AS MY HUSBAND AND I became empty nesters, we downsized from a 30-foot travel trailer to a 21-foot Class B van. If you’re like us, you’ll appreciate the nimbleness of the best Class B RVs and might be surprised by how many amenities can be packed inside these smaller, lighter camper vans.
While Class B RVs don’t have as much floor plan variation as other classes, there are a handful of van chassis with diverse layouts, including some that sleep up to four. Most feature kitchens and wet baths, but options and price points vary from there. Once you find the right fit for you, you will soon see all of the advantages and pleasures of #vanlife, just as I have.
Key Takeaways
- Class B RVs offer surprising comfort and versatility in compact designs, making them ideal for empty nesters, couples, or small families seeking nimble, easy-to-drive camper vans with essential amenities like beds, kitchens, and wet baths.
- Top picks include the Winnebago Travato 59GL and Solis 59PX for versatility and off-grid capabilities, while models like the Thor Eddie Bauer 19EB and Jayco Swift 20T cater to adventurous couples. Family-friendly options like the Winnebago Solis Pocket 36B add pop-tops and clever convertible layouts.
- Affordable and used Class B options like the Thor Freedom Elite 17D and 2020 Winnebago Boldt 70KL provide budget-conscious or secondhand buyers with solid features and off-grid potential, proving there’s a Class B van for nearly every lifestyle and price point.
Best Overall Class B RVs
Whether you’re interested in full-time van life or searching for a weekend adventure vehicle, these are our picks for the best Class B RVs:
Winnebago Travato 59GL
Images by Camping World
Specs
- Length: 21’
- Engine: Ram ProMaster 3.6L V6 (gas)
- GVWR: 9,350 pounds
- Sleeping Capacity: Up to 2
The Travato 59GL packs everything you need into a 21-foot van, including a bed, a wet bath, a kitchen, and seating for four while parked or on the road. The 49” x 77” Murphy bed backs up to rear double doors that open entirely to let in the views, while built-in screens allow you to keep the bugs out.
The “L” part of the 59GL indicates that this Travato features an upgraded power system with lithium batteries. The Pure3 Energy Management System offers a 3-module lithium-ion energy pack, with a 3,200-watt inverter, Bluetooth control, an energy pack heating system, and a second dedicated alternator powered by the engine (which recharges the lithium batteries and eliminates the need for a gas generator).
In addition to the lithium system, the 59GL can plug into shore power and recharge using its solar system. The solar package boasts 215-watt solar panels and a solar charge controller with a junction box and plugs for additional panels. Thanks to these many power options, going off-grid is much easier.
Winnebago Solis 59PX
Images by Camping World
Specs
- Length: 21’
- Engine: Ram ProMaster 3.6L V6 (gas)
- GVWR: 9,350 pounds
- Sleeping Capacity: Up to 4 (with pop-top)
If you’re traveling with gear you want to protect from the weather, check out the Solis 59PX. The back doors open to reveal a slender storage space with waterproof flooring and an L-track cargo tie-down system, allowing you to secure bikes and other sporting or camping gear. Nearby, the 58” x 77” Murphy bed has a hidden flip-out table revealed when the bed is stored, creating a flexible space for sleeping, working, and dining.
In addition to the Murphy bed, more sleeping space is found in the rooftop pop-top, which offers a bed, fan, and USB outlets. Large screened windows let in fresh air. You might feel like you are sleeping in a treehouse. Since the Solis has additional seats, a family of four can travel comfortably in this van. However, the Solix PX can be purchased without the pop-top if you don’t need the extra beds.
Your power needs are met with 30-amp shore electrical power, a 2,800-watt gas generator, and a 220-watt flexible surface solar panel on the pop-top models (170 watts on non-pop-top Solis camper vans).
Runner Ups
- The Sanctuary 19M offers rear sleeping on a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter chassis.
- The Revel 44E is made for off-road travel with AWD and a turbo diesel engine.
