Renting a camper van costs between $75 and $250 per day depending on the vehicle size, season, and how far in advance you book

A camper van rental puts a bed, kitchen, and bathroom on wheels, so you pay for accommodation and transportation in one daily rate. That rate varies sharply: a small van sleeping two might run $80 a night in low season, while a large model sleeping six could hit $300 in summer. The difference between renting from a national company like Cruise America or RVshare (a peer-to-peer platform) can be $50 to $100 per day for the same vehicle type, so comparing both matters.

Beyond the daily rate, you'll encounter mileage charges, insurance, fuel, and campground fees. Some companies include unlimited mileage; others charge $0.25 to $0.50 per mile over an allowance. Insurance through the rental company typically costs $15 to $35 per day and covers damage to the van itself. Campgrounds run $20 to $60 per night depending on amenities and location. A week-long trip for two people in a mid-size van can total $1,200 to $2,000 all-in.

Key Takeaways

  • Daily rental rates range from $75 to $250 depending on van size and season, and booking three to six months ahead usually saves 20 to 30 percent.
  • You'll pay extra for mileage (if not unlimited), insurance ($15–$35 per day), fuel, and campground fees ($20–$60 per night), so calculate the full trip cost before committing.
  • Most rental companies require a driver's license, credit card, and a minimum age of 21 to 25; some charge a young driver fee for renters under 30.
  • Cancellation policies vary widely—some allow free cancellation up to 48 hours before pickup, while others charge 50 to 100 percent of the rental fee regardless of timing.
  • Damage waivers and roadside information are optional add-ons that protect you against repair costs and breakdowns, but read the fine print on what they actually cover.

Where to rent a camper van and what each option offers

The three main rental channels are national companies, regional operators, and peer-to-peer platforms. National chains like Cruise America, El Monte RV, and Camping World have locations in most states, offer consistent vehicle quality, and provide 24/7 roadside support. The trade-off is higher daily rates and less flexibility on pickup and drop-off locations.

Regional operators—often independent RV rental businesses—typically charge 15 to 25 percent less than nationals but have fewer locations and may offer less roadside coverage. RVshare and Outdoorsy are peer-to-peer platforms where private owners rent their own camper vans; rates are often lower, but you're dealing with individual owners rather than a company, and support can be slower. Check reviews on each platform before booking, because quality and responsiveness vary owner to owner.

Each channel has different cancellation and damage policies. National companies usually allow free cancellation 48 hours before pickup; peer-to-peer platforms often charge a percentage of the booking fee even if you cancel early. Read the cancellation terms before you pay the deposit.

What's included in the rental and what costs extra

A base camper van rental includes the vehicle, bedding, basic kitchen equipment (stove, fridge, sink), and a bathroom with toilet and shower. Fuel is almost never included—you pay for what you use. Mileage is included in some rentals (unlimited) and capped in others (typically 100 to 150 miles per day, with overage charges of $0.25 to $0.50 per mile).

Insurance is optional but strongly recommended. The rental company's damage waiver typically costs $15 to $35 per day and covers collision and theft damage to the van. Your personal auto insurance may not cover a rental camper van, so check your policy before declining the rental company's coverage. Some credit cards offer rental car protection, but camper vans are often excluded.

Campground fees, parking, and activities are your responsibility. National parks charge $15 to $35 per night for a campsite; private campgrounds range from $20 to $80 depending on amenities. Some renters park at Walmart or rest areas for free, though policies vary by location. Roadside information (towing, lockout service, fuel delivery) is an add-on that costs $10 to $20 per day and can save you hundreds if something breaks down far from a service center.

Age requirements, driver's license, and insurance documentation

All major rental companies require a valid driver's license and a credit card in your name. The minimum age is typically 21, though some companies require 25. If you're under 30, expect a young driver surcharge of $15 to $25 per day. Some companies waive this fee if you hold a credit card with rental car coverage or if you're renting for a week or longer.

You'll need to provide proof of insurance. If you have personal auto insurance, bring your policy declaration page showing your name and coverage limits. If you decline the rental company's damage waiver and rely on your own insurance, confirm in writing with your insurer that camper vans are covered—many policies exclude them. If you don't have auto insurance, you must purchase the rental company's coverage.

Some companies ask for a second form of ID (passport, military ID) and may run a background check or driving record check. Rental companies deny bookings to drivers with recent DUIs, multiple accidents, or serious violations, so disclose any history upfront rather than being denied at pickup.

