How to Rent an RV: The Process Explained

Hitting the road in an RV is a thrilling experience. But if you’re a first-time renter, you may be wondering where to begin. It’s something all RVers can relate to.

You’re here to learn more about the process of renting a motorhome or towable trailer, and we’re here to help. This guide will cover every detail, including meeting rental requirements, calculating costs, selecting a vehicle, and deciding on a rental company.

Feel free to skip ahead if you’re looking for something specific, and if you still have questions, don’t hesitate to contact us.

Choose an RV Rental Company

You may be surprised to learn that there are a few different ways to rent an RV. We’ll explore the benefits of each option in order to help you figure out what works best for your needs.

National RV Rental Companies

Arguably the most popular choice for first-time renters is to use a national company. Examples include Cruise America and El Monte RV, among others.

Arguably the most popular choice for first-time renters is to use a national company. Examples include Cruise America and El Monte RV, among others. Some of the benefits are obvious. National RV rental companies have established themselves as trustworthy businesses and are likely to have a location relatively close to your home. They also have a strong online presence and plenty of staff ready to answer your questions. Their reliability is one reason many first-time renters decide to rent from a national brand.

It’s also important to consider your destination when deciding on a rental company. Imagine your plan is to complete a cross-country road trip from your home in California to a destination in Florida. If you rent from a national company, then you have the ability to rent from a location near your home and drop the vehicle off at a location near your destination. This is referred to as a one-way rental. Using a national company with multiple locations makes this possible, while renting from local companies or private owners takes this option off the table.

Another consideration is price. National RV companies sometimes offer seasonal rates or discounts, but prices will be higher during peak season. Keep an eye out for special offers. Time it right, and you may wind up with a great deal on your first rental.

Local RV Rentals

Another option is to go with a smaller rental company in your area. You’d be supporting a local business, and you may be able to find special deals not offered by bigger companies. That said, there are a few things to consider.

We suggest reading reviews of the company and speaking with others who have rented from them. Are they trustworthy? Do they offer the essentials, such as support in the event of an accident? Call ahead, and speak with an employee about the rental process. If they’re not friendly and helpful prior to earning your business, then they’re unlikely to be supportive once they have it.

You should also consider amenities. Major rental companies will provide (or allow you to rent) kits, which contain items like cooking utensils and sleeping bags. Ask your local companies about amenities they offer, as well as any additional costs for using them.

One final note about local RV rental companies: because each company is independently owned and operated, there’s a lot of variation between them. Ask a lot of questions and find a quality rental company before moving forward with a rental.

RV Rentals by Owner

The final option is to rent directly from an RV owner. You can think of it as Airbnb for RV rentals. There are a few online services where owners can list their vehicles with information about when they’re available and for how much. This allows you to browse RVs located near you and within your budget. It’s a good option for renters looking to score a great deal.

Before we move on, we should mention that there are a few drawbacks to renting directly from an owner. You will not have access to the same resources, such as staff, insurance, and roadside support, that you’d otherwise get from a national or local rental company. In addition, you’re unlikely to have any add-on options (such as cooking kits and personal items). For the most part, what you see is what you get.

If you’re confident and looking for a great deal, then consider renting directly from an RV owner in your area. Try out RVShare.

RV Rental Requirements

A common misconception about renting an RV is that there are a lot of strict requirements. While there are a few, they won’t be a problem for the majority of first-time renters.

Driver’s License Requirements

Do you need a driver’s license to rent an RV? Absolutely! That’s a no-brainer. But you may be wondering, “Do I need a special license to drive an RV?” The answer is no – a standard driver’s license is usually enough.

Even if you’re an international renter (i.e., not from the United States), the requirements aren’t too complicated. Most companies ask that you bring your international driver’s license and passport on the pickup date. That should be enough to meet the minimum driver’s license requirement.

We recommend calling ahead if there are any unique circumstances regarding your driver’s license. The rental company will be more than happy to answer your questions and let you know if there are any additional steps to take before making a reservation.

You can also consult ChanginGears.com, which lists RV driver’s license requirements by state.

Minimum Age Requirement

Renting an RV is similar to renting a normal car; many companies require that the driver be at least 25 years old, however there are major companies that rent RVs to drivers 21 and older.

Renting an RV is similar to renting a normal car; many companies require that the driver be at least 25 years old, however there are major companies that rent RVs to drivers 21 and older. For example, some El Monte RV locations only require renters to be 21 years of age or older. Cruise America requires drivers to be 25 years old, but you can be as young as 21 to rent an RV if you pay an extra $25 per day. If you’re under 21, it’s unlikely that you will find a company willing to rent an RV to you.

RV Rental Deposits

There are two types of RV rental deposits, and nearly every company will require the renter to pay one or both.

The initial deposit occurs when you make your reservation. This usually costs around $300; however, every company sets their own prices. The initial deposit will either be refunded after your trip or counted towards the total cost of your rental.

While an initial deposit is not always required, you can expect to pay a security deposit. The average security deposit is more than the initial deposit and can range anywhere from $500 to $1,000. This payment is refundable, and it will be returned to the renter once the vehicle is returned undamaged.

