Class C RVs under 25 feet use Murphy beds to maximize sleeping and living space. This multifunctional piece of furniture combines a sofa or table and a bed into one piece of furniture. Their dual purpose means that Murphy beds in Class C motorhomes feel spacious.
Class C RVs under 25 feet are great for their maneuverability and better fuel efficiency. The downside to smaller RVs is that you typically give up either a dinette or a sofa in favor of an owner’s bedroom. But this isn’t the case with Class C Motorhomes under 25 feet with Murphy beds. Many boast large dinettes, sofas, and six sleeping spaces.
It’s easy to see why Murphy beds in Class C RVs under 25 feet are becoming more popular. With more and more RVs taking advantage of this space-saving feature, we’ve compiled a list of our favorites so you can find the one that’s best for you.
What Is an RV Murphy Bed?
A Murphy bed is essentially a sofa or table by day that folds down into a bed at night. Often confused with other types of hide-away beds, Murphy beds are different in that they utilize a true mattress. Murphy beds are just as comfortable as any standard camper bed, with the added benefit of being able to be stored vertically in a wall cabinet when not in use.
In Class C RVs under 25 feet, Murphy bed floorplans are becoming increasingly popular. The ability to fold the bed up when not in use opens up the floor plan and makes the interior of any RV feel more spacious.
Are RV Murphy Beds Good for Small Class C RVs?
When looking at different Class C RVs under 25ft, a Murphy bed eliminates the need to choose between a sofa or a dinette. With a bed that transforms into a sofa or table, even the smallest RVs can offer a bed, a sofa, and a dinette space.
Small Class C RVs with Murphy beds offer the most sleeping space of any small drivable RV. Families will love the space to sleep more people. Even if you typically RV with a smaller travel party, the ability to accommodate more people is desirable. If you ever want to invite friends or even grandchildren along for the journey, you’ll have plenty of sleeping space for everyone.
Overall, an RV Murphy bed is a great option in small Class C RVs.
8 Best Class C RVs Under 25 Feet with Murphy Beds
1. Tiffin Wayfarer 25JW
Our Pros and Cons
✅ The desk with flip-up TV is the best multi-feature furniture piece we’ve seen at this level!
⛔ The combo washer/dryer takes up a lot of storage space.
- Engine: Mercedes Benz Turbo Diesel
- 3.0L V6 BlueTec Turbo OR
- 2.0L I4 OM654 Twin Turbo
- Tow Capacity: 5,000 lbs.
- Chassis: MB Sprinter 3500
- GVWR: 11,030 lbs.
- Length: 25.8 ft.
- Sleep: 2-4
The Tiffin Wayfarer 25JW’s unique floor plan makes it a favorite of full-time RVers. The Murphy Bed in this Class C RV under 25 feet is just one of many dual-purpose and space-maximizing features. The entertainment center also transforms into a desk. Remote workers will love the large countertop and dedicated workspace chairs.
Another dual-purpose favorite of full-timers is the combo washer/dryer. This combination unit is nestled out of sight in a large cabinet amidst one of the most expansive kitchens of any small Class C RV. You’ll appreciate having this convenient feature on board.
Full-time RVers are sure to choose the Tiffin Wayfarer 25JW as a favorite on our list of the best Class C RV under 25 feet with a Murphy bed.
2. Thor Motor Coach Delano 24FB
Our Pros and Cons
✅ The slideout gives you a huge center aisle!
⛔ Cover the televator seam when using that counter space to avoid falling debris.
- Engine: Mercedes Benz Turbo Diesel
- 3.0L V6 BlueTec Turbo OR
- 2.0L I4 OM654 Twin Turbo
- Tow Capacity: 5,000 lbs.
- Chassis: MB Sprinter 3500
- GVWR: 11,030 lbs.
- Length: 25.8 lbs.
- Sleep: 4-6
Connectivity is the theme of the Thor Delano 24FB. This RV comes equipped with Winegard’s ConnecT 2.0, which works as a WiFi extender, 4G hotspot, TV, and FM radio antenna. You’ll never lose touch with the outside world, even when you travel to remote destinations.
