Are you dreaming of a road trip in a fully equipped RV, but not ready to make the purchase? Or perhaps you already own an RV and want to make some extra income by renting it out? RVshare offers a great solution for both renters and RV owners. This review dives into the ins and outs of RVshare, explaining how it works for both sides and what you need to know before using the platform.
What Is RVshare?
RVshare is the largest peer-to-peer RV rental marketplace in the world. It connects RV owners with those who want to rent an RV for a trip, helping owners earn extra income while allowing renters to experience the freedom of road-tripping without the commitment of buying an RV. Whether you’re looking to rent an RV or rent out your own, RVshare serves as a platform to make the process easier for both parties.
How to Rent an RV through RVshare
Renting an RV through RVshare is simple and convenient. To get started, you’ll need to be at least 25 years old and have a valid driver’s license. After registering, you can browse through a wide variety of RVs by entering your destination, travel dates, and preferences such as RV type and price range.
The search results will display listings with important details such as the RV’s make and model, sleeping capacity, price per night, and whether the owner offers delivery. Each listing also includes specifications, fee breakdowns, and reviews from previous renters, helping you make an informed decision.
Once you find the perfect RV, you can either send a booking request (for listings that don’t have instant booking enabled) or directly book the RV (for instant booking listings). After booking, you’ll either pick up the RV or have it delivered to your location. Before heading out, make sure you review the RV’s condition, including taking photos of any existing damage.
Cancellation Policy
RVshare offers three cancellation policies for RV owners to choose from:
- Flexible: Full refund (minus service fees) up to 30 days before the rental date. After that, a 50% refund is provided.
- Standard: Full refund (minus service fees) up to 30 days before the rental date. After 30 days, a 50% refund is available.
- Strict: Full refund (minus service fees) up to 30 days before the rental date, with no refunds afterward.
You can also change your booking within 24 hours if your reservation is more than a week away, and within one hour if booked less than seven days before your trip.
Service Fees for Renters
RVshare charges a service fee, which is a percentage of the total booking cost (excluding taxes and refundable fees). This fee covers customer support and 24/7 roadside assistance. Keep in mind that this fee is non-refundable once your reservation is confirmed. Additionally, you may incur post-trip fees for things like late returns, cleaning, or refueling, so be sure to understand the terms of your rental agreement before signing.
RVshare Insurance
Rental insurance is included with your RV booking, but you may choose to upgrade to a more comprehensive plan. The standard coverage includes up to $200,000 for collision and comprehensive damage (based on the RV’s value), as well as liability insurance. The deductible for insurance is $1,500. You can opt for enhanced or premium plans for more coverage and lower deductibles, with additional costs for these upgrades.
The standard insurance covers rentals in the U.S. and Canada but not in Mexico. For longer rentals (over 21 days), an additional 20% surcharge applies.
Benefits of Renting an RV from RVshare
- Vast Selection of RVs: As the largest RV rental marketplace, RVshare offers an extensive variety of RVs, from compact trailers to luxurious motorhomes.
- Flexible Cancellations: The platform offers different cancellation policies, so you can select one that suits your travel plans.
- 24/7 Roadside Assistance: The mandatory service fee includes 24/7 roadside assistance, including towing, tire service, and emergency supply delivery.
- Insurance Coverage: Basic insurance is included with your rental, giving you peace of mind during your trip.
Drawbacks of Renting an RV from RVshare
- Post-Trip Fees: Owners have the discretion to charge fees after the trip based on the RV’s condition, so it’s important to thoroughly inspect the RV at the start and end of the rental.
- Mileage Restrictions: Some owners impose mileage limits, so make sure to choose a listing with no mileage restrictions if you plan to travel long distances.
- High Insurance Deductible: The standard insurance deductible is $1,500, but you can opt for a higher daily premium to reduce this amount.
Listing Your RV on RVshare
If you own an RV and are looking to make some extra income, you can list it for free on RVshare. The platform lets you reach millions of potential renters, and you can set your own rates, including nightly, weekly, and monthly options. When listing your RV, be sure to provide detailed information, including specifications, amenities, high-quality photos, and any applicable fees (e.g., for pets or mileage).
RVshare charges a commission fee on each booking, which varies, and you’ll also need to pay a fee for any post-trip charges. However, the platform ensures a secure payment process and offers free insurance for qualifying RVs.
Pros of Listing an RV on RVshare
- Extra Income: Renting out your RV can generate additional income with minimal effort.
- Secure Payments: RVshare handles payments through a secure platform, so you don’t need to worry about scams or missed payments.
- Free Insurance: For RVs under 15 years old and valued at $200,000 or less, RVshare offers free insurance coverage during the rental period.
Cons of Listing an RV on RVshare
- Commission Fees: RVshare takes a commission from both owners and renters, which can eat into your earnings.
- Wear and Tear: Renting out your RV means it will experience more wear and tear, which could lead to higher maintenance costs.
- Limited Coverage for Older RVs: RVs older than 15 years are only covered for liability, not comprehensive or collision damage, so you’ll need to arrange for additional coverage.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a first-time renter or an experienced RV owner looking to make some extra income, RVshare offers a hassle-free and secure platform to connect renters with RVs. The fees and insurance options are clear, and the service provides 24/7 support and roadside assistance for peace of mind. While there are some potential drawbacks, the convenience and flexibility RVshare provides make it a top choice for many.
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