RV Rental Insurance

You will need insurance in order to drive an RV. This final requirement is extremely important, and there are a couple of ways to approach it.

First, ask the rental company if it provides insurance. If it does, you may be required to pay an additional deposit and the insurance costs. You should also have a clear understanding of what their insurance does and does not cover. Look elsewhere for insurance if you’re not comfortable with the coverage provided by the rental company.

If the rental company does not offer insurance, then it is your responsibility to obtain insurance. We recommend calling your car insurance company (if you own a vehicle) to ask about your current insurance. You may already be covered, and if not, you may be able to add RV rental insurance to your current policy.

Don’t worry if the first two insurance options don’t work for you. There are a number of private companies that provide RV rental insurance, such as MBA Insurance. You can request a quote online and get set up in no time.

RV Rental Prices

The price of an RV rental depends on many different factors, such as vehicle type, rental length, and distance traveled, among others. As a result, we recommend that all renters consider their budget and carefully calculate costs before making a reservation.

Below, we break down every factor that can contribute to the total price of your RV rental.

Deposits

As discussed previously, you will likely be required to put down an initial deposit and/or security deposit upon making a reservation. The initial deposit, while not always required, is typically around $300, and the security deposit, which is almost always required, is often between $500 and $1,000. Your deposits will either be refunded or applied to the final price of your rental upon returning the vehicle undamaged.

Additional or larger deposits may be required in certain circumstances. These could include renting a vehicle while under the age of 25 or bringing pets in the RV. Run your itinerary and all plans by the rental company to find out if an additional deposit will be required.

RV Rental Rates

Renting an RV is similar to a standard car or hotel rental. The rental company will charge you a daily rate for each night of your trip, which can fluctuate by season, availability, and other factors.

Renting an RV is similar to a standard car or hotel rental. The rental company will charge you a daily rate for each night of your trip, which can fluctuate by season, availability, and other factors.

Here are a few things to keep in mind when planning your vacation:

• Daily RV rental rates rise during peak season – summer – and drop during the offseason.
• Company location and vehicle availability can have an impact on the daily rate.
• Larger RVs will cost more than smaller vehicles.
• Larger rental companies often run specials, so inquire about current or upcoming rental deals.

RV rental rates will vary by company, but some companies provide standard or large RVs for as low as $80 per night. Plan your trip early, ask for specials, and compare rates from multiple companies in order to secure the best price.

Price Per Mile

In addition to the daily rate, RV renters will likely be charged for each mile travelled. The average company’s per-mile cost is between $.30 and $.50 per mile, but you should double-check before making a reservation. Miles add up quickly, so research the estimated distance you will travel in order to calculate the total per-mile cost of your trip.

Plan on taking your RV on a long journey? Ask the rental company if they offer an unlimited miles package. Companies with unlimited miles packages typically sell them for a daily rate of roughly $20 per day. Calculate whether paying per mile or purchasing unlimited miles is cheaper based on the distance you plan on traveling.

Additional Expenses

You now know about the normal costs you can expect when renting an RV, but there are additional expenses you’ll have to pay for during your trip. Here are a few other expenses to know about:

• Insurance: As stated earlier, you will be required to obtain RV renters insurance for the duration of your trip. The most popular option is MBA Insurance, which charges roughly $20 to $30 per day. Ask your RV company if insurance is included with the price of the rental or if it is offered separately.
• Gas: This is no surprise, but don’t overlook the amount of money you’ll spend on gas. RV gas mileage can fall anywhere from 7 to 20 MPG (miles per gallon). Ask about the MPG of your vehicle, and calculate how much you’ll spend on gas by multiplying it by your estimated amount of miles traveled.
• Food and Supplies: It can be difficult to calculate how much you will spend on food and supplies. Consider bringing your own food, cookware, and utensils if you’re on a tight budget.

Optional Expenses

RV rental companies offer many convenient add-on options for those with extra room in their budget.

First, consider renting a kit to avoid purchasing your own essentials. Many companies rent personal kits, which contain things like sleeping bags, pillows, tents, and other supplies, as well as provisional kits, which contain pots and pans, plates, silverware, and more. These kits are usually available for an extra $100 or so.

If you decide to rent a larger RV, then your vehicle will likely be equipped with a generator. This is used to supply power to outlets and certain appliances in the RV such as the microwave. Most companies will charge renters for using the generator based on the amount of time it’s in use. For example, Cruise America charges $3.50 per hour. You can avoid paying a hefty usage fee by only using the generator at essential times or avoiding it altogether.

If you plan to stay at an RV park, campground, or resort, then you should factor this cost into your overall budget. You can avoid this expense by staying with family or friends, parking at a public campground, or boondocking. Read our guide to RV parks and campgrounds to learn more about these destinations and figure out what works best for you.