The technology-minded RVer will also love the USB charging station built into the sleek Euro-style cabinetry of the living room. In the bedroom area, the wireless phone charger is another added bonus that comes standard in the Delano 24FB.
Not only can you stay connected, but you’ll also easily be able to keep all of your devices charged and ready for adventure. Of all the best Class C RVs under 25 feet with a Murphy bed, the Thor Delano 24FB is one of the most tech-savvy.
3. Entegra Coach Qwest 24R
Our Pros and Cons
✅ You can give the Qwest a nose-job by choosing the B+ nose cap instead of the Class C loft.
⛔ The water closet sacrificed its space for the roomy rear living room.
- Engine: Mercedes Benz Turbo Diesel
- 3.0L V6 BlueTec Turbo OR
- 2.0L I4 OM654 Twin Turbo
- Tow Capacity: 4,220 lbs.
- Chassis: MB Sprinter 3500
- GVWR: 11,030 lbs.
- Length: 25.2 ft.
- Sleep: 2-5
The Entegra Qwest 24R boasts the most living space of any of the Class C RVs under 25 feet with Murphy Beds that Entegra offers. In the versatile rear living room, an L-shaped sofa has a Murphy bed that folds over it from the back wall. Even if you choose the aerodynamic B Plus front cap over the Class C overhead loft, the front 2-seater dinette converts into a twin sleeper.
Ever since Jayco came out with this floor plan, Entegra and its parent brand have found this layout a popular option. It gives owners two separate living spaces with a split dry bathroom in between.
Don’t let the narrow front table deceive you; when the cab seats swivel, there’s plenty of space for 4 to eat or gather together for game night in this Class C RV under 25 feet with a Murphy bed. Regardless of who your travel companions are, everyone will be comfortable in the Entegra Qwest 24R.
4. Winnebago Navion 24D
Our Pros and Cons
✅ Out of Propane, use the induction stovetop instead!
⛔ Be aware of where the seatbelts are on the dinette.
- Engine: Mercedes Benz Turbo Diesel
- 3.0L V6 BlueTec Turbo OR
- 2.0L I4 OM654 Twin Turbo
- Tow Capacity: 5,000 lbs.
- Chassis: MB Sprinter 3500
- GVWR: 11,030 lbs.
- Length: 25.6 ft.
- Sleep: 3-6
Best described as unique, the Winnebago Navion 24D is a standout on our list of the best Class C RVs under 25 feet with Murphy beds. One of the most uncommon yet convenient features is the U-shaped dinette with footrests. You can kick back and relax without losing the convenience of a proper dinner table.
Another uncommon convenience feature of the Winnebago Navion 24D is the movable pedestal table with two installation options. Simply press the power Murphy bed button and move the pedestal table to create an instant separation between the bedroom and dining area.
Be sure to utilize the special seat cushions specifically designed to elevate the cabin chairs for use with the table in the coach section. They give you the comfortable height you’ll want.
From sleeping to dining, Winnebago continues to set the bar for innovations in the van chassis RV market. You’ll love the flexibility and convenience built right into this Class C RV under 25 with a Murphy bed.
5. Jayco Melbourne 24R
Our Pros and Cons
✅ The Melbourne 24R has Boondockers in mind due to its propane generator and solar features!
⛔ Although the suspension’s not ready for the backcountry.
- Engine: Mercedes Benz Turbo Diesel
- 3.0L V6 BlueTec Turbo OR
- 2.0L I4 OM654 Twin Turbo
- Tow Capacity: 5,000 lbs.
- Chassis: MB Sprinter 3500
- GVWR: 11,030 lbs.
- Length: 25.2 ft.
- Sleep: 2-5
Boondockers will love the Jayco Melbourne 24R. A Class C RV under 25 feet with a Murphy bed, this compact RV is easy to maneuver. The Onan 3,600-watt LP generator and solar prep come standard. If you desire, you can even upgrade with an optional diesel generator and/or a 190w solar panel.
