{"id":8444,"date":"2026-03-08T15:10:36","date_gmt":"2026-03-08T15:10:36","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blog.theblyde.com\/?p=8444"},"modified":"2026-03-08T15:10:36","modified_gmt":"2026-03-08T15:10:36","slug":"how-to-rent-an-rv-tips-for-renting-a-campervan-in-2026","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blog.theblyde.com\/?p=8444","title":{"rendered":"How to Rent an RV: Tips for Renting a Campervan in 2026"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Your buddy is at the wheel\u2014after you figured out how to rent an RV,\u00a0you decide that he\u2019s got the best driving track record of your crew. Your copilot is on music duty; he\u2019s been working on\u00a0a nostalgia-inducing playlist\u00a0for weeks, and it\u2019s taking you back to college.<\/p>\n

You\u2019re in the back with the rest of \u2019em singing all the wrong lyrics and then a synchronous \u201cMy Sharona!<\/em>\u201d while playing another round of Rummy.<\/p>\n

You\u2019re a few days into your cross-country road trip, cruising along Route 50 in the spiffed-up RV you rented. Sure, food and accommodation are few and far between\u2014but you\u2019ve got a fully equipped kitchen, comfortable beds and your preferred company right there with you.<\/p>\n

Can you picture it? Of course, it\u2019s easier to imagine this kind of trip of a lifetime if you knew what in the world you were doing when it comes to renting an RV.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n

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What Is an RV? <\/h2>\n

First and foremost, an RV is a recreational vehicle that\u2019s, in short, a motorized home designed to accommodate you while getting you from Point A to Point B.<\/p>\n

What\u2019s the Difference Between an RV and a Campervan?<\/h3>\n

When renters refer to RVs, they\u2019re usually talking about either a motor vehicle or a trailer, both of which are usually equipped with home amenities like a living space, a bedroom and a kitchen.<\/p>\n

What commonly comes to mind is a motorhome, which is large and compartmentalized \u2014 essentially meant to be, well, a home with a motor. It\u2019s meant to provide comfort and, perhaps, a touch of luxury while traveling the great outdoors.<\/p>\n

\"How <\/source><\/picture><\/p>\n

When renters refer to campervans, however, they\u2019re talking about a van that\u2019s been \u201cfitted out\u201d with basic accommodations\u2014a van in which you can sleep and prepare food. They\u2019re much smaller than typical RVs with beds of some kind, small cooktops and, sometimes, bathroom facilities.<\/p>\n

Because of their small size (which means better gas mileage and easier maneuverability), campervan enthusiasts are typically young, free-spirited, backpacking-type travelers.<\/p>\n

There are several types of RVs for different types of road trippers, travel plans and budgets.<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

\"\"\"\"\/ <\/source><\/picture><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

Class A Diesel or Gas Motorhome<\/h3>\n

These are your cr\u00e8me de la cr\u00e8me motorhomes\u2014they are the largest and most luxurious form of RV. Class As typically have full-sized furniture and kitchens, entertainment systems and sometimes a washer and dryer unit. In some models, they can sleep up to 12 people.<\/p>\n

The only difference between a Class A Diesel Motorhome and a Class A Gas Motorhome is that the former are much more fuel-efficient. Keep in mind that, regardless, they are both the most expensive options to rent, have low gas mileage and take more skill to drive because of their size.<\/p>\n

Class B Motorhome<\/h3>\n

If you\u2019re an adventurous and smaller group, a Class B Motorhome RV is an excellent choice. It looks a lot like a regular van from the outside, but it\u2019s still equipped with home amenities inside.<\/p>\n

The Class B Motorhome is tall enough to stand inside and has a kitchenette with a water tank, a double bed for two, and a small space for a combined shower and toilet.<\/p>\n

They drive more like cars (which means easier parking and maneuverability, and they get better gas mileage than your Class A Motorhomes.<\/p>\n

Class C Motorhome<\/h3>\n

A Class C Motorhome is a good middle ground between a Class A and a Class B. Typically between 20 and 30 feet long with a cab, Class C Motorhomes can accommodate up to five people.<\/p>\n

They boast comfortable amenities like queen-sized beds, larger living areas and separate bathrooms. Like Class B Motorhomes, they also drive easier than Class As and get better gas mileage.<\/p>\n

