Welcome to The Learn to RV Guide to Renting the right RV for YOUR roadtrip

So you’re thinking about renting an RV for an adventure this summer before the kids head back to school? Can I tell you how much I seriously love that plan! At Learn to RV, we want to help you make it smooth, safe, and SERIOUSLY fun! But maybe you don't even own a camper... yet. And you aren't really even sure how to start planning. That's ok. Spontaneity can add a bit of sparkle to that adventure!

From choosing the right RV to rent to navigating which campgrounds to stay at, we can help provide all the tips and tricks you need to create unforgettable memories on the road.

Get ready for an exciting journey filled with exploration and bonding before school bells ring again!

Map it Out

Kick off your RV adventure by charting your must-see stops while keeping your plans flexible for spontaneous detours and relaxation. Utilize helpful apps like RV Life to locate campgrounds, dump stations, and fuel along the way.

Be mindful of school-year crowds; August's first weekend is a peak camping time in the U.S., as families squeeze in one last summer trip before school starts.



When you're packing, opt for versatile gear like collapsible kitchenware and microfiber towels. Don’t forget some roadschooling essentials—maps, journals, and nature guides—for fun and educational stops. And remember, layers are key; temperatures can swing dramatically in the mountains and deserts!

As summer winds down and the kids prepare to head back to school, there's no better time for a sweet getaway. The hustle and bustle of summer camping gives way to serene weeks before Labor Day, creating the perfect escape for working couples and retirees alike.

Renting an RV during this golden window can lead to unforgettable road trips filled with exploration and relaxation. At Learn to RV, we’re here to guide you through every step, ensuring your RV adventure is both memorable and hassle-free!

So where can I rent an RV if I don't own one?

Looking to hit the open road without the commitment of ownership? Online rental platforms like RVshare and RVezy make it a breeze! Picture it: It's pretty much like Airbnb, but for RVs— you can even filter by size and amenities to find your perfect match.

We have all seen a Cruise America RV rolling down the highway...and that's one way to go for sure! They offer reliable Class C motorhomes at convenient pickup spots nationwide, while Outdoorsy ensures a diverse selection for every RV with personalized options for your distict travel style. Let's take a better look at these companies and maybe a few you havent even heard of yet.

 RV Concierge Services Can Elevate Your Next Road Trip

Planning an RV adventure should feel exciting—not exhausting. This means that mapping out scenic stops and reserving prime campsites, can be a lot to juggle. Enter the RV Trip Makers: your behind-the-scenes partner in crafting a road trip that’s memorable, smooth, and tailored to your travel style.

Whether you're a weekend wanderer, a full-time nomad-in-training, or just looking to dip your toes into RV travel, concierge services offer expert-level support that turns "where do we even start?" into "we’re ready to roll."

🚐 What Is an RV Concierge Booking Service?

Think of it as a personal assistant for your road trip. These services will handle all the moving parts—from itinerary planning and RV sourcing to campground bookings, activity reservations, and sometimes even grocery delivery. Whether you’re renting a rig or already own one, they’re there to make travel logistics a breeze.

RV Rentals

At Learn to RV, we believe it’s essential to decide what truly matters to you in your RV journey.

Are you leaning towards a nationwide company that boasts a robust support network?

If you’re new to RV travel or simply want a rental experience that’s streamlined and stress-free, Cruise America makes a compelling choice. While it may not boast the diverse rig selection of some person-to-person rental platforms, its consistency, simplicity, and nationwide presence more than make up for it.

Every RV is corporate owned and maintained, ensuring consistent quality across the board. Plus, 24/7 roadside assistance is included, this gives you peace of mind in case the unexpected happens. With over 120 rental hubs across the U.S. and Canada, the convenience of pickup and drop-off options is unbeatable. If you are planning a one-way road trip they’ve got you covered!  While that option provides peace of mind, you might find fewer layout options and more basic interiors, typically in sizes of 30 feet or less.

El Monte RV is also a national company and prides themselves on excellent customer service with a wide selection  of motorhomes. El Monte RV is a solid choice if you want larger rigs, free generator use, and pet-friendly travel. El Monte RV is one of the most established names in the U.S. RV rental industry, with a legacy that stretches back to 1970. It all began in El Monte, California, and has grown into a nationwide brand offering rentals at over 27 locations.

Road Bear RV is another excellent choice and is often at the top providing customer service as well as often having larger RVs and a new fleet guarantee,  this means your rental RV is less than one year old. Your pick up locations are in 7 major US citiesand they even offer airport transfers and one-way rentals between cities, with a fee, of course.

If you are thinking about hitting the road for a few months there are things to definitely consider. If you are traveling on a budget, Cruise America offers some of the most wallet-friendly long-term rental rates out there. Their RV's may be a little seasoned, but the savings can make extended adventures a little easier on your wallet.

On the flip side, if comfort, modern amenities, and a newer RV are on your wish list, then consider the upgrade to El Monte or Road Bear. Both brands deliver a more premium experience, so while the price tag is a bit higher, the added comfort could be well worth it for a smoother journey.

