The 12 Best RVs For a Family of 4 [Full Time Living and Traveling]

Although full-time RVing can be fun by yourself or with a travel partner, one of the best ways to go on a road trip is as a whole family. Having the kids along for the ride can make it much more exciting, provided that you get an RV with enough living space for everyone. 

Fortunately, we’ve searched high and low for the best RV for a family of 4 so that you don’t have to. We’ve even broken our comprehensive list into RV classes to make it easier to pick the right one for you and your kids.

Whether you’re ready to hit the road right now or you’re just planning for the future, here are the best RVs for a family of four. 

Best Travel Trailers for a Family of 4

If you have a tow vehicle, towable RVs can be an excellent option. These rigs are not as massive or cumbersome as fifth wheels, but they can offer plenty of space for you and the little ones.

Travel trailers come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, so it’s pretty easy to find one with sufficient interior space. Best of all, you can choose models with extra features like slide-outs, pop-up sections, and bunk beds.

Here are our top three recommendations for the best travel trailer for family of 4.

Dutchmen Aspen Trail 2260RBS

• Sleeps: 2-4
• Freshwater: 52 gal
• Gray Water: 42 gal
• Black Water: 42 gal
• Length: 26 ft

Starting us off is this gorgeous trailer from Dutchmen. The Dutchman Aspen Trail is a perfect blend of high class and modern sensibility, complete with some incredible amenities.

One of the primary highlights is the inclusion of an electric fireplace, which is ideal for cold winter nights. Although the fireplace doesn’t generate too much heat, it creates an excellent backdrop for snuggling with the family and watching a movie. 

Another unique feature of the Aspen Trail is the pantry. To access it, you have to pull out the entertainment system/fireplace combo. Although this particular model helps maximize space, you want to be sure that you grab all of your snacks before starting the next movie or show. 

As with most of the best RV for family of 4 models, the Aspen Trail uses slide-out portions to add extra space to the interior. In this case, the dinette and full-size refrigerator pull away from the center. 

Key Features

• Electric Fireplace
• Enclosed Master Bedroom
• Pass-Through Storage
• Slide-Out Dinette and Refrigerator
• Hinged Entertainment Center w/Pantry
• Convertible Dinette Section

Jayco Flight 32BHDS Bunkhouse Trailer

• Sleeps: 8-14
• Freshwater: 80 gal
• Gray Water: 32.5 gal
• Black Water: 39 gal
• Length: 36 ft

Some of the RVs we’re showcasing are luxury models, complete with extra amenities and storage to ensure that everyone has enough space for themselves, especially important for older children! In this case, however, the Jayco Flight is a bit more modest, although it still has plenty of room. 

This is a bunkhouse RV, meaning that it comes with multiple bunk beds. There are three in the rear, with the third sitting over a storage space. Although this area is not fully enclosed (like the master bedroom), it still offers some much-needed privacy when RVing with kids.

Many RVs, including the Flight, use automatic awnings to provide shade. This best RV for a family of 4 has a full-size 18-foot covering so that the whole family can sit outside without being blinded by the sun. 

Key Features

• Two Slide-Out Sections
• 3 Bunks and 2 Convertible Sofas
• Enclosed Master Bedroom
• Pass-Through Storage
• 18-ft Awning
• Six-Gallon Water Heater
• Two Outside Storage Compartments

Airstream Flying Cloud 25FB

• Sleeps: 6
• Freshwater: 37 gal
• Gray Water: 35 gal
• Black Water: 40 gal
• Length: 25 ft

If you want more of a classic look to your RV for a family of 4, you can’t go wrong with an Airstream. While the exterior looks like it’s straight out of the 50s, the interior is sleek and modern.

Like the Jayco Flight model, this Airstream Flying Cloud is relatively modest inside due to its short frame. At just 25 feet long, this is the shortest RV on this list. However, there’s still plenty of space for the entire family. 

As you’ll notice, each of the best RVs for a family of 4 models comes with an enclosed master bedroom. Having this kind of privacy while on the road is crucial, particularly when traveling with children.

As far as other sleeping spaces, the dinette converts into a bed. The kids will have to share, but they can sleep in an L shape to make it a bit more comfortable if necessary. 

