People Camping in Front of Travel Trailer

How to Rent an RV: A Comprehensive Guide for First-Timers

Are you considering renting an RV for your next adventure? RV rentals can be a great way to explore the great outdoors and enjoy the freedom of the open road. However, if you're new to RV rentals, you may have questions and concerns about the process. In this article, we'll provide you with a comprehensive guide to renting an RV, covering everything from finding a reliable rental company to preparing for pickup. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned RV renter, our tips and advice will help you hit the road with confidence and make the most of your trip.

1. Determine your needs

Before you start the rental process, you need to figure out what your requirements are. Consider the size of your group, the type of RV you need, and your budget. There are different types of RVs available, including travel trailers, fifth wheels, and Class A, B, and C motorhomes.

Each type of RV has its own unique features and benefits. Class A motorhomes are often the most luxurious and spacious, with all of the amenities of a home on wheels. Class B motorhomes are more compact and easier to maneuver, making them a good choice for those who plan to do a lot of driving. Class C motorhomes are a good balance between the two, offering many of the features of a Class A motorhome with the added benefit of being more affordable.

In addition to motorhomes, there are also travel trailers and fifth-wheels. Travel trailers can be towed by a truck or SUV, while fifth-wheels require a special hitch that is mounted in the bed of a pickup truck. These types of RVs can be a good choice for those who already have a vehicle that is capable of towing.

Finally, it's important to consider your budget when choosing an RV rental. Prices can vary widely depending on the type of RV, the size, and the features that are included. It's a good idea to set a budget ahead of time and to look for RV rentals that fit within your price range.

2. Research rental companies

After determining your needs for an RV rental, the next step is to research RV rental companies to find the best fit for your trip. There are a few key factors to consider when evaluating rental companies.

One important factor is to read reviews of the rental companies you are considering. Look for reviews on their website, as well as on other review sites like Yelp or Google. Reading reviews can give you an idea of the company's reputation and how previous customers have experienced their service. Pay attention to reviews that mention the condition of the RVs, the quality of customer service, and any additional fees or charges that were unexpected.

Another factor to consider is pricing. Compare rental prices from different companies to ensure that you are getting a fair deal. Keep in mind that the cheapest option may not always be the best choice, as some companies may charge additional fees for things like mileage, cleaning, or additional drivers. Make sure you understand all of the costs associated with renting the RV before making a final decision.

It's also important to check the fleet of vehicles that the rental company offers. Make sure they have the type of RV that you need and that the RVs are in good condition. Some rental companies may offer newer rigs with more amenities, while others may have older models that are more budget-friendly.

Once you have evaluated these factors and have narrowed down your choices, it's a good idea to contact the rental companies directly to ask any questions you may have and to confirm availability. Popular RV rental companies include Cruise America, El Monte RV, and Road Bear RV, but there are many others to choose from as well. By doing your research and choosing the right rental company, you can ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable RV rental experience.

Man with SUV and trailer in campground parking lot.

3. Make a reservation

After you have completed your research and have chosen a rental company for your RV, the next step is to make a reservation. It's important to do this as soon as possible, especially during peak travel seasons when RV rentals can be in high demand.

The reservation process typically involves providing personal information, such as your name, address, phone number, and email address. You may also need to provide your driver's license information and insurance details. Some rental companies may require a credit card or other form of payment for a deposit or reservation fee.

The deposit or reservation fee is typically required to secure your rental and ensure that the RV is available for you on the dates that you need it. The amount of the deposit or reservation fee will vary depending on the rental company and the length of your rental. Make sure you understand the payment terms and any cancellation policies before you make your reservation.

It's also important to ask any questions you may have about the rental agreement or the RV itself before you make your reservation. This can include questions about the rental company's insurance policy, the pick-up and drop-off procedures, and any additional fees or charges that may apply.

Once you have completed the reservation process, you should receive confirmation of your booking from the rental company. Make sure you keep this confirmation in a safe place and bring it with you when you pick up the RV. This confirmation will typically include important details such as the pick-up and drop-off location, the dates of your rental, and the total cost of the rental.

Travel trailer parked in beautiful green campground.

4. Prepare for pickup

Before you pick up your RV, it's important to familiarize yourself with the vehicle and its features. This will help ensure that you are comfortable and confident driving the RV and that you can operate all of its systems and equipment safely and effectively.

