‘Vanlife’ is booming and renting a motorhome has never been easier! A perfect combination for a great start to a road trip. But before you plan a trip, it's good to take a moment to think about step 1; which motorhome am I going to rent and where? Because renting a motorhome can still be quite tricky. We have received many questions such as; which sites are reliable, what should I consider and what are the costs. We have therefore listed 5 ‘campervan hire tips’ for you.
Tip 1: Choose a motorhome destination.
In our opinion, what we love about an RV trip is the ultimate sense of freedom. You can go wherever you want and easily take your ‘house’ with you. So it's not surprising that you'll find a huge number of motorhome itineraries and maps online. destinations can find. And you really don't have to go to the other side of the world for that. You can find countless campervan routes across Europe. Think of countries such as Portugal, Italy, Germany, Croatia or the Netherlands! For example, check out the website of the Camperelfstedentocht.
Why should you start by choosing a route or destination? Because when renting a motorhome, you are often stuck with the mileage you are allowed to drive during your trip. Of course, you are allowed many more kilometres, but this often makes renting a motorhome much more expensive.
Tip 2: Consult motorhome rules and regulations
Every country has different motorhome rules and regulations. For example, some countries allow wild camping and others absolutely not. We advise you to find out well in advance. Especially if you travel in high season, it is important to know where you can and cannot stay. Want to travel around Europe? Read our blog: Travelling around Europe by motorhome, this is what you need to know!
Tip: Through apps such as Motorhome Contact & Park4Night you can easily free parking spaces find. These spots are rated by other motorhome users. You can also find campsites, service areas and parking options at popular locations on these apps. Both apps are free and super easy to use.
Tip 3: Motorhome rental? Determine your budget.
One of the most frequently asked questions we have received is, what does renting a motorhome cost? The nice thing is that you can make a motorhome and an entire motorhome trip as expensive or as cheap as you want. An average price is therefore difficult to give. These factors affect the motorhome price and we recommend that you take a closer look:
The period: During the high season (summer months), motorhome rental prices will be higher. So are you not tied to a specific period? Then see if you can rent a motorhome in the low season.
Size & type of motorhome: The bigger and more luxurious the motorhome, the more expensive it will be. There are many different motorhomes, each with different facilities or extra options. Check which options you need and which you don't!
Holiday duration: Yes, this is indeed logical but the longer you are away with the campervan the more you will lose. However, you can still save on this. For example, see if a motorhome rental company offers a discount if you rent the motorhome for a certain period of time (two weeks or longer).
Tip: Planning a complete round trip? Then keep in mind that you rent a motorhome with unlimited mileage. This allows you to go wherever you want without worrying about any extra costs.
Tip 4: Find a good motorhome rental company.
Per country, there are different companies where you can rent a motorhome. We assume for now that you rent a motorhome in the Netherlands. Depending on your wishes, destination and available budget, you can easily compare different motorhome rental companies.
There are four major platforms in the Netherlands where individuals rent out their motorhomes for great prices. These are Campstar, Camptoo, Goboony, and Paul Camper. These websites make it incredibly easy to rent a motorhome. You are guaranteed to find a motorhome here that meets all your requirements.
However, we also recommend you take a look at Wildcampers.co.uk. We have now 2 times at Wildcampers rented a motorhome. Once through Camptoo and once directly from Wildecampers. We are incredibly satisfied with these motorhomes. They are striking, perfectly sized and the biggest advantage... you rent the motorhomes with unlimited mileage.
Tip: Check in advance how the motorhome is insured. We recommend choosing a motorhome that is WA+ All Risk insured.
Tip: Would you rather not plan your own route but just get in and go? Then check out the website of Travelhome. They will develop a tailor-made trip for you. Ideal!
Tip 5: Checking a rented motorhome
Yes! It's done, you have a destination, an itinerary and a campervan! Now it's almost time to go on an adventure. Before you set off for your destination in all your enthusiasm, we advise you to check the motorhome thoroughly. Are there any damages? Do you have a spare tyre? And are all other facilities available?
Always ask if you can take photos or possibly a video to record any damage. That way, you will not encounter any surprises or unpleasant discussions after your trip. In addition, always ask for a guided tour as you want to use all facilities properly.
Are you renting a large motorhome? Ask for its dimensions. That way you'll know exactly which tunnels or car parks to avoid.
Do you know how everything works? Let's start your journey of a Thousandtravelmiles!
We hope this information helps you plan your motorhome trip. Still have questions? You can always send us a message via Instagram.
We try to keep this blog about renting a motorhome as up-to-date as possible but this cannot be done without your help. If anything has changed, please let us know via [email protected].
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