Embracing the van life is a dream for many of us. It’s an opportunity to hit the open road, explore new places, and live life on our own terms. But before we can start our adventure, we need to find the perfect van. That’s where van rental companies come in.
With so many options out there, it can be tough to know where to start. From companies offering a range of RV models to those specializing in converted camper vans, the choices are endless. It’s essential to consider factors like pricing, mileage, and additional costs. But don’t worry, we’re here to guide you through the process and help you find the best places for renting a van for your van life journey.
Factors to Consider Before Renting a Van for Van Life
Making the shift to van life is an adventure that requires careful planning and a deep understanding of what is/will be required, cost-wise and otherwise. From budget considerations to the layout of the van, there are numerous elements influencing the overall experience. We’re here to help you navigate through these factors.
Budget Considerations
One of the first things to consider during the transition to van life is your budget. The cost of renting a van can vary wildly based on several factors. For instance, factors such as the time of year, van model, pickup location, and the duration of the rental can significantly impact the price.
Check out this data below to provide you a rough idea of potential costs you might encounter with different rental companies.
| Season | Rental Per Night | Weekly Quote (7 Nights) | One-way fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Low | $49 – $180 | $611 – $1140 | $150 – varies by location |
| High | $119 – $400 | $919 – $1656 | $150 – varies by location |
Understanding these varied costs can help you budget accordingly and prepare for any additional expenses. Some rental companies may reserve the right to add extra fees for services like cleaning, generator use, or not emptying the tanks before returning the van.
Size and Layout of the Van
The size and layout of the van play a major role in your van life experience. A more spacious layout can offer the luxury of a comfortable full-sized bed, kitchenette, and ample storage space for your essentials. But remember, larger vans are inherently more challenging to navigate and park.
Consider a company’s RV models on offer. Some might have just a few models, while others might boast a more extensive inventory. Bear in mind that even a company’s compact RV could be larger than most true converted camper vans, which could be a plus or a minus, depending on your needs and comfort level with larger vehicles.
Remember, pets can also impact the size and layout you’ll need in your van. If you plan to bring your furry friend along for the journey, you’ll need to account for their space needs too — not to mention potential cleaning fees!
Making an informed decision requires consideration of all these factors. Your final choice will ultimately depend on your individual needs, lifestyle, and of course, your budget. Choosing the right van can make your transition to van life a smooth and enjoyable ride. So take your time, conduct your research and get ready to embark on an incredible journey.
Top Rental Companies for Van Life
A key part of settling into van life is selecting the right place to rent your new home. In our search for the top van rental companies, we considered crucial factors like availability of models, extras, and overall service.
Company A: Features and Reviews
Let’s first discuss Company A. The company stands out with its four RV models on offer. Their lowest size model — the compact RV, clearly outshines what most would consider a converted camper van. They operate with a vast inventory, which unfortunately means customer service might not always shine during peak times.Despite their large inventory, their cancellation policy currently covers a full refund if you call off your two-way booking at least a week before the beginning of your trip.
Company B: Pricing and Availability
Turning our attention to Company B, their pricing structure shows great flexibility depending on the season and pick up location. To illustrate how prices can vary, here’s a markdown table:
| Season | Starting Price per week (7 nights) |
|---|---|
| Low | $611 |
| High | $919 |
Company B offers temporary residents the choice of two camper van models: The California Classic and The Topanga Tourister. Between these two, passengers will also find unlimited miles options, an ample list of kitchen supplies, portable cooking stoves, refrigerators, and more. Unfortunately, animal lovers might be disappointed, as pets aren’t currently allowed in their vans.
Company C: Customer Service and Support
Lastly, but certainly not least is Company C. Esteemed as one of the most trusted online camper van rental companies, they offer users a wide selection of camper vans accommodating various needs and budgets. Their service stretches beyond specific rental locations, allowing you to find a van virtually anywhere in the country.
Moreover, the company provides an extensive insurance package and complimentary 24/7 roadside assistance that begins the moment you have the keys. Always remember, though, in their peer-to-peer model you might encounter fraudsters on either end of the deal so checking reviews and researching your hosts or renters is paramount.
Overall, these three companies offer quite the range. Whether you place more importance on extras and model variety, consistent stellar service, or prefer a more comprehensive support system in your rental company, plan carefully as there are options out there to match your requirements perfectly.
Popular Destinations for Van Life Adventures
After finding the perfect rental company for our van life adventure, let’s explore some fantastic and popular routes that offer diverse experiences. Whether it’s the lure of the coastline, the grandeur of national parks, or the hustle and bustle of urban exploration, we’ve got it covered for you.
Coastal Route: Exploring Beaches and Seaside Towns
Cruising down a coastal route encapsulates the quintessential van life experience. Nothing beats the joy of waking to the sound of crashing waves, taking a brisk morning walk along the sandy beach, and sipping coffee against a backdrop of brilliant sunsets. From the vibrant seaside towns of California to the serene New England coast, these routes promise an exciting journey filled with fresh seafood, stunning landscapes, plentiful water activities, and laid-back beach town vibes.
National Parks Tour: Visiting Scenic Natural Wonders
Another spectacular option for van life enthusiasts is a tour of our nation’s national parks. Exploring these scenic natural wonders from the comfort and convenience of a camper van imparts a sense of adventure, freedom, and closeness to nature. Imagine cooking dinner at the foot of towering mountains or savoring breakfast while watching a herd of deer graze in the distance. With the camper van’s flexibility, it’s easy to take our time, unplanned halts, and detours led by awe-inspiring sights or spontaneous wildlife viewing opportunities.
Urban Exploration: City Adventures on Wheels
While the wilderness and open roads often symbolize van life, urban exploration presents an entirely different yet exhilarating perspective. Taking the camper van into cityscapes lets us experience vibrant city life, iconic landmarks, cultural experiences, and delicious street food. Getting around the city in a camper van brings us convenience, a comfortable place to retreat to, and saves on hotel costs. Be ready for some challenges though, like finding overnight parking spots or navigating narrow city streets. But with careful planning, the pay-off could be a city adventure on wheels that is unique and memorable.
Conclusion
We’ve journeyed through the best places to rent a van for van life. From coastal routes with picturesque beach towns to national parks brimming with scenic wonders, there’s a spot for every adventurer. If city life is more your speed, urban exploration offers a unique twist on the van life experience. The beauty of van life lies in its flexibility. You can take spontaneous detours, get up close with nature or immerse yourself in urban culture. It’s clear that no matter where your journey takes you, embarking on a van life adventure opens up a world of diverse experiences. So, go ahead and plan your next adventure. The open road awaits!
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