Measuring Camper Dinnerware: Size And Space Saving Tips

Measuring the size of camper dinnerware is important for a number of reasons. Firstly, it ensures you can find a suitable cover to protect your dinnerware from the elements. Secondly, it can help you plan your camping trips more effectively, especially if you're intending to visit national parks or campsites with space restrictions. When measuring your camper dinnerware, it's important to take into account both the interior and exterior dimensions, as well as any additional accessories or extensions such as slides or slide-outs. By taking these measurements, you can ensure that your camper fits within the allotted space at your chosen campsite and that you have sufficient living space inside the camper.

Interior length

The interior length of a camper is the amount of living space you will have when inside the vehicle. This is an important measurement to know as it will determine how much room you will have when camping.

To measure the interior length of a camper, you will need to measure from the front wall to the back wall of the camper inside the vehicle. This measurement will give you the amount of space available for living and sleeping areas.

It is worth noting that the actual living space of a camper is usually shorter than the exterior measurements, as the driving space is not typically usable space when camping. For example, in a Class C motorhome, the cabin, motor compartment, and bumper can take up to 7 feet and 3 inches, leaving only 18 feet and 2 inches of usable camper space.

When considering the interior length of a camper, it is also important to think about the width of the vehicle. The width will determine how much space you will have to move around and store your belongings. Measuring the interior width can be more complicated than measuring the length, as you will need to take measurements with any slides or extensions in and out.

By taking into account both the interior length and width of a camper, you can make an informed decision about the amount of living space that will be available when camping.

Additionally, knowing the interior length of your camper is crucial for complying with regulations and ensuring a proper fit in parking spaces and garages. Many state and national parks have specific length, width, and height limits for RVs, so it is important to measure your camper accurately to ensure it complies with these restrictions.

Exterior length

Measuring the exterior length of your camper or RV is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it helps you determine if your camper will fit into specific campsites, storage areas, or national parks, as many have length restrictions. Additionally, knowing the exterior length can help you choose the correct route, as longer campers may struggle with tight corners and narrow roads.

The exterior length of your camper is the outside measurement of the vehicle, typically from the back bumper to the trailer tongue. However, the method of measurement can vary depending on the type of camper you own. For example, for a motorhome, the exterior length is measured from the rear bumper to the front bumper, excluding any attached ladders. For a travel trailer, the measurement begins at the rear bumper and ends at the ball joint hitch at the front. Fifth-wheel campers are measured from the back bumper to the centre of the kingpin at the front. Teardrop trailers, on the other hand, only measure the cabin size, from the back of the cabin to the front, excluding the tongue.

When measuring the exterior length of your camper, it is recommended to include any accessories or add-ons, such as the trailer tongue, hitch, or tow vehicles. Taking multiple measurements, both with and without these attachments, can be beneficial for different situations. For instance, some campgrounds may require you to keep your tow vehicle attached, so having that measurement handy can be useful. Additionally, you may want to measure any additional storage units or propane tanks attached to your camper, as these can impact your usable living space.

It is also important to note that there is no industry standard for measuring exterior length, and different manufacturers may include or exclude certain features, such as the hitch or tongue. Therefore, it is always a good idea to measure your camper yourself to ensure you have accurate measurements for planning your trips and booking campsites.

Overall length

When it comes to measuring the overall length of a camper, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind. This measurement typically includes everything, from accessories to the truck or tow vehicle, in the case of towable RVs. It is important to note that the overall length is different from the exterior length, which does not include accessories or the tow vehicle.

For a motorhome, the overall length is measured from the rear bumper to the front bumper, excluding any attached ladders. For example, a Class C motorhome might be 25.5 feet in total, but the cabin, motor compartment, and bumper take up 7 feet 3 inches, leaving 18 feet 2 inches of usable camper space.

