How to Rent an RV

Renting a motorhome or trailer is a smart way to explore the country without the burden of owning and maintaining a camper. But for first-timers, learning how to rent an RV that suits your needs is not always straightforward. There are many things to know, like where to find RV rentals, what RV type to pick, what cost to expect and how to operate the various systems.

Fortunately, we’ve rounded up the best guidelines on everything you should know before you rent your first RV and how to approach the process. Let’s dive in.

Learn the Different Types of RVs

Before you start scouting for an RV rental, educate yourself on the various types of RVs available. Generally, they are divided into two types — motorized and towable RVs. Here’s a quick breakdown of the different kinds of RVs.

Motorized RVs

Popularly known as motorhomes, these are the RVs that have an engine and are driveable. They are further divided into three categories.

• Class A – These units resemble a bus and are the largest and most luxurious RVs.
• Class B – Commonly called campervans, they are a van that has been converted into a home on wheels. They are the tiniest motorhomes and the easiest to drive.
• Class C – These RVs are a blend of Class A and B, both in size and comfort. They are designed around a truck or van frame and are known for their distinct over-cab sleeping area.

Towable RVs

Towable RVs, also known as trailers, are RVs that have no engine. You pull them behind a vehicle. They come in different shapes and forms, the most common being travel trailers. The largest are fifth wheels and toy haulers, while the smallest are pop-up campers and teardrop trailers.

Figure Out What Type of RV Rental You Want

Now that you know what types of RVs are available, you need to further narrow down your search. That’s because even RVs in the same class are built with different amenities and capabilities. First, make sure the unit has enough sleeping space for everyone accompanying you.

Next, look for features such as a full kitchen, spacious bathroom, dedicated eating/lounging area, ample storage space and sizeable holding tanks. Next, consider your travel needs. Do you want a rig that has off-road capabilities? Are luxury features a must-have? Do you need a lightweight and fuel-efficient camper?

Educate Yourself on the Latest RV Rental Prices

Knowing the average price of RV rentals is an important step before you start talking to RV owners. It will help you avoid paying exorbitant rates and allow you to approach the market with a realistic budget. So, how much does it cost to rent an RV in 2022? According to a study by Go RV rentals, it costs $184 per night to rent a recreational vehicle.

Their report indicates that a Class A motorhome costs an average of $300 per night, a campervan $238, while a C-Class will set you back by $215 per night. Towables are a more affordable option, with travel trailers going at $116 a night and pop-ups as low as $91. Note that these rates change frequently depending on the season and region you want to rent an RV.

Use a Trustworthy RV Rental Platform

For a smooth experience, always rent an RV from a reputable rental platform. Such companies have systems in place to protect both the renter and owner if something doesn’t go according to plan. You get to enjoy 24/7 roadside assistance, insurance protection and responsive online customer service.

There are three standouts companies for first-time renters in the US: Outdoorsy, RVShare and Cruise America. Each one has different rates and rules. Basically, Cruise America owns all their rental RVs, while the other two companies are peer-to-peer platforms that enable RV owners to list their RVs and renters to book.

Ask the Right Questions

On peer-to-peer RV rental platforms, some RV owners list the free services they are willing to offer you, as well as add-on fees. A good number of owners now rent out their rigs with free camping necessities like linens, kitchenware, lawn chairs, tables and RV grills, helping reduce your expenses.

Apart from free services, always ask whether there are additional costs. Some owners have pet fees, cleaning fees and a security deposit. Others have excess mileage fees, propane and generator fees. If you don’t want to drive, inquire whether the owner can deliver and set up the rig to your campsite and for how much.

Ask the Owner to Give You a Walkthrough of the Camper

Before you hit the wide-open road in your rental RV, you need to learn how the rig works. When picking it up, ask the owner to demonstrate how the various components and systems work. By the end of the walkthrough, you should know how to hook up the water, sewer and power connections; empty the tanks; convert the beds; check tire pressure; monitor the fluids and level the rig.

If you’ve booked a trailer, learn how to safely hitch it to the tow vehicle. Once you get home, find an empty parking lot and practice driving, reversing, and parking the RV. This will give you confidence when you finally venture onto busy roads, streets and campgrounds.

Choose Your Destination Wisely

As a first-time renter, it’s always wise to start with a destination that requires minimal logistics, preferably somewhere closer to home. When booking a campground, look for those that are easy to access, with full hookups and spacious parking sites, as they’re more convenient for anyone just getting on board with RV life.

For newbie renters, an RV-specific route planner is your best friend. It will help you steer clear of routes with narrow sections, steep climbs, low bridges, weight restrictions, propane restrictions, traffic and even bad weather. Some will even suggest the best attractions in the areas you pass through.

Educate Yourself To Have a Smooth RV Renting Experience

The path to renting an RV can feel overwhelming if you aren’t sure what to expect. The trick is to educate yourself in advance about what the process entails and to consult more experienced renters you’re when unsure what to do. Hopefully, these tips on how to rent an RV can help you be a more knowledgeable and confident renter.

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