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Ducko Jan 19th, 2009 12:09 PM

Rental RV??
 
Have never rented an rv before. Thinking of trying this, possibly out of Las Vegas. Any hints/tips appreciated. Would be just for a couple so we don't want some huge vehicle.

AAFrequentFlyer Jan 19th, 2009 12:44 PM

Look at www.cruiseamerica.com.

Rent a "standard" self contained motorhome, or ~25ft. It will have all the comforts of home yet it's not that big, just perfect for a small family. Make sure you get the power cable, the water hose and waste hose. Also be very meticulous when checking the vehicle out and mark any and all scratches. The rental agency will be when you return it. Take out insurance. It will add to the total cost but it may be worth every penny if you happen to hit a tree during parking or scratch it at the gas station. It happens often to newbies driving a large vehicle for the first time.
Pick campgrounds with full hook ups. Otherwise you'll have to run a generator and it will be costly as the propane is not cheap.



Dayle Jan 19th, 2009 01:10 PM

Ducko,

For 2 people, you might like to try out a Class B, a camper van. They make some super nice ones with bathrooms and furnaces, even flat screen TVs and DVD players. (Personally I like to watch the stars.)

Check these out. Easier to drive, park and less gas.

Anonymous Jan 19th, 2009 01:18 PM

I own a Class C and have to agree with Dayle advice regarding the B (a modified van) being easier and cheaper to maneuver.

Connie Jan 19th, 2009 02:50 PM

www.rv.net/forums is very active and friendly. You can learn anything you want to know about RV's and RVing, including suggestions on the best place to rent your RV. Every company charges for different things so do some comparison shopping.

Connie Jan 19th, 2009 02:53 PM

I saw on another thread someone was trying to talk you out of renting an RV. We really enjoy traveling that way. You never have to pack/unpack.


TravlPhotog Jan 21st, 2009 03:42 PM

Two of the best vacations we've ever taken were in RVs. The first time, with another couple, we rented a "standard" cabover camper in Phoenix from CruiseAmerica, and did the Grand Canyon, Lake Powell & Bryce Canyon area. It was a bit cumbersome, but very comfortable. However, my husband was thankful there was another driver to help out. The second trip, we rented a "Campervan" in New Zealand and drove most of the length of both islands (3000 miles, mostly through mountains) with no problem. It was perfect for two people--a bit cozy, but easy to maneuver, since it's just a regular van outfitted with bed, fridge, stove, toilet and shower (we were never brave enough to use the shower--since most camper parks had very good amenities. Once we stowed our gear we never had to deal with lugging it around or worry about hotel reservations. Try it--I think you'll love it! One caveat--The day you pick up your rental drive it around for a while before you take off for parts unknown to make sure the air conditioner and fridge actually work. Our first trip the A/C didn't work in Phoenix and we had to return it and get another unit. Also, the fridge quite working after a couple of days. Be prepared to use a cooler if this happens.

tambennett Jan 22nd, 2009 07:44 AM

Good Luck planning your trip! We own a motorhome and always travel in it!

Just wanted to point out that the generator does not run on propane, it runs on gasoline, and not very much I might add! :)

jimisgood4something Jan 22nd, 2009 10:40 AM

Just a heads up... Be sure to talk to your insurance company before you rent an RV. The coverage from your auto policy may extend to the rental unit. Many times there is a limitation to the physical damage coverage if you rent an RV ($10,000 limit). God forbid, but if you get in an accident there may be a significant financial surprise. The cost of an endorsement to the policy is minimal for just a short period of time, but well worth it and it is much less than buying the coverage from the rental place. PS: I have rented before and it is a fun experience, but unless you are going off the beaten path, many times it is less expensive just to rent a car/suv and stay in a hotel.

Bobmrg Jan 22nd, 2009 11:53 AM

I second the idea of getting insurance that covers any damage to the RV. Before we owned our own RV, we rented one for a trip...and a rock kicked up by a semi creamed the windshield before we reached the city limits.


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