RV Rentals: 5 Things You Should Know

An RV vacation is all about the freedom and adventure of the open road. But before you rush out to reserve your rental cruiser, we think there's a few things you should know...

#1. Deposits Are Non-Refundable

Many first time rv’ers are surprised to find that all or most of their reservation deposit is non-refundable. Most dealers charge anywhere from 10 to 100% of the rental price depending on when the booking was cancelled. That's why you should carefully read the terms and conditions of your RV rental contract, including the cancellation policy.

Why is the reservation deposit non-refundable? Because the dealer can't rent the vehicle to anyone else while it is on hold for you. In a worst-case scenario, the dealer might not be able to find another renter at all, especially if the reservation was cancelled with little or no notice.

#2. Buy The Optional Insurance

Most dealers offer optional insurance packages. Get it. Extra insurance reduces your security deposit substantially and provides the necessary protection in case an unforeseen event should occur. Optional insurance packages usually cost under $20 per day which makes getting it cheap, easy and smart.

#3. You Are Responsible For The RV

It is usually the renter’s responsibility to ensure that the engine fluids are at the correct levels. If the RV rental vehicle breaks down during the trip, you can be held responsible for mechanical damage due to negligence.

#4. Disclose ALL Additional Drivers

Make sure you inform the dealer of any additional drivers of the recreational vehicle. You will be held responsible for any damages caused by unauthorized drivers, so don’t allow anyone else to drive the vehicle.

#5. Renting From A Supplier Is Not Any Cheaper

Most people believe it is less expensive to rent an RV directly from a supplier company then from a booking agent. This isn't necessarily true. Rentals booked by an agent usually cost the same or less because agents need to be competitive.

The biggest advantage of using a booking agent is that they usually work with more than one supplier, giving you a wider range of options in terms of vehicles, locations and cost.

Other Articles In This Series

• The Who's Who of RV Rentals
• RV Rental Models And Types