Have you ever wondered just how long 20 feet really is? Whether you’re planning a home renovation, transporting cargo, or simply trying to visualize this measurement, having relatable examples can make all the difference. In this guide, we’ll explore 12 things that are 20 feet long, giving you clear, real-world comparisons that bring this length to life.
From standard shipping containers to sea creatures and everything in between, this list is designed to answer the common question: “What is 20 feet long?” With practical examples and helpful context, this article will enhance your spatial understanding and make 20 feet easier to visualize whether for fun, design, or planning purposes.
Why 20 Feet Matters
Before we dive into the list, it’s worth considering why the 20-foot measurement is such a key benchmark. Here are a few scenarios where knowing what 20 feet looks like is useful:
- Home Improvement Projects: Planning fencing, driveways, or furniture placement.
- Transportation & Shipping: Understanding container sizes or vehicle limits.
- Outdoor Activities: Estimating rope lengths, diving distances, or campsite space.
- Everyday Comparisons: Converting feet to meters or visualizing long objects.
12 Things That Are 20 Feet Long
1. Standard Shipping Container (20-Foot Version)
Perhaps the most well-known example is the 20-foot shipping container. These are used worldwide for transporting goods via ships, trains, and trucks.
- Dimensions: 20 feet long, 8 feet wide, 8.5 feet high.
- Fun Fact: A 20-foot container can hold approximately 1,170 cubic feet of cargo.
- Common Use: Global logistics, portable storage, modular homes.
2. Adult Male Reticulated Python
The reticulated python, one of the world’s longest snakes, can grow to around 20 feet or longer.
- Species: Malayopython reticulatus.
- Record Lengths: Some have been recorded over 25 feet, but 20 feet is a common large adult size.
- Use in Comparison: Great for understanding how massive some reptiles truly are.
3. Class B RV (Recreational Vehicle)
If you’re into travel or van life, you might already be familiar with the size of a compact RV.
- Length Range: 18 to 22 feet.
- Example Model: Winnebago Solis Pocket – approximately 20 feet long.
- Why It Matters: Helps visualize parking, maneuverability, and interior space.
4. Two Mid-Sized Sedans Parked End to End
Most mid-sized sedans (like a Honda Accord or Toyota Camry) are about 14–15 feet long. Placing two of them nose-to-tail brings you close to 20 feet.
- Practical Use: Visualizing space in parking lots or driveways.
- Visual Cue: Imagine the length of two full cars lined up—just over 20 feet.
5. A Bowling Lane Approach Area
Before the actual bowling lane begins, there’s a 15- to 20-foot approach zone where players take their steps and throw.
- Regulation Length: Up to 20 feet from the foul line to the end of the approach.
- Why It’s Useful: For bowlers, dancers, or athletes visualizing space in a room.
6. A Full-Sized Canoe or Tandem Kayak
Canoes and sea kayaks designed for two paddlers or extended trips often measure about 20 feet.
- Common Models: Expedition canoes like the Wenonah Minnesota II.
- Key Feature: Designed for stability, speed, and cargo space.
7. Six Standard Interior Doors Laid End to End
A standard interior door is about 6 feet 8 inches (80 inches). Laying three end to end equals approximately 20 feet.
- Why It Helps: Easy home-based visual reference.
- Ideal For: DIYers and interior designers.
8. An Average Giraffe’s Neck and Head
While giraffes are taller overall, their neck alone can measure close to 6–8 feet, and the full body reaches up to 18–20 feet.
- Fact: Giraffes are the tallest land animals on Earth.
- Use Case: Great for educational content or fun wildlife comparisons.
9. Half a Basketball Court (Baseline to Half-Court Line)
A full-size NBA basketball court is 94 feet long, and the center court line is at 47 feet. From the baseline to about a quarter of the way in is 20 feet.
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Use Case: Useful for players and coaches to measure practice drills or play spacing.
10. Two Ping Pong Tables Placed End to End
A standard table tennis table is 9 feet long. Lining up two equals 18 feet. Add a little spacing or overhang, and it’s a strong 20-foot comparison.
- Great Visual: Compact enough to understand, long enough to surprise.
- Indoor Idea: Perfect for indoor decorators or event planners visualizing layout.
11. A Large Moving Truck (Cargo Area)
The cargo area of medium-duty moving trucks (like a U-Haul 20-foot truck) is, unsurprisingly, 20 feet long.
- Cargo Space: Can typically move a 2–3 bedroom home.
- Tip: Great visual if you’ve ever rented a moving truck.
12. Three Adult Alligators Laid Nose-to-Tail
An adult American alligator averages around 6.5 feet, and lining up three brings you to about 19.5–20 feet.
- Fun Fact: Useful in parks and wildlife tours to explain animal size.
- Use in Education: Great for biology classrooms or nature tours.
Bonus: How to Easily Visualize 20 Feet Without a Tape Measure
Here are a few practical tips to visualize 20 feet when you don’t have a ruler handy:
- Think of four 5-foot tall people lying end to end.
- Picture a typical telephone pole—they’re often 20–30 feet above ground.
- Count seven sidewalk squares (each usually 2.5–3 feet wide).
Conclusion
Understanding things that are 20 feet long is more than just a fun trivia exercise—it has real-world applications. From shipping and transportation to home renovation and wildlife education, 20 feet is a common length that pops up in many scenarios. Whether you’re measuring out yard space, visualizing a long object, or just curious, having a mental reference makes it easier.
Now that you’ve got a strong sense of what 20 feet looks like, you can confidently estimate and plan without second-guessing. Bookmark this guide, and next time someone asks “how long is 20 feet?”, you’ll have plenty of real-world answers.