Adventurous types will also appreciate the outside shower. After a long day of adventure, you’ll be able to wash off with a full bathroom. Although this Class C’s full-width bathroom is expansive, it’s located in the rear of the RV. The outside shower helps you avoid tracking dirt throughout the beautiful interior of the Jayco Melbourne 24R.
Speaking of adventures, with the 5,000 lbs. towing capacity, you’ll be able to take your favorite off-road toys along on your travels. Boondockers and off-road adventurers will love this RV.
6. Forest River Forester MBS2401T
Our Pros and Cons
✅ The hidden drawers behind the mid-coach TV are incredibly large!
⛔ Bring a folding table if you don’t like the theater seat swivel surfaces.
- Engine: Mercedes Benz Turbo Diesel
- 3.0L V6 BlueTec Turbo OR
- 2.0L I4 OM654 Twin Turbo
- Tow Capacity: 4,200 lbs.
- Chassis: MB Sprinter 3500
- GVWR: 11,030 lbs.
- Length: 25.5 ft.
- Sleep: 2-4
The many high-end features in the Forest River Forester MBS 2401T set this RV apart. The herringbone floor pattern is beautiful. It nicely complements the upscale look of the seamless faux marble countertops and stainless steel appliances in the kitchen.
Forest River didn’t just elevate the inside of this RV; they also included many top-of-line features on the rig’s exterior. The power step makes set-up especially easy. You’ll also love the extra large awning that allows you to enjoy the great outdoors even if the weather isn’t cooperating.
If these included extras aren’t enough, the Forester MBS 2401T also boasts a reclining sofa and swivel leather front seats. This is a Class C RV under 25 feet with a Murphy bed that spares no expense.
7. Coachmen Leprechaun 220XG
Our Pros and Cons
✅ The rear utility door and Murphy bed give you a virtual Class C toy hauler.
⛔ It’s spacious, but this is a non-slideout Class C motorhome.
- Engine: Ford 7.3L V8 Triton Gas
- Length: 24.3 ft.
- Tow Capacity: 5,000 lbs.
- Chassis: Ford E-450
- GVWR: 14,500 lbs.
- Sleep: 4-5
The new and improved Coachmen Leprechaun 220XG is built on the Ford E-450 chassis. Previous versions of this same model utilized the Ford E-350 chassis. Not surprisingly, this small Class C RV now boasts more power and better handling when driving over mountainous terrain.
Virtually all other aspects of the Coachmen Leprechaun 220XG remained the same. You’ll notice this floorplan is unlike most other Class C RVs under 25 feet that incorporate a Murphy bed. Located in the rear corner of the camper, this Murphy bed folds up to reveal a cargo bay.
This pseudo-toy hauler is surprisingly well set up for the RVer who likes to cook. The refrigerator opposite the 3 burner stovetop and large double basin sink create a true kitchen work triangle. The J Lounge dinette is large enough to seat the whole family for dinner. It also provides additional counter space for meal prep.
From the larger chassis, the cargo bay, and the top chef kitchen, the new Coachmen Leprechaun 220XG is ready for any type of adventure.
8. Renegade RV Vienna 25RMC
Our Pros and Cons
✅ The Vienna has a luxury-level interior that makes this floor plan shine!
⛔ All that luxury does come with a higher-than-average cost.
- Engine: Mercedes Benz Turbo Diesel
- 3.0L V6 BlueTec Turbo OR
- 2.0L I4 OM654 Twin Turbo
- Tow Capacity: 5,000 lbs.
- Chassis: MB Sprinter 3500
- GVWR: 11,030 lbs.
- Length: 24.11 ft.
- Sleep: 4-6
One of the most luxurious Class C RVs with a Murphy bed is the Renegade RV Vienna 25RMC. This motorhome’s interior is sleek and beautiful. It’s built with maple hardwood cabinetry, solid surface countertops, and ultra-leather furniture.
The LED ceiling lights run throughout the motorhome. This small motorhome feels airy and spacious, with a power skylight and expansive windows. You’ll also love the accent lighting over the gallery countertop.
