RV Floor Plan Basics

From: Jeff Radich

Like your home, there are four distinct areas incorporated into every RV: the living area, the kitchen, the sleeping area, and the bath area. The size and layout of each of these areas varies greatly.

The floor plans of some of the larger RVs on the market today resemble a one-or-two-bedroom luxury apartment with all the furnishings and trappings. These RVs come with a private bedroom and a private bath, and it’s hard to tell that you are in an RV when you are sitting in the living room.

In smaller RVs, the four main areas can be combined to make maximum use of the space, similar to a small studio or bachelor’s apartment. In some of these scaled-down units, there is no bed, but the sofa or dinette might convert to sleeping accommodations, the kitchen sinks might serve as the wash-up area, and the aisle might have a drain to be used for the run-off from a hand-held shower.

When looking at living areas, keep in mind how you will use the RV, how many people will travel with you, and how much time you will spend in the RV.

When I was considering the Monaco Knight PLQ, I loved the office and sitting area in the back, but I gave up two feet in the living and kitchen areas. (I measured it.) Another downside was a loss of pantry space in the kitchen, which did not make my wife happy.

Kitchens located at either the front or the rear of the RV are usually larger than kitchens located in the middle. They also have the advantage of being out of the path to the bathroom. When the kitchen is to the side, it allows room for the bath, bedroom, or living area to be located at the front or rear of the RV.

When considering the kitchen layout, pay special attention to the storage. Are there enough cabinets and drawers in the kitchen? Don't forget about the pots and pans, dishes, cookware, utensils, silverware, and serving pieces you will use on the road. Is there enough space in the kitchen to keep everything you will need?

Another just as important consideration is how much counter-space is in the kitchen. Three feet of counter might be enough to open a can of beans or microwave leftovers from a restaurant, but will hardly suffice if you are cooking for a hungry crew. Don’t skimp on counter-space.

Most RVs, even small Travel Trailers, sleep four to six people, which is adequate for most travelers, even those with families. Depending on the class of RV and the floor plan, there might be one dedicated bedroom, multiple sleeping areas throughout the RV, or a combination of both. Again, you must consider what type of RV lifestyle you plan to have and how many people will travel with you.

Bathrooms come in all shapes and sizes, from a low toilet behind a curtain or in a tiny closet with no sink or shower to a full-sized bathroom complete with a double-marble vanity and spa tub. The choice, of course, depends on use, personal preference, and budget.

Like the kitchen, the bath can be located in the rear of the RV or in the center of the RV. Rear baths can be large and private, but if they are right next to or only accessible from the bedroom, it’s occupants might be disturbed every time someone uses the facilities. Side-aisle, center baths are accessible from both ends of the RV, but they usually are smaller.

Jeff Radich is a professional research writer and active RV enthusiast.