The "Standard Parking Spot" Rule

The magic number is 20 Feet.

• The Benefit: A standard residential parking space or city meter spot is roughly 18–20 feet long.

• The Reality: If your RV is 19 feet (like the Winnebago Solis 59P or Thor Scope), you can park at the grocery store, the trailhead, or a downtown restaurant without taking up two spots.

• The Drive: These units are built on the Ram ProMaster 1500/2500 chassis. They have a tight turning radius and drive almost exactly like a minivan. You don't need special training to drive one.

Pop-Tops vs. High Roofs

In the under-20-foot category, you usually have two roof choices:

1. High Roof (Hard Top): The standard "Van" look. You can stand up inside properly, and you have overhead cabinets for storage. Best for: 4-Season use.

2. Pop-Top: The roof is low while driving (better aerodynamics) but pops up at camp to create a second sleeping area. Best for: Families of 4 or garage storage.

Top Models Under 20 Feet

1. Thor Motor Coach (Scope & Rize) Thor revolutionized the entry-level van market with these twins.

• The Specs: Built on the Ram ProMaster 1500 chassis (approx. 18 feet long).

• Top Pick: Thor Scope 18M. It features a "Wet Bath" (shower/toilet combo) in the rear and a pull-out sofa bed. It fits in a driveway and gets impressive fuel economy for an RV.

• Key Feature: Thule Bike Rack & Ladder. Standard on most models, emphasizing the "Adventure" readiness of the rig.

2. Jayco (Swift & Comet) Jayco brings their legendary durability to the van segment.

• The Specs: Using the ProMaster 1500 chassis, these vans are nimble and tough.

• Top Pick: Jayco Swift 20T. A twin-bed layout that converts to a King. It creates a massive sleeping area in a sub-21-foot van (technically 20'11", but drives like a 20-footer).

• Top Pick: Jayco Comet. A compact powerhouse often under 18 feet, designed for the budget-conscious adventurer who prioritizes gear storage over luxury trim.

3. Winnebago (Solis) The Solis is the icon of the modern Pop-Top van.

• The Specs: The Solis 59P is 19'9" long.

• Top Pick: Solis 59P. It features a fiberglass Pop-Top sleeping area, meaning you can sleep two adults downstairs and two kids upstairs. It is the ultimate small family hauler.

• The Vibe: Rugged and ready. It features automotive-grade insulation and a "Murphy Bed" system that creates a workspace during the day.

4. Pleasure-Way (Tofino) A true Canadian classic.

• The Specs: Under 18 feet long.

• The Trade-Off: The Tofino often skips the bathroom to maximize living space. It is essentially a luxury tent on wheels with a galley kitchen and massive cargo space for surfboards or bikes inside the van.

• Best For: The purist who uses campground facilities and wants the smallest possible footprint.

The "Wet Bath" Reality

In a 19-foot van, you don't get a dry bathroom (separate shower and toilet).

• What is it? A Wet Bath is a closet-sized space where the shower, toilet, and sink share the same floor drain. When you shower, the toilet gets wet.

• The Strategy: Most van owners use campground showers whenever possible and save the on-board wet bath for emergencies or boondocking nights.

Ready to Van Life?

• Test Drive It: Visit Leisure Days RV Group and drive a Thor Scope or Jayco Swift. You will be shocked at how easy it is to U-turn.

• Check the Height: While length isn't an issue, height is! These vans are often 9+ feet tall. Do not try to enter a parking garage.

• Shop Compact: Filter our inventory by "Class B" and look for the ProMaster 1500 chassis models for the ultimate city-friendly RV.