Have you always watched the #vanlife movement from afar, yearning to try it and forge ahead in this adventurous lifestyle that overflows with freedom? Then rent a campervan, go on a road trip and follow the horizon with your windows down. Wake up to unreal landscapes and fall asleep after joyous sunsets and campfires. If the vanlife appeals to you and you want to try it for the very first time, you need to be prepared.
To make your life easier, check out the RVezy mobile app, which is like Airbnb for RVs. You can enter your dates and your departure city and a multitude of vehicles will be displayed. You will be able to read the reviews received by the various owners and ask all your questions before renting an RV.
Here’s some solid advice to know before renting an RV for the first time.
1. Do I need a special driver’s license to rent a campervan?
No, you only need your standard class 5 driver’s license if the RV you are renting has less than three axles. You don’t have to rent a motorhome as big as a city bus. You can start with a super accessible (and really cute!) converted van.
Also see: 10 Toronto Campervans That Will Make Your Summer Travel Dreams Come True
When you rent with RVezy, you won’t even need to worry about insurance because owners have their RVs fully insured and ready to rent!
2. Is there a minimum age requirement to rent a campervan?
Yes, be careful, you must be at least 25 years old in order to register as an RV driver.
3. How many people can comfortably sleep in the RV?
Knowing how many people can comfortably sleep in an RV before you rent it is important to avoid feeling like you’re in a can of sardines. Don’t hesitate to ask owners for the maximum number of people who can travel comfortably in their vehicles.
4. How much does it cost to rent a campervan?
On the RVezy.com rental site, prices are different depending on the RV you choose. It is, therefore, best for you to find the one that meets your needs and your budget. Prices average between $150/night and $300/night.
On RVezy, you can make several requests at the same time, and also temporarily reserve an RV and compare the prices of each. Payments are easy and secure. As with any RV rental company, you will be asked for a deposit of CAD $1,000 prior to your trip, which will be returned when your trip is over.
Nomadic Tip: To avoid additional costs, calculate your mileage before booking an RV. It could save you a lot of money!
5. Make a list of everything you need before you go.
It may seem obvious, but it is essential to make a list before travelling in a campervan. Whether it’s batteries, flashlights, snacks or whatever, you can never be too prepared! Many rentals include equipment such as bedding, a propane stove, and camping accessories, so check out what they offer first.
6. Find places on your path that allow for overnight RV parking.
Several shopping centers or supermarkets allow RVs to stay overnight for free. Don’t hesitate to sleep there if it’s on your way. This will give you a free and trusted rest stop.
7. Make sure to test all RV systems before you go.
This step is imperative. Check the air conditioning, the plumbing system (sink, toilet, shower), if the tires are inflated, etc. You will have peace of mind on the road. If you have any questions along the way, owners are easy to reach through the Rvezy app and the company offers 24/7 roadside assistance.
8. Bring a first aid kit
While travelling, it is important to be careful, but if something does happen, you’re better safe than sorry. A first aid kit is essential, whether it is to supply Band-Aids, hydrogen peroxide, or Tylenol. Rest assured that you’ll be prepared for any emergency.
9. First of all, plan your destination.
It’s all well and good to want to go on an adventure to nowhere, but for your first VR trip, you might be better off knowing where you’re going. Here are some things to consider:
- Do you prefer hot or cold weather?
- Do you want to take a long or short trip?
- What exactly do you want to do when you arrive at your destination?
- Are you looking for more secluded or more fashionable places?
- Is it a vacation with family or friends? Or solo?
If you are looking for a vacation nearby, Quebec and Ontario are full of sublime provincial parks and places to visit. Should you go a little further, Western Canada is very tempting with the majestic Rocky Mountains and vivid blue lakes. It’s up to you to find what suits you best!
10. Reserve in advance.
Booking your destination is important, but don’t forget to reserve your RV. Even though there are thousands of vehicles to rent on RVezy, it is best that you reserve in advance to make sure you have the RV you need and that respects your budget.
The busiest time for RV renters is June through October, which means those months are filling up quickly. The majority of campgrounds and provincial parks begin to take reservations for the summer starting in January.
Summer is a great time for RVing enthusiasts, but spring and fall camping should not be underestimated. Each season has its advantages and disadvantages. If ever your campervan and your dream destination are already fully booked, all you have to do is make your trip a little later in the season!
11. What size vehicle meets your needs?
Between Class A caravans, towable recreational vehicles, folding tent trailers and more, you can quickly be confused. How do you choose the best option for you? You must first look at the type of vacation you want to take, the number of people accompanying you and the length of your stay. These factors will help you make a decision.
The RVezy site recommends these RVs for every situation:
- Class A: long-term use, space for the family, trips around the country.
- Class B: weekend trips, week trips and day trips.
- Class C: short family trips, solo trips, weekends with friends.
- Travel Trailers: trips where you will need your own car, weeklong trips, full-time campers.
- Fifth Wheel Trailers (Fifth Wheel): Family travel, long-term use, trips where you will need a separate car.
- Folding trailers and tent trailers: budget trips, occasional camping trips, a complement to a big trip, ideal for beginners.
12. Make a budget
Last but not least, this may sound obvious to you, but budgeting and pricing your expenses upfront can save you a lot of money. Calculate your mileage, look at the entrance fees to national parks, research the prices of the activities you want to do along the way and then make a budget. You will then have to try your best to respect it, but that is another story.
Now that you have the basic information to prepare for your first RV road trip, you can start thinking about your destination and the type of vehicle you will be renting on RVezy.
So, when are you renting a campervan for your first RV trip?
Join Rvezy for free and find the perfect campervan for you!
Location for renting a campervan/RV according to your city in Ontario:
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- The best RV/campervan to rent in Barrie
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Source: Rvezy Blog
