How much does it cost to rent an RV?
How much does it cost to rent an RV?
$750 – $2,000 cost to rent a motorhome per week
$400 – $1,000 cost to rent a camper per week
RV rental cost
An RV rental costs $750 to $2,000 per week for a drivable motorhome or $400 to $1,000 per week for a towable camper, depending on the size, model, and features. These prices include base rental rates only. Service fees, taxes, pet fees, kitchen kits, linen packages, and cleaning fees increase the total rental cost.
RV type | Average rental cost per day* | Average rental cost per week* |
---|---|---|
Motorhome (Class A, B, & C) |
$125 – $350 | $750 – $2,000 |
Camper / travel trailer | $50 – $200 | $400 – $1,000 |
*Base rental fees only
An RV, or recreational vehicle, is a mobile living space that can either be driven on its own or towed by another vehicle. People usually refer to a drivable RV as a "motorhome" and a towed model as a "camper".
Cost to rent an RV
A motorhome rental costs $125 to $350 per day, or $750 to $2,000 per week, depending on the class, size, and features of the vehicle. RV motorhomes have three main classes: Class A, Class B, and Class C.
Motorhome type | Sleeps | Average rental cost per day* | Average rental cost per week* |
---|---|---|---|
Class A motorhome | 4 – 8+ | $175 – $350 | $1,000 – $2,000 |
Class B motorhome | 2 – 4 | $125 – $250 | $750 – $1,500 |
Class C motorhome | 4 – 6 | $150 – $300 | $900 – $1,800 |
*Base rental fees only.
Class A
A Class A motorhome rental costs $175 to $350 per day, or $1,000 to $2,000 per week, depending on the size and features. Class A motorhomes offer the most space but the least fuel efficiency. These motorhomes have huge panoramic windows for a grand view while you’re on the road.
Class A motorhomes are 35 to 45 feet in length, which may be too big for State and National Park campsites. These RVs are best for bigger families or those wanting a home away from home, with comfortable sofas, full bathrooms, and a private bedroom. Luxury models may even include outdoor kitchens and TVs.
Class B
A Class B motorhome rental costs $125 to $250 per dat, or $750 to $1,500 for a weekly rental. These units are more like a camper van than an RV. They typically combine living and sleeping in one space with no separate bedroom. Bathrooms often combine the toilet and shower into one space.
Class B motorhomes are ideal for smaller families or those who want to camp in sites with RV size limitations. These tiny units provide better fuel economy and are easier for first-time renters to drive and park.
Class C
A Class C motorhome rental costs $150 to $300 per day, while a weekly rental costs $900 to $1,800, depending on the size and add-ons you include. These RVs fall between Class A and Class B motorhomes in both size and gas mileage.
Ranging from 20 to 35 feet in length, the Class C is built on a truck or van chassis. There is usually a private bedroom at the rear of the RV and a secondary sleeping or storage area over the cab. Most have enough space for a small kitchenette and a compact bathroom with a toilet and shower.
Cost to rent a camper
A camper, or pull trailer, is an RV that doesn’t have an engine and is towed behind a separate vehicle. Camper rentals cost $50 to $200 per day, depending on the trailer type. Most rentals are either a travel trailer or fifth wheel. Toy haulers and pop-up campers are less common.
Type | Sleeps | Average nightly rental* | Average weekly rental * |
---|---|---|---|
Travel Trailer | 2 – 8 | $60 – $125 | $400 – $800 |
Fifth wheel | 4 – 6+ | $75 – $150 | $500 – $1,000 |
Toy hauler | 4 – 8 | $100 – $200 | $600 – $1,200 |
Pop-up camper | 2 – 4 | $50 – $100 | $300 – $600 |
*Base rental fees only – towing vehicle not included.
Travel trailer
Renting a travel trailer costs $60 to $125 per day or $400 to $800 per week, depending on the size and features. Smaller trailers fall on the low end of the price range, while the largest trailers fall on the high end.
