How Much Does it Cost to Rent a Travel Van? A Price Breakdown

Wondering how much it costs to rent a travel van? The campervan rental cost can vary widely, depending on factors like the type of van, rental duration, location, season, and included amenities. This article breaks down all the costs associated with travel van hire so you can plan your camper van budget with confidence.

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Fathoming Travel Van Rental Rates

Several key elements influence van rental prices. It’s important to grasp these factors to accurately estimate your adventure van rental price.

Van Type and Size

The most significant driver of van rental prices is the type and size of the vehicle.

• Class B Campervans (aka “Van Campers”): These are built on van chassis (like a Ford Transit or Mercedes Sprinter) and are typically the most expensive to rent due to their self-contained nature and features like a kitchen, toilet, and shower. Expect to pay between $150 and $400+ per night.
• Converted Cargo Vans: These are cargo vans that have been customized with basic camping amenities like a bed, storage, and sometimes a basic cooking setup. They usually fall in the $100 to $250+ per night range.
• Pop-Top Campers: These vans feature a roof that pops up to create additional headroom and sleeping space. Their daily van rental cost is usually from $120 to $300+.
• Larger RVs (Class C and Class A): While not technically “vans,” these are also used for road trips. They offer a lot of space and amenities, but are much more expensive to rent (often $200 to $500+ per night) and are less nimble on the road.

Rental Duration

As with most rentals, the longer you rent, the lower the per-day cost tends to be. Most companies offer discounts for weekly or monthly rentals.

• Daily: Expect the highest average cost to rent a van for a trip on a daily basis.
• Weekly: Often comes with a discount, potentially saving you 10-20% compared to daily rates.
• Monthly: Can offer significant savings, sometimes reducing the daily rate by as much as 30-50%.

Location

Popular tourist destinations and areas with high demand for outdoor activities will generally have higher van rental prices. The location where you pick up and drop off the van matters significantly. Cities near national parks, like Las Vegas (near Zion, Bryce Canyon, and Grand Canyon) or Denver (near Rocky Mountain National Park), often have higher prices.

Seasonality

Peak seasons (summer, holidays, and school breaks) will command higher rates. Off-season (spring and fall) generally offer better deals.

• Summer: Highest demand, highest prices. Book well in advance.
• Spring/Fall: Moderate demand, moderate prices. Good balance of weather and cost.
• Winter: Lowest demand (except in ski resort areas), lowest prices. Be prepared for winter driving conditions.

Inclusions and Add-ons

The amenities included in the rental and any add-ons you select will affect the final cost.

• Included Mileage: Some rentals offer unlimited mileage, while others have a daily or weekly limit. Exceeding the limit results in extra charges per mile.
• Insurance: Coverage options vary. You may be able to use your personal auto insurance or purchase coverage from the rental company.
• Kitchen Kit: Includes cookware, utensils, dishes, and other kitchen essentials.
• Bedding: Sheets, blankets, pillows.
• Camping Gear: Chairs, tables, awnings, outdoor cooking equipment.
• Bike Racks, Kayak Racks, etc.: For carrying outdoor equipment.
• Pet Fees: If you’re traveling with a pet, expect to pay an additional fee.
• Generator Use: If the van has a generator, you might pay extra for usage.

A Detailed Look at RV Rental Expenses

Beyond the base rental fee, several other RV rental expenses should factor into your camper van budget.

Insurance Costs

Insurance is a mandatory cost, but you have options.

• Rental Company Insurance: This is the easiest option, but usually the most expensive. It provides comprehensive coverage and peace of mind.
• Personal Auto Insurance: Check if your policy covers rental vehicles, particularly larger vans. Some policies offer limited coverage or exclude certain types of RVs.
• Third-Party Insurance: Companies specializing in RV rentals offer policies that may be more affordable than the rental company’s options.

Mileage Fees

Pay close attention to the included mileage. If you plan to drive long distances, unlimited mileage is crucial. Otherwise, calculate your estimated mileage and factor in the per-mile overage fee.

• Unlimited Mileage: Ideal for long road trips.
• Limited Mileage: Best for shorter trips with a defined route.

Cleaning Fees

Most companies charge a cleaning fee to prepare the van for the next renter. These fees typically range from $75 to $200. You might be able to avoid or reduce the cleaning fee by thoroughly cleaning the van yourself before returning it.

One-Way Rental Fees

If you plan to pick up the van in one location and drop it off in another, expect to pay a one-way rental fee. This fee covers the cost of returning the van to its original location. These fees can range from a few hundred dollars to over $1,000.

Security Deposit

Rental companies require a security deposit to cover potential damage or loss. The deposit is usually refunded when you return the van in good condition. Security deposits can range from $500 to $2,000.

Campsite Fees

Factor in the cost of campsites. Prices vary depending on location, amenities (hookups for water, electricity, and sewer), and time of year.

• National Park Campgrounds: Usually the most affordable, but book well in advance.
• State Park Campgrounds: Often offer a good balance of price and amenities.
• Private RV Parks: Offer the most amenities (pools, showers, laundry, etc.) but are also the most expensive.
• Boondocking (Free Camping): Camping on public lands without hookups. Research regulations and locations carefully.

