Biscayne National Park is located just outside of Miami, Florida and is about a six-hour drive from Clearwater. It is one of the hidden gems in Florida that not many people even know exists. Biscayne features a rare and beautiful combination of aquamarine waters, coral reefs, and emerald islands. It is said that over 10,000 years of human history have been preserved within its borders. Even though it is close to Miami, it remains mostly untouched and well-preserved. Biscayne is a great scuba diving spot, and hunting, fishing, hiking, and tent camping remain some of the favorite activities of visitors.
A little west of Biscayne National Park is one of the most popular national parks in America, the Everglades. Known for its wildlife, especially the manatees and alligators, Everglades National Park is a World Heritage Site, International Biosphere Reserve, and a Wetland of International Importance. It is one of only three places in the world that enjoys all three designations. The Everglades covers more than 1.5 million acres of land and is the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States. It is about a five-hour drive from Clearwater, but it is worth the effort.
Close to Key West, Florida is Dry Tortugas National Park. Dry Tortugas is located on an island 70 miles west of the Florida Keys and is only reachable by seaplane or boat. Fort Jefferson, located on Garden Key, is one of the most visited sites in Dry Tortugas with guided tours available almost daily. Only about 63,000 people make the trek to these islands annually, and those who do enjoy activities like snorkeling, boating, sunbathing, scuba diving, and guided ranger tours of locations throughout the park.
How do I properly pack and store my belongings inside a camper van rental, and what storage options are available?
When renting a Class B motorhome from an RVshare owner, there are typically several storage options available for your belongings. You can utilize overhead storage compartments, under-bench storage, and even cabinets for heavier items. When packing your belongings, it's best to use soft-sided luggage or collapsible containers to save on space. Keep items secure while driving by using bungee cords or tension rods to prevent shifting during travel.
Can I drive a camper van rental in Clearwater, FL without prior experience, and are there any special driving considerations I should know?
Driving a Class B motorhome rental is typically similar to driving a regular car, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Make sure to adjust your mirrors before setting off and be aware of the height and length of your vehicle. It's also advisable to take a test drive around the RVshare owner's neighborhood to familiarize yourself with the handling and braking of the vehicle before embarking on your trip.
What kind of maintenance or upkeep do I need to perform on the camper van rental during my rental period?
The owner of the RV is responsible for maintenance. Renters should keep the RV clean and handle with care to avoid any damages. You may need to empty the water tanks depending on your agreement with the RV owner.
Do I need to know any weight or height restrictions when driving a camper van motorhome rental in Clearwater, FL?
It's important to know the height and weight restrictions of your camper van rental in order to avoid accidents or getting stuck in low clearance areas, especially when traveling on highways or bridges. It's also advisable to check local regulations regarding weight limits when driving on certain roads.
Can I park or store a Class B motorhome rental in a regular parking spot or garage in Clearwater, FL, or are there specific requirements for parking and storage?
Parking a Class B motorhome rental in a regular spot or garage can be challenging due to the size of the vehicle. It's important to check local regulations and parking restrictions before setting off on your trip. RVshare owners may also provide guidance on where it is safe to park or store the vehicle.
What fuel efficiency considerations do I need to consider when driving a Class B motorhome rental, and how can I minimize the impact on my fuel costs?
Most Class B motorhomes are relatively fuel efficient, but it's important to be mindful of your driving habits in order to minimize fuel costs. Avoid idling the engine unnecessarily, accelerate smoothly, and avoid excessive speeding. It's also a good idea to plan your route before departing in order to avoid getting lost or taking unnecessary detours.
Are any particular features or amenities available in a camper van rental that may not be found in other RVs in Clearwater, FL?
Features and amenities vary depending on the model of the Class B motorhome rental, but some popular options include a built-in microwave, refrigerator, and TV/DVD player. Some models may also include a shower and toilet, while others may not. Check the listing details on RVshare for all of the available amenities for each rental.
How do I correctly set up and use the kitchen and bathroom facilities in a Class B motorhome rental?
Each RVshare owner may have different instructions for using the kitchen and bathroom facilities in their Class B motorhome rental. In the bathroom, there may be a shower and/or toilet that needs to be hooked up to water and sewage sources. RVshare owners will typically provide instruction manuals or walkthroughs of the rental vehicle's features.
Should I bring my entertainment equipment or appliances for the camper van rental, such as a portable grill or music player?
While some Class B motorhome rentals may include entertainment equipment or appliances, such as a grill or music player, it's always a good idea to double-check with the RVshare owner about what amenities are included in the rental. If you have specific entertainment preferences, you may want to bring your own equipment or devices.
Are any specific campgrounds or RV parks in Clearwater, FL particularly well-suited for a camper van and what amenities or features do they offer?
There are many campgrounds and RV parks in Clearwater, FL that are well-suited for Class B motorhome rentals. Some popular amenities include electrical hookups, dump stations for sewage, and picnic tables. It's important to research and reserve a spot in advance to ensure availability during your trip. RVshare owners may also have recommendations for great campsites or RV parks in the area.