Lighting also streams into this beautiful RV through the large windows. The many lighting options combined with the tranquil interior color scheme make the Renegade Vienna 25RMC feel bright and particularly spacious.
How to Use an RV Murphy Bed
It’s very easy and quick to operate an RV Murphy bed. Usually, all you need is to fold the mattress up or down. In some campers, you may also need to unclip a lock or fold a support leg into place. The Murphy bed transformation process typically takes less than a minute, regardless of nuances.
Still, many RV manufacturers have simplified the process even more by adding a power-folding option. In these models, all that’s required is the push of a button, and viola, the sofa becomes a bed.
Murphy beds in RVs are often even easier to set up and take down than the dinette beds and tri-fold sofas that so many RVers are used to.
Pros and Cons of RV Murphy Beds in Small Class C RVs
There are many pros of RV Murphy beds in Class C RVs under 25 feet. But we would be remiss if we didn’t mention the downside to Murphy beds too.
Murphy beds save space because they combine a sofa, a table, and a bed into one piece of furniture. However, because they fold up against the wall, the mattresses used in Murphy beds must fit within a defined space. While Murphy beds do utilize standard mattresses, you may not be able to upgrade to the thickest or most luxurious mattresses on the market.
The dual-purpose nature of Murphy beds also means that both pieces of furniture can’t be used simultaneously. If you frequently lounge on the sofa late into the night while your significant other goes to bed early, this floorplan may not be a good fit for you.
7 FAQs About RV Murphy Beds
1. Is an RV Murphy Bed Comfortable?
Murphy bed mattresses are more comfortable than they used to be. Unlike tri-fold sofas or other temporary sleeping options in RVs, Murphy beds sport a proper mattress. Still, as seasoned RVers know, even proper camper bed mattresses often leave something to be desired.
If you want to upgrade the Murphy bed mattress, foam mattresses are a great option. But even if you stick with the factory-standard Murphy bed mattress, you’ll likely be pleasantly surprised with how comfortable they have become.
2. How Big Is an RV Murphy Bed?
RV Murphy beds come in many sizes, but the most common are queen or full-sized Murphy beds. An added bonus of incorporating a Murphy bed into the floorplan is that a queen-sized bed can often fit where otherwise only a full bed would be possible.
Are RV Murphy Beds Smaller Than Standard Beds?
RV Murphy beds are as large as standard RV beds. While it’s true that RV beds are typically smaller than standard residential beds, RV Murphy beds are no different in size than other beds you’ll find in an RV.
Interestingly, some Murphy beds used in these Class C RVs under 25 feet are even a little larger than the standard RV bed size. The ability to fold the bed up and out of the way allows RV manufacturers to include residential-size Murphy beds in some floorplans.
3. Do Most Class C RVs Come with Murphy Beds?
Murphy beds are becoming increasingly popular in small Class C RVs. However, many Class C RVs still don’t incorporate Murphy beds into their floorplans. Larger motorhomes are less likely to have a Murphy bed because there isn’t as great a need to conserve space.
Still, with their many benefits and increased comfort, we’re sure that Murphy beds will continue to increase in popularity across all types of RVs.
4. Can I Modify My Class C RV to Add a Murphy Bed?
Yes, you can make modifications to add a Murphy bed to your 25-foot Class C RV. Whether you choose to purchase a pre-made Murphy bed or build your own Murphy bed, retrofitting your motorhome can be a great way to add more space. Just be careful that your alterations don’t push the motorhome’s weight over its GVWR.
5. What’s the Best Alternative to a Murphy Bed in a Small RV?
A Murphy bed in a Class C RV under 25 feet is a great floorplan option. But, if you need space-saving sleeping options, tri-fold sofas are also great alternatives. Tri-fold sofas are similar to Murphy beds in that they are dual-purpose pieces of furniture that transform quickly.
Remember to be cautious when choosing this option, as the mattresses on tri-folds vary in thickness. Additionally, if you add an after-market tri-fold sofa, it’s important to note the weight it’ll add to your RV. Remember, weight decreases fuel efficiency.
