Regardless of where you’re off to, hiring an RV or camper when on your travels is a great way to see the sights whilst saving money on accommodation. But you may be surprised to hear that renting an RV in the states is somewhat different to renting the same vehicle back home in the UK. Knowing what to expect can help you to get the most from your experience and avoid any arduous American misdemeanours.
The differences of hiring an RV in the US vs. the UK
1. You're not limited in choice of vehicles.
Your recreational vehicle hiring horizons are truly expanded when you go to the US. The roads out there are generally much wider than in the UK, meaning larger vehicles are far easier to manoeuvre. That being said, it’s best to get a camper that suits your group and caters for the number of people on board, this will help keep fuel costs low. And if you’re looking for something a bit different check out the whimsical camper vans offered by
Escape Campervans.
2. Not all companies offer unlimited mileage.
Unlimited mileage is not automatically included in the rental price in the U.S. This is an important consideration as the distances between cities in the states tend to be much greater than back home. Ensure you scan your chosen camper rental site thoroughly and check T&Cs before signing any contracts otherwise you may just be wishing you took that midnight train to Georgia!
3. There is often a charge for driving one way.
Depending on the cities you’re travelling to, there may be a surcharge for picking up your vehicle in one city and returning it to another city.
What you'll need to bring to hire an RV in the US
To hire a camper or RV in the US, you'll need to bring your valid UK driver's license as well as a major credit card and your passport. No special endorsement or license is necessary. Keep in mind that the name on the credit card must match the name on your driver's license. If you've recently gotten married or changed your name, you'll want to get your documents amended before travelling.
Other things to know
1. Most RV rental agents charge extra for drivers under age 25.
2. Virtually all US rental companies prohibit you taking their vehicles into Mexico.
3. Most rentals have a minimum rental period, usually three to seven days.
4. There is a strict safety limit as to how many passengers can occupy a camper or RV for hire. This number varies depending on the make and model of the vehicle.
So there you have it, some top tips to ensure you have an ‘awesome’ time travelling in your American RV!
