Renting an RV is a unique way to travel, but it comes with costs and considerations. Here’s a detailed breakdown to help beginners understand what to expect.

How Much Does Renting an RV Cost?

RV rental costs depend on factors like vehicle size, location, season, and mileage. Below are baseline estimates provided by RVshare:

Rental Costs by RV Type

• Class A (luxury, bus-like RVs):
• Older models: $150–$250/night
• Newer models: $350–$450/night
• Class B (camper vans):
• Older models: $100–$200/night
• Newer models: $200–$350/night
• Class C (truck-like, beginner-friendly):
• Older models: $100–$200/night
• Newer models: $225–$400/night
• Travel Trailers:
• Older models: $50–$125/night
• Newer models: $125–$200/night
• Fifth Wheels:
• Older models: $60–$150/night
• Newer models: $150–$300/night

Additional Expenses

• Fuel Costs:
  RVs have poor fuel efficiency:
• Class A: 6–10 MPG
• Class B: 18–25 MPG

• Class C and towable trailers: 8–12 MPG
  Example: A 1,000-mile trip in a Cruise America RV (10–12 MPG) would require 83–100 gallons of gas.

• Mileage Fees:

• Most rentals don’t offer unlimited mileage.
• Cruise America fee: $0.35/mile

• A 1,000-mile trip costs $350 in mileage fees alone.

• Generator Fees:

• Powers onboard appliances.

• Cruise America charges $3.50/hour for generator use.

• Campground Fees:

• RV campsites with hookups: $20–$50/night
• Luxury RV resorts: $60–$100+/night
• State parks: $5–$50/night

• Boondocking: Free camping in legal areas like Walmart parking lots or via Harvest Hosts (membership required).

• Cleaning Fees:

• Returning an RV in poor condition incurs cleaning fees.

• Cruise America charges $250 for unclean vehicles.

• Extras:

• Rentals may charge for kitchen kits ($110) and bedding ($60/person).

• Insurance:

• May not be covered by your auto insurance policy.
• Rental platforms like RVshare offer optional insurance plans.

Do You Need RV Insurance?

Yes, RV insurance is essential. Coverage options include:
1. Personal Auto Insurance:
- Some policies extend coverage to RVs.
- Confirm with your provider beforehand.

• Rental Company Insurance:
• Companies like RVshare include basic insurance and offer premium plans.

• RVshare provides $300,000 in collision coverage and roadside assistance through Crum & Forster.

• Credit Card Coverage:

• Most cards (e.g., Chase Sapphire Reserve®) exclude RVs.

Buying vs. Renting an RV

Frequent RV travelers might find it more cost-effective to purchase rather than rent.

Costs of Renting:

• Mileage fees, cleaning fees, and extra charges for items like cookware.

Costs of Owning:

• Registration and Taxes: Calculated by your state’s DMV.
• Maintenance and Repairs: Annual upkeep can add up.
• Storage: Costs depend on local options.

Pro Tip: Use RV loan calculators to estimate the total cost of ownership.

RV Travel Tips for Beginners

• Choose the Right RV:
• Select based on driving comfort, group size, and amenities needed.
• Plan Your Route:
• Research campgrounds, fuel stations, and dump stations.
• Budget Realistically:
• Include all fees, insurance, and gas costs in your budget.
• Learn RV Basics:
• Understand how to back up, park, and manage water/waste tanks.

The Bottom Line

Renting an RV is a flexible and exciting way to travel, but it’s not necessarily cheap. Whether you’re trying out RV life or planning a road trip, being aware of costs and practicalities will help you make the most of the experience.

For budget-friendly RV adventures, consider:
- Cooking your own meals.
- Staying in affordable campgrounds.
- Renting through peer-to-peer platforms like RVshare for diverse options and delivery services.

Enjoy your journey and happy road-tripping!

Next: Read 2500+ consumer guides to shopping, electronics, appliances, home services, cars, money and more.

❤ If you liked all this, consider supporting us by checking out Tiny Skills - 250+ Top Work & Personal Skills Made Easy