Renting an RV is a great way to try out the RV lifestyle before you make a purchase. It allows you to get a feel for how much space you need, what amenities are important to you, and whether or not you enjoy RVing. Renting also gives you the opportunity to test drive different RV models to see which one best suits your needs. And if you’re not ready to commit to RV ownership, renting is a great way to enjoy the benefits of vanlife without the long-term commitment. So if you’re thinking about buying an RV, be sure to rent one first so you can be sure it’s the right fit for you.
Tips Before You Take Your First RV Roadtrip
I grew up on a farm and I had experience driving well before my sixteenth birthday, all manners of trucks, trailers, and farm equipment. I am used to driving other types of vehicles than a passenger car. My daily driver is a Ford Raptor, which is in excess of twenty feet and wider than a normal F150 pickup. If you don’t have experience driving and parking such a thing there is no shame in finding a relatively empty parking lot to practice in.
Be aware of the length of RV
Most people drive smaller cars, you’ll need to understand your new turning radius and whether you can fit into a normal parking spot. The first time my friend Rebecca, took her rental RV out for a ride, she ended up with some “racing stripes” on the side due to a close encounter with the concrete barricade at the gas station. You likely will have to find a couple of spots to park in due to the length of your rig. Look at the open spots that are farthest away from the door of the store you are entering. Also, be aware of your ability to turn and get yourself out if other cars park around you.
Understand the height of your Vehicle
If you are used to going through the drive-thru at Starbucks you should know exactly how high your vehicle is and whether it would clear any obstacles in the drive-through. Most people aren’t used to this restriction when they drive. I live in the Raleigh-Durham area, where we have the infamous Can Opener Bridge which has a clearance of 11′ 8″ which is a tad lower than most underpasses. Don’t shear off the top RV open or remove the rooftop air conditioners as you start traveling.
Where to Rent an RV or Adventure Van
There are many websites and apps that allow you to rent an RV or adventure van. Outdoorsy is a popular option, as it offers a wide selection of RVs and vans to choose from. You can also search for RV rentals on Craigslist and Hipcamp. Be sure to read reviews before renting from any company, and keep in mind that you will be taking a vehicle on the road that may not be professionally maintained if you use one of the many RV-sharing sites.
Outdoorsy
Lots of folks own RVs. Lots of folks want to rent RVs. Outdoorsy is how they meet. Outdoorsy is the most comprehensive platform for outdoor travelers to rent stylish awesome RVs in the nation. Our selection spans vintage Airstreams, toy haulers, fifth wheelers, Class A, B, and C of RVs, as well as garden variety trailers and motorhomes.
For professional RV rental companies, we launched Wheelbase for inventory management, utilization rates, and the best insurance in the business. Outdoorsy is safe, easy, fully insured, and has a great local selection. We’re free to join and have no membership fees of any kind. Discover amazing RVs to travel in – or rent out your own!
Escape Campervans
Escape Campervans is a campervan rental company in North America, with 13 convenient rental locations in the US and Canada. Their signature is their uniquely hand-painted vans artists from LA. Rob Mewton, an entrepreneur, surfer, and traveler from New Zealand, founded the company USA. Rob made his way to the United States in 2009 and brought a piece of his culture with him: campervans. Currently, they have 13 locations, over 600 vans, and the same adventurous spirit that started it all.
RV Share
RVshare is the world’s first and largest peer-to-peer RV rental platform, serving more than 60,000 RV owners in the US. With thousands of satisfied customers and a broad inventory ranging from travel trailers to luxury motorhomes, they have the right RV for your vacation, tailgate, or temporary lodging needs.
Good Sam RV Rental
Good Sam bills itself as a one-stop-shop for RV owners. Thousands of RVers have benefited from Good Sam’s discounts and dependable services since 1966. Their mission is to help RVers have fun on the road, and they provide money-saving discounts and a range of services. Among these services is connecting RV owners with RV renters. Good Sam is the world’s largest RV association. Good Sam members enjoy 10% savings at their network of 2,000+ Good Sam Parks in the United States and Canada. Likewise, members receive discounts at Camping World and Gander RV retail locations and fuel discounts at Pilot Flying J locations. Members of Good Sam can also save on propane, installation fees, free RV trip planning, show discounts, and more
What does it Cost to Rent an RV?
Renting an RV is a great way to try out the RV lifestyle before you make a purchase. It allows you to get a feel for how much space you need, and what amenities are important to you. And even more importantly, whether or not you enjoy RVing. This option isn’t exactly inexpensive. Costs will vary depending on the size and style of RV you rent. For example, a small campervan might cost around $50 per night. In contrast a luxury motorhome could cost upwards of $200 per night.
Additionally, most rental companies require a refundable deposit, which can range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars. If you’re planning to purchase an RV, renting can give you valuable insights into what kind of vehicle is right for you. Plus, if you decide that RVing isn’t for you, it’s much easier (and cheaper) to walk away from a rental than to sell an unwanted RV.
Summary
Renting an RV can be a great way to try out the RV lifestyle before you make a purchase. It allows you to get a feel for how much space you need, what amenities are important to you, and whether or not you enjoy RVing. However, if you’re planning to purchase an RV in the near future, renting can give you valuable insights into what kind of vehicle is right for you. And, if you decide that RVing isn’t for you, it’s much easier (and cheaper) to walk away from a rental than to sell an unwanted RV