Whether you're counting pennies or chasing plush pillows, there's an RV rental out there to match your epic trip.

If you're seeking a unique adventure that goes beyond standard vacationing, consider tapping into the peer-to-peer rental scene with platforms like Outdoorsy or RV Share. These options provide diverse styles of rigs and delivery services from local hosts who are eager to share their passion for the open road.

If it’s your first time renting an RV, Fireside RV Rental makes the whole experience simple, comfortable, and grounded in values you can trust. As a Christian-based company, Fireside is known for treating travelers with kindness, honesty, and exceptional care, whether you’re heading out for a weekend getaway or a cross-country adventure.

Each camper is privately owned but professionally managed, so you get the personal touch and the reliability. With locations nationwide, you’ll find rentals in popular destinations, and many even offer delivery, setup, and pickup—so there's no guesswork. Want it fully stocked with groceries, a generator, or a cozy s’mores kit? With Fireside you have some options.

When you're just getting started, that kind of thoughtful service can make all the difference.

For those who prefer a bit of stealth in their travels, renting a nimble van can unlock the hidden gems of the world, allowing you to blend in seamlessly wherever you roam. Let's dive into a few companies that do this.

A nice class B can get you all the perks but sometimes with much better gas mileage and depending on where you want to explore, these units may be easier to take off the trail.

If you and your travel companion are sitting at dinner trying to decide which brand is right for you.... your conversation might look a bit like this:

"I'm thinking of renting a campervan, but there are so many companies out there. Any idea where we should start?"

"I suppose that just depends on our travel vibe! Do we want something unique and budget-friendly,  if so we might start looking on Outdoorsy or RVshare. We can rent directly from owners, so there’s lots of variety—and the pricing’s usually pretty flexible, especially in the off season."

"Oh cool, it's almost like Airbnb but for for vans?"

"Exactly. But if we want something maybe a bit more consistent, a company like Escape Campervans or Cabana are solid choices. The van builds are standardized, so you know what you're getting—but there’s less customization."

"What if I want a bit more luxury life on the road?"

"Well then Cabana might be the way to go. Their vans come with showers, toilets, and even Wi-Fi. it’s like a hotel on wheels. Pretty awesome."

"What if we want a bit more adventure?I was thinking about buying a membership to RV Overnights to stop at a few farms and breweries as we travel this summer."

"Then I think maybe we should compare Native Campervans or Boho Camper Vans. They’re built for rugged travel, with solar panels, outdoor showers, and all the gear we might need to camp anywhere in style."

Outdoorsy is still one of the top options for renting a camper van. They connect RV owners with renters and you can generally choose from anything from a vintage air stream, class A, B or C and still experience the variety from a travel trailer to something bigger or even smaller like a van.

If you're planning that last minute epic summer road trip? You're in luck—there’s a growing list of family-owned and boutique campervan rental companies ready to make it unforgettable.

While we’ve highlighted some top choices, remember that many of these companies require renters to be at least 21 years old. Instead of rushing to book the first van you find, take the time to explore your options to match your travel needs with what each company provides.

This list has it all! There are cozy vans perfect for couples to more rugged vehicles built for the backcountry which means there’s an option for every kind of adventurer. Be sure to check places local to you as well. I am sure we have missed a few!

Escape Campervans

Native Camper Vans

Jucy Campervans

Boho Camper Vans

Indie Campers

VanCraft Campervans

Voyager Campervans

Moterra

Ondevan Camper Rentals

Basecamper Van Rentals

Rocky Mountain Campervans Rentals

Vander Outdoors

Vegas Campers

CamperChamp

RoadSurfer

Peace Vans Rentals

Vintage Surfari Wagons

Hawaii Surf Camper Rentals

Canadream

This is not an exclusive list. Please check for local family-owned companies near you and explore all your options.

Whether you're plans include chasing sunsets in the Rockies, cruising the California coast, exploring the lush roads of Hawaii, venturing through the wilds of Canada, or even road-tripping internationally, these companies offer vans with character, comfort, and the flexibility to go wherever your wanderlust leads you.

If you’re thinking about ditching the traditional lifestyle for the freedom of full-time RV living, renting a unit first is a smart move! At Learn to RV, we recommend considering a few key factors: Think about your travel style—do you want a compact rig for easy maneuverability or a spacious model for comfort? Examine the rental terms, including mileage limits and insurance options, to avoid unexpected costs. Also, check the amenities that matter most to you, like a kitchen setup or bathroom facilities. Finally, take it for a test drive to see how it feels to live on the road—your adventure awaits!

What to Keep in Mind When Picking the Perfect RV

(for you)

on Your Epic Summer Road Trip

Pet Friendly RV Rentals

Bringing your pet along on an RV road trip can turn a great getaway into an even bigger family adventure—but finding a pet-friendly rental does require a little extra legwork.