Travel Trailers<\/h3>\n

Travel trailers are perfect if you want to tow your living quarters behind you, and also be able to unhitch and use your vehicle like normal. There\u2019s an extensive range of travel trailers, from small ones with bare-minimum amenities to fancy ones with all the bells and whistles. Sizes can range from 10 feet up to 40 feet.<\/p>\n

Fifth Wheel<\/h3>\n

Considered a step up from travel trailers, a Fifth Wheel RV offers more space thanks to its split-level floor plan. They affix to the back of your truck or over the bed of your truck. And the extra cove added over the front of the truck means more living space for up two bathrooms and, sometimes, an outdoor kitchen extension.<\/p>\n

You do need a pickup truck with high towing capacity for a Fifth Wheel, however.<\/p>\n

Fold Downs or Expandables<\/h3>\n

Fold Downs\u2014also known as camper trailers, pop-ups or tent trailers\u2014are versatile, towable RVs that are ideal for beginners. They\u2019re relatively lightweight, which makes them easy to tow, regardless of your vehicle type. And they vary in length, which makes some especially easy to maneuver.<\/p>\n

You can often choose different amenity options depending on your needs, such as refrigerators, hot water, air conditioning and more.<\/p>\n

Likewise, Expandables are designed for towing and are similar to Fold Downs with hard sides. They do have expandable tent ends, however. And they\u2019re usually a step up from the Fold Down.<\/p>\n

Toy Haulers<\/h3>\n

Toy Haulers are great if you\u2019ve got a lot of toys\u2014ATVs, motorcycles, snowmobiles, etc. That\u2019s because they\u2019re equipped with large cargo garages in the rears.<\/p>\n

\"An\"An <\/source><\/picture>
Fold Downs are great options for beginners who have never rented an RV before<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/p><\/div>\n
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How to Rent an RV <\/h2>\n

Now that you know what an RV is (and the various options available), you\u2019re probably ready to figure out how to rent an RV.<\/p>\n

It might sound easy. You just call your friends over, all crowd around a laptop, Google RV rentals and pick one that looks like the most fun and affordable. Right?<\/p>\n

Wrong. There are several key steps you should take to rent an RV to ensure that\u2026<\/strong><\/p>\n

One of you can actually operate this RV.<\/p>\n

There\u2019s plenty of room for your road beers in the kitchen. (Yes, you can drink in an RV, so long as you\u2019re not the driver!)<\/p>\n

    \n
  • The speaker setup is more than adequate.<\/li>\n
  • There are enough beds so you won\u2019t be\u00a0obliged\u00a0to spoon.<\/li>\n
  • You\u2019ll have ample living space for all the games of Charades.<\/li>\n
  • You can afford this road trip without having to sell your souls.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

    With that said, here\u2019s how to rent an RV in three simple steps.<\/p>\n

    Decide on the\u00a0Who, What, When, Where and How<\/em><\/h3>\n

    Before you dive deep into the rental process, you\u2019ll want to have the details of your trip down pat. Sit down to figure out\u00a0who\u00a0is going,\u00a0what\u00a0the purpose of your trip is,\u00a0when\u00a0you\u2019re taking it,\u00a0where\u00a0you\u2019re heading, and\u00a0how\u00a0you\u2019re affording it.<\/p>\n

    Who<\/h4>\n

    If you\u2019re taking a bachelor or bachelorette party of eight, renting a camper van won\u2019t even be an option. And if you\u2019re headed to Coachella with just your partner, you probably don\u2019t\u00a0need\u00a0the added luxuries and cost of a Class A Motorhome.<\/p>\n

    Also, consider your furry friends. If you plan on traveling with your adventure-loving dog, you have to make sure that your RV rental allows pets.<\/p>\n

    What<\/h4>\n

    Once you\u2019ve decided you who is going on this road trip, decide what you all want to get out of the trip. What\u2019s the purpose?<\/p>\n

    As you now know, there are different amenities available with each option, so decide what feels necessary.<\/p>\n

    For example, if you are indeed road-tripping for weeks across the country, you\u2019ll probably want space so you\u2019re not on top of each other. If you anticipate long hours in remote nowhere lands, you\u2019ll want a good enough kitchen for survival purposes.<\/p>\n

