Choose a Motorhome or Campervan to Rent
Thinking of trying out renting or buying a Motor home, RV, or even a Camper van, for the very first time then you might be wondering what kind you'd want to choose for that vacation trip. You can do this by matching your needs with the best or closest match.
Steps
- Figure out just how many people will be traveling with you. This would help you decide upon how many beds that you would need. This is the first thing to consider and must be right the first time. This will help you to narrow your choices.
- Consider the next berth up when renting a motor home. Why? There is more storage space and there is less hassle assembling and reassembling dining and kitchen areas; you have areas dedicated to these purposes. For example, if two people are traveling in a four berth motor home, you can have your sleeping quarters and dining area permanently made up and you won't have to break it down when needed. Plus, you get extra storage space. This is especially important if you are renting the vehicle for an extended period, more than five days.
- Decide what facilities you need and how self sufficient you want to be. Possibilities include toilet, heating, shower, kitchen, storage, batteries or power and gas heating. Check to see if these facilities require outside power sources or if they are self contained within the vehicle. E.g, some vehicles require additional power to operate additional appliances, or you may want to save your generator/battery by using an outside power source.
- Think about how long you trip will be and how long you will be actually traveling as opposed to how much time you might be spending at campsites. Understand that fresh water and waste water tanks can mean frequent refilling and emptying of cassettes and tanks. Waste should generally should be emptied every two to three days or this can cause some unwanted odors to linger in your motor home.
- Understand that some areas and roads have restrictions when it comes to sizes and widths. Consider the width restrictions on the area you would be visiting to make sure that it would not be too wide on the roads you will be driving on. Consider the flexibility and the maneuverability and dimensions, especially with high tops.
- Check camping ground and holiday parks to see if they can facilitate the size of your vehicle beforehand. Prior research of parks and roads is essential, especially when traveling with a larger motor home.
- Make sure you rent accordingly to your budget. You might decide to rent an older vehicle rather than a brand new one. Prices are also determined by the amenities you choose. One warning, you do get what you pay for, what may seem to be a bargain at first could turn into a nightmare when you rent the vehicle. If going for a budget vehicle, ensure that the vehicle is well maintained and the company offers 24 hour roadside assistance.
- Book well in advance to ensures a lower rate. You pay for spontaneity. Check what the off season rates are and book then - these will vary per country. Booking prior to holidays (e.g school holidays, public holidays like the 4th of July) can save you money.
- Check the terms and conditions thoroughly. Each company has unique policies that vary for various circumstances. Questions to ask when reviewing the terms: What happens if I get into an accident? What happens if the vehicle breaks down? What happens if return the vehicle earlier or later? What happens if my vehicle gets broken into?
Tips
- Always ask questions when there is something you do not understand. There is a general confusion when it comes to travel insurance, the insurance covered by camper van hire companies only cover the vehicle.
- Renting might fit your life style and cost less in the long run.
- Even the smallest RV has all the facilities and probably would have smaller water tanks and fridge, too. Which means, you'd have to “service” your vehicle more often that with a larger version.
- In case you'd be planning to stay in campsites during most of your time, you may take the opportunity to avail of the modern campsite facilities such as a shower and toilet. Which also means you wouldn't be constantly refilling your water tank. Small camper vans may meet all the self-sufficiency requirements, but they can be limited when it comes to comfort and space. Consider the lay-out and access in this case.
- Make sure the contracts include full documentation on motor home rentals fees, including mileage fee, generator fee, and any additional fees.
- Double beds count as 2 berths so take care in choosing.
- Take time to read the rental agreement before signing the contract. Make sure you understand it.
- Travel as light as possible.
- If you are arranging for camping away from campsites, then you'd want to be self-sufficient as possible and take note of the facilities you would need.