Best Class B RVs for Couples
The best Class B campers are a popular way for couples to travel since the floor plans are often designed for two. Here are some top-rated Class B camper vans perfect for you and your favorite travel partner:
Thor Eddie Bauer 19EB
Specs
- Length: 19’8”
- Engine: Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2.0L 4-cylinder (diesel)
- GVWR: 9,050 pounds
- Sleeping Capacity: Up to 2
The Eddie Bauer 19EB is built for adventure. The diesel Mercedes-Benz Sprinter chassis is equipped with all-wheel drive. Extra lift and off-road tires enhance your ability to go off the beaten path. At 20 feet long, this van is exceptionally nimble, even compared to other van campers.
The Re(Li)able Power Pack electrical system meets your off-grid power needs. It includes a 460Ah lithium battery, a 3,000-watt Pure Sine inverter, and a 170-amp alternator. This is in addition to the 200-watt solar power system and 30-amp shore power.
The living space features a kitchen with a sink, a microwave, a fridge, and a portable induction cooktop, making it easier to cook outside. The wet bath is outfitted with an easy-to-empty cassette toilet. At the rear, you’ll find a convertible 51” x 74” Murphy bed with extra storage underneath. When the bed is folded, you can pass gear through the rear doors.
Jayco Swift 20T
Specs
- Length: 20’11”
- Engine: RAM ProMaster 3.6L V6 (gas)
- GVWR: 9,350 pounds
- Sleeping Capacity: Up to 2
I recently purchased a Class B with twin beds. I like the layout of the Swift 20T and love its openness. You’ll be surprised you’re in a 21-foot van and not a much longer trailer. The beds convert to king beds thanks to additional cushions and pull-out support slats.
If the 30-amp shore power and the 2,800-watt gas generator don’t meet your power needs, add a 250-watt roof-mounted solar panel or upgrade to the Li Package, which boasts a 165Ah lithium battery and a 3000-watt inverter. The lithium system eliminates the need for propane, giving you a fully electric setup.
Extra touches come standard, including screens for the entrance door, magnetic privacy shades for the house windows, and a 19-foot armless Thule power awning.
Runner Ups
- The Eddie Bauer 20EB features twin beds and a Mercedes-Benz AWD chassis.
- The Sequence 20L offers twin beds on the Ram ProMaster chassis.
Best Class B RVs For Families
Even though Class B vans seem smaller than other modes of RV travel, they are still larger than a standard tent, offering more comfortable family camping. If you want to take along the kids, look for one of the best Class B RVs with enough rear seatbelts and additional sleeping spaces:
Winnebago Solis Pocket 36B
Specs
- Length: 17’10”
- Engine: Ram ProMaster 3.6L V6 (gas)
- GVWR: 8,550 pounds
- Sleeping Capacity: Up to 4
Winnebago’s smallest Class B, the Solis Pocket 36B, offers a surprising amount of sleeping space thanks to the pop-top, which sleeps two. The main bed transforms from a twin to a double bed. It can also convert to a couch or a dinette, giving you surprising flexibility and functionality in a petite space.
Power isn’t an issue on or off the grid with 30-amp shore power and a 220-watt solar panel. Upgrade to the Winnebago + EcoFlow Power Kit Pro for a lithium boost, which adds a 5kWh lithium battery, a 3,600-watt inverter, and more. This model doesn’t have a secondary air conditioner, but thanks to its small size, the chassis air can help cool the rear.
The rear bathroom features a removable cassette toilet, sink, and shower. The rear privacy screen can be popped up for an outdoor shower. The kitchen is also designed for indoor/outdoor living, with a table that extends outside. The two-burner propane stove makes it easy to feed the family.
Winnebago Solis NPF 59P
Images by Camping World
Specs
- Length: 19’9”
- Engine: Ram ProMaster 3.6L V6 (gas)
- GVWR: 8,900 pounds
- Sleeping Capacity: Up to 4
National park lovers will love the Solis NPF 59P, as the NPF indicates a limited-edition National Park Foundation camper van. This adds the exterior mountain graphics and additional features for off-grid camping, including enhanced suspension, all-terrain BF Goodrich tires, extra insulation, and an extended slide-out gear drawer at the rear.
The 59P can seat four inside, with dedicated passenger seats behind the chassis cab. This area has a removable pedestal table for family dinners. At night, the kids can head upstairs to the pop-top tent to find a comfortable mattress. The 59” x 77” rear Murphy bed folds out of the way by day, giving you room to store bikes and other gear.
In addition to 30-amp shore power, the 59PX includes a 2,800-watt gas generator and a 220-watt flexible surface solar panel, giving you more options for camping off-grid.
