What Type and Size of RV Should You Rent?

Generally speaking, the larger the unit, the more space, privacy and comfort it will afford its guest. Also, the larger the unit will be more costly to rent and operate. It's important to fit the unit to your needs and desires, especially the level of privacy when sleeping.

Be careful of small units which claim to sleep five, six, or more. Check the size of the beds. Adults need a full 6' length for comfort. (Note to overseas guests: America is one of the few places in the world which hasn't adopted the Metric System, so be prepared to convert feet, miles, gallons, quarts, acres, etc., to metric units you can comprehend).

The basic types of units offered for rent in North America:

Class A Motorhomes
	A camping and travel vehicle weighing from 15,000 to 30,000 pounds and stretch from 24 to 40 feet in length built on a self-propelled vehicle chassis. They contain a kitchen, bathroom, sleeping and dining facilities, accessible to the driver's area. Living systems include electricity, heating, air conditioning, water and propane gas. Sleeps two to seven people. Living systems are self-contained, but when staying at camping grounds, most users hook up to electricity, water, sewer drain, and cable television.
Class C Motorhomes
	Class C Motorhomes are sometimes referred to as mini-motorhomes, and are scaled-down versions of Class A motorhomes. They range in weight from 10,000 to 12,000 pounds and stretch from 20 feet to 31 feet in length. They are usually built on truck chassis, with sleeping bunks atop cab. The living area is accessible to the driver's area. Sleeps two to six, if you include children. Have less features, space, and privacy than larger units, but is more economical to operate and is easier to drive and park.
Travel Trailers
	Travel trailers my not  be practical for overseas guests, or Americans who fly to a pick-up point since they require a heavy-duty vehicle to pull them. Towable units, 13 to 35 feet in length, have full living facilities, but it's illegal to use them while underway. Best when parked at a campground for extended periods, while you use the towing vehicle for local transportation and sightseeing. Check with your rental dealer to make sure your tow vehicle, hitch and wiring are adequate.
Sports Utility RV (SURV)
	Sports Utility trailers may not be practical for overseas guests, or Americans who fly to a pick-up point since they require a heavy-duty vehicle to pull them. Towable or motorized units, have full living facilities,  as well as a “garage” area to bring ATVs, motorcycles, and all your favorite sports equipment.
Folding Camping Trailers
	A lightweight, towable unit with collapsible sides which is about 10 feet in length when closed, and 15 to 23 feet when opened. When set up, they provide kitchen, dining and sleeping facilities for up to eight people. Check with your rental dealer to make sure your tow vehicle, hitch and wiring are adequate. This unit is an option if you want to spend part of a motoring trip camping out, using toilet facilities provided at campgrounds.

To find a rental company near you, click here.  Don't forget that you can also check in your local yellow pages under “Recreation(al) Vehicles/Motorhome: Renting and Leasing” or call your local RV dealer.