Weekend Camper Rentals: Your Guide To Quick Escapes

Renting a camper for the weekend is a great way to get away and explore new places. There are several companies that offer camper rentals, such as Cruise America, RVshare, and Outdoorsy. These companies provide a range of options, from affordable pop-up campers to luxurious motorhomes, depending on your budget and preferences. When planning your trip, it is important to consider factors such as the number of people travelling, your budget, and the amenities you require. By renting a camper, you can enjoy the freedom and flexibility to travel at your own pace while still having the comforts of home.

RV rental companies

There are two main options for renting an RV: nationwide rental companies and private RV rentals.

Nationwide Rental Companies

Nationwide rental companies are chains with locations in various places across the country. Some examples of these companies include Cruise America and El Monte RV. However, they don't have locations in every city, and the RVs they rent tend to be very basic.

Private RV Rentals

Private RV rentals can sometimes be found through local RV dealerships, but they can also be found through peer-to-peer rental sites like RVShare. RVShare has thousands of privately owned RVs available for rent in nearly every city in the country, with a variety of shapes, sizes, floor plans, and amenities to choose from. Outdoorsy is another popular peer-to-peer RV rental site that offers 24/7 roadside assistance and insurance.

Other Options

RVezy is another RV rental site that offers a wide range of RVs, from motorhomes to towable trailers, in various locations across the United States.

RV rentals are also available directly from local owners on RVshare.com, with a wide range of options, including affordable pop-ups and luxury motorhomes.

Private RV rentals

Renting a camper for the weekend is made easy with private RV rentals. This option offers a more personalised experience and a wider variety of choices compared to nationwide rental companies. Here are some advantages of choosing private RV rentals for your next weekend getaway:

Variety of Options:

Amenities and Comforts:

Private RVs often come with homey touches and extra amenities that make your trip more comfortable. From full-size kitchens and master bedrooms to entertainment systems and cosy sleeping spaces, you can find RVs that offer a true home-away-from-home experience.

Flexibility and Convenience:

Competitive Pricing:

By renting privately, you can save money. Private RV owners often set competitive rental rates, and you may even find weekly or monthly discounts available. Additionally, you can filter your search based on your budget and find options that fit your financial needs without compromising on the experience.

Peace of Mind:

When renting a private RV, you can rest assured that you'll have access to roadside assistance and insurance coverage. Reputable private rental companies like RVshare and RVezy offer 24/7 roadside assistance programs and comprehensive insurance policies, ensuring that you're taken care of during your trip.

Rental costs and fees

When renting a campervan, there are several costs and fees to consider. The overall cost of hiring a campervan or motorhome can vary depending on factors such as the time of year, the size and model of the vehicle, the number of people travelling, and the rental company.

Seasonal Variation

The season in which you are travelling will have a significant impact on the cost of renting a campervan. In the UK, campervan hire can be split into low season (November to March), shoulder season (April to May and September to October), and high season (June to August). The summer months are typically the most expensive, with prices increasing due to higher demand.

For example, in low season, a small or medium vehicle might cost between £360 and £450 per week, while a larger vehicle could be up to £575 per week. In high season, the cost of a small vehicle can jump to £675-£1100 per week, and a large motorhome could be anywhere from £750 to £1500 per week.

Vehicle Size and Type

The size and type of campervan or motorhome you choose will also affect the rental cost. A compact 2-berth campervan for two people will be cheaper than a larger 6-berth motorhome suitable for a family. Additionally, the age of the vehicle can impact the price, with newer models typically costing more to rent.

