A small RV rental is an excellent choice for couples and small families. It offers all the comforts of home in an easy to drive vehicle. Smaller RVs are also a good introduction to RVing and the RV lifestyle.
Size and maneuverability are significant considerations when renting an RV. You want enough space to accommodate your family, without the hassle of a large vehicle. Smaller RVs make it easy and fun to go more places and see the sights. You rarely have to worry about parking or needing an extra car.
Small RV Rental Cost
Small RV rentals are usually more affordable than a larger rig in every way. In addition to a reasonable rental cost, you will often save money on gasoline and camping fees.
Small motor home rentals vary in costs and depend on the size, season, and availability of the desired RV. Rental prices are usually higher during peak times when demand is great. The most desirable locations also command higher prices. During slower seasons it is easier to find a bargain, especially when using a peer-to-peer rental site. Usually, smaller RVs will be less expensive than a larger model. But smaller RVs with more amenities may command a higher price.
Besides the small RV rental rate, expect to pay additional fees for extra generator use and extra miles. Every RV rental is different, so check carefully to make sure you understand the additional fees before renting.
Class B RV Rentals
Want the freedom to pick-up and go on a whim? The class B RV rental is for you. Parking is as easy as parking a large van, and in most cases, you’ll have the help of a rear camera. Just pull into your campsite, plug in the electricity, and hook up the water hose. Unhook it in the morning and drive to your next destination. Class B RVs are the easiest to drive and park.
Class B motorhomes are the smallest motorhomes, built on an extended van body. These motorhomes have limited space and storage, but will usually have a small kitchen, wet bath, and a living area. A wet bath is a combination shower and toilet built into the same space. For sleeping, expect a sofa conversion bed or a dinette conversion bed, sometimes both.
Among small motor home rentals, a Class B RV rental is usually the least expensive. Rental fees are low, and their gas mileage is usually much better than the larger RVs. Expect to get up to 16 mpg in a Class C motorhome and up to 22 mpg in a diesel class C.
Mid-size Class C RV Rentals
Class C motorhomes are larger than class B, usually between 23 to 33 feet, and built on a truck chassis. They are also more spacious, with larger bathrooms and kitchens, and may even have a separate bedroom. Most feature a large over-the-cab bed. Additionally, newer class C RV rentals have slide-outs that noticeably increase the living space.
Also known as mini-motorhomes, class C motorhomes are easily recognized by their truck cabin with an over-the-cab sleeping space. Their aerodynamic build and smaller size help maximize fuel economy. They drive like a moving van or a large truck and need a larger parking space, which can be hard to find in a crowded city.
It is also possible to tow a separate vehicle with most class C RVs, making it easier to park the RV and explore the local area.
Small Camper Trailers for Rent
Small RV trailers can be a bargain rental in many areas. If your plan is to park the camper and leave it set up, while using your tow vehicle to explore the area, this might be the RV for you.
Camper trailers vary from tiny pop-ups to long trailers, with everything in between. They can be as basic or as luxurious as you like. The only downside is the need for a tow vehicle, right? Actually, in most cases, it is possible to have the trailer pulled to the park and set up for you. You can fly in and rent a vehicle or drive your own.
If you are towing the trailer, make sure you have a driver experienced with towing and weight distribution. Small RV trailers can sway on windy days, especially if the weight is not properly distributed.
Considerations When Renting a Small RV
When planning your vacation in a small rental RV, there are a few things you should consider before you hit the road.
- Will your existing auto insurance cover the RV, or will you need to find additional insurance?
- Is the RV in good condition? Is someone available to help if you have problems?
- Are kitchen utensils and cleaning supplies available? They may be provided, or a basic kitchen kit may be available at an extra price.
- What size sheets will you need? Don’t forget to bring your towels.
- What additional fees should you expect?
A small RV rental is an excellent way to travel in comfort. In an RV, you have the flexibility to plan your vacation around the sites and the open road, without worrying about hotel availability. This is a significant advantage when visiting many of our national parks. Without an RV, you could spend most of your time driving to and from the park.
All the advantages of a small RV rental are yours, at a very affordable price. Often, you will save money compared to the cost of hotels and dining out. Enjoy steaks on the grill at your campsite for less than the expense of a meal at a local restaurant.
Set your own schedule and move to the rhythm of your family rather than worrying about check-in and check-out times. Enjoy the adventure, with all the comforts of home.