Before renting a motorhome it is a good idea to examine how the vehicle is going to be used. A conversion or camper van, also known as a class B motorhome, is a good choice for short trips, people that like spending a lot of time outdoors, and smaller groups or families. Class C motorhomes are a step up in terms of size and comfort, and because they use traditional truck or van cabs they are more familiar and easier to drive for people that are new to recreational vehicles (RVs). For large families and long trips, class A motorhomes can offer expansive interior space and entertainment options in case of inclement weather. Another factor to consider is that RVs are larger than other vehicles and handle differently, so it is a good idea to go on a test drive before renting a motorhome.
The first thing to do when renting a motorhome is to decide what type to get. Class B motorhomes are typically the smallest and cheapest to rent. These conversion vans are often very easy to drive because they have the same form as a regular cargo van. Large groups and families may have difficulty fitting in these small motorhomes, and a lack of sleeping space could necessitate the use of tents or other alternative arrangements.
For larger groups and longer trips, it is a good idea to consider a class C or A motorhome. Class C motorhomes are built on extended truck or van frames and often have more sleeping space than a comparably sized class A due to the presence of a cab-over bunk. The familiar van cab of a class C motorhome can be comfortable for people that are used to driving such vehicles. Class A motorhomes are built on special heavy duty frames and can be found in much longer configurations. These motorhomes can offer excellent visibility when driving because they ride higher and often have large windshields and side windows.
After the motorhome has been chosen, there are a number of other factors to examine. The size of the fresh and waste water tanks are important. Larger groups will need larger tanks, which can affect the decision making process when renting a motorhome. Other factors to examine are the seating configuration, number of sleeping areas, and whether the unit has a generator or inverter. Various accessories can also be an important part in the decision making process depending on how the RV is going to be used.
When renting a motorhome for the first time, it is usually a good idea to pick out a few potential units. If someone has never driven an RV at all, it can also be a good idea to select at least one class C and class A to try out. A short test drive can be useful in helping to determine what type of motorhome a person is most comfortable operating. It is also a good idea to consider insurance, and many rental agencies will offer temporary coverage if a driver’s existing policy is insufficient.