Key Features

• Enclosed Master Bedroom
• Wall-Mounted TV
• Convertible Dinette 
• Convertible Oven (to Counter)
• Independent Shower and Bath

The Best Class C RV for a Family of 4

Sometimes, driving a motorhome is preferable to towing a trailer. For example, if you don’t have a sufficiently powerful tow vehicle, you’ll have to rent one for your next road trip. When it comes to motor homes, Class C RVs are typically best for a family of four. They’re a bit smaller than Class A rigs, making them easier to drive, park, and set up.

For example, if you’re hitting all the national parks, it’s easier to make it between campsites since you don’t have to worry as much about height clearances and backing in. 

Here are our top three Class C models for the best RV for family of 4. 

Coachmen Freelander 31MB

• Sleeps: 6-8
• Freshwater: 50 gal
• Gray Water: 32 gal
• Black Water: 29 gal
• Length: 32′, 11″

One of the best reasons to buy Class C motorhomes for family road trips is that the cab’s overhead section is always a bunk bed. Kids will love to climb up and sleep so high, particularly because they can get a better view of the outside. 

Little children are also fine sleeping in the overhead bunk, thanks to the inclusion of a safety net. Simply attach it once they’re in, and there’s no chance of a nasty accident happening during the night. The net is also easy to take down from the inside, just in case your little ones need to use the bathroom or sink. 

The Coachman Freelander also comes with an outdoor entertainment system so that the whole family can enjoy some quality time together without having to sit at the dinette table all the time. 

Key Features

• Enclosed Master Bedroom w/Slide Out Closet
• Slide-Out Dinette and Sofa
• Overhead Bunk w/Child Safety Net
• Independent Shower
• Outdoor Entertainment Center
• Full-Size Refrigerator

Coachmen Leprechaun 260DS RV

• Sleeps: 6-8
• Freshwater: 50 gal
• Gray Water: 31 gal
• Black Water: 31 gal
• Length: 27′, 5″

The overhead bunk is always cool, but the Coachman Leprechaun makes it even more appealing with a swivel-mounted TV inside. Now your kids can watch while they chill upstairs, making this area the perfect hangout spot.

With some cup holders and snacks, they may never want to leave. Don’t worry, though; the TV pulls out so that everyone can watch from below as well. 

Another unique feature of the Leprechaun is the flip-down countertop. Since counter space is always a premium, you can extend the side next to the sink as necessary. Then, when you have to walk through the hall to the master bedroom or bathroom, you just flip it down. Extra handy and convenient. 

Key Features

• Overhead Bunk w/TV
• Slide-Out Master Bedroom and Bath
• Flip-Down Counter
• Full-Size Refrigerator
• Convertible Dinette
• 18-foot Awning

Thor Chateau 28A

• Sleeps: 6
• Freshwater: 40 gal
• Gray Water: 22 gal
• Black Water: 25 gal
• Length: 29′, 9″

One of the standout features of the Thor Chateau 28A is that it doesn’t include any slide-out portions. While slide-outs can be handy and offer extra space, they can also be limiting if you’re boondocking in a tighter spot.

This small RV for a family of 4 is complete without any adjustments, making it a bit more versatile and adaptable to your needs. 

As you may have noticed, some of these floorplans include an independent shower. This means that the bathroom and shower are not together, which can be pretty handy when traveling with others. This design allows someone to use the toilet while someone else is showering, which can come in handy quite often, particularly if you’re bringing teens along. 

Key Features

• Overhead Bunk w/Cup Holders
• Enclosed Master Bedroom
• Swivel-Mounted TV
• Independent Shower
• Sofa (or Recliners)
• Three-Burner Stove
• Six-Gallon Water Heater

The Best Fifth Wheels for a Family of 4

If you want the ultimate in interior space, fifth wheels are the best way to go. That said, you do have to use a pickup truck tow vehicle because of how these rigs are shaped.

Assuming that you can bring a fifth wheel along on your road trip, it has plenty of space for the whole family (even if you have more than four passengers).

Fifth wheels typically include tons of amenities and extra features, like bunk beds, indoor and outdoor entertainment centers, and full-size bathrooms. 

We’ve compiled our top three fifth wheel recommendations for the best RV for family of 4. 

Grand Design Solitude Bunkhouse 3550BH RV

• Sleeps: 6-8
• Freshwater: 91 gal
• Gray Water: 100 gal
• Black Water: 53 gal
• Length: 39′, 9″

If you like the idea of bringing the Ritz Carlton on your road trip, you’ll appreciate the fantastic features and jaw-dropping accommodations within the Grand Design Solitude.

