Renting A Pop-Up Camper: A Beginner's Guide

Pop-up campers are a unique type of recreational vehicle that combines the simplicity of a tent with the convenience of a travel trailer. They are perfect for those seeking a more rugged and fun camping experience without sacrificing comfort and ease. With a pop-up camper, you get the best of both worlds: the thrill of sleeping under the stars and the convenience of a real bed. In this guide, we will explore everything you need to know about renting a pop-up camper, from the different options available to the costs and benefits of choosing this unique accommodation for your next adventure.

Soft-sided vs hard-sided pop-up campers

When it comes to pop-up campers, you have two main options: soft-sided or hard-sided. Both have their pros and cons, and the right choice for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Here's a detailed breakdown of the key differences between soft-sided and hard-sided pop-up campers to help you decide which one is the best fit for your camping adventures.

Soft-Sided Pop-up Campers

Soft-sided pop-up campers, also known as fold-out campers, are the most common type. They have a soft canvas roof and walls that cover the living area when the trailer is unfolded. These campers are lightweight, typically weighing between 700 and 3,000 pounds, which means they can be towed by almost any vehicle. They are also very affordable and easy to set up, making them a popular choice for those who want a simple and cost-effective camping option. However, soft-sided campers offer less insulation and may struggle with temperature control in extreme weather conditions. Additionally, they are more susceptible to water damage and tears from strong winds or branches.

Hard-Sided Pop-up Campers

Hard-sided pop-up campers, on the other hand, feature solid walls made of materials such as fiberglass, aluminum, or composite panels. They offer better protection from the elements, enhanced security, and improved insulation. You'll also find more amenities in hard-sided campers, such as dedicated bathrooms, kitchens, and extra storage compartments. These campers provide greater privacy and are often allowed in National Parks, where soft-sided campers may face restrictions due to safety concerns. However, hard-sided campers are generally more expensive and may require a larger vehicle for towing. They also take up more space and can be more challenging to store than their soft-sided counterparts.

In summary, soft-sided pop-up campers offer simplicity, affordability, and ease of towing, while hard-sided campers provide enhanced durability, comfort, and privacy. Consider your budget, vehicle capabilities, and specific camping needs to make an informed decision between these two types of pop-up campers.

Cost of renting a pop-up camper

Pop-up campers are a cost-effective way to camp, with prices to rent one averaging between $60 and $100 per night. However, you can find smaller and older versions for as little as $50 per night, while newer and more sophisticated expandable trailers may cost over $150 per night.

When renting a pop-up camper, it's important to remember that there may be additional costs involved, such as mileage price per mile, cleaning fees, linens, generator usage, pet fees, and delivery fees.

For example, Colorado Camper Rental offers a basic pop-up camper for as low as $67 per night, while their large pop-up camper with a front storage area starts at $89 per night.

Outdoorsy, a popular RV rental platform, offers pop-up campers for rent through a peer-to-peer rental system. This means you can find a variety of price points and options to choose from.

Pop-up campers are a great option for those looking for a simple, lightweight, and affordable way to experience nature. They are easy to tow, provide ample living space, and offer a unique blend between a travel trailer and a tent.

Pros and cons of pop-up campers

Pop-up campers are a versatile option for those who want to experience the outdoors without sleeping on the ground. They are also a more affordable option compared to other RVs. Here is a list of pros and cons to help you decide if a pop-up camper is right for you:

Pros:

• Affordable price: Pop-up campers are relatively inexpensive compared to larger trailers and RVs, making them a popular choice for first-time buyers and families on a budget.
• Lightweight: The use of materials like canvas for the sides instead of metal makes pop-up campers much lighter than hard-sided trailers. This also makes them easier to tow and manoeuvre.
• Safer and easier to tow: Being lighter, pop-up campers can be towed by most cars and are less likely to fishtail or jackknife in high winds.
• Less complicated maintenance: Pop-up campers have fewer appliances and systems that can break down and require repairs.
• Available with AC or heating: Some pop-up campers come with temperature controls, which can be useful in cold or hot weather.
• Easier and cheaper to store: Pop-up campers can be collapsed, making them easier to store and potentially fitting in your garage.
• Feels like sleeping outside: Pop-up campers provide a more traditional camping experience, allowing you to feel closer to nature.

Cons:

• Limited amenities: Pop-up campers typically have fewer amenities due to their small size and collapsible design. For example, they usually don't have a bathroom, and if they do, it's often a "wet bath" where the shower and toilet are combined.
• Limited sleeping capacity: Pop-up campers usually have limited space and may not accommodate more than a couple of people comfortably.
• Location restrictions: Some campsites and parks, such as Yellowstone, have restrictions on pop-up trailers due to safety concerns, especially in areas with bears and other predators.
• Manual setup required: Pop-up campers require more time and effort to set up and tear down compared to traditional trailers or RVs.
• Not suitable for severe weather: Pop-up campers lack structural support and may not be stable during storms or heavy rains.
• Privacy concerns: Pop-up campers often have thin walls or curtains, providing less privacy than hard-sided campers.
• Regular maintenance needed: Pop-up campers require regular maintenance, such as preventing mildew and checking for tears in the canvas.

How to set up a pop-up camper

Setting up a pop-up camper is a straightforward process but it can be time-consuming if you are doing it for the first time. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to set up a pop-up camper:

• Park your vehicle in the desired camping spot and turn off the engine.
• Detach the pop-up camper from your vehicle.
• Locate and extend the stabilizer jacks. This will provide a stable base for your camper.
• Using a hand crank, lift the roof of the camper. This will create more headroom and allow you to access the interior.
• Extend the sidewalls of the camper. This will give you more living and sleeping space.
• Connect any necessary hoses and cables for electricity, water, and sewage.
• Set up your sleeping areas. Most pop-up campers have multiple sleeping areas that can be converted from dining tables or couches.
• Stock the kitchen with supplies and food. Pop-up campers typically come with a gas stove, refrigerator, and sink.
• Check that all your appliances are working properly, including the heat, lights, and refrigerator.
• Bring in any outdoor equipment or appliances, such as camping chairs or a portable grill.
• Enjoy your camping trip!

Remember to always follow the instructions provided by the owner of the pop-up camper and ask for assistance if you are unsure about any part of the setup process.

Where to rent a pop-up camper

There are several options for renting a pop-up camper, with dedicated websites offering a range of models, sizes and rates. One of the most well-known sites is Outdoorsy, which offers a peer-to-peer rental platform with a wide variety of pop-up campers available. Outdoorsy is the number one trusted RV rental marketplace globally, so you're likely to find a good selection of pop-up campers in your location.

Another option is to use a site like Go RV Rentals, which offers a similar service with a range of pop-up campers to choose from. You can browse through their selection of pop-up campers and find one that matches your family size and needs.

If you're looking for a more local option, there are also websites that offer rentals in specific regions. For example, North Shore RV Rentals offers pop-up camper rentals in Merrimac, MA, while Colorado Camper Rental provides rentals in the Denver area. These sites typically offer a range of models, from basic to large pop-up campers, with varying amenities and rates.

Additionally, you can find pop-up camper rentals through RVshare, which offers a wide-ranging inventory of options, from affordable pop-ups to luxury motorhomes. You can search for rentals by location and RV class, making it easy to find the perfect option for your needs.

Frequently asked questions