Where do I start?

Some of the earlier responses to your post give very good advice. I completely agree with suggestions that you look at as many different models as possible - RV shows are an excellent place to see a lot of different vehicles. Renting before buying is also a very good idea.

Your post indicates that you value efficiency and economy and I believe that you are correct to target Class B's. For your situation I would also suggest looking at Sportsmobile (www.sportsmobile.com). They allow you to custom design your class B van to fit your needs. B's have a limited size and it it important to make that size work efficiently for your needs.

Other points:

Class B vans get 14-20 mpg depending on make. Class C's get 8-10 mpg. All the class C's that I have seen seem to be designed to maximize the number of people that can sleep in the RV. For you, this would largely be a waste of space.

Since you are a photographer in the West, I am sort of guessing that you might want to go into some desolate areas. If this is correct, you might want to look at the very off-road capable B's made by Sportsmobile or the fairly small class C's made by Tiger Provan based on pickup trucks which can be 4 wheel drive. Both are fairly pricey.

We have run into several single women fulltiming in everything from Class A's to truck campers. They all were happy with their choice because it worked for them.

A few weeks ago while camping I saw two ladies (retirement age) camping individually in their own class "B" units, they had the same make and model except for the color. I was given the impression they camp together for safety and perhaps companionship. They had it down as far as backing, leveling and departure.

Good luck!!!

You can rent a Class B motorhome from outfits in the San Francisco area and Class C from other locations and try one for a week. You will learn what is important and what might be a problem. The Roadtrek are great for a single individual. The Phoenix Class B+ provide a lot more space (double slide-outs) but are going to use more fuel.

I see many individuals and couples traveling around with a medium sized SUV towing a small travel trailer like the Burro and Scamp ones. These are short enough to fit in any campsite (even the ones for tent use) with the tow vehicle and fast to unhitch so you can use the SUV to explore. Something along the lines of a Toyota 4Runner or Honda CRV or Ford Explorer are more than enough to tow these trailers anywhere.

In many areas no motorhome, even a Class B, is going to have a place where it can be parked in a scenic spot. Many pull-outs for example in Yellowstone or along the coast highway in California or scenic areas in New England where a car will fit but not even the smallest motorhome or a tow vehicle with a small trailer. Better to park the trailer and explore these areas with the tow vehicle and this is where a smallish SUV is perfect.

RVing Women is also a good resource. Offers conventions with seminars on maintenance, driving and how to RV. Local chapters are across the country but especially in the west, SW, SE and the east coast. They have smaller chapter gatherings for camaraderie and support. Private Message if you wish more info.

FMCA, Good Sam and Loners on wheels all offer different classes and seminars. Do your research and buy the RV of yoiur dreams and then go enjoy the adventure!!

I am a single woman also. I looked at RV's for a full year before I got one. As I looked my must have list grew and my "I can't live with that" list grew. I did not want the upkeep of 2 drive trains and I wanted a way to get around when I get where I am going so I have a 1 ton pickup and a 5th wheel. It works for me and I love it.

Have fun looking and let us know what you get.

Cherry

Actually, the place to start is just where you started. Right here on RV.NET! There are a lot of knowledgeable and helpful people on this site.

You might also like to read some of the entries in the Class A, Class B and Class C forums as well as Tech Issues, and also possible Dinghy Towing if you might get into that.

Welcome to RVing

there's also the B+ class, somewhere between a B van and C chassis.

Just some food for thought... If you get an inkling of an idea what you finally want to buy... Go rent one similar for a week or 2 and see if it truly suits your needs... Just a thought before you invest in one and find out your not happy with it.... At least thats something I might myself do....

Mike C.

Learn as much as you can. Read magazines, go to shows. go to dealers and make them show you everything on the lot. rent one (most rentals are medium size C's with minimal amenities)

Try to decide what you like, then go for it.
If it proves you've decided wrong, make a change.

But mostly, jump in. So many over anylize everything trying to make sure they make the right decision, at some point the decision becomes no decision at all.