Renting A 24-Foot Camper: How Much Does It Cost?

Renting a 24-foot camper can be a cost-effective way to travel and enjoy the flexibility of being on the road. The cost of renting a camper depends on several factors, including the rental company, the type of camper, the rental duration, and additional fees.

The average cost of renting a camper ranges from $400 to $1,000 per week, with some companies charging a base rate of $50 to $300 per night. The price varies depending on the size, model, and features of the camper. For example, a simple micro trailer can cost as low as $95 per night, while a luxurious Class A motorhome can cost over $300 per night.

When budgeting for a camper rental, it is essential to consider additional charges and fees, such as rental insurance, mileage fees, security deposits, taxes, and service fees. These fees can increase the overall cost of the rental significantly.

To save money on camper rentals, consider renting during the off-peak season, booking in advance, and being flexible with pick-up and drop-off locations. Additionally, renting directly from owners through peer-to-peer platforms can often be more affordable than traditional rental companies.

Average rental costs

The cost of renting a 24-foot camper will depend on a number of factors, including the age of the vehicle, the rental location, the season, and the number of additional features included.

As an example, a luxurious Class A motorhome can cost over $300 per night, while a simple micro trailer can be rented for as little as $95 per night.

According to Go RV Rentals' recent nationwide survey, as of March 2024, the average cost to rent an RV is $183 per night. This price is for a base rate and does not include additional fees. The cost of renting a camper, or pull trailer, is $50 to $200 per day, depending on the trailer type.

For a 24-foot travel trailer, you will need a tow vehicle with a towing capacity of at least 5,000 pounds. Some popular tow vehicles that can pull a 24-foot travel trailer include the Toyota Tundra, the Chevrolet Silverado 1500, and the GMC Sierra 1500.

When budgeting for a 24-foot camper rental, it is important to consider not only the base rental rate but also the additional fees and costs associated with RV travel. These can include mileage fees, generator usage, cleaning fees, insurance, taxes, and optional extras.

• Daily Rental Rate x 7 Nights: $183 x 7 = $1,281
• Mileage Fees (for 300 miles at $0.35/mile): $105
• Owner Prep Fee: $100
• Rental Insurance Fee (average of $35/day x 7 days): $245
• Rental Company Service Fee (20% of base rental rate): $346
• State and Local Taxes (10% of total rental costs): $209

The total cost for this example, excluding the refundable security deposit and other optional add-ons, is $2,285.

In summary, the average cost to rent a 24-foot camper can vary depending on various factors, but you can expect to pay around $183 per night as a base rate, plus additional fees for a weekly rental.

Additional charges and fees

When renting a 24-foot camper, you will likely encounter additional charges and fees that are not included in the base rental rate. These extra costs can vary depending on the rental company and the specific camper you choose. Here is a detailed breakdown of the potential additional charges and fees you may encounter:

Insurance and Security

Rental insurance is a common additional charge, with costs varying based on factors such as the deductible, the camper's age, location, and value. Some companies offer different protection plans, such as standard, basic, or premium coverage, during the booking process.

A security deposit is another typical fee, intended to ensure that renters take care of the camper. The amount of the security deposit is usually calculated based on the age and type of the camper. After the rental period, the deposit will be refunded minus any applicable charges for damages or add-ons.

Mileage and Fuel

Mileage fees are often included in camper rentals, and they can be charged in different ways. Some companies offer unlimited mileage packages, while others charge per mile, with rates typically ranging from $0.25 to $0.75 per mile over a certain daily limit (usually 100-150 miles per day). The per-mile rate may depend on the specific camper van model. Additionally, fuel costs can significantly impact your overall expenses, especially for larger campers with lower fuel efficiency.

Taxes and Service Fees

Taxes are another unavoidable additional cost when renting a camper. These can include state taxes, federal excise tax, and local occupancy taxes, which vary depending on your location. Service fees are also commonly added to the total cost of the rental. These fees cover customer support, marketing, administrative costs, and other services provided by the rental company.

Pet Fees

If you plan to bring pets along on your trip, expect to pay additional pet fees. These fees typically cover extra cleaning and potential wear and tear caused by pets.

Equipment and Add-ons

Campers may come with basic equipment, but additional items such as outdoor gear (e.g., camping chairs, tables), kitchen kits (cutlery, cookware), and linen packages usually incur extra charges. These add-ons can enhance your comfort and convenience but will increase the overall rental cost.

Cleaning Fees

Some companies include cleaning fees in the base rental rate, while others may charge extra if the camper is returned in a messy state, requiring extensive cleaning.

Delivery and Drop-off Fees

If you opt for delivery of the camper to your desired location, you will likely incur delivery and drop-off fees. These fees typically depend on the distance between the pick-up and drop-off locations.

Generator Usage

Generator usage fees may apply, especially if there are daily limits on generator usage. This is an important consideration, especially if you plan to camp off-grid or require power for certain amenities.

Tolls and Campground Fees

Toll road fees and campground fees are usually not included in the base rental rate. Campground fees can vary depending on the type of campsite and the amenities offered, such as full hookups (water, sewer, electricity) or dry RV sites.

It is important to carefully review the terms and conditions of your camper rental agreement to understand all the potential additional charges and fees. By considering these extra costs, you can create a more accurate budget for your trip and avoid unexpected expenses.

