s measured height?
A4: A safety buffer of 6 inches to 1 foot is generally recommended. This accounts for variations in tire pressure, road conditions, and provides a margin for error when interpreting signs or navigating.
Q5: What are the typical minimum clearance heights for major highways?
A5: For most Interstate highways in the United States, the minimum federal standard for bridge clearance is 16 feet. However, there can be exceptions, and it’s always crucial to check posted signs.
Q6: What are the implications of a low-hanging tree branch?
A6: While this guide focuses on bridges, low-hanging tree branches can also cause damage, especially to the roof and higher sides of your RV. Always be aware of your surroundings, not just overhead structures.
Q7: Can my RV’s height change during a trip?
A7: Yes, slightly. Tire pressure is a key factor. Underinflated tires can lower your RV’s ride height, potentially increasing clearance. Overinflated tires can do the opposite. Regularly check your tire pressure.
By prioritizing accurate measurements and diligent route planning, you can ensure your adventures in your motorhome, travel trailer, or fifth wheel are safe and enjoyable, free from the worry of hitting your head on the road. Happy travels!