Tips for Renting an RV
Are you interested in seeing the country but prefer to choose your own accommodations in parks, near ocean beaches, or in wooded areas and still have amenities? Renting an RV is a great way to have it your own way. If you've never rented an RV, we offer a few key pointers:
Research
Research RV rental companies online to find out which ones are reputable and offer the most competitive pricing. Once you've decided on a company, book your RV well in advance.
A Good Fit
Choose an RV that's the right to accommodate your family or group of friends and luggage. Make sure it has the features you need to be comfortable over the long haul.
Familiarization--How to Drive
Even if you've driven an RV before, sign up for a training session to familiarize yourself with the RV you've chosen. Learn how to hook up the electricity, water and sewage lines at campsites, and check how to use all appliances in the RV. Also learn about maintaining and checking the vehicle's fluids and tire pressure. Make sure that everything is in working order in the RV prior to departure.
Estimate Mileage Accurately
To avoid paying costly mileage overages, it's best to make an accurate estimate of trip mileage. Overestimating is usually cheaper than exceeding your estimate.
Choose an Appropriate Rental Period
Select a "firm" rental period that fits your travel plans. Keeping the RV for extra days can cost a lot more money. Make an itinerary and stick to it, but also factor in time to have fun and be spontaneous.
Check out RV Rental Policies
Thoroughly read the rental company's policies on breakdowns, cancellations, pets and costs of cleaning charges. Check to see if there is a shuttle service if you are flying in to pick up an RV at a starting destination.
Insurance is Your Protection
Make sure your auto insurance policy covers driving an RV, and be sure you're signed up for roadside assistance. You may need to purchase coverage from the RV rental company, although some RV rental firms include insurance as part of the rental price.
What about Extras?
Find out if items like generators, TVs, DVD players and awnings are included in the rental and what their costs are if not included.
A Few More Words about Planning
Check with your RV company, or an auto club, to see if the and height of your RV will restrict your access on narrow, curvy mountain roads or on bridges along your planned route.
Research
Research RV rental companies online to find out which ones are reputable and offer the most competitive pricing. Once you've decided on a company, book your RV well in advance.
A Good Fit
Choose an RV that's the right to accommodate your family or group of friends and luggage. Make sure it has the features you need to be comfortable over the long haul.
Familiarization--How to Drive
Even if you've driven an RV before, sign up for a training session to familiarize yourself with the RV you've chosen. Learn how to hook up the electricity, water and sewage lines at campsites, and check how to use all appliances in the RV. Also learn about maintaining and checking the vehicle's fluids and tire pressure. Make sure that everything is in working order in the RV prior to departure.
Estimate Mileage Accurately
To avoid paying costly mileage overages, it's best to make an accurate estimate of trip mileage. Overestimating is usually cheaper than exceeding your estimate.
Choose an Appropriate Rental Period
Select a "firm" rental period that fits your travel plans. Keeping the RV for extra days can cost a lot more money. Make an itinerary and stick to it, but also factor in time to have fun and be spontaneous.
Check out RV Rental Policies
Thoroughly read the rental company's policies on breakdowns, cancellations, pets and costs of cleaning charges. Check to see if there is a shuttle service if you are flying in to pick up an RV at a starting destination.
Insurance is Your Protection
Make sure your auto insurance policy covers driving an RV, and be sure you're signed up for roadside assistance. You may need to purchase coverage from the RV rental company, although some RV rental firms include insurance as part of the rental price.
What about Extras?
Find out if items like generators, TVs, DVD players and awnings are included in the rental and what their costs are if not included.
A Few More Words about Planning
Check with your RV company, or an auto club, to see if the and height of your RV will restrict your access on narrow, curvy mountain roads or on bridges along your planned route.