Tips for a Perfect Camper Van Rental

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Renting a camper van is an excellent way to explore new places with freedom and comfort. However, to ensure a successful trip, it is crucial to be well-prepared. In this guide, we will provide you with essential tips for a perfect camper van rental, from trip planning and selecting the right vehicle to managing the budget and understanding camping regulations. With this information, you will be ready to enjoy an unforgettable adventure on wheels.Let the journey begin!

Before renting a camper van

1. Trip Planning

  • Route and Destinations:
    • Before looking for a camper van rental company, you should research the places you want to visit.
    • Consider factors such as accessibility for camper vans, the availability of campsites, and service areas.
    • Use trip planning apps and GPS systems specifically for camper vans that help you avoid routes unsuitable for large vehicles.
  • Trip Duration:
    • Clearly define the duration of your trip, as this will affect the rental cost and daily planning.
    • Don’t forget to plan rest stops.
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2. Selecting the Camper Van

Look for camper van rental companies available in the area. Here’s a list of our favorites:
Here’s an article where we explain in detail the types of camper vans or campers that you can rent.

3. Budget

  • Rental Cost:
    • Request quotes from camper van rental companies and compare prices, included services, and conditions.
    • Read the contract carefully to understand the terms and conditions, including charges for extra mileage and cleaning fees.
  • Fuel and Tolls:
    • Estimate the fuel cost based on the estimated mileage and the camper van’s consumption.
    • Find out about tolls on your route and consider using apps to help you calculate these costs.
  • Insurance:
    • Ensure the insurance covers accidents, damage, and theft. Consider purchasing additional coverage if necessary.
    • Check if the insurance includes roadside assistance and under what conditions this service is provided.
    • If you plan to travel abroad, consider taking out insurance with healthcare coverage. Even if you have a European Health Insurance Card, keep in mind that in many countries healthcare has some form of co-payment, and it is advisable to be covered for repatriation or accommodation for companions.
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4. Requirements and Documentation

  • Driver’s License:
    • Ensure your driver’s license is valid for the type of camper van you are renting. In some cases, a special license may be required.
    • Some countries require an international driving permit in addition to your national license.
  • Required Documents:
    • Bring all the documents required by the rental company, such as your passport, ID, booking confirmation, credit card, etc.
    • Make sure you have all the necessary documents for international travel if you plan to cross borders.

5. Rules and Regulations

  • Traffic Laws:
    • Familiarize yourself with the traffic laws of the country or region you will visit, especially those specific to your camper van or RV.
  • Camping Regulations:
    • Research local regulations on wild camping and areas where parking and overnight stays with a camper van are allowed. For example, here we explain the difference between overnighting and camping in Spain.
    • With TripStop, you can see thousands of spots in Spain where you can park overnight and/or camp without any problems, as it only shows places where this is permitted.

During the Camper Van Rental

1. Vehicle Inspection

  • Initial Inspection:
    • Before starting the trip, perform a thorough inspection of the vehicle with a rental company representative.
    • Check the overall condition of the camper van, including the tires, lights, brakes, and engine.
  • Operating Instructions:
    • Make sure you understand how all the systems in the camper van work, from the kitchen and bathroom to the electrical and water systems.
    • Request a user manual or tutorial from the rental company if necessary.
    • Pay special attention to the control panel for activating electricity or hot water and how to fill and empty the gray and black water tanks.

2. Maintenance During the Trip

  • Water and Waste:
    • Empty the waste water tanks at designated sites.
    • Carry hoses and necessary adapters to refill water and empty the tanks.
  • Cleaning:
    • Perform daily cleaning of common areas and the kitchen to avoid bad odors and garbage accumulation.

3. Driving and Safety

  • Safe Driving:
    • Adapt your driving style to the size and weight of the camper van, especially on curves and during parking maneuvers.
    • Maintain an appropriate speed and keep in mind that a camper van requires more time to brake.
  • Parking:
    • Plan ahead where you will park each night and ensure that the chosen location is safe and legal.
    • Use specific apps and maps for camper vans to find authorized and safe places to stay overnight.
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After the Rental

1. Returning the Camper Van

  • Final Cleaning:
    • Clean the camper van and ensure it is returned in the same condition you received it in (don’t forget to empty the waste water tanks!).
  • Final Inspection:
    • Perform a final inspection with a rental company representative to ensure everything is in order.
    • Document any damage or issues to avoid disputes over the security deposit.

2. Service Evaluation

  • Feedback:
    • Companies value your opinion. Leave a review about your experience with the rental company. This can also help other travelers make informed decisions!
Ready for the adventure? Dive into the TripStop network of camper van areas and start planning your next getaway.