Tips on Renting an RV for Your Next Family Vacation

RVs are becoming increasingly popular for family vacations, and you don’t have to own one to take advantage of this great way to travel the country. In fact, if you don’t have an RV, renting one is a great way to find out if RV travel is for you before you buy. It may save you quite a bit of money too. PKF Consulting USA revealed that a family of four may save from 27 to 62 percent by taking an RV vacation.
If you’ve never rented an RV, use these tips to ensure the best experience.

Determine the Size and Amenities You Need

Class A motorhomes are the largest type of recreational family vehicles, weighing up to 30,000 pounds and ranging from 30 to 40 feet in length. They include everything you need and can usually sleep up to eight, but at the same time, you’re going to pay a lot more for fuel and you may have difficulty maneuvering these very large RVs. Typically, Class B Motorhomes are the way to go, and they may even come as part of an all-inclusive package. They combine the comforts of the larger RV into a compact, easier-to-drive vehicle. Many come with entertainment customizations and luxury interiors too, and generally weigh no more than 8,000 pounds, up to 19 feet in length, and sleep up to four people. That smaller size means saving on fuel costs and easier maneuverability.

The Fees

Renting an RV is a little different than renting your standard automobile. You’ll likely have to put down a deposit upfront, and you’ll need to purchase insurance too. Depending on where you plan to go and how long you’ll be vacationing, there may be additional fees. You’ll likely have the option to purchase extra amenities too, like a generator, propane, linens and kitchen items. Typically, it’s cheaper to do so in advance rather than to wait and buy those things at a campground store or RV park.

Make Sure You Can Drive It

Before you sign on the dotted line, be sure you feel comfortable driving an RV. You may be able to test one at an RV rental location, or test drive one at a dealership. If you run into problems down the road, like parking, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Oftentimes other RVers, or even park staff, are more than happy to come to your aid, as most have been in your place at one point.

Pick Your Destination

With an RV, you can go just about anywhere you want. These days, many ferries have room for RVs, which means the possibility for adventure is practically endless with the option to cross even large bodies of water. One of the best, for example, would be to leave from Massachusetts or Maine, traveling through the Canadian Maritimes, all the way to Nova Scotia before driving onto the ferry that will take you to Newfoundland. Or, you could create an itinerary that will bring you to national parks throughout the Rocky Mountains, on both the U.S. and Canadian sides.
Wherever you decide to go, whether it’s the beach, mountains, a lake, national park or any other destination, be sure there will be something to do for every member of the family, adults, and kids included. Perhaps have a family meeting to get input on everyone’s wants and desires, which will help make the decision easier, and increase the odds of happy passengers.