    \"A\"A <\/source><\/picture>
    Make sure you bring the best company on your road trip!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

    When<\/h4>\n

    Now you know who\u2019s coming and what you\u2019re doing, so when are you leaving?<\/p>\n

    If you\u2019re looking to hit the road in July or August, you should be booking your RV way ahead of time. During the high-season summer months, the availability of RVs (and the cost of RVs) can complicate plans.<\/p>\n

    Where<\/h4>\n

    The difference between\u00a0renting an RV in Denver\u00a0and driving to Colorado versus driving to the Grand Canyon is substantial when it comes to rental period lengths, mileage needed, fuel efficiency, etc.<\/p>\n

    Consider where you\u2019re going to help you narrow down RV options.<\/p>\n

    How<\/h4>\n

    Figure out how you\u2019re going to afford this road trip. Your budget will definitely affect your recreational vehicle rental options.<\/p>\n

    A larger RV, like the Class A Motorhome, will not only have a higher daily rate, but it will also guzzle more gas due to its lower fuel efficiency. Meanwhile, if you only take a Fold Down with limited amenities and plan to stay at campgrounds with bathrooms and such, you should take into account the cost per night to park yourself there.<\/p>\n

    Get Any Necessary Licensing<\/h3>\n

    You or whoever you\u2019re dubbing driver might need a license to drive an RV depending on where you live and the size of the RV you\u2019re thinking about renting.<\/p>\n

    Some states will require you have non-commercial special licenses in order to drive an RV over a certain length or weight. Meanwhile, other states will require you to have a commercial driver\u2019s license, which is needed for large and heavy vehicles (i.e. buses and tractor-trailers).<\/p>\n

    This guide\u00a0is helpful in figuring out your state\u2019s licensing requirements.<\/p>\n

    Book Through a Reputable Rental Owner or Company<\/h3>\n

    Once you\u2019ve worked out the logistics of your trip and narrowed down some RV types you\u2019d be interested in renting, look for a reputable rental owner or company to book your RV.<\/p>\n

    You can always talk more with the RV owner or rental center to answer any questions you might have and, possibly, negotiate rates. So long as you\u2019ve nailed exactly what you\u2019re hoping to get out of your RV road trip and a general travel plan, they can certainly help make recommendations.<\/p>\n

    But how can you find a reputable rental company? There are several places to safely rent an RV.<\/p>\n

    \"A\"A <\/source><\/picture>
    You have to get that quintessential feet-hanging-out-of-the-campervan shot<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/p><\/div>\n
    \n

    Where to Rent an RV? <\/h2>\n

    You can rent RVs directly from owners, work with relocation rentals or rent via rental centers. Let\u2019s dive into all three of your options and some of our favorite\u00a0RV rental companies.<\/p>\n

    Renting an RV from an Owner<\/h3>\n

    Owners, who have put a lot of love into their recreational vehicles and personalized them with often unexpected and cool amenities, will rent out their RVs for novices and regular road-trippers alike.<\/p>\n

    Through sites like\u00a0Outdoorsy\u00a0and\u00a0RVshare, which are basically\u00a0Airbnb for RVs, you can rent directly from RV owners.<\/p>\n

    Renting an RV is a big deal. It\u2019s your home, transportation and refuge for however long you choose to travel with it. That\u2019s why you\u2019ll want to choose a reputable company that knows how to rent RVs the right, trustworthy way.<\/p>\n

    Outdoorsy is by far my favorite company to rent through, and you can read my full\u00a0Outdoorsy review\u00a0here.<\/p>\n

    They\u2019re the second largest online RV rental company and has proven itself with its 5,000+ five-star reviews. We\u2019re also impressed by the A+ rating Outdoorsy received from the\u00a0Better Business Bureau\u00a0after four years in business.<\/p>\n

    \"a\"a <\/source><\/picture>
    Oh the places you\u2019ll go in your RV rental!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

    What we like best about Outdoorsy is that it\u2019s easy to use and you can view renters\u2019 profiles and reviews. Every renter has to pass an application, so you know you can trust who you\u2019re dealing with. And you\u2019ll have direct access to them so you can communicate any questions or concerns and make sure you\u2019re making the right choice.<\/p>\n

