Renting an RV

[YoLaDu]

Has anyone ever rented an RV that sleeps 6 to 8 for a family vacation trip?

Would love to hear any pros/cons of people that have.

Was thinking about a 3 week vacation cruising around the western states?

 

[MirrOlure]

I had always been a huge RV-hater, but we did rent one for the 4th of July, and I actually thought it was a blast. A big, "however".........our trip was a little different, in that we used the RV as a place to stay (in place of our Ike-Destroyed beach house), only used it 3 days, and did not use it as a mode of transportation.

As far as a service, we used Amercian Dream Vacations (love that name!) and couldn't have been happier with the vehicle we got, and the service they provided. I would highly recommend using them.

Figure up to $1,500.00 per week for rental for a 2-slideout Class A (which you'd probably need for 8 people). They include something like 150 miles per day in that, but more miles = more cost. Of course, you've got to gas it up as you go along.

I did have to drive ours from North Houston, down to the beach, and it wasn't too bad, although don't expect to travel much over 65 mph.

All of the "features" worked well......the generator can run up to something like 100 hours. The A/C was fine. Toilet, shower and water were fine. Of course, on a long trip like that, you'll have to frequently dump your "gray water" and "black water" and take on fresh water.

We were amazed at how much storage there is and how much crap you can haul around with you.

Such a trip would take a huge amount of planning, IMO. Study your RV parks along your route........some are dumps, some are nice. Also, will you tow a car? If not, how will you get around at each of your destinations?

If I were doing a 3 week "Western States" tour, I'd strongly consider National Park-hopping, lining up reservations at the various lodges at numerous National Parks, and driving a traditional vehicle.

But the RV rental thing is definitely doable, and the outfit I referenced above is worth a look.

 

[johnny chimpo]

Yo-
Only 4 grand:

Shaggin Wagon

 

[GHoward]

There was another thread around here a few months bacl about this same thing. I mentioned that the price of renting an RV is on par with renting a modest hotel room (100-150 per night) and then the mileage charge and gas on the RV makes it worse.

We normally try to mix staying at hotels and tent camping. Like 2 days camping, 1 day hotel. It works out well and saves a lot more money.

I don't have kids, but I know if I had a nicely furnished RV, I would be much more likely to sit inside, with the AC watching satellite TV, and I would assume children would be worse.

Of course if you are a high roller, then by all means go for it. Get the 40 ft diesel with 4 slideouts, leather couches, and a TV on the OUTSIDE.