RV Rental Tips
Few experiences are as much fun as a long RV trip across the country, but what to do if you don't own an RV? The good news is that you can rent one. If buying an RV is too much of a financial commitment, or if you don't have the time or resources at your disposal to handle the upkeep of your own recreational vehicle, RV rental is a good option.
If you think that you may want to buy an RV, but you're new to RVing and don't know whether it is really for you, rental is also a great option. It will give you the opportunity to see whether you are an RV family before you commit.
RV Rental Tips for First Time RV Users
RV rental is a commitment and it warrants some due diligence. It is more complicated than renting a car. We've put together some info to simplify the process for you.
Different rental options: You can rent from a commercial RV rental company, a local business, or from a RV rental network. Each of these options offers its own advantages or disadvantages, so it pays to shop around and consider the rental policies that apply to each option, and take into consideration the customer service.
Read the fine print: Many companies charge small print fees which are included in the rental policies, including cleaning fees, tank dumping fees, and late return fees. Contracts also stipulate mileage limitations, no pets / no smoking clauses and more. It is important that you understand exactly what is required from you.
Look for seasonal deals: You can find RV rental specials throughout the year, if you look carefully and are prepared to haggle just a bit.
Research reviews: Just because their website says they are the best, does not mean their previous clients agree. The internet offers a wealth of information, and people are happy to share their experiences. The best places for legitimate reviews, are Google and Yelp.
Find your type: If you're inexperienced with RV rentals, you may be tempted to opt for the biggest one. Your family does not necessarily need the biggest RV, so speak to the rental agent about the different options, as the driving experience, layout and size differs by class.
Pay attention to the tutorial: Most rental companies make clients watch a tutorial to help familiarize you with the RV before you leave. However, many people don't actually pay attention to that as they are so excited to hit the road. We recommend that you watch tutorial videos even before you start calling around for RV rentals. Learn how to drive an RV, how to dump the tanks, how to set up camp and every other video you can find. This will ensure that you're a pro by the time you get behind the wheel of your RV rental.
Bring your own accessories: most companies offer "optional accessory kits" which include your basic necessities, such as linens, towels, kitchen gear and flashlights. Save a few hundred dollars by looking at the lists of the contents on their websites, and bring your own.
Plan ahead: Use an RV trip planner app to plan a route and book your campground spots. Otherwise, you may be turned away, and end up having to find another campground. This will put on additional miles that may push you over your daily mileage limit and it will also cost you money in gas.
Whether you want to see what the big deal is about RVing, but you're not ready to buy one just yet, RV rental is a great compromise. It may cost as much as a family vacation, but you will know what to expect before you decide to take the plunge and buy an RV.