Roadtripping has never been more popular, and for many, hitting the road in an RV or camper van is the perfect way to explore the outdoors. Both options combine comfort, convenience, and flexibility, essential for your comfort on your adventure. Instead of juggling hotels your rental vehicle becomes both your ride and your home.
But when it comes to RV vs. camper van travel, which is the better choice? Let’s break down the pros and cons so you can plan the ultimate road trip.
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RV vs. Camper Van: What’s the Difference?
While RVs (recreational vehicles) and camper vans both provide comfort on the road, they offer very different experiences.
Similarities
-Both are mobile homes on wheels equipped with a bed, seating, storage, and often cooking equipment.
-They allow you to travel with more comfort than a standard car or tent.
-Both are great alternatives to hotels and give you the freedom to travel.
Key Differences
Camper Vans
-Easier to drive and park, they fit into most campsites and even city areas.
-Better gas mileage, making them more affordable for long trips.
-Smaller, which means tighter quarters.
RVs (Motorhomes)
-Offer more space, often with separate beds, living areas, and kitchens.
-Usually equipped with a toilet and shower, which is convenient on longer trips.
-Better for families or multiple travelers, but harder to maneuver and more expensive to rent.
* Choosing between the two comes down to your trip style, budget, and how much space you (and your pet!) need.
Questions to Ask Before Renting an RV or Camper Van
Before booking, make a list of questions to make sure your rental fits your needs.
General Rental Questions
What mileage is included, and what’s the cost of extra miles?
Are bedding and kitchen supplies provided?
Does the rental include insurance?
Are there generator fees?
What are the pick-up and drop-off times?
What’s the cancellation policy?
Personal Considerations
Space: Do I have enough room for myself, my gear, and my pet?
Destination: Will I be camping in national parks or driving into cities where RVs may not fit?
Comfort: Do I need a shower and kitchen, or can I get by with the basics?
Water Storage: If you stay off grid, will the tank size meet my needs?
Best RV Rentals in the USA
Cruise America
Highlights: Large RV fleet, free mobile app, supply kits available for rent. The company has been in business for over 40 years.
Pros: They offer clear and concise rental agreements and policies. Supplemental liability insurance is included in rental. Rental locations in 33 states.
Cons: These are full-time rentals rather than owner-rented, meaning the wear and tear is more prominent. No appliances are included.
Pricing: Rentals with Cruise America depend on the RV size, pickup and drop-off location, and time of year. Expect to pay anywhere from $70-100 per night for the base rate. There are additional charges for dishes, linens, mileage, and more so the cost can quickly add up.
El Monte RV
Highlights: 24/7 roadside support, free generators, frequent rental specials.
Pros: Rental Services in 31 States. The rentals include a massive fleet of Class A and C motorhomes with some travel trailers and 5th wheels as well. Includes a $16/day option for covering damage.
Cons: It’s sometimes difficult to get a one-way rental, despite the company’s claim.
Pricing: Rental rates with El Monte depend on the RV size, pickup, and drop-off location, and time of year. Expect to pay around $155 per night for a small Class C, and up to $400 per night for a large Class A. There are additional charges for dishes, linens, mileage, and more so the cost can quickly add up.
RV Share (Peer-to-Peer Rentals)
Highlights: Wide selection of RVs from private owners; policies and fees negotiated directly.
Pros: RV Share features a reliable and friendly community of RV owners. They have top-rated customer support and service. Features free listing and renter sign-up.
Cons: The mobile app is a little clunky and could use an upgrade.
Pricing: RV rental rates on RVShare vary by the type of rig, amenities, updates, and features. The time of year, the length of the rental, and rental location impact the price as well. We found RV rental rates as low as $65 for pop-up campers and small travel trailers to $250-400 per night for large Class A rigs. Remember that you can negotiate these rates and add-on amenities with the RV owners before you book.
Best Camper Van Rentals in the USA
Escape Camper Vans
Highlights: Colorfully painted vans, fully equipped kitchens, optional add-ons, and great trip-planning resources.
Pros: Hands down the best RV rental choice for couples. Affordable pricing on a per-night basis. Includes 24/7 roadside assistance and insurance.
Cons: Only 12 locations across the US and Canada.
Pricing: Escape Campervans feature a starting price of $95 per night, however, the minimum is a three-night rental. If you choose one of their smaller, couple’s Class Bs, and keep all of your options at a minimum, you’re looking at $285 before tax.
RVnGo
Highlights: RVnGO is quickly becoming one of the best RV rental companies in America thanks to their simplification and customization offers. As a peer-to-peer RV campervan rental service, it’s hard to beat if you want to rent an RV with as little fuss as possible.
Pros: RVnGO has locations in all 50 states, including Washington D.C. They feature every type of RV and motorhome class in the industry. Extremely simplified choice layout and plenty of customization.
Cons: Pets are welcome, but owners are responsible for any and all damages.
Pricing: RVnGO is reasonably priced. There’s a minimum stay of three nights and a starting price of $112 for Class Cs and comparable travel trailers (in terms of size) and a $228 starting price for Class B RVs. Class C and B rentals represent the vast majority of rentals from RVnGO, the two most popular options.
RVezy
Highlights: This is one of the newest, peer-to-peer RV rental companies to start up. Founded in 2016, RVezy offers one of the smoothest RV renting experiences in the industry. They also offer a load of freebies, including portable grills and pet accommodations.
Pros: They offer a very streamlined rental process with an excellent app and website. RVezy offers an outstanding insurance product that includes tires, cab fares, hotel rooms, and roadside assistance. Rental accommodation includes vehicle delivery.
Cons: Rental restrictions are fairly pricy compared to other RV rental companies.
Pricing: Pricing is determined by the hosts, and they offer periodic weekly and monthly discounts.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to RV vs. camper van travel, there’s no one-size-fits-all choice. Camper vans are ideal for budget-friendly, flexible road trips, while RVs provide space and comfort for longer journeys. By asking the right questions and researching policies ahead of time, you can find your perfect fit. With a little planning, your next camping adventure will be all you want it to be.
If you need help planning a road trip, check out roadtrippers.com. They have ideas on places to go, where to stop for food and attractions in the area. If you use code BTR5QTP to save $5. Once you’ve picked your RV or camper, be sure to make a list of what you need for both you and your pet so you don’t forget anything important. Then hit the road and have fun! We want to share the information and tips we learn along the way to help make planning your trip easier. We hope to inspire you to find your adventures, have lots of fun and make many memories.