Best Flooring For RV / Camping Vehicle

Life in RVs and camping vehicles is a combination of adventure, freedom and simplicity. 

You can live in RVs or just travel and rest. If you dream of a vacation lifestyle that feels just like home, you’ll need a towing vehicle equipped with all the essentials.

Flexibility is the key to RV’s lifestyle. Life on the road is full of surprises. That’s why your RV floor should be as adaptable as you are. You need to find a floor that is suitable for rigorous conditions, so it is easier to venture into uncertainty.

It’s not always easy to choose the right type of flooring. But, don’t worry. You’ve come to the right place to determine your needs and solve your problems. We bring you the most popular RV flooring options.

Some Factors to Consider When Choosing RV Flooring

1. Pay attention to durability, because RV flooring withstand constant use and varying weather conditions. 
2. Water-proof options are ideal to prevent damage from moisture and mold.
3. RVs are under weight restrictions, so a preferable solution is to consider installing a floor with minimal weight.
4. Whether you’re hiring a professional or DIY, it’s not always simple to install the chosen floor in your RV.
5. Look for flooring that’s easy to clean and maintain.
6. Comfort is one of the crucial factors, so insulations against cold and heat are on the top of the demands.
7. While the functionality is crucial, choosing interior design of your RV is also important.
8. Consider the total cost of flooring and think about how much it will cost now and in the future.

Unlike traditional homes, your RV floor experiences unique stresses from road vibrations, frequent temperature changes, and potential shifting that can cause standard home flooring to crack, warp, or separate over time.

That said, choosing the best flooring for an RV is not so much different than selecting flooring for a small home, except maybe for weight considerations and mobility factors, which is why you need to pay special attention to materials that can withstand constant movement and vibration while traveling. 

Top Flooring Options and Designs for RVs and Camping Vehicles

1. Vinyl Flooring

Vinyl flooring has become increasingly popular in RVs and camping vehicles due to its versatility, durability, and affordability. Available in sheets, tiles, or luxury vinyl planks, this option offers several advantages:

• Water resistance
• Durabilty
• Easy to maintain
• Variety of styles and designs
• Relatively inexpensive
• Lightweight
• Can be installed as a floating floor

On the other hand, you should pay attention to some of disadvantages:

• Low insulation
• Prone to scratching and denting
• Not biodegradable

Perfect Qualities for RV Vinyl Plank Flooring

• Thickness: 8-9.5mm (approximately 5/16 to 3/8 inch) for the right balance of durability while managing height and weight
• Waterproof: 100% waterproof core to handle spills, humidity, and bathroom moisture
• Wear layer: 12-20 mil thickness for maximum durability against foot traffic
• Interlocking system: Tight click-lock edges that won’t separate during travel vibrations
• Flexibility: Slightly flexible to conform to uneven subfloors without cracking
• Temperature resistant: Stable in extreme temperatures (-20°F to 150°F)
• Easy installation: DIY-friendly with simple cutting and minimal adhesive requirements
• Low maintenance: Requires only basic cleaning with no special treatments
• Scratch resistant: Enhanced top coating to withstand pet claws and moving furniture
• Style versatility: Realistic wood or stone appearance that complements RV interiors
• UV resistant: Won’t fade from sunlight exposure through RV windows

With these essential qualities in mind, let’s explore three top-rated vinyl plank flooring options that deliver the perfect combination of durability, lightweight design, and RV-friendly features.

These three floors offer an ideal balance between weight and durability. They are 8mm thick, completely waterproof, and marketed as the best option for busy homes. They come with 20 mil wear layers, which is more than welcome for RVs because the confined space of an RV means every square inch of flooring experiences significantly more foot traffic than in a traditional home. 

2. Laminate Flooring

Laminate flooring is another popular choice for RVs, offering an excellent balance of affordability and visual appeal. Unlike LVP, traditional laminate provides exceptional scratch resistance that stands up to the constant movement of RV life and often comes at a more budget-friendly price point. 

Both flooring types offer similar click-lock installation systems that work well in mobile environments, and both can handle the temperature fluctuations RVers frequently experience. The main difference lies in moisture resistance—while premium waterproof laminate options do exist, they’re less common and typically more expensive than their LVP counterparts

Pros:

• More affordable than hardwood
• Good resistance to scratch and dents
• Wide range of wood-look designs
• Relatively easy to install
• Lightweight compared to real wood flooring

Cons:

• Less water-resistant than other options
• Can be noisy

Perfect Qualities for RV Laminate Flooring

When shopping for laminate flooring for your RV, look for options with AC4 or AC5 durability ratings that provide sufficient wear resistance for your mobile lifestyle without adding unnecessary weight. For best results, select laminate with enhanced edge sealing technology that offers improved moisture resistance, though you should still avoid prolonged exposure to standing water. Thinner profiles around 8mm strike a good balance between durability and weight considerations while also minimizing height issues with doors and transitions.

