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Comparing Tiffin Wayfarer and Leisure Travel Vans Unity: Why Cargo Capacity Matters for Safe RVing

When it comes to choosing the right RV for your adventures, there are a lot of factors to consider. Two popular options in the Class C (some call them Class B+) motorhome category are the Tiffin Wayfarer and the Leisure Travel Van Unity. Both of these RVs offer a lot of great features and amenities, but there are some key differences to consider.

One of the most important considerations when choosing an RV is its cargo and occupant carrying capacity, also known as OCCC. The OCCC refers to the weight that the RV can safely carry, including the weight of all passengers, black and grey tank capacity and any additional cargo. This is important because exceeding the OCCC can lead to serious safety concerns, such as overloading the tires or affecting the RV's handling and stability.

Unfortunately, the Tiffin Wayfarer (the one I toured, at least) falls short in this regard. The model I toured has a cargo and occupant carrying capacity of only 780 pounds, which is much lower than the average for Class C motorhomes. This means that you'll need to be very careful about how much weight you add to the RV, and you may need to limit the number of passengers or gear you bring along.

On the other hand, the Leisure Travel Van Unity has a higher OCCC, making it a safer option for those who plan to carry a lot of cargo or wants to travel worry-free when in regard to weight. The Unity has an OCCC of around 1,800 pounds without the major upgrades, which is more than double that of the Tiffin Wayfarer. This means that you'll have more flexibility in terms of what you can bring with you on your trips. My 2020 Unity FX has an OCCC of 1,502 pounds with all of the heavy options including leveling jacks and diesel generator.

In terms of other features and amenities, both RVs have a lot to offer. The Tiffin Wayfarer has a sleek and modern design, with plenty of storage space and a comfortable living area. It also comes with a range of safety features that Mercedes includes in their higher end Sprinter chassis.

The Leisure Travel Van Unity is known for its luxurious interior, with high-end finishes and a range of customizable options. It also has a fuel-efficient diesel engine and a variety of safety features, including adaptive cruise control and collision prevention.

Ultimately, when comparing the Tiffin Wayfarer to the Leisure Travel Van Unity, the lower OCCC of the Tiffin model is a significant concern that should not be overlooked. While the Wayfarer has a lot of great features and amenities, the limited cargo and occupant carrying capacity could be a dealbreaker for some RV enthusiasts.

In conclusion, when choosing an RV, it's important to consider all of the factors that will impact your safety and enjoyment on the road. While the Tiffin Wayfarer and Leisure Travel Van Unity both have a lot to offer, the OCCC of the Tiffin model may not be sufficient for many travelers. Therefore, it's important to prioritize safety and choose an RV that can safely accommodate all of your passengers and cargo.