RV Rental Guide-Successful Rental Experience

First, a little bit about us. I’m Scott, and together with my wife Amie, we’re TheRoadRoamers. We have always loved the idea of RV Living. So, in 2021, we made a life-altering decision; we sold our home and took to the highways and byways in our rolling residence. Living full-time in an RV isn’t just an aimless wander for us – it’s been an eye-opening adventure, an education in simplicity and a test of adaptability. We’ve grown intimate with the intricacies of RV life, which is why our advice isn’t just based on hearsay, but real grit and miles.

• Experience and Background:
  • 27 years in the Autobody industry (Scott’s experience).
  • 25 years in the Real-Estate business (Amie’s experience).
• Preparation for RVing:
  • Combined experience has prepared them for challenges in full-time RVing.
  • Over 30 years of camping experience together.
• Individual Roles:
  • RV Repairs: Scott’s responsibility.
  • Planning: Amie’s area of expertise.
• Mission and Goal:
  • Aim to assist people desiring full-time RV living.
  • Goal to guide individuals to become proficient in the RV lifestyle.
• Advice:
  • Recommend trying out RVing before committing.
  • Suggest renting before purchasing.
• Upcoming Information:
  • Top 10 tips for renting an RV will be provided at the end of the article.

Imagine the freedom to explore open roads, landscapes unfurling before you, all from the comfort of a home on wheels. That’s the allure of RV travel. More than just a means of transportation, an RV offers a unique blend of adventure and convenience, making it an increasingly popular choice for vacationers and possibly full time explorers down the road.

But the journey to a successful RV trip begins well before you hit the road; it starts with selecting the right rental company. A company’s reputation, as evidenced by user ratings and reviews, can be your compass to navigating the rental process. That’s why I’ll also discuss RVshare and Outdoorsy, both stellar examples of trustworthy rental companies with commendable ratings on Trust Pilot.

RVshare boasts a commendable 4.3 rating from over 16,000 reviews on Trust Pilot at the time this post was published. Their story started with a love story and grew into the largest online community for RV enthusiasts. Outdoorsy also impresses with a 4.2 rating from more than 25,000 reviews on Trust Pilot as well, offering a marketplace that connects RV owners with those eager to delve into RV life without the commitment of ownership at this time.

The backbone of a seamless rental experience is not just the RV itself, but also the company behind it. Consider the ratings; they reflect real experiences from people like you who value reliability, ease of use, and customer service. These aspects are critical to ensure peace of mind on your travels, and two companies have proven they deliver just that.

RV Rental Essentials: Ensuring a Smooth Adventure

Venturing into the world of RV travel can be incredibly rewarding. You have the freedom to explore wide open spaces, the luxury of a home on wheels, and the opportunity to create lasting memories. But before you hit the open road, there are essential steps you need to take to ensure your adventure is smooth sailing from day one.

• Firstly, familiarize yourself with the rental terms and conditions. Each rental company has its own set of rules, and it’s crucial to understand these to avoid any surprises. Examine the policies on mileage, generator usage, pet accommodation, and return conditions to align your trip with these stipulations. The small print can seem tedious, but it’s critical for a hiccup-free experience.

• As practical as it is to get excited about the journey, remember to focus on the practical aspects too. It may seem like a buzzkill now, but ensuring you’re equipped to tackle issues like electricity hookups, water disposal, and vehicle maintenance on the road is paramount. The more you know upfront, the less likely you’ll face stress-inducing snags.
• Addressing your route! Map out your itinerary in advance, including campgrounds and RV parks that can accommodate your vehicle. Doing so will give you peace of mind about where you’ll spend each night. Beyond that, examine the amenities offered at each stop; think about whether you’ll need full hookups, Wi-Fi access, or laundry facilities, and choose locations that meet those needs.
• What comes next? Embracing the RV culture. Connect with seasoned RVers like us online or in person to gather insider knowledge. They can offer invaluable advice on the best destinations, road safety, vehicle handling, and even campfire recipes. This community insight can profoundly enrich your experience.
• Be meticulous in your preparations but stay flexible with your plans. Even the best-laid plans can change, and in the world of RV travel, this is often part of the adventure. The key to a successful rental experience is striking a balance between preparedness and adaptability.

Spotlight on RVshare: A Rental Platform Built on Trust

Their story begins with something quite personal: a love story. After a honeymoon adventure in an RV, one of the founders faced a conundrum. They had this wonderful RV sitting idle. What to do? The solution was ingenious and heartfelt – the creation of RVshare in 2013. The idea was simple: when you’re not exploring the country in your home on wheels, why not let others experience the joy, too?

• Fast forward to today, and they sit proudly as the world’s largest online community dedicated to bringing RV renters and owners together. It’s a unique space that celebrates a communal spirit underpinned by a love for open roads and starry nights.
• More than just numbers, their rating of 4.3 from over 16,000 reviews speaks volumes. It plays a pivotal role in why I recommend them. Trust is essential when you’re entrusting your holiday to a rental service, and with such a solid Trust Pilot rating, they’ve earned that trust confidently.
• How did they make their mark? By not only facilitating the rental of RVs but by creating memories. Renting an RV is more than a transaction; it’s about the experiences and stories that unfold on the road. After all, for over 4 million nights, travelers have depended on RVshare for those moments that turn into cherished memories.
• With a user-friendly platform, they have seamlessly connected countless travelers to a fleet that’s as diverse as the American landscape itself. From cozy campervans for intimate road trips to family-sized motorhomes for grand cross-country treks, RVshare caters to all sorts of adventurers. And the result? A solution that’s as fulfilling for RV owners as it is exhilarating for renters.

Harnessing the Freedom of the Open Road with Outdoorsy

When it comes time to wrap up our guide on RV rentals, we must highlight the sense of freedom that comes with the open road – a sentiment that Outdoorsy passionately embraces. This company doesn’t just offer you an RV; it invites you on an adventure of choice and opportunity, helping people everywhere to step outside and breathe in the world around them.

• As we have seen, Outdoorsy isn’t your typical RV rental enterprise. They revolutionized the RV rental market by fostering a community where RV owners and renters meet to share in the joys of travel – not from glossy brochures, but from real-life experiences and stories. With the noble mission to decrease RV underutilization, they support sustainability and encourages exploration in ways that resonate with modern adventurers.
• The platform’s success is mirrored in the satisfaction of its users, as reflected in the robust 4.2 rating from over 25,000 reviews on Trust Pilot. This trust doesn’t come easily; it’s the result of dedication to quality, transparency, and unparalleled choice in RV rentals. Outdoorsy’s comprehensive insurance, the Wheelbase inventory management for professionals, and the remarkable variety of RVs ensure that your journey begins with confidence.
• For many, the journey towards renting an RV starts with curiosity and the yearning for exploration. It ends, however, with stories around the campfire, miles traveled, and the comfort of knowing you’ve made the right choice. As you consider embarking on your next adventure, remember that Outdoorsy doesn’t just rent out RVs; they provide the pathway to creating lifelong memories in the embrace of nature’s wonder.
• So, whether you’re an experienced RVer or a first-timer eager to discover the joys of RV life, Outdoorsy and its peer-to-peer marketplace are ready to serve your needs. Reliable, trusted, and attuned to your desire for freedom, Outdoorsy stands to offer not just an RV, but a home on the road for those precious moments of discovery, relaxation, and joy with loved ones.  Be sure to check out our Guide For Beginners as well!

“Top 10 Tips for Renting an RV: A Roadmap to an Unforgettable Journey”

Renting an RV can be an exciting adventure, providing you with the flexibility to explore new destinations at your own pace. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, consider the following

1. Plan and Reserve in Advance:

– RV rentals are popular, especially during peak travel seasons. Plan your trip well in advance and make a reservation to secure the type of RV you want.

2. Choose the Right Size:

– Select an RV size that suits your needs. Consider the number of people traveling, the amenities you desire, and the type of roads you’ll be driving on. Larger RVs may offer more space but can be challenging to maneuver.

3. Understand Rental Costs:

– Be aware of the rental costs and what is included in the price. Check for any additional fees, such as mileage charges, generator usage fees, or cleaning costs.

4. Verify Insurance Coverage:

– Check with the rental company about insurance coverage. Some credit cards or personal auto insurance policies may offer coverage for RV rentals, but it’s crucial to understand the extent of the coverage and consider purchasing additional insurance if necessary.

5. Inspect the RV Before Departure:

– Thoroughly inspect the RV before you leave the rental facility. Document any existing damages or issues, and ensure that everything is in working order. This will help avoid disputes over the security deposit upon return. I recommend you get your phone out and just take a video walk around outside and inside the RV beforehand.

6. Understand RV Systems:

– Familiarize yourself with the RV’s systems, including the water, sewage, and electrical systems. Make sure you know how to operate appliances, slide-outs, and any other features specific to the RV you’re renting. Again, video is a good way to document the pre-delivery walk around if possible so you can go back and review.

7. Plan Your Route and Campsites:

– Plan your route in advance, considering the type of terrain, road conditions, and the availability of RV-friendly campsites. Make reservations for campgrounds, especially during peak seasons.

8. Practice Driving and Parking:

– If you’re not experienced in driving an RV, take the time to practice before hitting the road. Practice parking, turning, and maneuvering the vehicle in an open area, like a large parking lot after hours, to build confidence.

9. Pack Smartly:

– Pack efficiently and consider the limited storage space in the RV. Bring only essential items, and be mindful of weight distribution to ensure safe driving conditions.

10. Follow Campground Etiquette:

– Be a responsible and considerate camper. Follow campground rules, respect quiet hours, and dispose of waste properly. Leave the campsite as you found it to promote a positive experience for yourself and future campers.

By following these tips, you can enhance your RV rental experience and make the most of your road trip adventure.

So, to wrap things up. Whether you choose RVshare or Outdoorsy both are a good choice in our opinion based solely on the number of positive reviews on Trust Pilot and from listening to people in our RV community. Thanks for Reading! We’ll See You On The Road!

Please be sure to leave comments below and any questions you may have. Also, leave any experiences you may have had renting or owning an RV.