When you start planning a road trip, you probably imagine the freedom of the open highway and the comfort of stopping wherever you want. Renting an RV turns that daydream into reality, rolling your transportation and your bed into one spot.
But before you hit the road, you’ll want to know what actually affects those rental prices. That way, you can budget smartly and skip any nasty surprises.
RV rental costs jump around depending on a few things. The type of RV, how long you’ll keep it, the season, and even where you pick it up all play a part.
If you’re new to this, digging into some RV rental FAQs is a good move. It’ll help you dodge extra fees and make better decisions.
Whether you’re after a cozy campervan or you want the elbow room of a big motorhome, understanding these basics puts you in the driver’s seat.
How Much Do RV Rentals Cost in 2026?
When you’re planning your trip, expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $450 per night for an RV rental. That’s a pretty big range, right?
You’ll find RVs for rent on peer-to-peer platforms that connect you with local owners. These sites make it simple to browse for motorhome rentals, travel trailers, or a Class B motorhome that fits your budget.
Search by location to see what’s available near you.
Filter by type—pick anything from a pop-up camper to a big motorhome.
Check delivery options if you’d rather have the RV brought right to your campsite.
Some RV rental companies offer monthly rentals at a discount. That’s a lifesaver for longer adventures.
Additional RV Rental Costs
When you’re figuring out your RV trip budget, don’t just look at the nightly rate. You’ll run into extra charges depending on what kind of RV you pick, how far you drive, and where you decide to camp.
Common Additional Fees
Fee Type
Typical Range
Notes
Campground Fees
$30–$100 per night
Paid at parks or campgrounds for overnight stays.
Cleaning Fees
$50–$200
Charged if the RV isn’t returned in clean condition.
Security Deposit
Around $500
Refunded if no damage occurs.
Pet Fees
$50–$150
Charged when pets are allowed and travel with you.
Dumping Fee
$10–$25
Some parks charge to empty waste tanks.
You’ll probably pay mileage fees if you go over the included distance. There’s also fuel costs—and let’s be honest, those big rigs like Class A RVs or toy haulers can really guzzle gas.
If you’re rolling with a Class B campervan or a pop-up, you’ll save a bit on fuel.
I always recommend looking into rental insurance or roadside assistance. You never know when you’ll need it.
Taxes, local service fees, and optional delivery fees for towables can sneak onto your bill too. Always read the fine print before you book.
Ways to Save Money on an RV Rental
You can cut your RV rental costs with a few savvy moves. Try renting an older model on sites like RVshare or Outdoorsy. Honestly, those rigs still drive great and usually cost less.
Tip
Savings Potential
Book early
More options and lower prices
Travel during spring or fall
Off-season rates are cheaper
Choose older RVs
Lower daily rental fees
I like to compare rates from Cruise America, RVezy, and El Monte RV. Sometimes you’ll find a deal that just makes sense.
Planning Your RV Getaway
Before you fire up the engine, think about your route and what kind of stops fit your style. A good RV plan mixes scenic drives with some downtime.
Explore state parks, national parks, and top-rated campsites. Here’s a quick table to get you started:
Don’t forget to use mapping apps and campground finders. They’ll make your RV travel so much easier.
If you want inspiration, check out guides like 10 Best RV Road Trips in America or Best RV Resorts in Florida. There’s always a new adventure waiting out there.
Save It for Later
I’ve spent years on the road, crisscrossing North America with my husband. We’ve picked up a thing or two about RV camping, fixing things on the fly, and just living that wild road life.
You’ll find our stories and hard-earned tips over at Travels with Ted and a bunch of other RV resources.
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