Understanding RV Model Numbers and Letters

You’ve officially decided you are going to invest in a new RV. When you start shopping for the right one, there are a few things to decide in order to narrow down the vast amount of options available. A great place to start is learning more about the different types of RVs, various brands and the floorplans they offer. 

And one of the most burning questions you might have when you start shopping is, "what exactly do those numbers mean at the end of an RV name?"

The numbers and letters at the end of the RV is the model of that particular brand. It is almost like a secret code to let the shopper know the floorplan type, vehicle length or square footage and the camper's features.

It is important to note that not all manufacturers follow these “rules” one hundred percent, so always double check the floorplan and feature listings on the manufacturer's site. But having the basic knowledge of these abbreviations is helpful when you are shopping for a specific type of floorplan at RV shows or online. At shows you will find the model information on the price sheet, usually posted outside of the unit next to the door. 

Some of the basic RV model vocabulary includes:

FK: Front Kitchen

• Specific to towable trailers
• Kitchen closest to the tow hitch 

RK: Rear Kitchen

• Usually towable
• Kitchen found on opposite side of where the hitch is located

OK: Outside Kitchen

• A small kitchen area accessible on the outside of the camper.
• Usually includes burners, grill, refrigerator, and small drawers for storage

RL: Rear Living

• This is an RV with the lounge or living area located in the back of the unit.

FL: Front Living

• Specific to towable trailers
• The lounge/living area is located at the front of the RV.

 RE: Rear Entertainment

• Similar, if not the same, as rear living.

BH: Bunk House

• Small bed area designed for children
• Similar to a bunk bed

SLX, XLT, Xlite: Light Weight

• A lightweight RV that is easier to transport

WS: With Slide

• Unit includes a single slideout

S: Single Slide 

• Only one slide on this model of RV

SS: Super Slide

• A long slide that runs the length of the main living area of an RV

DS: Dinette Slide

• A slide that includes a dinette

Q: Queen Somewhere 

• A queen bed is somewhere in the camper

K: King Somewhere

• A king bed is somewhere in the camper

QB: Queen Bed

KB: King Bed

RB: Rear Bath

• A bathroom in the rear of the RV

FB: Front Bath

• A bathroom in the front of an RV

Now you may wonder what the numbers in the model name mean. Most times they indicate the length of the RV. However, that number doesn’t include the hitch or tow vehicle, so it’s important to look up these details on the manufacturer’s site before settling on the right RV for you. Length will determine where you can camp, as some campgrounds have length restrictions, and factors into the towing ability of your vehicle.

Let’s break down some examples of floorplans models:

The Jayco Eagle has “RL” for rear living and “OK” for outside kitchen. These features are highlighted in the model number because they are frequently sought out.

2. Forest River RV Surveyor 33KRETS

The Forest River Surveyor has “K” for kitchen “RE” for rear entertainment and “TS” for Triple Slide. These features are present in the model information because they can help show the versatility and space of this RV.

3. Heartland North Trail 24BHS

This Heartland North Trail is a bunkhouse with a single slide. These are featured because it allows families know that this has the sleep capacity they’re looking for before even entering the camper.

4. Coachmen RV Sportscoach 404RB

This Coachmen Sportscoach has a rear bathroom. This feature is often highlighted because it tells the shopper that the bathroom and bedroom are in the back of the coach, which is a design element that many RVers look for.

Now that you know  the model numbers and letters, it  can save you time and energy at RV shows and online, so you can avoid looking at RVs that are not going to meet your needs or lifestyle. Though remember not all manufacturers necessarily follow these rules, so it is always good practice to check out the manufacturer sites to get additional helpful information on the RV you are interested in. 

Additional RV Shopping Resources:

Let us help you find the right motorhome floorplan for your lifestyle.

In the market for a fifth wheel? Check out the top fifth wheels with front living.

Thinking about a towable? Travel Trailers are easy to tow and can often have amenities similar to a motorized RV. Learn more about the Top 5 best bunkhouse travel trailers.