Tips for First Time RV Rental: What to Know Before You Rent a RV

Don't let the idea of renting a RV before you buy be a deal killer. Read these tips for first time rv rental to get started on your RV rental adventure. You'll have all the information you need to make your first time RV rental a success!

Renting a RV is a great way to get out of your home and do something new. You’re going on vacation and want the flexibility to explore different cities, or you’re moving to work in another state and need something bigger than a car. You might have just retired from camping, but still miss it every once in a while because living out of an RV can be more relaxing than staying at a hotel—for real. If this sounds like you, then renting a RV could be perfect for your next adventure.

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Why Rent a RV?

RVs offer the opportunity to travel and see the world in a self-contained environment. This is why rentals have spiked over the past year. People are looking for a new way to see the world and RVs offer all of the amenities they need while on vacation. They can avoid airports, hotels, restaurants, and rest stop bathrooms. Additionally, RVs are perfect for safely bringing travelers to the most highly coveted summer destination—the great outdoors.

If you love the great outdoors and are looking to rent an RV, you should know about a few things before starting your search.

Find Your Perfect RV To Rent

There are many different types of RV rentals to choose from, so take your time and find the perfect one for you. Consider what type of trip you want to take, how many people will be traveling with you, and what amenities are important to you. There are a variety of factors to consider when choosing an RV rental, so don’t rush into it!

Before You Sign on The Dotted Line

When renting a RV for the first time, there are a few things you should keep in mind.

Compare Rental Prices: Most individuals have multiple RV rental companies to do business with. To limit the cost of your next RV trip, compare prices. In addition to comparing the average rental price for different companies, also examine the different motor homes. As previously stated, size is not something that you will want to be short on, but by limiting additional features, you may be able to save money.

Rent a New RV: It is important to choose your rental RV that is new or relatively new. This is because older RVs could have a number of issues that are not easy to spot. For example, the plumbing and electrical systems might be outdated or there could be damage to the exterior.

Different Types of RVS: There are two types of RVs- towable and drivable. If you have never driven or been around an RV before, I would recommend renting a small, drivable RV. This will give you more control over the vehicle and make it easier to learn how to operate it. You can find smaller Class B (camper vans) and Class C RVs in the 19′ to 24′ range.

What Size Should I Get? When renting a RV for the first time, it is important to consider the size of the RV and how many people will be using it. Make sure you pick one that is appropriate for your needs and that has amenities you desire. A variety of different RVs are available so put in some extra thinking and comparison shopping before making a final decision.

Sleeping Arrangements: What is the approximate number of people that will be sleeping in the RV? That should be one of the major factors in deciding what type of RV to rent. Based on that, you could choose the right size for your trip.. Also, often RV beds are hidden or convertible and it’s good to know ahead of time how large each bed is, and exactly how to go about converting it.

What’s Included: Check out what’s included when you rent an RV—some places offer many amenities while others may not provide anything at all.

Make sure the RV is licensed in your state.

Make sure insurance is included in the rental price.

Know Your Travel Dates and Route in Advance: This will help you find an RV that fits your needs and avoid any surprises when you arrive.

Be Aware Of: Any additional fees that may apply, such as cleaning or damage fees. By being prepared and knowing what to expect, first-time renters can have a great experience while on the road.

Some Rental Companies require a driving tutorial before rental. This is a good thing if you are new to driving a RV.

It Is Important to Be Cautious: Inspect the vehicle before renting it. If you pay for the rental without checking anything, you may be responsible for any damage that has occurred. That is why it is important to use caution when renting a RV and always inspect the vehicle before renting one.

Read All Fine Print: When renting a RV, you will be required to sign a contract. This contract is similar to one that you would sign if you were renting a car. With that being said, never assume that all rental contracts are the same. Always fully read an RV rental contract, including the fine print. Never sign anything that looks too suspicious. When in doubt, ask to take the contract home and review it first.In keeping with reading all fine print, it is important to know all RV rental rules and restrictions upfront. Many times, these rules and restrictions are highlighted on a rental contract, but there is no harm in asking for additional information. Be on the lookout for any rules that may limit the number of guests allowed on board, age requirements for children, and so forth.

Plan Ahead

Make a List of What You’ll Need While on Your Trip: This will help you pack efficiently and avoid bringing too much or too little with you.

Plan Your Activities Ahead of Time: This will help ensure that you make the most of your trip and don’t miss out on anything important.

Pack with Space in Mind: When packing for your RV trip, it is important to remember that space is at a premium. Everything you pack will take up space, so be mindful of what you bring with you. Try to pack only the essentials and think about what you might need during your trip. This will help ensure that you have enough room for everything you need without taking up too much space.

Anticipate your needs ahead of time and make sure you have enough food and water for the trip.

Budget Accordingly: Renting a RV is a great way to get out of the city. However, before you go on this adventure, you need to make sure that you have a good idea of what your budget will be. For example, fuel prices are usually higher for RVs because your miles-per-gallon is typically in the 6 to 12 miles-per-gallon range.

Be Prepared for an Emergency: Some campsites are more remote than others and may not have the resources to support you in an emergency. See, “The Complete Guide to RV Boondocking Safety & Emergency Preparedness,” for more information.

I’ve Got the RV—Now What?

Take it slow and easy: If you’re not used to driving a large vehicle, take it slow when you first get in the RV. This will help ensure that you don’t accidentally cause any damage and also give you a chance to get used to how the RV handles.

Practice Turning: It’s important to be prepared for the drive. One thing to keep in mind is that RVs tend to turn more sharply than regular cars, so be sure to practice turning in an empty parking lot or somewhere similar before hitting the open road. This will help you get comfortable with the size of the vehicle and will make your first time driving on the road much less stressful.

You need a lot of space in a truck or RV to stop and turn, so make sure that you have enough distance. About 15% of RV insurance claims are caused by not slowing down or turning correctly.

Memorize the RV dimensions: RV dimensions are important to know in order to safely navigate and park your RV. You will benefit from learning these important dimensions. For example, the height of your RV is important when going underneath an overpass.

Download Google Maps of your route before leaving for your trip in case you lose cell service while on the road. See: Staying Connected to the Internet on the Road in a RV—The RV Digital Nomad Guide,” for more information.

Be Careful With Use: Some tips involve keeping all food and drinks properly covered or put up while on the road, don’t prepare foods while driving that can cause harmful stains, and so forth. Also, if you have children, be sure to set some ground rules.

Return Your RV Rental On Time

Returning your RV rental on time is important for keeping your rental costs low and affordable. Late rentals may incur late fees. These late fees, should they exist, should be outlined on the RV rental contract. If you know you are running behind schedule and will be late, be sure to contact your RV rental company to inform them of your delay as soon as possible.

Final Thoughts

As a recap, first time RV renters are encouraged to examine all of their rental options, compare prices, thoroughly read through rental contracts, use caution, and return their RV rentals on time. These steps, when properly implemented, can not only help to improve the overall quality of your next RV trip, but they can also help to keep the costs associated with that trip reasonable.

Happy Trails,