For a travel trailer, the overall length is measured from the rear bumper to the ball joint hitch at the front. This means the actual living space is typically 2 to 4 feet shorter. For instance, a 25-foot trailer with a 2-foot tongue would leave 23 feet of cabin space. It's important to consider any additional storage units or propane tanks at the front, which further reduce the cabin space.

Pop-up trailers are measured differently due to their compact and expandable design. The overall length is based on the box size, with typical sizes being 8, 10, 12, or 14 feet. However, when expanded, these trailers can almost double in length. For example, an 8-foot box can expand to a length of 16 to 17 feet.

When it comes to a 5th-wheel camper, the overall length is measured from the back bumper to the centre of the kingpin in the front. This setup ensures no lost space due to a tongue or driving space, as seen in motorhomes and travel trailers.

For teardrop trailers, the overall length includes the cabin size, measured from the back of the cabin to the front. Typically, teardrop trailers come in sizes of 8 feet and 10 feet, but longer options are now available. For instance, a 13- to 14-foot teardrop trailer with the tongue included might measure 8 feet in cabin size.

It is worth noting that the overall length of a camper can vary significantly depending on the style and purpose of the RV. Additionally, knowing the overall length is crucial for various situations, such as campsite restrictions, road and overpass clearances, and ferry crossings.

Interior width

Measuring the interior width of your camper or RV is essential to ensure that you will have enough room when you are inside the camper. It is also important to know the interior width to determine if your camper will fit in a specific spot, such as a garage, a parking space, or a campsite.

To measure the interior width of your camper, you will need a tape measure long enough to reach from one side of the camper to the other. You may also want a pen and paper or a notes app on your phone to record your measurements. Having an extra pair of hands to hold the end of the tape measure or to write down the numbers can be helpful, but this job can be done by one person. If your tape measure is not long enough, you can use a bit of masking tape to mark where the tape ends and where you need to start your measurements again.

Measuring the interior width of your camper is a bit more complicated than measuring the interior length because you will need to take measurements with any slide-outs in and with them out. Slide-outs can add 2 to 4 feet to the width of your camper. If you have slide-outs, it is recommended that you take two measurements: one with them closed and another with them fully extended. Interior width measurements are simple—you just measure from one side wall to the other.

The interior width of your camper will depend on the class of your RV. Class A motorhomes are the largest and longest, providing generous living space. On average, they measure 33 feet in length, but some models can reach up to 45 feet. Class B motorhomes, or camper vans, are the smallest and most compact, typically measuring anywhere from 17 to 23 feet long. Class C motorhomes provide a balance between Class A and B models, offering a spacious interior without excessive size and weight. They typically feature a cabover section with a bed and are well-suited for families of four. The typical length of a Class C motorhome is approximately 28 feet, with a width of 8 feet.

Exterior width

Measuring the exterior width of your camper trailer is essential for several reasons. Campgrounds have size requirements, and knowing the exterior width will help you determine if your camper fits. It will also help you when planning your route, as you will need to consider if you can navigate narrow roads. Additionally, you will need to know how wide your camper becomes when extending slide-outs, so you do not encroach on neighbouring campsites.

There is no industry standard for measuring the exterior width of a camper trailer. Some manufacturers include the hitch in the overall length, while others do not. Therefore, it is recommended that you take the measurements yourself.

To measure the exterior width of your camper trailer, you will need a long and accurate tape measure. You may also need a ladder and a second person to help with the measurement. Stand facing the front of your camper trailer and measure from side to side at the widest point. Exclude mirrors and awnings from your measurement. If you do not want to crawl under the camper, you can use a yardstick and sidewalk chalk. Mark the ground where the edges of the camper are, and then measure between the marks.

Taking multiple measurements is important, especially if your camper has slide-outs. Measure the exterior width with the slide-outs in (travel mode) and out (camping mode). Both measurements are crucial. The width of your camper trailer with the slide-outs in will be useful when driving, while the width with the slide-outs out will be necessary when camping.

Frequently asked questions