Although this fifth-wheel trailer is pretty massive at 39 feet, it’s worth hauling from one campsite to the next. 

This is a bunkhouse RV for a family of 4 or bigger, and each bunk has a privacy screen. In fact, the whole section is mostly enclosed so that your kids can feel like they have their own room.

Other highlights of the Grand Design Solitude include a skylight inside the shower, a kitchen island with a sink, a tri-fold convertible sofa, an electric fireplace, and a free-standing dinette you can pull out if necessary. 

Key Features

• Enclosed Master Bedroom w/Bathroom
• Shower w/Skylight
• Kitchen Island
• Dual Bunks w/Privacy
• Electric Fireplace
• Tri-Fold Sofa
• Theater Seating
• Free-Standing Dinette

Keystone Cougar 353SRX

• Sleeps: 8
• Freshwater: 81 gal
• Gray Water: 76 gal
• Black Water: 76 gal
• Length: 38′, 11″

The Keystone Cougar is actually a toy hauler, meaning that you can bring along any motorcycles, ATVs, or dirt bikes if you like. The primary benefit of a toy hauler like the Cougar is that you have a massive garage that converts to a living area when not in use.

There are two sets of folding seats and a second bathroom in the garage, making it an excellent place for kids to hang out. 

Even better, the Cougar also allows you to convert the rear ramp door into a patio deck. Best of all, it comes with a mesh screen so that you can enjoy the outdoors without letting all the bugs inside the RV.

Overall, even if you’re not planning on bringing some “toys” on your road trip, the Cougar works well as is. 

Key Features

• Ten-Foot Toy Hauler Garage
• Convertible Outdoor Deck w/Magnetic Screen
• Slide-Out Sofa and Dinette Section
• Slide-Out Kitchenette
• Enclosed Master Bedroom
• Electric Fireplace
• Pass-Through Storage
• Secondary Garage Bathroom and Seating

Forest River Wildwood Heritage Glen 314BUD

• Sleeps: 8
• Freshwater: 57 gal
• Gray Water: 78 gal
• Black Water: 60 gal
• Length: 39′, 3″

Here we have another bunkhouse fifth-wheel RV, but in this case, the bunk bedroom is full enclosed to offer more privacy for your children. The room also has its own entertainment center, so you might not see your kids for most of the trip. 

Another highlight of the Heritage Glen is the inclusion of an outdoor kitchenette and bar. This setup allows you to maximize your travel plans by eating either indoors or out, depending on the weather.

Considering how much time your kids might spend in their room, having this feature can come in handy. 

Key Features

• Bunkhouse RV Style
• Dual Entertainment Centers
• Enclosed Master Bedroom and Bunk Room
• Slide Out Dinette and Sofa w/Panoramic Windows
• Pass-Through Storage
• Outside Kitchenette w/Bar
• Two Bathrooms
• Shower Skylight in Master Bath

The Best Class A RVs for a Family of 4

Last, but certainly not least, Class A RVs are the top-tier option for families of four. Not only do these rigs come with tons of interior space and accommodations, but they also make traveling so much more enjoyable.

Class A rigs can be challenging to drive due to their size, but once you get used to having so much room inside, you’ll wonder how you managed with a smaller model. 

Overall, if you’re looking for the best ride for your next road trip, choose one of these models for the best RV for family of 4. 

Newmar Bay Star 2813

• Sleeps: 4-6
• Freshwater: 75 gal
• Gray Water: 60 gal
• Black Water: 40 gal
• Length: 28′, 11″

The floorplan on the Newmar Bay Star best RV for a family of 4 focuses mainly on the master bedroom, which comes with a master bath and a mounted TV. This design allows you to watch whatever you want while the kids are in the living room, enjoying the convertible sofa (or theater seating if you upgrade). 

One thing you’ll notice about Class A RVs is that they utilize swivel front cab seats. These seats allow you to use them for entertaining since they can face the living room and TV. This rig also comes with a flip-up countertop. 

If you’re looking for extra space for your family of 4, this Class A RV just may be your best bet.

