So you rented an RV and had a trip you’re sure to remember for the rest of your life. There’s just one more step before you close the book on this trip and RV rental entirely. You have to return your rental.
Returning your RV rental isn’t complicated, but you will want to set aside some time after you get home to make sure you set yourself up for success.
The following are the steps you’ll likely need to take to return your rental. But before you get started, read your rental agreement first. Every rental is unique, and you may not have to follow all of these steps if they weren’t specified in your contract. There may also be other, more unusual stipulations in your rental agreement that aren’t covered in this overview. Be sure to check your document to make sure you’re turning the RV back over to the owner in the condition you both agreed to before your trip.
- Clear Out the RV
- Empty and Clean Waste Tanks
- Refill the Fuel/Propane Tank
- Air Out the RV
- Clean Inside the RV
- Clean the Outside of the RV
- Know Your Fees
- Photograph the Rental
- Fill Out a Review
Step 1: Clear Out the RV
Begin by making sure all of your belongings are out of the RV. Check all outlets, especially those next to beds or in out-of-the-way places to make sure you didn’t leave behind charging cords. Check cupboards for food or personal items. Check any bathroom cabinets or other storage spaces. Remove all your food from the fridge and kitchen area. Also, if you had to provide any appliances, bedding, or other items, be sure to take all of that as well.
Don’t forget to take out the trash as you’re unpacking the RV.
Step 2: Empty and Clean Waste Tanks
If you agreed to return the RV with empty, clean waste tanks, take care of that task next. You can find a dump station either near your house, or near the campground where you stayed. Obviously, if you empty your tanks at the campground, you’ll want to be careful to not use the RV bathroom on the way home.
After you empty your gray and black water tanks, you’ll want to clean the tanks by rinsing them until the water that runs out is clear. You can prevent some buildup and odors in your gray water tank by not allowing food to wash down the sink while you’re using the RV during your trip.
Step 3: Refill the Fuel/Propane Tank
Check your rental agreement, but many require that you return the RV with the same amount of fuel that it had when you picked it up. Be sure to gas up just before you return the rental. If you agreed to replenish the propane in the RV, you’ll need to fill those tanks as well.
Step 4: Air Out the RV
If you’ve had a long drive home, it can be helpful to air out the RV once you get back. Open some windows and doors and let some fresh air into the rig. You can even do this as you clean.
Step 5: Clean Inside the RV
If the RV owner has provided cleaning supplies, use those to clean the RV. Try not to use harsh chemicals inside the rig. If you weren’t provided with cleaning supplies, use mild cleaners or soap and water. Be careful of any special finishes, stainless steel, or other surfaces that could be discolored if you use the wrong cleaner.
Wash any dirty dishes as you clean, and wipe down counters and tables. Shake out any removable rugs. Sweep and vacuum floors. Wipe down the shower, toilet, and sink. Clean up any other messes that may be left over from the trip.
Step 6: Clean the Outside of the RV
There are several circumstances in which you may also need to clean the exterior of the RV. If you agreed to wash the outside of the RV before returning it, you’ll need to do that. Also, some owners stipulate that if the RV is excessively dirty after a trip, renters need to clean it or be charged a fine. These fees can be found under the “Rules & Policies” or “Rates & Availability” sections on the RVshare listing.
You can wash the outside of most rigs with gentle soap and water. Be sure to avoid any harsh chemicals that could harm the paint finish on the RV.
Truck stops may also have options for washing RVs, and some campgrounds also have mobile services that will do the job.
Step 7: Know Your Fees
Your rental agreement will state any fees you may incur for not filling up the RV, returning it dirty, bringing a pet, and for other options. You’ll want to check the agreement ahead of time. Many owners do charge an extra cleaning fee for pets. Check to see if you can clean up behind your pet, or if you’ll need to pay an extra fee regardless. You don’t want any surprises at the end of the trip.
Step 8: Photograph the Rental
It’s a good idea to take photographs of your rental both before you use it and just before you return it. Definitely check for any damage or blemishes before you use the RV. If anything is damaged or broken on your trip, take photos of the damage and inform the owner. That way, they can arrange to have their rig fixed when you return so they can rent it out again.
If you return the rig in pristine condition, with no damage, take photos of it just the same. It’s always a good idea to document your rental in case any disputes arise.
Step 9: Fill Out a Review
Once your trip is finished, you’ll get an email with a link. You can give a review of the RV and rental process at that point. Reviews are extremely helpful for fellow renters who are trying to make decisions about which RV to rent. Write for those renters, and give them the information you would have found helpful when searching for your RV rental.
Tips for a Smooth Return Process
A smooth return process is the perfect end to a great RV road trip and rental. Along with cleaning the RV and replenishing the fuel, here’s what you can do to ensure a smooth return.
- Return the RV on time: You and the owner likely have an agreed-upon time or deadline when the RV needs to be back. Be sure to return the RV in that window to avoid late fees.
- Be ready to do a walk-through: Look over the RV with the owner to make sure everything is as it should be. You may need to check generator hours and odometer readings if owners charge extra for mileage or generator use. You’ll also want to go over the interior and exterior of the rig together.
- Look for the return form: The owner has up to 72 hours after the reservation ends to review their RV if you didn’t do it together. They also have 72 hours to complete the return form. You’ll be notified when your security deposit is released back to you, or if there are any additional charges. While this doesn’t happen often, if you need to dispute charges, you can follow RVshare’s dispute policy.
Renting an RV is exciting and can be the key to a wonderful vacation. Hopefully, this article can help you to end your trip on as high a note as you began it. If this is the first time you’re renting an RV, be sure to check out our guide to the ins and outs of RV rentals.
