The best RV rental companies of 2023 with expert tips

Let’s hit the road!

When it comes to summer travel in the US, it doesn’t get more patriotic than a great American road trip in an RV, complete with gas station snacks and radio music, of course.

Unless you own your RV, or recreational vehicle for the longhand, the first step in planning your getaway is actually renting the RV itself. Luckily for you, we not only rounded up some of the top companies and RV offerings on the internet, but we also consulted an expert to help you decide which size, shape and type is right for you and your crew.

We spoke with Monika Geraci, RV industry spokesperson for the RV Industry Association, who gave us a truck-full of information that potential RV-owners, renters and drivers need to know before their next trip.

Read on for her tips and tricks, and then stick around for the best RV rental companies of 2023.

Rent an RV for spring and summer 2023

1. RVshare

Sharing is caring. This RV rental platform allows a peer-to-peer system of RV rentals, similar to Vrbo or AirBnb. Simply type in your start and end location and dates and browse availability for RV and campers of all sizes.

2. Outdoorsy

Outdoorsy is another way to rent an RV or camper on thy fly, with a database of rentals in almost every state. You can sort by location or even by National Park, plus look for a full travel package with Collective Retreats.

3. Cruise America

For a more traditional rental service, Cruise America is top-rated for a reason. Not only can you rent RVs of any size, you can also look for trailers and hitches for your own ride. They have more than 100 rental locations across the US, Canada and Alaska, so take a look at one near you before you book.

Book your campground, too, with Campspot

Before you just get out and drive, you’ll need to think about where you’ll park. Finding a campsite and RV park has never been easier with Campspot, allowing you to book your place in advance from over 2,000 campgrounds and 200,000 campsites.

Why are RV rentals so popular and what are the benefits to renting?

When you’re out on the open road with clear skies ahead and your family all together, you’ll realize just why RV trips have maintained their rank as a top trip idea.

According to the RV Industry Association, not only is it staying popular, but actually growing in popularity in the United States, with spring and summer being a top choice for when to hit the road.

“RVing is very popular, especially recently,” said Geraci. “A survey from the RV Industry Association showed that 67 million Americans plan on taking an RV trip this year, and while a lot of people RV year-round, the spring and summer are definitely the most popular months.”

If you’re one of the 67 million, then you also already know this, but part of the charm of renting an RV is being able to gather a larger crew than a typical four-door car, have all your belongings with you and have the freedom to drive wherever you please with no need to stop for a hotel or lodging.

“With an RV you have the freedom to travel where you want while also controlling your environment and budget,” added Geraci. “You get to bring all your comforts of home with you while also getting to experience the great outdoors.”

Which RV should I rent, and what are the differences between the types and models?

Now you know you want to rent, that was step one. Step two is deciding which class of RV is right for you.

There are three classes of RVs: Class A, B, and C. After that, there are also different types of towables, which are not fully motorized homes like the above, but rather attachments you can hook up to your vehicle. To help you know the difference and choose what is best for your crew, see the handy chart above from the RV Industry Association or read briefly below.

Class A: “Generally the roomiest of all RVs Luxurious amenities. Sleeps up to eight”

Class B: “Commonly called camper vans, Drives like a family van. Sleeps up to four.”

Class C: “Similar amenities to Type A. Optional sleeping space over the cab. Sleeps up to eight.”

Expert tips and tricks for how to rent and travel in an RV

Even if you’re rearing to go right now, pump the brakes a bit longer to hear some expert tips for renting an RV. Geraci suggests the following for a great trip, be it your first or hundredth.

Rent first, buy second: “For those considering buying an RV, but are not 100% sure on the model or type, trying the different options out through renting is a great way to help make a decision that is right for you.”

Look for delivery services: “For those who aren’t comfortable just yet with driving an RV, many rental companies offer delivery and set up.”

Plan ahead if you like the warmer months: “While a lot of people RV year-round, the spring and summer are definitely the most popular months.”

Don’t venture too far the first day of your trip: “A good rule of thumb is to stay within three hours or so from home so that you have plenty of time to get to the campground and set up while it is still light out.”

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