    Plus, you can get insider advice on the RV from someone who knows that vehicle best, as well as important information like how much it usually costs to fill up the camper\u2019s tank, if it comes with kitchen accessories, or other tips a seasoned RVer can offer about travel routes, rest stops, etc.<\/p>\n

    A few more reasons that make Outdoorsy our #1 recommendation:<\/strong><\/p>\n

      \n
    • Up to $1 million insurance on approved bookings<\/li>\n
    • DMV checks on all drivers<\/li>\n
    • 24\/7 rental roadside assistance<\/li>\n
    • A dedicated customer support team<\/li>\n
    • 93% average five-star reviews<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

      All you have to do is\u00a0search by dates and location. You can also filter your search by RV type, price (min\/max), ratings and\/or amenities.<\/p>\n

      Search for RVs in your area using the widget below:<\/strong><\/p>\n

      Relocating RVs for a Company<\/h3>\n

      Have you heard of a relocation rental? It\u2019s okay if you haven\u2019t because they\u2019re not very well known. This is when companies pay\u00a0you\u00a0to relocate their vehicles to the destinations they need them to be.<\/p>\n

      If you\u2019re flexible with your schedule and road trip accommodation needs, you can get some incredible deals. But RV relocation rentals usually don\u2019t show up more than a week or so in advance, which can complicate travel planning.<\/p>\n

      You can find RVs to relocate through sites such as\u00a0TransferCar\u00a0and\u00a0Imoova.<\/p>\n

      Renting an RV from a Rental Center<\/h3>\n

      Lastly, of course, you have your larger companies that own a fleet of RVs that they rent out from rental centers, like\u00a0Cruise America\u00a0and\u00a0USA RV Rental.<\/p>\n

      The range of RVs cost more to rent, but some people may feel more comfortable renting a vehicle in a more traditional way.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n

      \n

      How Much Does it Cost to Rent an RV? <\/h2>\n

      The cost of your RV rental varies significantly depending on the following:<\/p>\n

        \n
      • Your choice of RV<\/li>\n
      • Your dates and length of travel<\/li>\n
      • Where you choose to rent your RV<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

        As mentioned above, the type of RV you choose will change the cost. Again, a Class A Motorhome is the most expensive option, while a Fold Down is your best bet for beginners on a budget.<\/p>\n

        Cost is also based on a daily rate, and you\u2019ll want to know the rental owner or company\u2019s mileage policy. Some may charge per mile traveled or allot a certain number of miles with an added fee if you go over (typically around $0.25-$0.75 per mile). They may also offer unlimited mileage, but be sure to ask so there are no surprises.<\/p>\n

        \"A\"A <\/source><\/picture>
        Even if you\u2019re outdoor adventuring, an RV adds a touch of luxury<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

        And, lastly, depending on from where you rent your RV, your cost can change. If you rent from an owner, there may be more wiggle room to negotiate rates. If you rent from a rental center with fixed rates, you\u2019ll have to pay the advertised fee.<\/p>\n

        While there are a lot of different factors that will affect the cost to rent an RV, below is a general breakdown of average RV rental prices across the US. These prices are based on peer-to-peer RV rentals, like Outdoorsy. Rates from a traditional rental company will be higher.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
        RV Type<\/strong><\/td>\nAverage Rental Price per Night<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
        Class A<\/td>\n$175 to $275<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
        Class B<\/td>\n$75 to $200<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
        Class C<\/td>\n$150 to $200<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
        Travel Trailer<\/td>\n$50 to $125<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
        Fifth Wheel<\/td>\n$60 to $150<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

        Added Expenses to Consider<\/h3>\n

        And, as already mentioned, you should factor in the added expenses like the insurance costs, cleaning fees, mileage, gas, etc. into the total price.<\/p>\n

        As part of the RV rental process, you will have to put down a deposit. This may be a security deposit that gets refunded when the RV is returned unharmed (fingers crossed!) or a deposit that\u2019s required upon booking to hold your reservation.<\/p>\n

        Also, insurance coverage is required. As with renting a car, rental companies may offer this coverage for an extra fee, or you can check your own car insurance to see if you\u2019re covered.<\/p>\n

        Add cleaning fees to your list of possible incurred expenses, as well. They might charge you around $150 if you don\u2019t return the RV clean. So get those cleaning gloves and mop ready if you want to save yourself some money.<\/p>\n

