RV Rental Prices: How Much Does It Cost To Rent An RV?
RVing is as popular as ever, and sales have been steadily increasing year after year. With more people looking to buy, the idea of renting before buying or instead of buying has become intriguing to many people.
Purchasing an RV comes with significant financial costs and all the responsibilities of being an RV owner. For many, these costs and responsibilities don’t make sense for those who have limited time to use an RV. It may be a limited camping season in the area you live, or your free time may be limited; either way, renting an RV is a smart choice for many.
As with all things that are dependent on supply and demand, as the demand goes up, so does the cost. RV rentals have become very popular in the past few years. Both RV rental companies and peer-to-peer platforms have entered the market.
Peer-to-peer vs RV rental companies
Traditionally, RV rental companies were the only way to rent an RV. They generally have a fixed location with a range of RV types and sizes. These companies’ locations can look like RV dealerships with the numbers and types of RVs on their lots.
Their RVs are seen around Canada and the US with company decals covering the RV. Drivable RVs are their main inventory, from camper vans to large motorhomes. The largest portion of their customer base is people traveling long distances and on one-way trips.
Peer-to-peer platforms such as Outdoorsy provide a connection between RV owners and those looking to rent an RV. Many RV owners have RVs that they don’t use regularly for a variety of reasons. Peer-to-peer platforms give RV owners a chance to rent out their RVs for financial gain.
RV rental pricing varies between these two options, your location, and the type of RV being rented. Both options have their benefits and are a great way to get yourself out RVing.
Average RV rental pricing for different RV types
Your location and the demand for certain RV types will drive prices, so variations should be expected. In general, larger RVs will be priced higher, as well as drivable RVs.
Peer-to-peer and traditional RV rental companies will have certain things included in the price, as well as things excluded. The average pricing listed is an average for the rental itself. Additional mileage, insurance, fuel, and other possible additions are not included.
RV rental companies deal with newer models only for reliability and maintenance reasons. Peer-to-peer platforms have older units available as well as new ones. The cost of older models is generally less, but for the sake of this list, we will look at newer models.
It is also important to note, particularly with the small towables, vintage RVs and certain in-demand brands like Airstream will have higher costs than the average rental.
Large Class B And Class A Motorhomes
Class A RVs aren’t very common with RV rental companies due to the high cost to purchase and maintain. They are available through peer-to-peer companies, and for some people looking to hit the road in style or for long trips, they are great.
The average cost per night: $200–$300
Small Class B and Class C Motorhomes
These are the most popular rentals amount RV rental companies. Many are basic units without slide-outs. More optioned units are available, and many of the peer-to-peer rentals are nicely optioned units.
The average cost per night: $200–$250
Campervan
Campervans are a hot market right now and they can be tough to find. Both RV rental companies and peer-to-peer have campervans available.
The RV rental units are new fully built-out vans ready to roll. Peer-to-peer options range from basic weekend vans with just a bed to fully loaded, livable vans.
The average cost per night: $150–$250
Large towable
Fifth wheel RVs can be huge! These 40+ foot units with 4 or 5 slides are homes on wheels. They are available on peer-to-peer platforms and are popular with families.
The average cost per night: $150–$200
Small towable
Smaller travel trailers, including teardrop-style units, are great for weekends and the more active traveler looking for more basic lodging. The towing requirements are much less than larger units, making them great for newer RVers and people without large tow vehicles.
The average cost per night: $100–$150 per night
Truck camper
Truck campers are available through both rental options and can be had with and without a truck to haul it with.
Great for venturing off-road and exploring, truck campers are perfect for adventures. Having a camper in the bed of the truck eliminates the towing responsibility that many people don’t like.
The average cost per night: $150–$250
Is an RV rental right for you?
With RV rental pricing increasing, is it worth it? Well, when you consider the cost of purchasing, maintaining, and repairing an RV, the one-time rental cost is pretty small. An RV rental can be a great test drive before making the decision to purchase an RV.
People who are not going to camp often or are just planning one epic road trip should look at rentals. The long list of rentals available through rental companies and platforms such as Outdoorsy or RVShare offer something for everyone.
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