Last Updated on March 7, 2024

 

Key Takeaways:

• Class A RVs offer luxurious amenities and spacious interiors, but can also be smaller, lighter, and more modest, with lengths under 30 feet.
• Shorter Class A RVs are suitable for those who desire home-like amenities in a more manageable size.
• Special driver’s licenses may be required for driving Class A RVs, depending on state regulations.

Shortest Class A RVs

1. Thor Axis/Vegas 24.1
2. Coachmen Euro
3. Winnebago Intent 28Y
4. Newmar Bay Star Sport 2720
5. Coachmen Pursuit 27XPS
6. Entegra Vision 27A
7. Jayco Alante 27A
8. Admiral Holiday Rambler 28A
9. Fleetwood Flair 28A
10. Thor Windsport 29M

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A Class A RV is a motorhome that is built on a heavy-duty chassis. The big bus-like campers are usually the most luxurious RVs on the market. They can reach up to 45 feet and can feature home-like amenities, multiple slides, high-end furniture, and appliances like a washer and dryer.  

But you can also find smaller, lighter, shorter, more modest Class A motorhomes under 30 feet. Keep in mind, that these are serious gas guzzlers, depending on the model you have, you can get as little as 6 miles to the gallon. 

If you are looking for something that is still easy enough to drive but has all amenities like a home you might want to consider a short Class A RV. 

Pros and Cons of Class A RVs

Pros

• More living space – Class A RVs are wider and longer comparable with Fifth Wheel RVs. You get more living space. This is great when you plan to stay in one place for longer periods of time.
• More slides – They are made differently than for example a Class C RV and they can handle heavier and larger slides, which adds to your living area. 
• Better visibility – You will have a great view of the road using those big windows that Class A RVs usually have. 

Cons 

• Lack of passenger door – If you want to get out of a Class A RV you will have to get up and use the one and only door. 
• Safety – Many Class A RVs don’t have airbags which can be deadly in an accident. Class C RVs do have airbags.
• Serviceability – Class A RVs are harder to service. Most Ford or Chevy is able to service Class C RVs on a Ford or Chevy Chassis.

Do You Need A Special Driver’s License To Drive A Class A RV? 

That depends on your state. Most states have requirements for a special license when you drive over a certain gross vehicle weight rating which is usually 26,000 pounds. In some states, the length of the RV also matters, like in Wisconsin whereas you will need a Class B Driver’s license when you drive anything longer than 45-feet.

You can however drive your RV through a state with special requirements with your own regular driver’s license from your home state without a problem. What matters is to have the right license for your resident state. Before you buy your RV, check your state requirements to make sure of the requirements.

Now let’s see the smallest Class A RVs in the 2022 model year. There are some other Thor RUVs and Winnebagos besides the ones I mention below, but I wanted to provide you with a bit more variety and quality of RVs.

These are the shortest Class A RVs available right now new. 

 

The 11 Shortest Class A RVs

Thor Axis/Vegas 24.1

Thor makes these smaller class A RVs and calls them RUVs (Recreational Utility Vehicles). It runs under two different names: Vegas  24.1 or Axis 24.1. It’s exactly the same layout, a bit different color on the outside. These RUVs feature all the amenities of larger class A RVs and they got an updated modern look a few years back. It still feels very modern and prettier than most current RVs.

Coachmen Euro EU25

The Coachmen Euro 25EU is a sleek and stylish RV designed with European flair, measuring 27.98 feet in length. This newer model offers a contemporary and compact living space perfect for modern travelers. With its innovative design, the Euro 25EU maximizes every inch of space to provide a comfortable and functional interior. From its efficient layout to its upscale features, this RV offers a luxurious yet practical experience for those seeking adventure on the road. Whether cruising through urban streets or exploring scenic countryside, the Coachmen Euro 25EU combines European elegance with American craftsmanship for a truly exceptional RV experience.

 

 

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Winnebago Intent 28Y and 29L

I believe Winnebago is a better quality RV brand than Thor RVs, I have many friends driving them. The Winnebago Intent is among the more affordable Class A RVs out there. They have two models around 20 feet long, the 28Y (28.11 feet) and 29L (30 feet) which make them easier to drive.  Outside you can set up the easy-to-use powered patio awning and enjoy the outdoor kitchen if you buy their optional tailgate package. I personally would choose storage space instead… 

 

Newmar Bay Star Sport 2720

Newmar Bay Star Sport has three models under 30 feet long. 2720, 2813, and 2912. I’ll be talking about the shortest, 2720 here. The Bay Star Sport is spacious and well-appointed. Enjoy roomy cabinets and a large optional pantry with hardwood doors that are perfect for storing necessities and small kitchen appliances. A cooktop, microwave, and fridge all come standard to make cooking something delicious easy, and a polished countertop surrounds a stainless steel double-bowl sink. Relax in the master suite, with a queen-size mattress, designer headboard, and quilted bedspread.