Runner Ups
- The Swift 20E Pop-Top has seating for four with a pop-top sleeping tent.
- The Freedom Elite 17D Pop-Top is new for 2026 and will offer the same great features as the 17D described below, with the optional pop-top sleeping tent.
Best Class B RV Starting Under $100K
Are you looking for the best Class B RV for the money? Check out this model, with a new price tag starting under $100,000.
Thor Freedom Elite 17D
Specs
- Length: 17’11”
- Engine: Ram ProMaster 3.6L V6 (gas)
- GVWR: 8,550 pounds
- Sleeping Capacity: Up to 2
One of the most affordable Class B RVs on the market is the Thor Freedom Elite 17D. While it doesn’t have a built-in bathroom or rooftop air conditioner, this van has practically everything you need to upgrade from tent camping. Starting in the kitchen, you’ll find a sink, a refrigerator, and an induction cooktop.
The rear 47” x 75” bed flips up on strut supports to reveal a large cargo area. Though it officially shows a sleeping capacity of two, the 17D’s convertible dinette gives you a spot where a small child could easily sleep (or add the optional pop-top for another bed). Though there isn’t a full bathroom, there is a rear exterior shower and a Porta-Potti toilet.
Inside, the 17D feels like a homemade camper van conversion, thanks to the wood panel ceiling, which adds a touch of warmth. However, unlike a homemade camper, you won’t have to worry about wiring an electrical system, as the 17D comes equipped with a 30-amp shore power cord and an inverter. It is prepped for solar, if you want to add a system. Thor offers many other upgrades, allowing you to add the features you need without the cost, weight, and space of those you don’t.
Best Used Class B RVs
Buying used offers a way to save money without losing features. Check out these used Class B RV selections:
2024 Thor Dazzle 2AB
Specs
- Length: 21’1”
- Engine: Ram ProMaster 3.6L V6 (gas)
- GVWR: 9,350 pounds
- Sleeping Capacity: Up to 2
Is the swiveling cassette toilet the most fun feature of the 2024 Thor Dazzle 2AB? It’s certainly unique and lets you make the best use of the petite wet bath. While the wet bath is small, it allows for more living space in this 21-foot camper van. The gaucho-style rear couch extends to a 66” x 72” bed. When the bed isn’t in place, you have a large cargo area accessible from the rear doors.
The roomy front features a pair of seats with seatbelts and a dinette table. The chassis seats swivel, as well. Since you have four seats, you can add the optional SkyBunk pop up roof tent for extra sleeping space. The kitchen is outfitted with a microwave, a fridge, and a two-burner cooktop with a glass cover.
2020 Winnebago Boldt 70KL
Specs
- Length: 22’1”
- Engine: Mercedes-Benz Sprinter / V6 (diesel)
- GVWR: 11,030 pounds
- Sleeping Capacity: Up to 2
The 2020 Winnebago Boldt 70KL features a wide-open twin bed interior with a rear wet bath. The Boldt lineup is known for its upgraded lithium battery system, which includes a Pure3 Advanced Energy System with a 4-module energy pack and a 3,600-watt Pure Sine inverter. It also has two 115-watt solar panels.
With that power system, the 70KL is designed to get off the grid. If you want to tackle tougher roads to do so, look for a used Class B RV with the optional AWD added.
Runner Ups
- If you like twin beds but don’t want a rear bath blocking your views, check out the Sequence 20A, which places the wet bath midbunk.
- The Interstate 19 Tommy Bahama Edition has all the luxurious swagger you’d expect in an Airstream. Plus, it has a unique rear lounge space that transforms to fit your needs.
Which Class B RV Gets the Best Gas Mileage?
Most Class B vans average 17-20 miles per gallon, and there is no clear winner for the best gas mileage; however, Class B RVs built on the Mercedes-Benz diesel chassis tend to be at the top of that range.
I went to a Class B van and have not looked back! If you’re beginning to explore Class Bs and would like more inspiration and information, check out these resources:
- Explore Class B vans that sleep four
- Check out some of the best Class B RVs for full-time living
- Learn about the larger Class B+ campers
Could you enjoy #vanlife? If so, which of these models caught your eye? Tell us in the comments below.