Booking timing, seasonal pricing, and how to get the best rate

Camper van prices spike in summer (June through August) and around holidays. Booking three to six months ahead typically saves 20 to 30 percent compared to booking two weeks out. Winter rentals (November through February) are cheapest, often 40 to 50 percent less than summer rates, though availability is lower in cold climates.

Weekday rentals are cheaper than weekends. A van that costs $150 on Friday might be $110 on Tuesday. If your travel dates are flexible, shifting by a few days can cut your total cost by $100 to $300 for a week-long trip.

Compare prices across platforms: the same van model may be $120 per day on Cruise America's website and $95 on RVshare. Use Google Flights' car rental tool or Kayak to search multiple companies at once, though you'll still need to visit each company's site to confirm the final price. Watch for promotional codes—national companies often offer 10 to 15 percent discounts for AAA members, military, or first-time renters.

Cancellation policies and what happens if you need to change your dates

Cancellation terms vary significantly. Most national companies allow free cancellation up to 48 hours before your pickup date. If you cancel within 48 hours, you typically lose 50 to 100 percent of your deposit. Some peer-to-peer platforms charge a cancellation fee (often 25 to 50 percent of the total booking) regardless of when you cancel.

If you need to change your dates rather than cancel entirely, contact the rental company as soon as possible. Many will move your reservation to new dates at no charge if the van is available, though you may pay the difference if prices have risen. Waiting until a week before your trip makes date changes difficult and expensive.

Travel insurance that covers trip cancellation is available through third-party providers and sometimes through credit card benefits. It typically costs 5 to 10 percent of your rental cost and reimburses you if you cancel for covered reasons (illness, family emergency, weather). Read the fine print—most policies exclude cancellations due to change of mind.

Damage, fuel, and return procedures you need to know

You're responsible for any damage to the van beyond normal wear and tear. The rental company will inspect the vehicle before you leave and document any new dents, scratches, or interior damage with photos. If damage is found, they'll charge you for repairs—costs can range from $200 for a minor dent to $5,000 for major structural damage. This is why the damage waiver is worth the $15 to $35 per day cost.

Fuel is your responsibility. Most companies require you to return the van with a full tank. If you don't, they'll charge you for fuel at a rate that's typically 50 to 100 percent higher than the local gas station price. Fill up at a regular gas station the day before you return the van, not at the rental location.

Return procedures are straightforward: drive to the rental location during business hours, let the company inspect the van, and sign off on the final bill. If you're returning outside business hours, some companies allow you to leave the keys in a lockbox and email photos of the odometer and fuel gauge. Confirm the return process when you book, especially if you're returning on a weekend or holiday.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a special driver's license to rent a camper van?

No. A standard driver's license is sufficient for camper vans up to about 26,000 pounds (most rental vans fall well below this). Larger RVs may require a commercial driver's license depending on your state and the vehicle's gross vehicle weight rating. Ask the rental company about the specific van you're booking.

What if the camper van breaks down during my trip?

Call the rental company's roadside information number when ready. If you purchased their roadside information add-on, they'll cover towing and repairs. If you didn't, you may be charged for towing and repairs out of pocket. Most rental companies have partnerships with repair shops and can get you back on the road within hours, though in remote areas it may take longer.

Can I rent a camper van one-way, or do I have to return it to the same location?

One-way rentals are available through most national companies and many peer-to-peer platforms, but they cost significantly more—typically 30 to 50 percent extra. The rental company charges a relocation fee to cover the cost of moving the van back to its home location. If your trip is one-way, factor this fee into your budget.

What's the difference between a camper van and a motorhome?

A camper van is typically a converted van or small truck with sleeping, cooking, and bathroom facilities for two to six people. A motorhome is a larger, purpose-built vehicle with more space and amenities, sleeping up to 12 people. Motorhomes cost more per day ($150 to $400) but offer more comfort on longer trips. Camper vans are better for couples or small families and fit in regular parking spaces.

Can I bring pets in a rental camper van?

Most rental companies allow pets, but charge a pet fee of $50 to $150 per trip and require you to disclose the pet when booking. You're responsible for any damage the pet causes (chewing, accidents, odor). Confirm the pet policy in writing before you book, and keep the van clean during your trip to avoid additional cleaning charges.