3 things to know before renting an RV short-term

Purchasing an RV isn’t feasible for everyone. These massive vehicles often come with a pretty hefty price tag, and not everyone wants to take on the responsibility of owning one. A little goes a long way, and briefly renting an RV for a trip is sometimes a better option than buying one to own. We want your RV travel experience to be as fun, safe, and comfortable as possible, so we’ve listed a few important things to keep in mind before committing to a rental.

RVs are not a one-size-fits-all product

When you picture an RV, a preconceived notion likely springs to mind. You may be picturing a simple, semi-cramped, double-wide trailer. While it's true that many RVs fit this stereotype, there are far more RV styles than one might expect. Before leaping into the world of RV rentals, it’s important to understand which RV model will serve you best. Are you traveling with a big, bustling group? In this case, a large Class A RV is probably the best option for maximizing comfort. Class As are bigger than other models, and they have a reputation for luxury. 

If you’re working on a tighter budget or traveling solo, a smaller vehicle will likely do the trick. Class B RVs are a bit smaller, but they still come with built-in amenities like bathrooms and kitchens. Class C vehicles are smaller, less expensive, and often work great for those who prefer a rugged camping experience over more luxurious vacations. Transwest has plenty of Class A, B, and C RVs for sale, so start your research today by exploring our large selection. 

Don’t expect all glitz and glam

Nowadays, RV stays can be as comfortable as luxury hotel rooms. However, a few less-than-glamorous parts of RV’ing still act as a turn-off for some. The disposal of wastewater, or the water that comes from sink, shower and toilet use, is an unpleasant necessity of RV travel. In order to properly discard wastewater (sometimes called “greywater” or “black water”), one must find a dump station. Here, you’ll have to connect your vehicle’s sewer hose to a dump station and wait until it drains completely. 

The disposal process may differ slightly based on the kind of toilet your RV comes with. This task can be undeniably smelly and disgusting, but many think it's worth it for the sake of traveling in a comfy RV decked out with amenities. Before going headfirst into an RV adventure, really stop to think about whether you’d prefer the traditional perks of a motel, hotel, or bed and breakfast. 

Learn the ins and outs of RV campgrounds

A solid campground can make or break an RV trip. Campsites all over the country welcome RV lovers eager to explore, and it’s important to find a camping spot that strikes your fancy. If you like spending summers with sand between your toes, rest assured there are plenty of options for RV sites with incredible beachside views. For thrill-seekers, many American theme parks feature RV campgrounds on or near their property. Certain campgrounds are bare-bones opportunities for peaceful camping, whereas some are bustling with tennis courts, convenience stores, fire pits, and more. 

Once you choose a campground that excites you, become familiar with a few RV camp rules of thumb. Keep noise to a minimum, especially at night, so the environment remains relaxing for everyone. Keeping your site clean and free of litter is another etiquette tip, and disobeying it could easily create tension between yourself and other campers. Because smoking policies and other rules can vary, we recommend looking into these before arriving in your rental. As they say, when in Rome, do as the Romans do. Assimilate into the world of RV life by developing a good understanding of the behavior considered appropriate in these circles.

Weigh the pros and cons of renting

The decision to rent an RV isn’t one to enter blindly. In fact, there are many questions you should ask yourself before making the final call. Buying, leasing, and renting are all viable options; the right choice depends on your circumstances. Getting acquainted with RVs as a method of transportation is an important step to opening this door and dipping your toes into RV culture. If you want to make your next vacation memorable, try renting an RV to make the journey just as special as the destination.