Rent a Camper for the First Time Without the Stress

Step 1: Pick the Right Platform

Two types of platforms exist. Peer-to-peer marketplaces (Outdoorsy, RVshare) where you rent from private owners. Fleet companies (Cruise America, Escape Campervans) where you rent from a company.

For first-timers: fleet companies offer a simpler, more predictable experience. Peer-to-peer platforms offer more selection and often better prices. See our full platform rankings for the breakdown.

Step 2: Choose Your Vehicle Size

The number-one first-timer mistake: renting too big. A 30-foot motorhome sounds exciting until you're merging onto the highway or backing into a campsite.

• → Solo or couple: Campervan or Class B (18-22 ft). Drives like a large van. Parks anywhere.
• → Family of 3-4: Class C (24-28 ft). Manageable for most drivers. All amenities included.
• → Large group (5+): Class A or large Class C (28-35 ft). Requires comfort with large vehicle driving.
• → Stationary camping: Travel trailer with delivery. You never drive the RV. Best for nervous first-timers.

For family-specific recommendations, check our family rental guide.

Step 3: Understand the True Cost

The nightly rate on the listing is never your final cost. Budget for these on top:

• → Service fees: 10-25% of the nightly rate (peer-to-peer platforms)
• → Insurance: $10-40/day depending on coverage level
• → Mileage overages: $0.25-0.50/mile after the included limit
• → Cleaning fee: $50-200 (one-time)
• → Fuel: RVs get 8-15 MPG. Budget $150-400 for a week-long trip.
• → Campgrounds: $25-75/night for full hookup sites

Full cost breakdown across all platforms in our camper rental cost guide. Budget tips in our cheapest rentals guide.

Step 4: Book Smart

Timing and homework make a big difference:

• → Book 2-3 months ahead for summer. Good vehicles sell out fast. Winter trips can be booked shorter-term.
• → Read reviews on the specific vehicle. Not just the platform — the individual listing. Look for mentions of cleanliness, accuracy and owner responsiveness.
• → Check the cancellation policy. Weather changes, kids get sick, plans shift. Flexible cancellation is worth paying a little more for.
• → Message the owner first. On P2P platforms, message the owner before booking. Ask about the vehicle's condition, any recent issues and their availability. Responsive owners are better owners.
• → Compare both P2P platforms. Check the same dates on both Outdoorsy and RVshare. Prices vary.

Step 5: Insurance — Don't Skip This

RV damage is expensive. A minor scrape can cost $2,000-5,000. A roof hit from a low clearance can total $10,000+. Don't gamble on the cheapest insurance tier to save $15/day.

Our recommendation for first-timers: Get the standard or premium tier. Yes, it costs more per day. But one mistake with the basic tier's $2,500 deductible wipes out all your savings and then some.

Before buying platform insurance, check whether your personal auto insurance or credit card covers RV rentals. Most don't — but some premium credit cards do. Call and verify before your trip.

Step 6: Pickup Day

Budget 45-60 minutes for the pickup walkthrough. Here's what to cover:

• → Take photos and video of every scratch, dent and blemish before leaving
• → Test all systems — AC, heat, water pump, stove, fridge, toilet flush
• → Learn the electrical panel (shore power, battery, generator switch)
• → Practice hooking up water, electric and sewer at the walkthrough
• → Get the vehicle height and write it on the dash
• → Ask about fuel type, tire pressure and any known quirks
• → Save the owner's/company's emergency phone number

Step 7: On the Road

First-timer driving tips that make a real difference:

• → Drive slow. Seriously. 55-60 mph max on highways. You're in a house on wheels. There's no rush.
• → Wide turns. Swing wide on right turns. The rear wheels cut inside tighter than you expect.
• → Watch your height. Gas station canopies, drive-throughs, tree branches, bridges. Know your clearance.
• → Use a spotter. When backing up, always have someone outside guiding you. Use hand signals.
• → Plan fuel stops. RVs get 8-15 MPG. Know where the truck-accessible gas stations are on your route.
• → Arrive at campgrounds before dark. Setting up hookups and leveling in the dark is miserable. Plan to arrive by 4-5 PM.

Step 8: Return

Make this painless:

• → Fill fuel to the agreed level (usually full or same as pickup)
• → Empty the holding tanks (gray and black water)
• → Remove all personal items and trash
• → Do a basic wipe-down of surfaces
• → Take photos of the vehicle's condition at return
• → Walk through with the owner and confirm condition in the app

Frequently Asked Questions