Let’s examine three outstanding laminate flooring products that deliver the perfect combination of durability, style, and RV-friendly features.

All three feature impressive water-resistant technology, with Joshua Tree standing out for its ability to withstand even prolonged moisture exposure up to 24 hours! These premium laminates all boast an impressive durability rating of 5, ensuring they can handle the rigors of mobile living while maintaining their beautiful appearance for years. 

Despite their exceptional performance characteristics, they maintain a modest weight profile that won’t strain your RV’s payload capacity or require significant structural modifications. Perhaps most impressive is their cost-effective pricing between $4 and $6 per square foot, making them an incredible value for money when considering their long-term durability and low maintenance requirements.

3. Carpet

While less common in modern RVs due to cleaning and maintenance concerns, carpet still has its place, especially in bedroom areas where comfort is a priority. Carpet offers unmatched warmth and coziness, which many full-time RVers appreciate during chilly mornings or when camping in cooler climates. 

There’s something uniquely comforting about stepping onto the soft carpet in your travel home that hard surface flooring simply can’t replicate. For many, carpet flooring transforms an RV from merely a vehicle into a true home-away-from-home, creating that essential feeling of comfort and familiarity while on the road. 

Pro:

• Warmth and comfort
• Good insulation
• Reduce noise in the RV
• Various colors and textures to suit different styles
• Relatively inexpensive

Contra:

• Difficult to maintain
• Prone to accumulating allergens and odor
• Not ideal for wet areas
• Can be challenging to install properly

Perfect Qualities for RV Carpet Flooring

• Material: Low-pile nylon or polypropylene carpet that resists wear and moisture
• Density: High-density carpet that maintains its shape despite frequent foot traffic
• Stain protection: Choose a carpet with built-in stain resistance for easier cleanup
• Installation: Opt for carpet tiles or removable sections for partial replacement when needed
• Backing: Moisture-resistant backing that prevents mold growth in humid conditions
• Weight: Lightweight options that don’t add unnecessary weight to your RV
• Texture: Looped or cut-pile styles under 1/2 inch height for easier cleaning
• Durability: Look for commercial-grade options rated for high-traffic areas
• Area rugs: Consider using area rugs over hard flooring for flexibility and easy removal
• Maintenance: Select styles that can be cleaned with portable RV vacuum systems
• Padding: Thin, dense foam padding that adds comfort without height issues

Here are three solid carpet options that work well in RVs without breaking the bank or causing headaches down the road:

These carpet options offer specific features that make them excellent choices for RV environments:

The 100% EnVision® BCF Nylon fiber is a standout feature for RVs because it resists crushing and matting even in high-traffic areas like entryways and hallways. Unlike polyester carpets that may quickly show wear paths, this nylon construction springs back after being walked on, maintaining its appearance despite the concentrated foot traffic typical in compact RV spaces.

The Action Bac backing is particularly RV-friendly because it’s lightweight yet stable, adding minimal weight to your vehicle while preventing the carpet from shifting during travel. This stability is crucial when your flooring experiences the constant vibration and movement of the road.

The cut pile construction balances comfort and practicality – it’s soft underfoot for those cold morning steps in your RV, yet short enough to prevent trapping excessive dirt and debris that could be tracked in from campgrounds.

What makes these options especially valuable for RVers are the comprehensive warranties, particularly the Lifetime Stain and Soil Resistance Limited Warranty. This is essential for mobile living where quick cleanup of spills is necessary but not always possible when you’re on the move. The Beck Dyed method provides superior colorfastness, preventing fading even when exposed to the intense sunlight that streams through RV windows.

At 12 feet width, these carpets can be installed with minimal seaming in most RVs, reducing potential weak points and creating a more seamless look in your mobile living space.

4. Rubber Flooring

Rubber flooring is an excellent choice for entryways, bathrooms, and kitchens in RVs. While it may not offer the same aesthetic appeal as some other options, its practical benefits can outweigh this drawback in certain areas of your RV.