To save money and make driving easier, rent the smallest trailer that still meets your sleeping capacity and comfort needs:
Small: A small 14-to-20-foot trailer fits 2 to 4 people, with a kitchenette and wet bath (combined shower and toilet), and convertible dinettes for sleeping.
Medium: A medium-sized 21-to-27-foot trailer fits 4 to 6 people, with a more spacious kitchen, a compact bathroom, and separate sleeping areas, sometimes with bunk beds.
Large: A large 28-to-35-foot trailer fits 6 to 8 people and boasts a full kitchen, separate living area, spacious bathroom, private bedroom, and bunkroom.
Fifth wheel
A fifth (5th) wheel RV costs $75 to $150 per day or $500 to $1,000 per weekly rental. In addition to the rental costs for the trailer, you'll need to rent a heavy-duty pickup truck with a fifth-wheel hitch from a commercial rental company to tow the RV.
Fifth Wheels offer a spacious living area that feels more residential, with features like walk-around bedrooms, large bathrooms, and slides to expand the interior. The high ceilings make them feel roomier. Also, the hitch distributes weight more evenly for a smoother towing experience than a travel trailer.
Toy hauler
A toy hauler is an RV with a large empty space in the rear section like a garage, designed to haul recreational equipment. Toy hauler nightly rentals cost $100 to $200, while weekly rentals average $600 to $1,200. The garage transforms into a living area with drop-down beds, dining tables, and more.
Most toy haulers have an open floor plan with few interior walls, while still including a compact bathroom and kitchen space. Many include a loft area above the main cabin to maximize sleeping capacity. Toy haulers include reinforced frame construction, thicker walls, and durable interiors for hauling motorcycles, ATVs, or personal watercraft.
Pop-up camper
Renting a pop-up camper costs $50 to $100 per day or $300 to $600 per week, plus the cost of the tow vehicle if your personal vehicle doesn’t have the proper towing capacity. Renting a pop-up is more budget-friendly than renting an RV and is a nice step up from tent camping.
Most units have comfortable mattresses, a small kitchenette, and even bath amenities including a portable toilet, a holding tank to store fresh water, and an exterior shower for convenience. While compact, these amenities allow for cooking simple meals and keeping clean in primitive campgrounds with no facilities.
RV rental cost by company
The average cost per night for RV rental ranges from $50 to $300, depending on the RV type and rental company. Popular options include Cruise America and El Monte RV, but a more budget-friendly alternative involves renting from individual owners through peer-to-peer platforms like RVshare or Outdoorsy.
Company | Average nightly rental* | RVs available |
---|---|---|
Cruise America | $80 – $300 | Class C and towable travel trailers |
El Montel RV | $100 – $250 | Class A, B, and C motorhomes |
Road Bear RV | $125 – $350 | Class A, B, and C motorhomes |
RVshare | $50 – $200 | Class A, B, C, and towable RVs |
Outdoorsy | $50 – $250 | Class A, B, C, and towable RVs |
*Base rental fee only.
Additional charges and fees
Beyond the quoted base rental rate, RV rentals involve a range of additional charges and fees that you must factor into your budget. Mileage limits, generator hours, service fees, and taxes all increase the overall rental costs.