6. Do You Have to Remove Bedding to Fold Up a Murphy Bed?
You may be apprehensive about the convenience of a Murphy bed because a common misconception is that Murphy bed linens must be stripped before the bed can be folded up. That isn’t the case, at least not anymore. Murphy beds of today can simply be folded up, bedding and all. Some even have built-in straps to help keep everything tucked in place.
7. How Much Weight Can an RV Murphy Bed Hold
The typical RV Murphy bed can hold about 1,000 pounds. Remember, the exact weight capacity will vary, so you’ll want to double-check the specs of your specific RV.
FAQs About Class C RVs Under 25 Feet
1. What Is the Shortest Class C RV Under 25 Feet?
A few Class C RVs measure 23 or even 22 feet in length. The Phoenix Cruiser 2100 is probably the smallest Class C RV on the market right now. But with only a pull-out sofa to sleep on and a compact cooking area, this RV appeals to only a small subset of RVers. In contrast, Class C RVs under 25 feet but with Murphy beds are suited for many types of RVers.
2. Which Class C RV Brands Are Best?
With Murphy beds becoming increasingly popular, you can find a Class C RV under 25 feet with a Murphy bed floor plan in nearly every RV manufacturer’s lineup. The question of which is best really depends on preference and budget.
For families, the number of sleeping spaces might be the most important consideration. A full-time RVing couple might choose a Class C RV under 25 feet with a Murphy bed and other conveniences like built-in office space. Whatever your need, there is sure to be a small Class C RV you’ll love.
3. Which Class C RVs Under 25 Feet Get the Best Gas Mileage?
Small Class C RVs under 25ft will all get good gas mileage. Weight impacts fuel efficiency, but GVWR is within a few thousand pounds of each other. This is because they’re all built on a few choice chassis: the Mercedes 3500 Sprinter, the Chevrolet Express, or the Ford E Series.
The type of engine impacts fuel efficiency too. Diesel engines get better mileage than gasoline engines. Beginning in 2023, Mercedes is set to discontinue their V6 BluTec engine. Instead, Mercedes-Benz add a twin-turbo option to their tried and true inline 4-cylinder engine. That’ll give the Sprinter 3500 chassis a little more power and torque with better fuel economy.
Check out our discussion in RV Camping Magazine’s August 2022 Edition to learn more about this engine update!
4. Are Class C RVs Easy to Drive?
One of the draws of Class C RVs is they are easier and more familiar to drive than their Class A counterparts. Many RVers even prefer the familiarity of a van or truck cutaway chassis to the awkwardness of pulling a towable camper.
Class C RVs under 25 feet are the easiest to maneuver, drive and park because of their compact size.
5. Is There Enough Space in a Class C RV?
Class C RV floorplans have come a long way. With the addition of slide-outs and dual-purpose furniture such as Murphy beds, Class C RVs under 25 feet feel more spacious than ever before.
Do You Like Murphy Beds in Class C RVs Under 25 Feet?
Incorporating a Murphy bed into many Class C RVs, especially those under 25 feet, has opened up the interior of these campers like never before. This dual-purpose piece of furniture means you no longer have to choose between a sofa or a dinette. It also means there is potential for up to six sleeping spaces in a type of RV typically considered a couples’ coach.
With all the advantages that a Murphy bed offers, they aren’t for everyone. If the number of sleeping spaces isn’t as large a concern as the plushness of your mattress, you may prefer a more traditional bed.
Still, Murphy beds are increasingly popular for good reason when looking at the best Class C RVs under 25 feet. The flexibility of floorplan and ease of use are second to none.
About the Author:
Laura is a part-time RVer and a full-time mom of three. Long-time campers and RVers before children, Laura, and her husband have fallen even more in love with the RV lifestyle since becoming parents to a child with food allergies.
Having her own kitchen on wheels makes her RV trips amazing. Laura is passionate about finding ways to make traveling with young children fun, easy, and attainable.