The number one question that I am hearing this summer: Brenda, how can I rent an RV for our vacation this year?
Renting is an excellent way to try out the RV lifestyle. Whether you are considering a purchase in the future, upsizing or downsizing from your current RV, or simply want to hit the open road without a big commitment, renting is a smart and surprisingly affordable choice!
RV rental websites have made the process similar to VRBO or AirBnB and there are usually plenty of campers to choose from with lots of photos. Sites like www.outdoorsy.com and www.rvshare.com have user-friendly tools to search for motorized or towables, big and small.
Here are a few things to consider when you begin your search:
Motorized or towable? Have you driven a motor coach before? If not, perhaps a small rig is one to break your teeth on. I drive a 31’ Class C and worked my way here from a 26’. I had never driven anything bigger than a U-Haul truck and found it easy to adapt. Have you towed before? Do you have a vehicle that is equipped for towing? Be sure to check your owner’s manual for towing capacity, as well as with the trailer owner to make sure it’s a match before you commit!
What gear to bring? Most RV owners who are renting will be bragging about what kind of gear is included with your rental. Some will have the whole kit and kaboodle, others will supply RV bathroom supplies and that is it. At a bare minimum, think about linens and pillows, camp chairs, cookware, plates and utensils, dish soap, toilet paper and paper towels.
What if I am not comfortable or simply too tired to think about driving or towing? Never fear, RV delivery is here! A quick search in my own area came up with over 100 rigs of which the owners were willing to drive it to a campground, within a specific mileage range, and set the whole thing up for you! All you do is drive there with food and beverage and start camping.
Where are you going? This might also help you narrow down the choices. The duration and distance of the drive might be a determining factor. Also, if your destination is a large National Park or sightseeing area, you might want a separate vehicle to go exploring without unhooking the entire RV to take a day trip. Some folks have also actually flown on an airplane to their destination and then rented the RV closer to the campground. The options are endless!
Renting an RV is easier than ever and can be accomplished quicker than a plane and hotel reservation in most instances. Have you ever rented an RV? Share your experience below and any tips/advice for future travelers!