This summer, my husband and I decided to step out of our comfort zone and try something completely new – we rented an RV and drove across the state with our two kids! It was an experience we’ll never forget, and it turns out that RV trips are much more affordable and stress-free than many people think. Here’s what we learned about renting an RV and how you can save money on your own adventure.
The RV Experience
At first, I’ll admit, I was a little intimidated. We were used to driving our compact Toyota Prius, and this RV was a beast compared to what we were used to. But once my husband got the hang of driving, it quickly became second nature. The freedom of being able to take our home on the road was exhilarating. We didn’t even need to pack traditional luggage; we simply loaded up the RV with everything we needed.
One of the best perks of renting an RV was the convenience. We had a bathroom we could use anytime, which is especially handy when you have kids who need to use the restroom every hour! Plus, the RV was equipped with a fridge, kitchenette, and plenty of space for our own food and essentials, making meals on the road incredibly easy.
Cost of Renting an RV
So, is renting an RV expensive? The answer is it depends on your approach, but overall, I’d say it’s more affordable than you might expect. RV rental prices vary, but they generally range from $71 per night for a basic model to around $200 per night for a luxury option. For a week-long trip, you can expect to pay between $1,000 and $1,400, not including gas, camping spots, or any extras like bedding and cookware.
It’s important to remember that the RV serves as both your vehicle and your accommodation, which means you can essentially stay in a new place every night without having to pack and unpack. That alone makes it worth considering for a family road trip.
5 Tips to Save on Your RV Rental
If you’re thinking about renting an RV, there are several ways to cut costs. With a little planning, you can save quite a bit on your rental. Here are my top five tips:
1. Bring Your Own Kitchenware and Bedding
Many RV rental companies charge extra for cookware, bedding, and linens. These kits can cost around $100, which adds up quickly. Instead, consider packing your own dishes, pots, pans, and bedding. Most of us have extra sheets and blankets lying around, and you can easily pick up some disposable plates and cutlery from the store. This simple step can save you a lot of money!
2. Choose the Right Size RV
It’s tempting to go for the largest RV, but unless you’re traveling with a large group, it’s probably unnecessary. Choose an RV that comfortably fits your family size. Renting a smaller RV will save you money and make it easier to drive. We rented a 2018 Thor Vegas that slept four people comfortably and was small enough to drive without stress.
3. Be Smart About Your Campground
Campground prices can vary significantly, so it’s important to choose wisely. While some campgrounds with all the amenities can cost $100 or more per night, you can find more rustic options at state parks for as low as $12 per night. We opted for a middle-ground option at Lake Rudolph Campground & RV Resort, which offered a great balance of nature and modern amenities. It had a large pool, on-site stores, and even a shuttle to the nearby theme park, making it the perfect spot for families.
4. Cook Your Own Meals
One of the biggest advantages of an RV is that it’s essentially a mobile kitchen. Instead of eating out every day, use the fridge and kitchenette to prepare your own meals. We cooked our meals over a campfire and saved a lot of money by bringing our own snacks. Cooking in the RV is not only cheaper, but it also adds to the whole camping experience.
5. Plan Affordable Family Fun
Camping is all about getting away from the routine, so leave the electronics behind and embrace the outdoors. We brought simple games like UNO and board games to entertain the kids, and we spent plenty of time relaxing around the campfire. Lake Rudolph also had a small water park that was incredibly affordable at just $8 per person. It was a great value compared to the much larger theme parks, and the kids had a blast!
The Bottom Line
If you’re looking for a unique family getaway, renting an RV can be an amazing experience. It offers the freedom to travel at your own pace, stay in different locations without packing and unpacking, and enjoy the comfort of your own space on the road. It’s a great way to experience new places while saving on accommodation costs.
Before booking, be sure to shop around for the best deal, as rental prices can vary by season and company. Websites like GoRVing.com are excellent for comparing rental options and finding the best prices in your area.
Our family’s RV trip was a fantastic adventure, and we’re already planning our next one! Happy travels!
Have you ever rented an RV before? What was your experience like? Let us know in the comments below!
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