Key Features

• Enclosed Master Bedroom w/Bath
• Flip-Up Countertop
• Slide-Out Dinette and Refrigerator
• Slide-Out Queen Bed
• Swivel Front Seating
• TV in Master Bedroom
• Three-Burner Stove

Jayco Alante 31V RV

• Sleeps: 4-6
• Freshwater: 72 gal
• Gray Water: 40 gal
• Black Water: 50 gal
• Length: 32′, 1″

Technically speaking, the Alante Class A is a bunkhouse RV model, thanks to the drop-down overhead bunk. This option allows your kids to sleep separately if they like, which can be quite handy for long road trips. This best RV for a family of 4 also has an independent shower so that the whole family doesn’t have to wait for someone to finish washing up to use the bathroom. 

One exciting feature of the Alante is its outdoor entertainment center. When the weather gets nicer, you can bring everyone outside to play and eat. After all, getting out into nature is part of the RVing experience. 

Key Features

• Drop-Down Overhead Bunk
• Enclosed Master Bedroom
• Independent Shower
• Outdoor Entertainment Center
• Pass-Through Storage
• 16-Foot Awning
• Theater Sofa
• Cockpit Table

Thor Miramar 34.6

• Sleeps: 8
• Freshwater: 100 gal
• Gray Water: 40 gal
• Black Water: 40 gal
• Length: 35′, 10″

This best RV for a family of 4 is actually a bunkhouse model since it has two permanent bunk beds. However, there is also a drop-down overhead section so that your kids have options for where they want to sleep. Each bunk does come with privacy shutters as well for added convenience. 

If you’re planning on a long-haul road trip, the Thor Miramar has extra space for a stackable washer and dryer. This way, you don’t have to camp in areas with a laundromat all the time. This rig also comes with an outdoor kitchenette and TV, so you can make the most of every stop, weather permitting. 

Key Features

• Bunk Beds w/Privacy Shutters
• Enclosed Master Bedroom
• Slide-Out Beds and Closet
• Exterior Kitchen and TV
• Drop-Down Overhead Bunk
• Theater Seating w/Foot Rests
• Dream Dinette
• Cab Coffee Table
• Space for Stackable Washer/Dryer Combo

What to Look For When Choosing the Best RV for a Family of 4

We’ve seen a ton of high-quality RV models on this list, but it can be so hard to choose the best RV for a family of 4. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve broken down the top elements to pay attention to when comparing RV options. Before going to a showroom, keep these factors in mind. 

Floor Plan

One of the best things about shopping for the best RV for a family of 4 is that there are so many floor plans available. Typically, a single RV chassis will have several floor plan options, meaning that you can pick the one that works best for you and your family.

For example, one plan may include bunk beds, while another offers convertible sofas. You can rearrange the placement of sleeping spaces, kitchenettes, bathrooms, and more. 

That said, it can be hard to visualize how a floor plan will look in person. Fortunately, most RV manufacturers offer 360 tours so that you can “walk through” the RV virtually. Doing this will help you get a better idea of how the real thing will look and feel. Not all floor plans have this feature, but you can still imagine how different options will look. 

The other benefit of doing a virtual tour is that you can spend less time on the showroom floor. While it is fun to peek at different RVs for family travel, the features can start to blend together, making it harder to remember which models you liked best. Overall, picking a few floor plans beforehand can enable you to make a final decision that much faster. 

Sleeping Spaces

The best RV for family of 4 will include enough space for everyone to sleep. Ideally, it will have individual beds for each kid so that they don’t have to share.

Typically, RVs have one dedicated bedroom or sleeping area and another space that converts into beds. For example, there may be a master bedroom for you and your spouse and convertible sofa beds for the children. 

Bunkhouse RVs can be an excellent choice for families because they maximize sleeping spaces without taking up too much room for other amenities like the bathroom, kitchen, or dining area. Plus, bunk beds allow each child to sleep by themselves, which can alleviate any potential disputes or arguments while traveling. 

Another factor to point out is that most large RVs can accommodate up to six or eight people. So, even though you’re a family of four, your kids can have options when it comes to sleeping arrangements. 

Privacy

When traveling with other people, family or not, privacy is always a primary concern. Teens, in particular, need some space to themselves, so you want to find an RV that can accommodate those requests. Here is another reason why bunkhouse RVs can be so valuable for family road trips. Usually, bunks have a privacy screen so kids can sleep or relax in peace. 

Other than bunk screens, most RVs will only have one closed-off bedroom. So, when it comes to changing clothes or getting out of the shower, everyone might have to use the same room. However, if you can find an RV with a large enough bathroom, that can make privacy even more convenient. 