Costs Upon Returning the RV

Most renters will simply return the RV to the rental company and be on their way. If you damage the vehicle or fail to take care of it during your trip, however, you may be subject to additional fees. Here are all of the potential fees you may encounter as well as how to avoid them:

• Late fee: Double-check the day AND hour that the rental company expects you to return the RV. If you return the vehicle late, then you will be charged a late fee. Many companies, including Cruise America, charge $25 per hour. Others will charge the daily rate for a certain number of days regardless of how late you are.
• Holding tank fee: Many RVs come equipped with holding tanks, which are also known as waste tanks. These collect everything from your sink, toilet, and shower. Almost all rental companies require renters to empty the tank before returning. The fee for failing to empty the tank is typically under $100.
• Cleaning fee: Treat the RV as if you own it! Avoid tracking dirt, mud, or any other unpleasantries into the vehicle. If you do, make sure to thoroughly clean up before returning it, or you’ll face a fee of roughly $100.
• Damage to the vehicle: This is a big one! Do your best to avoid damaging the vehicle in any way. If you cause minor damage to the vehicle, then you’ll likely lose your security deposit. If you cause major damage to the vehicle, such as totaling it, then you’ll be forced to pay for anything not covered by your rental insurance.

The Payment Process

You now know all of the costs associated with renting an RV, but what’s the payment process? It’s pretty straightforward – here’s what you can expect from most rental companies:

1. The initial and/or security deposit is paid via credit card when you make a reservation, or on the pickup date.
2. Decide which – if any – add-on items (e.g., provisional kits) you would like to rent. These will be added to the final price.
3. Pay for the rental via credit card upon returning it. At this time, the supplier will calculate your total price based on your daily rate, mileage costs, fees, and miscellaneous factors.

Most RV rental companies require payment by credit card, and the name on the card must match the name of the person making the reservation. If you have any questions or concerns regarding payment, run them by the company before hitting the road.

Choose a Type of RV

The biggest decision RV renters will make is choosing which type of vehicle to rent. But before we jump into each type, let’s clarify a few things.

“RV” stands for “recreational vehicle,” which is a broad term that covers motorhomes, trailers, and similar vehicles. A motorhome is what most renters think of when they hear the term “RV,” such as the large bus-style motorhomes often seen on the road. Trailers are similar in that they offer a living space for comfortable travel. The difference between the two is that motorhomes can be driven, whereas trailers need to be towed by a truck or another large vehicle.

Types of Motorhomes and Trailers

Now that you know the difference between motorhomes and trailers, let’s talk about the different types of RVs. Here’s a quick guide to get you started, but you can click on any of the vehicle types to visit our in-depth guides to each vehicle’s specifications and features.

• Class A RVs: The largest class of motorhomes, Class A RVs resemble buses. They’re up to 40 feet long, can accommodate between five to seven passengers, and offer the most amenities. They’re the most expensive option, but passengers will have access to a bathroom, kitchen, living room, bedroom, and much more.
• Class B RVs: The smallest class of motorhomes, Class B RVs are similar to large vans. They’re typically around fifteen feet long, fit two passengers comfortably, and likely have a pull-out (or otherwise hidden) bed. Riders will not have as many amenities, yet they’re great for couples hitting the road for the first time.
• Class C RVs: These are the standard- or middle-sized RVs. They’re fairly large vehicles, usually measuring around 30 feet long. Most can fit five riders comfortably, but some can fit as many as seven. Though they’re not quite as large as Class A RVs, these motorhomes are perfect for families and other groups.
• Travel trailers: Also referred to as “towables,” travel trailers tend to resemble Class C RVs although they come in many sizes. These are towable units that attach to a pickup or another vehicle able to carry the load. Larger models can fit up to seven passengers, and the variety of sizes and designs make them a great option for groups of all sizes.
• Fifth wheel trailers: These are similar to travel trailers, but they differ in size. They tend to be much larger than the average travel trailer, and as a result, they require a gooseneck hitch. This is a specific type of hitch that sits in the bed of a pickup truck, and it is necessary because of the extra weight being towed. If you go with a fifth wheel trailer, then you can expect extremely comfortable living and sleeping spaces as well as numerous convenient amenities.

Want to know more? Visit our section dedicated to the various types of RVs.

How to Reserve an RV Rental

Reserving an RV rental is a simple process. Most companies allow reservations to be made online, over the phone, or in person. You’ll need to know the type of vehicle you plan to rent and the number of days you’ll have it. You may also be required to give a credit card for initial deposits, although many companies take care of this upon picking up the vehicle. The company will notify you of the vehicle’s pickup and dropoff times, which are usually stated as a time window of a few hours. On the day of your rental, you’ll need to bring your driver’s license and proof of insurance.

Trip Preparation and Vehicle Pickup

Many renters are interested in learning more about the RV, its features, and how to drive it before the pickup date. As a result, many companies hold orientation sessions for RV renters. These sessions typically take place a few days or weeks before your pickup date, and they allow drivers to tour the vehicles, get a feel for the controls, and potentially test drive them. Not all rental companies offer test drives and driving practice, but it’s worth asking about if you’re interested in practicing before hitting the road.

When the time comes to pick up your RV rental, you can often drive and leave your car for the duration of your trip. Don’t assume this is the case, though. Most companies have limited space and charge a daily parking fee, and others don’t offer this convenience at all. If this is the case, we recommend having a friend or family member drop you off on the day of the pickup.

You’re now educated on the RV rental process and are ready to set out on a new adventure!