Not all RV rental companies roll out the red carpet for our furry companions, and those that do may have size limits, cleaning fees, or breed restrictions.

Still, for many travelers, the effort is well worth it to avoid leaving their four-legged co-pilot behind.

Before booking, confirm the pet policy, ask about fees, and make sure your rig is suited for life with paws on board—because nothing beats a tail wag at sunset.

Are you are considering the full-time RV life?

If you’re thinking about ditching the traditional lifestyle for the freedom of full-time RV living, renting a unit first is a smart move!

 At Learn to RV, we recommend considering a few key factors: Think about your travel style—do you want a compact rig for easy maneuverability or a spacious model for comfort?

Be sure to take the time to fully examine the rental terms, including mileage limits and insurance options, to avoid unexpected costs.

Also, check the amenities that matter most to you, like a decent kitchen setup or a nice hot on demad shower.

Finally, take it for a test drive to see how it feels to live on the road. This could be especially important if you rent a bigger than life motorhome.

Here are a few reasons why we think this is a good idea.

• You’ll experience daily routines, connectivity challenges, storage limitations, and the emotional side of road life without long-term pressure.

• From Class B van agility to Class C space and Class A comfort—you'll quickly learn what suits your travel and work style. This will give you an opportunity to test the layout you think you want

• Try out domicile research, banking workarounds, solar/battery setups, and internet access in real-world conditions. This will also give you the opportunity to test out fulltime logistics, especially if you are a working age RVer with children.

• Choosing the wrong rig can be a costly mistake. Renting lets you experiment with features like roof type, interior layout, and gear organization and features before fully diving in.

• If you're traveling with others, it always helps you assess how everyone adapts to shared space and nomadic rhythms. This is what we call a family fit test.

Renting Before You Commit: Why a 4–6 Week RV Trial Could Change Everything

So you're thinking about going full-time on the road in an RV. You want to embrace the open skies, follow the endless highways, and experiencethe freedom of life untethered. But before you hand over your house keys, perhaps you should consider renting an RV for a few weeks to test out if the lifestyle is right for you.

And not just for a weekend. Try 4 to 6 weeks  (or more).

That’s where the magic happens and where the truth shows up.

Week 1–2: Vacation Mode Activated

The first couple of weeks feel like a highlight reel. You’re eating out, exploring new towns, reveling in sunrise coffees with scenic views, and posting dreamy snapshots with hashtags like #VanLifeGoals. It's fun, spontaneous, and delightfully novel.

You’re in full adventure mode—and it’s awesome. Maybe you even took vacation for this part of the adventure.

Week 3: Reality Rolls In

By week three, normal life knocks on the RV door. You’ll hunt down a local laundromat, figure out the best way to restock groceries in unfamiliar towns, and probably spend time learning how to dump your tanks without drama.

Suddenly, this lifestyle asks for a little more patience—and a little more planning. Believe me, we have been at it for over 12 years. We lived the first 5 months in full vacation mode with six children. But we ditched the house and were all in with no other plan on the horizon. By this point we were in full adventure mode. Hiking. Biking, Exploring museums and science centers.

Week 4: Finding Your Groove

At this point, routines begin to form. Your crew knows where everything lives inside the rig. Travel days become less chaotic, you’re learning the rhythm of setup and teardown, and you finally stop forgetting where you stashed the coffee filters. You probably even have a few new RV apps on your devices.

You will need down days to lie around a read a book, cook a favorite meal and maybe swim at the campground pool. Be sure to add a few lazy relazing days so you don't suffer burnout. You’re not just traveling anymore—you’re adapting.

Week 6: The Turning Point

This is where clarity lands. You've camped in different climates, solved minor mishaps, and adjusted your daily flow. You've seen your rig perform, learned how the systems really work, and discovered what living small truly feels like.

And by this point, you'll be having conversations with the members of your traveling adventure crew. Is this just a bucket list adventure? Is it the beginning of a lifestyle transformation?

Renting gives you the freedom to experiment without commitment. It’s a hands-on trial run that lets you answer questions like:

• Does this layout work for me?
• How do I feel handling RV maintenance?
• Can I stay connected for work or school on the road?
• How does everyone in the rig feel sharing this space?

Choosing to rent before you buy can save you money, headaches, and even heartbreak. Because the truth is—life on the road is incredible, but it's not for everyone. And finding that out before jumping all-in is one of the smartest, most empowering decisions you can make.

Adventure Awaits

At Learn to RV, we believe that renting an RV is more than just a means of travel—it's an exciting gateway to new adventures!

Perhaps you're captivated by breathtaking sunsets during a summer road trip or just exploring serene landscape in the off-season, we want to help you navigate your RV journey.

This can include experimenting with different RV layouts to discovering how your daily routines shift on the road, there may be a learning curve.

There truly are so many charming, family-owned rental companies at your fingertips, you can find the perfect rig that matches your adventure.

Remember, your journey could spark a new transformation!