Ready to hit the road in an RV? Discover the best rental companies to ensure an unforgettable journey!
Understanding the different types of RV rental companies is crucial before you make a choice. The market is primarily divided into traditional RV rental companies and peer-to-peer rental platforms. Each type comes with its pros and cons, catering to varying needs and preferences.
Pros of Traditional RV Rental Companies
Traditional RV rental companies operate similarly to car rental agencies, owning fleets of standardized vehicles
- Consistency: Renters can expect a uniform experience across services, emphasizing cleanliness and maintenance.
- Professional Maintenance: These companies ensure regular inspections and servicing of their vehicles to maintain quality.
- One-Way Rentals: Unlike private rentals, traditional services often allow for drop-offs at various locations, adding flexibility to your journey.
Pros of Peer-to-Peer RV Rentals
Peer-to-peer RV rental platforms function like Airbnb, connecting RV owners with travelers
- Wider Selection: Enjoy an extensive range of vehicles, including campervans and luxury motorhomes tailored for different experiences.
- Competitive Pricing: Typically, costs are lower than corporate rentals, making these options economical.
- Flexible Pickup and Delivery: Some RV owners may deliver directly to your preferred location, adding convenience to your adventure.
Top Traditional RV Rental Companies
When it comes to traditional RV rentals, two names consistently stand out: Cruise America and El Monte.
1. Cruise America - Known for providing overall excellent service
- Overview: As the largest RV rental company in North America, Cruise America boasts over 123 locations across 33 U.S. states and five Canadian provinces.
- Fleet: The company offers five types of RVs, predominantly Class C motorhomes that can accommodate between three to seven travelers comfortably.
- Pricing: Rentals do not cover unlimited mileage, and expect charges of about $0.38 per mile, unless taking a promotional deal.
- Extras: Kitchen and bedding kits are extras for renters, which can add to the total cost.
- Pros: A wide network of locations makes one-way rentals easy. There’s consistency in fleet condition and transparent price listings.
- Cons: Additional mileage costs can escalate quickly, and basic amenities come with a price tag.
2. El Monte - Perfect for boondockers wanting generator access
- Overview: Smaller than Cruise America, El Monte has 27 U.S. locations and one in Tokyo, offering a mix of Class A and Class C motorhomes.
- Fleet: Features five types of RVs ranging from 22 to 33 feet, catering to both small groups and larger families.
- Pricing: Unlike many competitors, El Monte does not add fees for generator usage, making it ideal for boondocking enthusiasts who seek a self-sufficient camping experience.
- Pros: The lack of additional generator charges is a significant benefit, especially for off-grid camping.
- Cons: The company has fewer locations overall and limited one-way rental availability.
Best Peer-to-Peer RV Rental Companies
Peer-to-peer RV rentals have surged in popularity, especially with platforms like RVshare and RVezy leading the charge.
1. RVshare - A reliable choice for peer-to-peer rentals
- Overview: RVshare is known as the first and largest peer-to-peer RV rental marketplace, featuring over 100,000 vehicles.
- Support: Offers 24/7 chat support and strong renter protection policies, ensuring peace of mind.
- Education: Provides extensive resources for first-time RV users, covering everything from operation to maintenance to waste disposal.
- Pros: The company's strong renter protection ensures you receive what you expect and provides a backup in case of issues.
- Cons: Some listings may contain hidden fees that complicate budgeting.
2. RVezy - An excellent option for budget-conscious travelers
- Overview: Established in Canada, RVezy has made significant inroads into the U.S. market and currently boasts numerous listings across the country.
- Rental Rates: Offers competitive pricing, especially for campers and smaller RVs, which attracts budget travelers.
- Pros: Its good reputation stems from a high volume of satisfied customers, boasting over 150,000 five-star rated bookings.
- Cons: The inventory may be smaller compared to RVshare, which could limit options.
Navigating Your RV Rental Choices
Choosing the right RV rental company is critical to your overall experience, whether for a weekend getaway or a lengthy cross-country trip. Here are some crucial steps to simplify your selection process
- Compare Prices: Ensure that you are getting competitive rates by checking multiple providers.
- Read Reviews: Customer feedback provides insight into the reliability and quality of each rental experience.
- Examine Fees: Transparency about additional costs can save you from surprises later.
- Evaluate Features: Consider your camping style—do you prefer luxury motorhomes, or are you looking for something more budget-friendly?
No matter your choice, planning ahead and knowing what to expect can lead to a memorable and enjoyable RV adventure.