Fees | Average cost | Details |
---|---|---|
Rental insurance | $10 – $20 per day (basic liability) $20 – $40 per day (standard coverage) $30 – $80 per day (enhanced coverage) |
Most policies cover the RV and not your personal belongings. |
Roadside assistance | $5 – $20 per day | Covers costs like lockouts, flat tires, and towing |
Mileage fees | $0.25 – $0.75 per mile over limit | Most rentals include 100 to 150 miles per day and charge per mile for overages. |
Delivery / Drop-off fees | $100+ each way | Covers local delivery or return to the rental facility |
One-way fees | $200 – $500+ | Charged when you pick up and drop off at different locations. The greater the distance between locations, the higher the fee will be. |
Security deposit | $500 – $1,000 | Fully refundable if you return the RV with no damage |
Taxes | 10% – 25% of the base rental rate, depending on the location |
|
Service fees | 5% – 20% of the total rental cost | Covers customer support, marketing, and administrative costs |
Cleaning fees | Percentage: 10% – 15% of base rental Flat rate: $75 – $300 per rental period |
Extra fees of $50 to $200 may apply if you return the RV with a huge mess that requires extra cleaning |
Dump fees | $50 – $150 | Charged to dump and dispose of waste tank contents after rental |
Pet fees* | Daily rate: $5 – $15 per pet Flat rate: $50 – $200 per rental period |
Covers extra cleaning and potential wear and tear caused by pets |
Kitchen kit* | $110 – $130 | Includes pots, pans, cooking utensils, bottle opener, cutlery, tableware, broom, dustpan, and flashlight |
Personal linen kit* | $50 – $55 per person | Includes blankets, sheets, pillow, pillowcase, bath towel, and hand towel |
Generator rental* | Daily rate: $25 – $100 per day Usage rate: $3 – $5 per hour |
Provides power when the campsite doesn’t |
*Optional fees
Cost factors for RV rental
RV rental prices are not straightforward and base rates can be very different from one week to the next as they fluctuate depending on demand and availability. Many other factors affect the total price, including:
Rental period: Most companies rent by the night but may require a 3-night minimum. Many companies will discount weekly rates by as much as 10% to 20% off the daily rate. Monthly rates offer a greater savings of 30% to 50% discount off the daily rate.
Travel season: Most companies have rates 25% to 50% higher during the peak summer season compared to the off-season months.
New vs. old: A newer RV with fewer miles on the vehicle rents for more than an older RV with higher miles and greater potential for issues.
RV extras: Many rental companies charge extra for camping equipment, linens, cookware, generators, or solar power setups. While these extras can add up, the convenience of not having to pack sheets, towels, and dishes may be worth it.
Fuel: Fuel costs vary by the type of trailer and distance you travel. Class A and C motorhomes, towed trailers, and fifth wheels typically get 6 to 14 miles per gallon, while Class B motorhomes and smaller camper vans can get 20 miles per gallon or more.
Campground fees: Campsites with full hookups (water, sewer, and electricity) cost $40 to $100 per night while dry RV sites (with only electricity) cost $25 to $50 per night. Campsites at State and National Park sites often cost less but may not include any hookups.
What is the cheapest way to rent an RV?
Renting an RV can be a cost-effective way to travel, especially if you follow these suggestions:
Off-peak seasons: Rent during off-peak seasons for lower rates. Consider traveling during shoulder seasons or times when demand is lower, rather than mid-summer or holiday weeks.
Book early: RV rental prices tend to increase as the travel date approaches. Booking early can help you secure lower rates and have a wider selection of available vehicles.
Flexible dates and locations: Being flexible with your travel dates and pickup/drop-off locations can lead to more affordable options. Sometimes, relocating RVs for rental companies can result in discounted rates.
Consider different RV types: Smaller and older RVs are often more budget-friendly than larger, newer models. Consider your space requirements and preferences to find a balance between comfort and cost.
Look for discounts and promotions: Check for discounts, promotions, and special offers provided by RV rental companies. Some companies offer early booking discounts, extended rental discounts, or promotional codes.
Consider peer-to-peer rentals: Renting directly from owners can sometimes be more affordable than renting from traditional rental companies.
Avoid additional fees: Be aware of additional fees, such as mileage charges and generator fees. Understanding the terms can help you manage your daily mileage and generator use to avoid extra charges.
Negotiate the price: In some cases, especially with peer-to-peer rentals, you may have room to negotiate the rental price. Communicate openly with the owner or rental company about your budget.
RV rental FAQs
How much does it cost to rent an RV for 2 weeks?
