Is a Diesel Pusher Class A Motorhome Right for You?

Class A diesel motorhomes, also known as diesel pushers, are typically considered the top of the line for any motorhome manufacturer. These Class A RVs usually have the most sought-after features and the highest-end finishes available. In fact, some Class A motorhomes are positively luxurious. That said, they’re not for everyone in the market for an RV. Depending upon your specific needs and desires as an RV owner and traveler, there could be another option that is better suited for you and your family.

Here are a few questions you can ask yourself before taking the plunge to determine if a diesel pusher is the right RV for you.

Can You Afford a Class A Diesel Motorhome?

It’s always wise to make a budget and stick to it, even when RV shopping.

As we mentioned above, these RVs are commonly the top of the line when it comes to materials and manufacturing. As a result, they’re also the most expensive motorhomes to purchase and own. Buying a diesel pusher is a considerable investment, one that shouldn’t be taken lightly, especially when you take into account the additional expenses of fuel, insurance, interest (if you choose to finance), and decor.

The RV life is full of adventure! It’s the best part of owning one. However, one of the few things that can make or break an RV trip—financial stress. It’s imperative to make sure you’re not stretching yourself or your finances thin to afford a Class A diesel. A proper assessment of your budget could ensure that not only is this particular RV the right one for your family and lifestyle, but that the trips you take with it are full of fun and relaxation.

Do You Have Somewhere to Park a Diesel Pusher?

Image from Camping World

Did we mention these are the biggest motorhomes out there? It’s true! On average, Class A RVs run about 33′ in length. Consequently, many models won’t fit in a standard driveway and a lot of neighborhoods or homeowner associations have rules that dictate where you can park an RV on your property and for how long. It’s wise to think ahead and have a plan for parking and maintaining your RV when not in use before you make the purchase.

Furthermore, considering the value of these motorhomes. If you intend to trade-in or sell your motorhome in a few years, you’ll want to keep it in good shape. WIth this in mind, outdoor uncovered storage might not be the best choice. Extended exposure to the elements could shorten the lifespan of your RV or lend itself to costly damage and repairs.  An RV cover can be smart as an option, but a garage space is the best solution. Depending on your local climate, you may want to build a garage to specifically house your diesel pusher or find an indoor, climate-controlled space to store your RV when you’re not on the road.

How Much Time Will You Spend RVing?

Image from Camping World

We can’t think of anything much worse than buying an amazing RV and then being too busy to actually use it. Before you invest in a diesel pusher, think about how often you’ll be able to actively use it. Brainstorm a few trips in advance to get an idea of how frequently you’ll be on the road in one year’s time.

Are you a college football season ticket holder who plans on tailgating at every single home game this year? Are you entertaining the option of renting out your RV when you’re not using it? Are you an aspiring full-timer, with the freedom to travel the country and spend several months at a time in your RV? If so, we’re jealous! All of these RV lifestyles lend well to a Class A Diesel pusher, because your investment will get plenty of use.

Or maybe you’re a retiree and you’re planning on “mooch docking” at a rotation of your children’s homes in an effort to spend more time with your grandchildren throughout the year. Again, we’re jealous. Regardless of your plans, it’s important to make sure you’ve got the time and freedom to make owning a Class A Diesel motorhome worth it.

Where are You Planning on Traveling?

A Winnebago Class A RV winds through a national park.

Diesel pushers are a fantastic choice for boondocking on public lands, spending time visiting various RV parks throughout the country, and setting up camp in wide-open parking lots for tailgating at games or NASCAR races. With some forethought, the options are endless when owning a Class A RV. There’s plenty of fun around every corner if you’re able to navigate properly.

If you’re looking to spend a lot of time traveling to and visiting the National Parks, a Class A RV may not be the best choice. Unfortunately, many campgrounds within the National Parks Service have length restrictions on their campsites. In fact, you’ll come across a lot of roads in National Parks that just simply aren’t navigable when driving in a Diesel Pusher. If you and your family are looking to spend a lot of time at our National Parks (as you should – they’re beautiful), it’s worth it to do some research first before choosing to invest in your RV.

We have several guides and tips for RV enthusiasts in the planning stages of an RV trip to the National Parks.

Are You Comfortable Driving a Diesel Pusher?

Image from Getty

Many class A diesel-pushers have the ability to “cut the wheels,” tighter than other motorhomes like a Class B (at least sometimes). In fact, some may actually have a tighter turning radius than some Class Cs. Still, not everyone will be comfortable driving a vehicle of this large of size. This is especially true when just starting out as a first-time RVer.

If you’re in the market and are actively looking at the vast option of available motorhomes, you’ll quickly come to the conclusion that a Class C can feel a bit like driving an SUV. A Class B feels much like a van. When it comes to driving a Class A Diesel Motorhome, however, it’s more of a unique experience. It’s crucial that you make a point to account for the learning curve of driving and maneuvering on highways and make sure you’re truly comfortable before driving it off the lot.

Diesel Pushers have proven to be the most luxurious of all motorhomes. If you’re interested, make sure to check out Camping World’s inventory of Class A Diesel motorhomes.