Renting an RV with RVshare

Renting an RV Basics: What You Need to Know

Wondering if you can rent an RV and how it works? With peer-to-peer marketplaces like RVshare, it's easy to find an RV rental to fit your adventure and budget. Compare thousands of rentals available, from luxurious Class A Motorhomes to easy-to-tow Pop-Up Campers and everything in between.

Renting an RV in a Few Quick Steps

Before peer-to-peer networks, your only choice for renting a camper was through a service or dealership. You would choose from their selection of rentals (which usually wasn’t very diverse), fill out a bunch of paperwork, and be on your way. It’s not the most customer-oriented experience, and renters would often leave with a lot of questions. Renting from an actual RV owner, on the other hand, is a lot more pleasant. Here’s how it works:

• Enter the dates of your trip to browse available rentals in your area. You’ll compare RVs of all classes, sizes, and ages. Whether you’re renting a travel trailer or motorhome, you’ll see plenty of interesting rigs among the vast selection.

• When you see one you like, you can look through the listing description. The listing might include a floor plan and special information about the RV.

• Read through the rules carefully! Many RV owners will list a mileage limit or a generator usage limit. You’ll have to pay a fee if you go over.

• Choose your insurance coverage. All RV rentals must be covered by insurance.

• Once you’ve found your RV soul mate, go ahead and make a reservation! The owner will get your request and your contact information. They’ll go over everything and do a background check. You’ll be able to message them directly with any questions or concerns.

• When it’s time to hit the road, you’ll meet the owner in person. They’ll walk you through the RV and show you how everything works. Then, they’ll hand over the keys, and it’s off you go!

• When the trip is over, you’ll return the RV and get your security deposit back (as long as the RV is clean and damage-free).

That’s it! It’s a super easy process for both parties, and all transactions and communications on the RVshare platform are safe and secure.

How to Get the Best Deals When Renting an RV

So, you’re a deal-hunter, eh? You’re in the right place! Renting a trailer for camping directly from the owner will save you some cash, but there are ways to save even more money! Here’s how:

• Rent during the off-season or other off-times. A winter rental will be a lot cheaper since the owner doesn’t want to deal with storing their RV. If you’re planning a holiday trip, rent the week before or after the holiday instead.

• Rent for longer periods of time. Owners usually offer discounts for weekly or monthly rentals.

• Bring your own essentials. It might be tempting to go with the kitchen or bedding supply packages, but bringing everything yourself can save you money.

• You can save money while traveling, too. Use a gas app to find the cheapest gas stations along your route. To save at campgrounds, check out Passport America for discounts.

What to Expect When Renting an RV for a Week

Don’t just rent an RV for the weekend; why not rent one for a whole week? You’ll get a better sense of the RV lifestyle, and you’ll have plenty of time to explore! Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Get the RV that’s right for your family size. It’s not fun being stuck in a small RV for a week with a big family. If you’re traveling with more than two people, you might want to rent a larger Class A, travel trailer, or fifth wheel. This is a good breakdown of the different RV types.

• Don’t forget to look for discounts if you’re renting a camper for a week or more. If there isn’t a discount in the listing, don’t be afraid to ask!

• Make sure to plan your route ahead of time. You don’t want to go over the daily mileage limits, which is easy to do if you get lost.

• Cooking in your RV and bringing some food you've prepped will save you significantly compared to dining at restaurants for all your meals.

RVing is easily the best way to travel. You get to save money while exploring the country and taking in the sights. Now that you’re an expert on renting an RV, get out there and find your dream rig!