The cost to rent an RV for 2 weeks ranges from $800 to $4,000, depending on the type. Renting a large RV motorhome costs $750 to $2,000 per week, while renting a camper, travel trailer, or fifth wheel costs $400 to $1,200 per week.
Where can I rent an RV?
Renting an RV is a popular option for traveling and camping. Various companies specialize in recreational vehicle rentals, including national RV rental companies like Cruise America or El Montel RV. Alternatively, online peer-to-peer platforms like RVshare and Outdoorsy connect RV owners with renters providing lower-cost rentals.
Does my insurance cover RV rental?
Your regular auto insurance may extend some coverage to an RV rental, especially if you’re renting a smaller, drivable RV, such as a campervan. However, this coverage is restricted and may not cover certain aspects specific to RVs, such as the living quarters.
Many RV rental companies offer optional insurance packages for rentals, which cover the vehicle and the living area. In addition, your homeowners or renters insurance policy may provide coverage for your personal belongings inside the RV.
Is renting an RV worth it?
Renting an RV may be worth it, depending on your travel preferences, budget, and the type of experience you are looking for. RV travel offers flexibility, allowing you to enjoy different destinations without crowded airports, delayed flights, or repacking suitcases at each hotel you visit.
Should I rent an RV instead of buying one?
Renting an RV is an affordable and flexible way to enjoy road trips without the cost of buying an RV. Renting can also give you an opportunity to try different RV models and experience RV travel before committing to a major purchase.
What does an RV rental include?
The specific inclusions in an RV rental vary depending on the rental company, the type of RV, and any additional packages or options you choose. Any reputable RV rental will include an RV orientation session for renters on how to safely operate the RV and its features.
Additionally, these are some common elements included in an RV rental:
Generator usage, often with daily limits.
Propane tank for cooking, heating, and operating appliances.
Mileage allowance or a certain number of miles per day, with additional charges for miles beyond the allowance.
Insurance coverage may be included in the cost, but the extent of coverage can vary by dealer.
Roadside assistance may be part of the package, helping in case of breakdowns, flat tires, or accidents.
Getting estimates from RV rental companies
Most RV rental companies have websites where you can request a quote by entering your travel dates, destination, and the size and type of RV you need. Keep in mind that these quotes typically include the base rental rate and additional fees can greatly increase that price.
To get the most accurate estimate for your RV rental, follow these suggestions:
Before you get online, have an idea of your preferred travel dates. If you can be flexible, you may be able to save money by booking a week when demand is lower.
Look at the available RV floorplans and find an RV that has enough sleeping capacity for your family’s comfort.
Estimate your travel distance on Google Maps to be prepared for potential per-mile charges.
Consider extras like generators, pet fees, kitchen kits, and personal linens.
Gather quotes from multiple sources, including direct rental companies and peer-to-peer platforms.
Questions to ask an RV rental company
When reaching out to an RV rental company, it's essential to ask questions to ensure the best rental experience with no surprises. Here are some questions you should ask:
What is the total cost of the rental, including any hidden fees?
Are there additional charges for mileage or generator usage?
How far in advance should I make a reservation?
What is the cancellation policy, and are there any associated fees?
Can you provide details about the size and amenities of the RVs available for rent?
Are there different models to choose from, and what are the differences between them?
What kind of insurance coverage comes with the rental, and can I purchase additional coverage?
What is the policy in case of an accident or damage to the RV?
Where is the pick-up location, and are there alternative drop-off points?
What are the check-in and check-out times?
How often are your RVs inspected and maintained?
Are there emergency roadside assistance services provided?
Is camping equipment, such as chairs or a grill, included in the rental?
Can I rent additional items like bedding or kitchen supplies?
Are there any restrictions on where I can take the RV, such as specific routes or off-road limitations?
Are there age or license requirements for drivers?
Can you provide references or customer reviews from previous renters?
What is the process for addressing and resolving customer concerns or issues?
What is the fuel policy? Do I need to return the RV with a full tank?
What are the expectations regarding cleaning the RV upon return?