Campervan vs motorhome

The cost of renting a 24-foot camper varies depending on the type of camper, the rental company, and the time of year. A camper, or RV, can refer to either a motorhome or a campervan. While nightly rates can be as low as $95 for a micro trailer, a luxurious Class A motorhome can cost upwards of $300 per night. Weekly rates for a motorhome range from $750 to $2,000, while a camper costs between $400 and $1,000 per week.

Now, let's delve into the differences between a campervan and a motorhome to help you decide which option suits your needs.

A campervan is typically a regular van that has been converted to accommodate sleeping inside. Campervans are more compact than motorhomes and usually feature a double bed and sometimes an additional single bed in the high-top roof. They rarely include showers or toilets but often have a kitchenette or equipment for cooking. Campervans are ideal for two to three people and are easier to drive and manoeuvre than motorhomes, making them a good choice for narrow roads or city driving. They are also more fuel-efficient, which can save you money on fuel costs. Additionally, campervans provide greater accessibility to wild camping areas and are generally cheaper to insure.

On the other hand, a motorhome is a larger vehicle built on a long wheelbase. Motorhomes offer more spacious living quarters and typically include a fully equipped kitchenette, a living space, and shower and toilet facilities. They can accommodate larger groups, sleeping up to six people comfortably. Motorhomes also provide more external storage options and tend to have slide-outs to expand the living area. They are ideal if you prioritise having more space and creature comforts during your trip.

When deciding between a campervan and a motorhome, consider your budget, itinerary, driving experience, and travel style. Campervans are generally more affordable to rent and offer greater flexibility in terms of parking and accessibility. Motorhomes, while more expensive, provide more space, amenities, and comforts, making them suitable for larger groups or those seeking a more luxurious camping experience.

Rental duration

The cost of renting a 24-foot camper will depend on the duration of the rental period. Many companies offer a range of rental periods, from daily to weekly, and even monthly rates. Here are some things to keep in mind regarding rental duration:

Daily Rentals

Daily rates for campers can vary depending on the company and the specific camper's features. Generally, a 24-foot camper will fall into the category of a travel trailer or a fifth-wheel RV. Daily rates for these types of campers can range from $50 to $150 per day, with some companies offering rates as low as $60 to $125 per day for travel trailers. Fifth-wheel RVs may be slightly more expensive, with daily rates ranging from $75 to $150. It's important to note that these rates are typically for the base rental and may not include additional fees and charges.

Weekly Rentals

Weekly rentals are a popular option for those planning longer trips or vacations. Weekly rates for campers can range from $400 to $1,000, depending on the size, model, and features of the camper. For a 24-foot camper, you can expect to pay closer to the lower end of that range, with some companies offering weekly rates of around $400 to $800. Weekly rentals may also come with additional discounts, with some companies offering weekly rates that are 5% to 20% lower than the daily rate.

Monthly Rentals

If you're planning an extended trip or need a camper for a longer period, monthly rentals are also an option. Monthly rates can provide significant savings compared to daily or weekly rates. While specific rates for a 24-foot camper may vary by company, monthly rentals for campers can range from $2,910 to $6,720 per month. It's worth noting that monthly rentals may have different terms and conditions, and it's important to carefully review the rental agreement before committing.

Peak and Off-Peak Seasons

It's important to consider the time of year when planning your rental. Rental prices can fluctuate depending on the season, with higher rates during the peak summer season and lower rates during the off-peak or shoulder seasons. Planning your rental during off-peak times can help you take advantage of lower rates and potentially save money on your rental.

Early Booking Discounts

In addition to the duration of the rental, booking in advance can also impact the cost. Many companies offer early booking discounts, and rates tend to increase as the travel date approaches. By booking early, you may be able to secure lower rates and have a wider selection of campers to choose from.

In summary, the rental duration of a 24-foot camper can vary from daily to weekly, or even monthly rentals. The cost will depend on the specific company, the features of the camper, and the time of year. Weekly and monthly rentals may offer discounts compared to daily rates, and booking in advance can also help you secure lower prices. Be sure to carefully review the rental agreement and consider any additional fees and charges that may apply.

Rental location

When renting a 24-foot camper, it is important to consider the location from which you will be renting. This is because the cost of renting an RV can vary depending on the region and the company you choose to rent from.

In the United States, there are several popular options for RV rentals, including national companies like Cruise America and El Monte RV. These companies typically offer a wide range of vehicles to choose from, including larger motorhomes and smaller campervans. The cost of renting a motorhome from these companies can range from $750 to $2000 per week, while a camper or travel trailer may cost between $400 and $1000 per week.

Another option is to rent from a peer-to-peer platform like RVshare or Outdoorsy, which connects RV owners directly with renters. This can often be a more budget-friendly alternative, with weekly rental costs ranging from as low as $45 per night or $300 per week and offering a variety of features and amenities. For example, RVezy offers pet-friendly options, unlimited mileage, and basic kitchenware and utensils included with some rentals.

Additionally, some local companies and dealerships may offer RV rentals, such as PleasureLand RV, which has locations in St. Cloud, Ramsey, Brainerd, Sioux Falls, and West Salem. Their 24-foot Ultra-Lite Travel Trailer sleeps up to six people and is available for $625 for a three-day rental or $925 for a week.

When choosing a rental location, it is also important to consider the additional fees and charges that may be incurred, such as service fees, taxes, pet fees, kitchen kits, linen packages, and cleaning fees. These can add up quickly, so it is essential to factor them into your budget when planning your trip.

Overall, the location from which you rent your 24-foot camper can have a significant impact on the cost and features of your rental, so it is worth shopping around and comparing prices from different companies and platforms to find the best option for your needs.

Frequently asked questions