RV Glossary
Browse RV and towing terms
Browse RV and towing terms with practical definitions and related concepts used throughout our towing-capacity pages.
B
Backup Camera
A backup camera provides a rear-facing view to help drivers reverse and maneuver an RV more safely. It is especially useful on larger motorhomes and tow vehicles.
Bunkhouse
A bunkhouse is an RV floorplan with dedicated bunk beds designed to increase sleeping capacity. It is especially popular with families and larger travel groups.
C
Carbon Monoxide Detector
A carbon monoxide detector alerts RV occupants to dangerous levels of carbon monoxide gas. It is an essential safety device for any RV with fuel-burning appliances.
Cooktop
A cooktop is the built-in stove surface used for cooking inside an RV kitchen. It usually runs on propane and may include two or three burners depending on the floorplan.
Cruise Control
Cruise control automatically maintains a selected driving speed without continuous accelerator input. It helps reduce fatigue on long RV road trips.
D
Dinette
A dinette is a built-in dining area inside an RV that often converts into an extra sleeping space. It is a common multi-purpose feature in many floorplans.
Dry Bath
A dry bath is an RV bathroom layout where the shower is separated from the toilet and sink area. It offers more comfort and convenience than a wet bath.
Ducted A/C
Ducted air conditioning distributes cool air through ceiling ducts and vents for more even temperature control throughout the RV. It is common in larger trailers and motorhomes.
E
Engine Brake
An engine brake helps slow down a motorhome by using engine resistance instead of relying only on the service brakes. It is especially helpful on mountain descents and long grades.
F
Fire Extinguisher
A fire extinguisher is a portable device used to suppress small fires in an RV. It is commonly mounted near the entry door or kitchen area for fast access.
H
Heat Pump
A heat pump is an electric climate control system that can provide both heating and cooling in an RV. It works most efficiently in moderate outdoor temperatures.
M
Microwave Convection Oven
A microwave convection oven combines microwave cooking with convection baking in a single RV appliance. It helps save space while expanding cooking options.
Murphy Bed
A Murphy bed is a fold-down bed that stores vertically when not in use to open up floor space inside the RV. It is a popular space-saving feature in smaller trailers.
P
Propane (LP Gas)
Propane, also called LP gas, is a common RV fuel source used for furnaces, water heaters, cooktops, and refrigerators. It is stored in onboard tanks or cylinders.
R
Range Hood
A range hood helps vent heat, smoke, and cooking odors from the RV kitchen. It improves airflow and comfort while cooking indoors.
Roof Air Conditioner
A roof air conditioner is a rooftop cooling unit that helps regulate temperature inside an RV. It is one of the most common RV climate control systems.
RV Furnace
An RV furnace provides interior heat using propane or, in some cases, electricity depending on the setup. It helps maintain comfort during cold weather camping.
S
Smoke Detector
A smoke detector senses smoke and warns RV occupants about possible fire hazards. It is a basic but critical safety feature in every RV.
T
Three-Way Refrigerator
A three-way refrigerator can run on propane, 12-volt DC, or 120-volt AC power depending on the RV setup and available power source. It is valued for flexible camping use.
W
Wet Bath
A wet bath is a compact RV bathroom where the shower, toilet, and sink share the same waterproof space. It is commonly found in smaller RVs to save room.