Entertainment

These days, kids spend most of their time on screens. Part of the appeal of going on a road trip is to explore nature and its surroundings. However, if you have visions of trekking around national parks with your children constantly in awe of nature’s bounty, you’re likely in for a rude awakening. You can’t spend all day hiking and staying outside, so you need some additional entertainment options. 

Most RVs will have a swivel-mounted TV, but some larger rigs may have more entertainment options (including a second TV). That said, you will have to consider connectivity, as it can be hard to get a decent WiFi signal out in the wild. 

If you’re planning on some old-school entertainment (i.e., cards or board games), you need space to play. Be sure to get an RV with a large enough table to fit all four of you comfortably. Some of the best RV for family of 4 will have two living room areas for even better accommodations. 

Versatility

When we talk about versatility, we’re referring to a couple of options. First, slide-out or fold-out sections allow you to expand the interior space to make the RV for a family of 4 seem more open. Second, the size and length of the rig allow for better mobility when choosing a campsite. 

Overall, versatility matters most when deciding whether to boondock or stay at RV-approved locations with hookups. If your road trip takes you from one campsite to the next, you can opt for a massive rig with slide-out portions since you’ll have plenty of room.

On the other hand, boondocking may not offer such expansive parking spaces, so you might not be able to use slide-outs, and it may be harder to get into these spots. 

So, when choosing the best RV for family of 4, you’ll want something that can accommodate all your travel requirements. 

Other Considerations

We’ve discussed specific features and amenities to consider when picking a family RV, but here are some other factors that may influence your final decision. 

• Kids’ Ages – Not only do younger kids take up less space, but they’re more likely to enjoy outdoor activities. Also, pre-teens and teens will need more privacy since they value their personal space and alone time. 
• Trip Duration – If you’re heading out over the weekend, you can likely get away with a smaller rig since you and the kids won’t be on top of each other for long. However, if your road trip spans weeks or months, everyone will appreciate a rig that offers enough space for each person to stretch their legs. Otherwise, you could wind up with an RV full of irritated passengers. 
• Trailer vs. Motorhome – As we mentioned, towing a trailer requires a secondary vehicle. If you have a truck or SUV, a travel trailer may be a better option than a motorhome. The advantage of having a tow vehicle is that you can leave the RV parked while driving into town or exploring the area. Motorhomes are ideal if you don’t have a truck or don’t want to deal with the hassle of backing up and maneuvering a trailer. 

What are the Best RV Types for a Family of 4?

If you’re new to the world of RVing, you may not know which class or style will work best for your needs. We’ve illustrated the top models for these categories above, but here’s a quick rundown of the differences you can expect with each type. 

Class A RVs for a Family

These RVs are the largest of the bunch and typically offer extra interior space and amenities. Class A rigs can be quite fancy or high-end, too, providing some exciting features and benefits. The downside, however, is that these vehicles are taller and wider, making them harder to drive. You will have to pay attention to clearance heights and forget trying to go down narrow side streets unless you want a bevy of insurance claims for broken side-view mirrors. 

Class C RVs

There is a Class B RV, but those are smaller and less equipped to handle a family of four. Class C RVs are a better option since they have enough space without being too overwhelming. Bunkhouse and slide-out models can provide even more room for sleeping spaces or living areas, making this class ideal for most families. 

Travel Trailers for a Family of 4

If you do decide to tow your RV, travel trailers are the most convenient. These models come in a wide array of sizes, and you can pull them with almost any vehicle. If you have a sturdy enough car, it can even work for a small trailer. That said, you will need to invest in hitch locks and wheel ramps, just in case you have to park on uneven terrain. 

Fifth Wheels

The only way to tow these RVs is with a pickup truck, so if you only have an SUV, you’re out of luck. That said, fifth wheels are the largest trailer option, making them a great pick as a 4 person RV. Some models even have slide-out portions to make them more accommodating with tons of interior space. 

Toy Hauler

These RVs get their name from the fact that they can haul your motorized “toys,” such as dirt bikes, motorcycles, or ATVs. Toy haulers are great because they have a whole garage inside, which you can often convert to a living room when it’s not in use. Toy haulers also have a massive back door that functions as a ramp, making it easier to load supplies in and out. You can even convert the ramp to a makeshift deck if you want. 

Enjoy the Best RV for Family of 4 on Your Next Road Trip Adventure!

Once you know which RV model suits your family best, your next excursion will be that much more exciting! RVing is a fun and adventurous lifestyle, so you and your entire family will love being on the road! Happy travels!

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