Additional Costs

On top of the basic rental cost, there are several other fees and expenses to consider:

• Deposit: A deposit is usually required to secure your booking, and there may also be a separate damage deposit.
• Mileage: Some companies include unlimited mileage, while others charge extra for additional mileage.
• Insurance: While basic insurance is often included, you may want to consider additional coverage, especially if there will be multiple drivers.
• Roadside assistance: 24/7 roadside assistance is an important extra that will give you peace of mind during your trip.
• Campsite costs: Booking a campsite in advance is recommended, especially during peak season, and costs will vary depending on the time of year and facilities offered.
• Fuel: Fuel costs can add up quickly, especially if you are covering long distances or travelling to multiple destinations.
• Toll roads: Depending on your route and destination, you may encounter toll roads, bridges, or tunnels, which can increase your overall travel costs.
• Extras: Some companies offer additional extras such as bike racks, outdoor seating, or leisure equipment, which will incur extra charges.
• Cleaning and prep fees: Some rental companies may charge prep and cleaning fees, so be sure to check the terms and conditions before booking.
• Tax and service fees: Don't forget to factor in tax and service fees, which can add to the overall cost of your rental.

Choosing the right RV

When choosing the right RV, there are a few key factors to consider. Firstly, think about the size of the vehicle and the number of people you'll be travelling with. Larger models offer more space and beds but can be trickier to drive and park. As a rule of thumb, it's best to get the smallest vehicle that will comfortably accommodate your group.

Next, consider your budget. Rental rates vary depending on factors such as the season, the size of the RV, its age, and the length of your trip. Generally, booking earlier can help you secure a lower rate. Also, keep in mind that there may be additional fees, such as prep and cleaning fees, service fees, mileage fees, generator fees, taxes, and insurance.

Another important aspect is the type of RV. There are three main classes: Class A, Class B, and Class C. Class A motorhomes are the largest and most amenity-rich but can be challenging to drive. Class B motorhomes are similar to driving and manoeuvring an oversized van. Class C motorhomes are a good option for novice RV drivers, as they are generally not much more difficult to drive than a truck.

Additionally, there are towable RVs, which can be convenient as you can detach and leave them at the campground while exploring the area in your car. Examples include fifth wheels, toy haulers, and pop-up trailers.

Finally, decide whether you want to rent from a nationwide rental company or opt for a private RV rental. Nationwide companies, such as Cruise America, offer standard options but may have limited locations and basic amenities. On the other hand, private RV rentals, often found through peer-to-peer rental sites like RVShare, provide a wider variety of unique RVs with different shapes, sizes, floor plans, and amenities.

Remember to consider your travel plans, budget, and personal preferences when making your choice.

Planning your route

Choose an Itinerary

Decide on a general destination, such as a national park, and then focus your plan. Use online mapping programs like Roadtrippers or Google Maps to mark your potential destinations and get an idea of mileage and drive times. Whenever possible, opt for the scenic route to make the most of your journey. Keep in mind the climate and terrain of the areas you'll be travelling through, and check the altitude and weather conditions in advance.

Collect and Share Information

If you prefer a structured trip, consider using a Google Document to organize your travel plans. Google Docs are easily accessible and customizable, allowing you to jot down notes, paste pictures or websites, and centralize all your trip-related information. You can also create a loose itinerary with trip dates, and then break it down day by day, including destinations, drive times, campsite reservations, points of interest, and activities.

Utilize Planning Resources

There are numerous websites and apps that can provide valuable information for your trip. For example, Yelp, Tripadvisor, and Google blog/image search can offer insights into restaurants, tour companies, and other local attractions. Social media platforms like Instagram can also be a great source of inspiration and allow you to save and categorize posts for future reference. Additionally, websites like Roadtrippers.com and US-Parks.com offer road trip route ideas and help you map out your journey.

Consider Campground Options

Research and plan your campground options in advance to ensure a smooth trip. Websites like Freecampsites.net, Hipcamp, Campendium, The Dyrt, and CampsitePhotos.com provide reviews and information on various campsites, helping you make informed decisions about where to stay.

Be Flexible and Adaptable

While planning is important, it's also beneficial to maintain a level of flexibility. Playing it by ear and allowing for spontaneity can lead to some of the most memorable experiences. Be open to wandering off the beaten path and discovering new places that may not have been on your initial itinerary.

Frequently asked questions