        Oh, and don\u2019t forget gas! Most renters want you to return the RV with a full tank, or they\u2019ll charge you what it costs to fill it up plus an extra fee. Gas costs can add up quickly, especially with those larger vehicles, so keep that fuel tank in mind.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n

        \n

        How to Safely Drive an RV <\/h2>\n

        Now that you know how to rent an RV, where you can go about renting one and how much it\u2019ll cost you, you can go ahead and get yourself one. But once it\u2019s in your hands, do you know how to drive an RV?<\/p>\n

        If you can\u2019t tell by now, we\u2019re all for renting an RV for a real adventure-filled experience. However, there are a few things we want to be sure you\u2019re aware of to keep you safe on the road and comfortable on your journey.<\/p>\n

        First and foremost, driving a large RV, like a Class A Motorhome, is not like at all like driving a car. If you\u2019re a complete newbie, you\u2019ll want to practice like you did when preparing for your first driver\u2019s test.<\/p>\n

        \"Campervan\"Campervan <\/source><\/picture>
        Are you capable of driving on all terrains?<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

        What you may not have considered is that RVs move around. Because they\u2019re tall and heavy, wind or a gust of air will feel like it\u2019s blowing you off course. But don\u2019t panic; you can minimize this by traveling at a slower speed.<\/p>\n

        Slamming on your brakes or tailgating the car in front of you is a definite no-no with an RV. Again, because of their size and weight, you must allow plenty of time and distance to come to a complete stop safely. Keep your vehicle in low gear when going downhill.<\/p>\n

        One other consideration we\u2019d like to bring to a novice RVer\u2019s attention is knowing the size of your vehicle. On a cross country journey, you\u2019re likely to come across many tunnels, overpasses and bridges. Be aware of bridge clearances because they\u2019ll determine whether or not you can pass safely.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n

        \n

        Take the Wheel <\/h2>\n

        We encourage you to explore your options and find what\u2019s best for you. Pump up your travel companions in the process.<\/p>\n

        Maybe this is your first RV road trip, but we have a feeling it won\u2019t be your last.<\/p>\n\n

        READ MORE:<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n

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        \n\t\t\tHow to Rent an RV FAQs\t\t<\/h2>\n
        \n

        \n\t\t\t\t\t\tHow old do you have to be to rent an RV?\t\t\t\t\t\t
        \n\t\t\t\t\t<\/h3>\n
        \n

        Age limits for renting an RV depend on the location and the policies of the company. Often, renters under 25 will have to pay an extra fee.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n

        \n

        \n\t\t\t\t\t\tDo you need a license to rent an RV?\t\t\t\t\t\t
        \n\t\t\t\t\t<\/h3>\n
        \n

        You definitely need a drivers license to rent an RV, but you don\u2019t need a CDL or any special license.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n

        \n

        \n\t\t\t\t\t\tCan you sleep anywhere in an RV in the US?\t\t\t\t\t\t
        \n\t\t\t\t\t<\/h3>\n
        \n

        No, you can\u2019t sleep anywhere in an RV in the US. Research the restrictions and legal camping areas at your destination.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n

        \n

        \n\t\t\t\t\t\tCan you live full time in an RV?\t\t\t\t\t\t
        \n\t\t\t\t\t<\/h3>\n
        \n

        Living full time in an RV is totally possible, and many people do it for months or years at a time.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n

        \n

        \n\t\t\t\t\t\tHow much gas does an RV use?\t\t\t\t\t\t
        \n\t\t\t\t\t<\/h3>\n
        \n

        The amount of gas an RV uses depends on the size. It ranges from around 6-8 mpg for class A motorhomes to 13-18 mpg for smaller camper vans.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n

        \n
        \n\t\tAbout the Author<\/span><\/p>\n

        Nick Reed<\/h3>\n

        As a Manchester City fan, he made it his mission to catch matches at legendary stadiums from Camp Nou to the Etihad. But Nick’s travels go beyond football. He’s explored 15+ countries across Europe, Africa, and the Caribbean, always chasing authentic experiences over tourist traps. Nick lives by a simple rule: the best stories come from saying yes to the unexpected. And TravelFreak is his biggest yes yet.<\/p>\n

        \t\tMore Articles \u00bb\n\t<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n