Renting an RV is a great way to test the waters. You can experience RV life, the community, and all the headaches before purchasing your own.
Many companies, like RVShare and Outdoorsy, simplify the process for first-time RVers.
However, the fine writing in lengthy rental agreements may cost you big bucks.
On March 30th, Redditor u/ps14-1, warns all about the Terms of Service.
The Story of a Rental Gone Bad
As an RV renter, you must inspect every detail of an RV before signing the agreement papers. That’s the simplified story.
That’s the task of a traditional RV inspector. And, they get paid $100s for each inspection.
The Redditor broke it down like this:
“My story: 1st time renter, got a good price for a 5th wheel in Fort Collins CO for Thanksgiving, 2022, & the owner was friendly & helpful.
- On the first night, I discovered the toilet water supply line was cracked. As soon as we turned the water pump on, a puddle started building up. Seems like it wasn’t properly winterized in the past. I took pics & shared them with RVShare & the owner that evening.
- At the end end, when the owner as picking up his RV, I saw him damage the slide out when trying to operate it.
- My rental period was over Thanksgiving, so freezing temps, and pre-rental I verified with him (& documented it) the RV was rated for 4 seasons. Of course the gray water pipes underneath froze and cracked. They were not well insulated.”
That sounds like a nightmare, right?!
According to the renter, the owner of the RV blamed him of 3 damages. All three of the damages, despite written docs and captured images, were within the terms of service.
Painfully, u/ps14-1 writes, “My adjudicator Cathy was pleasant, seemed to know I was getting screwed & the owner was a fraud, but apparently was bound by the ToS to assign blame to me. Her answer to the freezing damage was, ‘But it occurred during the rental period.'”
KEEP IN MIND: These are the first things to break according to an RV Mechanic
How Much Do RV Rentals Cost?
The cost of renting an RV (recreational vehicle) can vary greatly depending on several factors, including the size and type of the RV, duration, time of year, and location.
Generally, renting an RV can range from $50 to $500 per night for a basic model, with luxury models costing even more. Weekly rentals may offer a discounted rate.
Some RV rental companies may also charge additional fees for mileage, generator use, cleaning, and insurance. It’s important to carefully read the rental agreement and ask any questions you may have before signing.
Should You Avoid RV Rentals?
Whether or not an RV rental is worth it depends on your needs and preferences. Here are some factors to consider:
Budget: Renting an RV can be more expensive than traditional lodging options, so it’s essential to consider your budget.
Flexibility: An RV allows you to travel at your own pace and change your itinerary as you go, which can be a big advantage if you enjoy spontaneous trips and want to explore a variety of locations.
Comfort: RVs provide many of the amenities of a home, including a kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping quarters. An RV rental may be worth it if you value comfort and convenience while traveling.
Experience: An RV rental can provide a unique and immersive travel experience, allowing you to see more of your destination’s natural beauty and local culture.
Maintenance: Renting an RV means you don’t have to worry about the costs and responsibilities of RV ownership, such as maintenance, repairs, and storage.
Ultimately, whether an RV rental is worth it depends on your individual needs, preferences, and budget. If you prioritize flexibility, comfort, and a unique travel experience, an RV rental may be worth it for you.
What Are the Best RV Rental Companies?
Here are a few well-known RV rental companies that are popular among travelers:
Cruise America: This company has been around for over 45 years and is one of the largest RV rental companies in the United States. They have a wide selection of RVs and offer roadside assistance and 24/7 customer support.
El Monte RV: El Monte RV is another popular rental company that has been in business for over 50 years. They offer a variety of RV sizes and types, as well as pet-friendly options.
Outdoorsy: Outdoorsy is a peer-to-peer RV rental company that allows you to rent from individual RV owners. They have a wide selection of RVs and offer insurance and 24/7 roadside assistance.
RVshare: RVshare is another peer-to-peer rental company that offers a wide range of RV options, from luxury motorhomes to pop-up campers. They also provide insurance and roadside assistance.
Escape Campervans: Escape Campervans is a unique RV rental company that offers brightly colored, custom-designed campervans. They have locations in several major cities and offer unlimited mileage and 24/7 roadside assistance.
Discover the Best Free Camping Across the USA
To be honest with you, we hate paying for camping. There are so many free campsites in America (with complete privacy).
You should give it a try!
As a matter of fact, these free campsites are yours. Every time you pay federal taxes, you’re contributing to these lands.
Become a FREE CAMPING INSIDER and join the 100,000 campers who love to score the best site!
We’ll send you the 50 Best Free Campsites in the USA (one per state). Access the list by submitting your email below: