If you’ve ever considered renting an RV and going on a journey, but don’t know where to start, look no further. Read this article to learn more about types of RVs, if you need a license, and tips on where and how to camp.
1. Types of RV's and required permits
We always get asked, “Do you need a special license to drive an RV?”. Relax knowing that recreational vehicles (RVs) under 26,000 pounds (the vast majority fall under this weight) do not need a specific license in any 50 states. Travel trailers and motorhomes are the two primary categories of recreational vehicles. Even among these, other subdivisions exist.
Motorized RVs.
Motorhomes are the common name for towable recreational vehicles since they allow you to drive and sleep in the same space. You may choose from Class A, Class B, or Class C. Class As are the only ones that can weigh greater than 26,000 pounds and thus need a specific license. While most Class A motorhomes weigh between 13,000 and 30,000 pounds, there are plenty of lightweight alternatives under 26,000. What’s the dissimilarity between the three, then?
Class A recreational vehicles are the largest kind and look like minibusses. They may be anywhere from 21 to 41+ feet long and weigh anything from 13,000 to 30,000 pounds on average. Class A motorhomes are the most spacious option. Still, unless you have extensive experience driving buses, we won’t advocate hiring one for your first RV vacation. Given its bulk, finding a parking spot for one of these may be challenging.
Class B RVs, sometimes called “camper vans,” are the smallest and most user-friendly of all RV classes. Because of their smaller size, they can only accommodate fewer guests and have to make do with less luxurious amenities, such as smaller beds and kitchenettes rather than full kitchens. The bathroom, if any, typically consists of a tub with water and maybe an outdoor shower. Class B motorhomes are fantastic for couples but aren’t ideal for transporting a large group of people.
Class C motorhomes are ideal for those on their first RV trip. They are more spacious than Class B vehicles and more manageable than Class A. The length of the vehicles may vary between 20 and 38 feet, and their usual weight is between 10,000 and 12,000 pounds, so you won’t need a special license to drive one. Driving a Class C based on a truck chassis or van frame is like maneuvering a large vehicle, necessitating wide bends.
Towable RV's
2. RV Rental
3. Essential information for camping
While securing the RV is a necessary initial step, it is just that. On an RV trip, you must reserve campground spots rather than stay in hotels. Camping possibilities range from simple parking lots to five-star resorts with swimming pools, 18-hole golf courses, and more, all within easy driving distance of major cities. The standard cost for an RV campsite is between $35 and $50 per night, with higher rates for more upscale options. Due to recent and ongoing strong demand, camping prices have risen to well over $100 per night.
In order to encourage longer stays, several of these places provide discounts on a weekly or monthly basis. Remember that in high-traffic areas, campsites often fill up months in advance.
4. Typical Rates for Recreational Vehicle Rentals
How much would a weekly RV rental cost?
The cost of renting an RV, like a hotel, will vary widely based on factors such as the time of year, the number of people staying in the RV, the RV’s age, and its level of luxury. You may use typical pricing as a ballpark figure, but consider that costs might vary widely depending on supply and demand factors.
• Class A rates range from $175 to $275 per night.
• Class B rates range from $100 and $200 per night
• Class C rates range from $150 and $200 per night
• Tent trailer rates range from $50 and $125 per night.
• RV parking rates range from $60 and $150 per night.
• The nightly rate for a pop-up trailer is $50 to $100.
Know that a per-mile fee may also need to be considered. While some rentals may provide unlimited mileage, others may include a certain amount of miles and charge extra for each additional mile traveled.
5. RV coverage
The cost of using RV Share includes mandatory insurance, and you can purchase extra insurance if desired. According to the company’s website, the basic policy provides up to $1 million in liability coverage and $300,000 in comprehensive and collision coverage, depending on the RV’s worth. Free towing and tire service are also included with this offer.