Fuel Costs

Fuel consumption varies depending on the van type and driving conditions. Budget accordingly. A larger Class B campervan can easily get 15-20 MPG on the highway, while a converted cargo van might get 20-25 MPG.

Tolls and Parking

Don’t forget to budget for tolls and parking fees, especially if you’re traveling in urban areas.

Food and Activities

Account for the cost of food, drinks, and activities. Cooking your own meals in the van can save money compared to eating out.

Assessing Travel Van Rental Prices: Example Scenarios

To illustrate the range of potential costs, here are some example scenarios for a one-week rental:

Scenario 1: Budget-Friendly Converted Cargo Van

• Van Type: Basic converted cargo van with a bed and minimal amenities
• Location: Off-season in a less popular area
• Rental Rate: $100/night x 7 nights = $700
• Insurance: $100
• Mileage: Included
• Cleaning Fee: $75
• Campsites (3 nights): $75
• Fuel: $200
• Food: $300
• Total: $1450

Scenario 2: Mid-Range Class B Campervan

• Van Type: Class B campervan with kitchen, toilet, and shower
• Location: Peak season in a popular tourist area
• Rental Rate: $250/night x 7 nights = $1750
• Insurance: $150
• Mileage: Included
• Cleaning Fee: $100
• Campsites (6 nights with hookups): $300
• Fuel: $300
• Food: $400
• Total: $3000

Scenario 3: Luxury Class B Campervan

• Van Type: High-end Class B campervan with all the bells and whistles
• Location: Peak season in a very popular area
• Rental Rate: $400/night x 7 nights = $2800
• Insurance: $200
• Mileage: Included
• Cleaning Fee: $150
• Campsites (7 nights with full hookups): $450
• Fuel: $350
• Food: $500
• Add-ons (bike rack): $100
• Total: $4550

Tips for Securing Affordable Travel Van Rental Rates

Follow these tips to reduce your campervan rental cost:

• Book in Advance: Especially during peak season.
• Travel in the Off-Season: Spring and fall offer lower rates and fewer crowds.
• Compare Prices: Shop around and get quotes from multiple rental companies.
• Look for Discounts: Check for AAA, military, or other discounts.
• Consider Different Locations: Picking up the van in a less popular area can save money.
• Cook Your Own Meals: Reduces food costs.
• Boondock: Take advantage of free camping on public lands (where permitted).
• Pack Light: Avoid extra baggage fees.
• Read the Fine Print: Thoroughly review the rental agreement to avoid surprises.
• Decline Unnecessary Add-ons: Only pay for what you need.
• Clean the Van: Return the van in good condition to avoid extra cleaning fees.

Table: Factors Affecting Travel Van Rental Cost

Factor	Impact on Cost	Notes
Van Type	Significant Increase	Class B campervans are most expensive; converted cargo vans are more affordable.
Rental Duration	Decrease (Per Day)	Weekly and monthly rentals offer discounts.
Location	Significant Increase	Tourist destinations and areas near national parks are pricier.
Seasonality	Significant Increase	Peak season (summer, holidays) has the highest rates.
Inclusions/Add-ons	Increase	Mileage, insurance, kitchen kits, bedding, camping gear, etc. all add to the cost.
Insurance	Increase	Consider personal auto insurance or third-party options.
Mileage	Increase (If Exceeded)	Pay attention to included mileage and per-mile overage fees.
Cleaning Fee	Increase	Clean the van yourself to avoid this fee.
One-Way Fee	Significant Increase	If picking up and dropping off in different locations.
Security Deposit	Temporary Increase	Refunded upon return of the van in good condition.
Campsite Fees	Increase	National park campgrounds are cheapest; private RV parks are most expensive. Consider boondocking.
Fuel Costs	Increase	Budget based on van type and driving distance.
Tolls/Parking	Increase	Especially in urban areas.
Food/Activities	Increase	Cook your own meals to save money.

FAQ About Travel Van Rentals

What is the minimum age to rent a travel van?
The minimum age is usually 21 or 25, depending on the rental company.

Can I rent a travel van with unlimited miles?
Yes, some companies offer unlimited mileage, while others have mileage limits.

Who is responsible for damage to the rental van?
You are responsible for any damage, but insurance can cover some or all of the costs, depending on the policy.

Can I bring my pet in a rental van?
Some companies allow pets, but may charge a pet fee. Check the rental agreement.

What is included in a travel van rental?
This varies, but typically includes the van itself, basic insurance, and sometimes kitchen equipment or bedding.

Can I drive a rental van to another country?
This depends on the rental company. Some allow cross-border travel, while others do not. Check the rental agreement.

What happens if the rental van breaks down?
Rental companies usually offer roadside assistance. Contact them immediately if you experience any problems.

Is it cheaper to rent a van or stay in hotels?
It depends on the length of your trip and travel style. For longer trips with multiple destinations, a van can be more cost-effective.

Can I sleep anywhere in a rental van?
No. Research local laws and regulations regarding overnight parking. Use designated campgrounds or boondocking locations.