How to Rent an RV: What You Need to Know Before Renting a Campervan

Your buddy is at the wheel—after you figured out how to rent an RV, you decide that he’s got the best driving track record of your crew. Your copilot is on music duty; he’s been working on a nostalgia-inducing playlist for weeks, and it’s taking you back to college.

You’re in the back with the rest of ’em singing all the wrong lyrics and then a synchronous “My Sharona!” while playing another round of Rummy.

You’re a few days into your cross-country road trip, cruising along Route 50 in the spiffed-up RV you rented. Sure, food and accommodation are few and far between—but you’ve got a fully equipped kitchen, comfortable beds and your preferred company right there with you.

Can you picture it? Of course, it’s easier to imagine this kind of trip of a lifetime if you knew what in the world you were doing when it comes to renting an RV.

What Is an RV?

First and foremost, an RV is a recreational vehicle that’s, in short, a motorized home designed to accommodate you while getting you from Point A to Point B.

What’s the Difference Between an RV and a Campervan?

When renters refer to RVs, they’re usually talking about either a motor vehicle or a trailer, both of which are usually equipped with home amenities like a living space, a bedroom and a kitchen.

What commonly comes to mind is a motorhome, which is large and compartmentalized — essentially meant to be, well, a home with a motor. It’s meant to provide comfort and, perhaps, a touch of luxury while traveling the great outdoors.

When renters refer to campervans, however, they’re talking about a van that’s been “fitted out” with basic accommodations—a van in which you can sleep and prepare food. They’re much smaller than typical RVs with beds of some kind, small cooktops and, sometimes, bathroom facilities.

Because of their small size (which means better gas mileage and easier maneuverability), campervan enthusiasts are typically young, free-spirited, backpacking-type travelers.

There are several types of RVs for different types of road trippers, travel plans and budgets.

Class A Diesel or Gas Motorhome

These are your crème de la crème motorhomes—they are the largest and most luxurious form of RV. Class As typically have full-sized furniture and kitchens, entertainment systems and sometimes a washer and dryer unit. In some models, they can sleep up to 12 people.

The only difference between a Class A Diesel Motorhome and a Class A Gas Motorhome is that…