Benefits:

• Extremely resistant to wear and tear
• Almost perfect water resistance
• Good insulation and sound dampening
• Comfortable underfoot
• Easy to clean
• Slip-resistant

Drawbacks:

• Limited design options
• Could have a strong odor
• May be more expensive
• Can be heavy 

Perfect Qualities for RV Rubber Flooring

• Thickness: 3-5mm (approximately 1/8 to 3/16 inch) for durability without excessive weight
• Composition: 100% synthetic rubber or EPDM for maximum longevity
• Surface: Non-slip textured pattern for safety in wet conditions
• Installation: Roll or interlocking tile format for DIY-friendly application
• Shock absorption: Provides cushioning for comfort during long trips
• Sound dampening: Reduces road noise and interior echoes
• Temperature stable: Won’t crack in cold or expand in heat
• Chemical resistant: Withstands cleaning products and automotive fluids
• Low maintenance: Simply wipe clean with minimal effort
• Eco-friendly: Look for recycled rubber content options
• Odor-free: No strong rubber smell that can permeate small spaces

5. Cork Flooring

Cork flooring can be an excellent choice for RV owners looking for a unique, comfortable, and eco-friendly option. It’s particularly well-suited for living rooms and bedrooms. However, it’s important to weigh the higher cost and maintenance requirements against its benefits.

Pros:

• Antimicrobial and resistant to mold
• Excellent insulation and sound dampening
• Comfortable and warm
• Environmentally friendly
• Various colors and patterns
• Eco-friendly

Cons:

• Can be expensive compared to some other options
• More easily prone to dent and scratch
• Requires regular sealing to maintain water resistance
• Can fade if exposed to direct sunlight 

Perfect Qualities for RV Cork Flooring

• Sealed edges: Water-resistant edge treatments to prevent moisture penetration during travel
• Flexible adhesive: Allows for slight movement without cracking during transit
• Low profile: 4-6mm thickness to minimize height issues with slide-outs and doors
• UV protection: Enhanced topcoat to prevent fading from intense sunlight through RV windows
• Temperature stability: Cork formulated to resist expansion/contraction in fluctuating climates
• Vibration tested: Products specifically rated for mobile applications
• Reinforced core: Extra stability to prevent separation when traveling on rough roads
• Quick installation: Floating systems designed for confined RV spaces

6. Linoleum

Linoleum can be a good choice for RV owners looking for an environmentally friendly option with good durability. It’s suitable for most areas of an RV, though care should be taken in high-moisture areas.

Advantages:

• Natural, biodegradable materials
• Durability and resistance to wear
• Naturally antimicrobial
• Wide range of colors and patterns
• Relatively easy to maintain
• More affordable than some other options

Disadvantages:

• Prone to damage by sharp objects
• May require periodic waxing to maintain its appearance
• Low water resistance
• Can be challenging to install

Perfect Qualities for RV Linoleum Flooring

• Jute-free backing: Modified backings specifically for mobile environments
• Pre-sealed edges: Factory-treated edges to prevent moisture penetration during travel
• Flexible composition: Higher linseed oil content for better movement during transit
• RV-rated adhesive: Specially formulated for temperature fluctuations of mobile living
• Sheet format: Seamless installation to eliminate weak points in moisture-prone areas
• Travel-tested durability: Products verified for vibration resistance
• Low expansion rate: Minimal dimensional changes in varying humidity conditions
• Weight optimized: Thinner profiles (2-2.5mm) that maintain durability standards
• Heat resistant: Won’t soften from direct sunlight through large RV windows

Installation Considerations

There are several important factors to consider:

1. Ensure the subfloor is in good condition.
2. Calculate the total weight of your chosen flooring to ensure it doesn’t exceed your RV’s weight limits.
3. Choose and install flooring that can handle the temperature changes.
4. In areas prone to moisture, consider installing a moisture barrier beneath the flooring.
5. While many flooring options can be installed DIY, professional installation may be worth considering.

Maintenance and Cleaning Tips

• Sweep and vacuum frequently.
• Use cleaning solutions designed for your flooring type.
• Prevent staining or water damage.
• Use mats at entrances.
• Schedule regular deep cleaning sessions.

Cost Comparison

Here’s a general range for each option per square foot:

• Vinyl: $5 – $10
• Laminate: $4 – $7
• Carpet: $6 – $12
• Rubber: $5 – $9
• Cork: $5 – $12
• Linoleum: $3 – $6

RV Lifestyle

• Most RV owners spend about 28-35 days per year living in their RVs.
• 190 miles is the average trip with RVs.
• Almost 40% of RV owners have kids at home.
• Nearly half of all campers choose a state park as their camping destination with RVs.
• The most expensive RV ever sold was $3 million! 
• Canada is the biggest importer of US-made RVs.  

Conclusion

Selecting the perfect RV flooring involves considering factors like durability, maintenance, comfort, style, and cost. Various options exist, each with its own advantages, such as vinyl for durability, cork for comfort, and laminate for budget. Combine different flooring types for optimal results and long-lasting satisfaction.