When you arrive to pick up your RV, the rental company or individual renting out the RV will typically provide you with a walkthrough of the vehicle. This will include an overview of the RV's features, such as the heating and cooling systems, water and waste systems, electrical systems, and other amenities. They may also provide you with a demonstration of how to use the RV's equipment, such as the stove, refrigerator, and awning.

It's important to pay close attention during the walkthrough and to ask any questions you may have. Take notes or ask for written instructions if necessary, so you can refer to them later if needed. This will help you feel more confident and comfortable with the RV before you hit the road.

In addition to familiarizing yourself with the RV, you may also need to provide proof of insurance and a valid driver's license. The rental company may require that you purchase insurance from them, or they may accept your personal insurance policy. Make sure you understand the insurance requirements before you pick up the RV, and bring any necessary documentation with you.

You will also need to show a valid driver's license when you pick up the RV. Some rental companies may have specific requirements for the type of license you need to drive an RV, so make sure you check with them in advance.

Truck attached to travel trailer in parking lot.

5. Inspect the RV

When you arrive to pick up your RV, take the time to inspect it thoroughly before you leave the rental company's lot. This will help ensure that you are not held responsible for any damages or defects that were present before you took possession of the RV.

Start by walking around the exterior of the RV and checking for any visible damage, such as scratches, dents, or broken parts. Look closely at the tires, wheels, and hitch to make sure they are in good condition and properly inflated. Check the windows, doors, and awning to make sure they open and close properly.

Next, go inside the RV and check all of the systems and equipment to make sure they are in working order. Turn on the lights, fans, and appliances to make sure they are functioning properly. Check the water and waste systems to make sure they are working correctly and that there are no leaks or other issues.

If you notice any damages, defects, or malfunctions during your inspection, report them to the rental company immediately. Take photos of any issues you find and make a note of them on the rental agreement or inspection form. This will help ensure that you are not held responsible for any pre-existing issues when you return the RV.

Finally, make sure you understand the rental company's policies and procedures for reporting damages or issues during your rental. This may include contacting them immediately, providing documentation of the issue, and following their instructions for repair or replacement.

Truck pulling travel trailer down dirt road.

6. Get to know the RV

After you have inspected your RV, it's important to familiarize yourself with its features and systems before you hit the road. This will help ensure that you are comfortable and confident using the RV during your trip.

Start by reviewing the owner's manual or any other documentation provided by the rental company. This will give you an overview of the RV's systems and features, and provide instructions on how to use them. Pay particular attention to any safety information or warnings, and make sure you understand how to operate the RV's appliances, heating and cooling systems, water and waste systems, and electrical systems.

Once you have reviewed the documentation, take some time to practice using the RV's features. Turn on the lights and fans, test the stove and oven, and try out the water and waste systems to make sure you understand how they work. If you are unsure about anything, ask the rental company for help or clarification.

Next, take the RV for a test drive to make sure you are comfortable driving it. This is especially important if you are not familiar with driving a larger vehicle, such as a Class A or Class C motorhome. Practice accelerating, braking, and turning, and get a feel for the RV's handling and braking. If you are traveling with a partner or other passengers, take turns driving to give everyone a chance to get comfortable with the RV.

During your test drive, pay attention to any unusual sounds or vibrations, and make note of any issues you may encounter. This will help you identify any problems before you leave on your trip, and ensure that you are prepared to handle them if they occur on the road.

People camping in travel trailer at campground.

7. Return the RV

Returning your RV is just as important as picking it up, and it's crucial to inspect it thoroughly to ensure that you won't be charged for any damages or issues that you didn't cause during your rental period.

Before you return the RV, take the time to clean it out and remove any personal belongings or trash. Make sure the RV is in the same condition it was in when you picked it up, with all of its features and systems in working order.

Once you have cleaned out the RV, inspect it again for any damages, defects, or malfunctions that may have occurred during your rental period. Check the RV's exterior for scratches, dents, or other damage, and check the interior for any broken appliances or damaged furniture. Take note of any issues, and report them to the rental company immediately.

The rental company may also have specific instructions for cleaning and fuel refill when you return the RV, so make sure you follow their guidelines carefully. This may include emptying the waste tanks, refilling the propane tank, and returning the RV with a full tank of gas.

By following these steps, you can rent an RV with confidence and have a great time on the road. Remember to always read the rental agreement carefully, ask questions, and plan ahead to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

And if you decide you're ready to take the plunge and start RVing regularly, check our our video on Buying a Used RV to get yourself started without breaking the bank!