Coachmen Pursuit 27XPS

I have a Coachmen Leprechaun, 28 feet long which is a Class C RV, and the Pursuit is their shortest Class A. I know Forest River owns the company now, but this might be worth the try if you want to buy a short RV that is easy to drive and fits into most places. It has a ton of amazing features built right in, and they now have a model without slides (that is slightly longer than this). 

Entegra Vision 27A

The Entegra Coach Vision Class A motorhome offers an enticing entry into Class A ownership, boasting a perfect blend of functionality and luxury within its compact 29.11-foot length. Despite being the smallest in Entegra Coach’s Class A lineup, the Vision doesn’t compromise on quality or comfort. With meticulous attention to detail evident in features like hardwood cabinet doors, drawers, and fascia complemented by LED accent lighting, every aspect of the interior exudes elegance. Built on the reliable Ford® F53 chassis and equipped with the E-Z Drive™ ride and handling package, the Vision ensures a smooth and enjoyable journey, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a top-notch Class A experience in a shorter package.

 

 

Jayco Alante 27A

The Jayco Alante redefines Class A ownership with its compact 29.11-foot length, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a shorter Class A RV. Despite its size, the Alante boasts luxurious interior features such as hardwood cabinet doors, drawers, and fascia with LED accent lighting, providing an upscale feel. Practical upgrades like two 13,500 BTU A/Cs with an energy management system, a Winegard 2.0 Wi-Fi/4G antenna, and a 200W solar panel with dual controller ensure modern comfort and convenience. With updates for 2024 including new exterior colors, graphics, flooring, and countertops, the Alante offers a fresh and stylish option for Class A enthusiasts. Experience the allure of Class A ownership with the compact yet feature-rich Alante.

 

Admiral Holiday Rambler 28A

You’ll find premium features, modern décor, and impeccable style in the Holiday Rambler. The kitchen features cabinetry with frosted glass doors, a glass cover over the stove for more cooking space, and under cabinet lighting for a relaxed dining experience. You also get an accent wall you can personalize, an Illumaplex system for whole coach control, and a drop-down queen bed.

Fleetwood Flair 28A

This Fleetwood Flair has all that you can ask for and it is still under 30 feet long! Fleetwood RVs got a huge makeover in 2019 and they look really modern and beautiful still in 2022. But, that’s just the beginning. The 2022 Flair has lots of practical features, such as 50-amp service, a 15K-BTU ducted A/C, enclosed and heated holding tanks, and pass-thru storage. You will love your Fleetwood Flair.

 

Thor Windsport 29M

All Windsport models feature Leatherette furniture, solid surface kitchen countertops, and an outdoor shower. You also get a dash workstation with 110-volt and 12-volt outlets at the passenger side for those who need to take work with them on the road. This unit features captain’s chairs and a coffee table, a sofa bed for overnight guests, and a dinette giving you enough seating for eight people. There is a king bed at the back and everyone will appreciate the centrally located full bathroom for convenience. You also get an exterior 32″ TV and either a 40″ or 32″ TV inside.

 

An RV is a large investment. Before you decide which one of the short Class A RVs to buy, check out more RVs. My advise is to go to large dealerships or RV shows and walk around to see what feels right. You might like some Class C RVs more or you’ll decide to get a travel trailer. See the pros and cons of each and if you buy new, have the manufacturer customize it for you. If you find an RV you like, take it for a test drive and see if you can handle it. It takes some time to find the perfect rig.

 

Discontinued Models

Winnebago Vista 27PE

I was looking at the Vistas for a while when I was planning to upgrade my RV, I really liked them.  I have seen all their different layouts and the model 27P is the shortest. What I don’t like about it that the interior design is still dated for my taste. Many RV manufacturers now are upgrading to a more modern look, but not the Vista. If you like those brown and beige colors, it’s just the RV for you. Their MSRP got a huge jump in the last year, but RVs overall are more expensive lately.

 

Entegra Vision 26X

Combine its shorter length with the exclusive E-Z Drive Elite ride and handling package, and you’ll have many of the comforts of home in a motorhome that’s easy to navigate and comfortable to drive. This floorplan comes with a queen bed, bathroom with shower, dinette, sofas, and a kitchen that has a fridge, stove, and microwave. You get plenty of storage, an outside shower, and a TV with a BlueRay player.

 

Winnebago Adventurer 27N

The Adventurer is Winnebago’s luxurious line. This one has an upscale kitchen that offers elegant countertops and new refreshing colors. The large under-mounted stainless steel sink with a bamboo cover gives you a stylish and functional kitchen that’s as stylish as it is functional. There is plenty of seating with two cab seats, a dining table with storage, an extendable tabletop, and chairs. You can also enjoy the exterior entertainment center when sitting outside.

 

Last update on 2024-04-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API