Renting a Small RV: Everything You Need to Know
Perfect for couples, families with kids, and solo travelers, small RVs offer the best of both worlds: flexibility and comfort, without the stress of driving a larger vehicle.
Renting a small RV comes down to a few key decisions: how many people are sleeping in it, what amenities you need, how much driving you’ll do, and whether you plan to camp off-grid or stay at campgrounds with hookups.
This guide explains when a small RV rental makes sense, how to choose the right vehicle for your trip, and what it’ll actually cost. We’ll cover the models, features, and real-world considerations that matter most for first-time renters and experienced road-trippers alike.
If you’re planning a national park trip, you’ll also see how a smaller RV makes navigating park roads and fitting into parking spots much simpler.
Why Rent a Small RV?
Small RVs have everything you need for a comfortable and convenient trip: a kitchen to cook your meals, a nice bed, climate control, and a bathroom. Plus, you can drive and park without the stress of a bigger vehicle.
Ease of Driving and Parking
First-timers often find RVs intimidating, but small RVs handle like trucks or SUVs. The Winnebago Solis PX, for example, is only about two feet longer than a Ford Expedition and fits in standard parking spots.
Class B camper vans and compact Class C models are easy to maneuver on winding scenic routes, narrow park roads, and in small-town parking lots. Most renters feel comfortable within the first hour of driving.
“The Solis campervan was perfect for our family of four visiting Yellowstone and the Tetons. It was great being able to move our camp throughout the day and have the ability to cook most of our own meals on the go.”
Variety of Models
What exactly is a small RV? In general, you’re looking at:
Class B RVs or Camper Vans
Winnebago Revel Camper Van
Sleek, self-contained, and easy to drive, Class B camper vans are perfect for solo travelers, couples, or friends. They have a compact kitchen, convertible beds, and a toilet/shower combo without sacrificing maneuverability.
Many also come equipped with solar panels and outdoor showers for off-grid flexibility.
Examples of Class B RVs:
Winnebago Revel (sleeps 2)
Winnebago Solis PX (sleeps 4 with pop-top)
Compact Class C RVs
Winnebago EKKO RV
Slightly larger than Class B models, compact Class C RVs have more interior space, more storage, and separate bathroom and kitchen areas. They’re narrower and shorter than traditional Class Cs, making them easier to drive and park while still offering room for two people or a small family.
Example of a compact Class C RV:
Winnebago EKKO (Sleeps 4 with Pop-Top)
There are other types of small RVs out there, like teardrop trailers, pop-up campers, and lightweight travel trailers under 20 feet. But this guide focuses on drivable small RVs that don't require towing.
How to Choose Which Small RV to Rent
The Winnebago Solis PX with pop-top sleeping area
What type of trip are you taking?
Scenic drive where you’ll spend a lot of time inside the RV? You might want more room for games, reading, and relaxing.
Outdoor adventure where you’ll need gear storage? Check storage capacity as you browse vehicles.
Off-grid camping using the generator, solar panels or lithium batteries for power? Look for a list of power sources in the RVs you’re considering.
Warm or cool weather where you’ll spend more time in the RV to escape the elements? Make sure your rental has proper heating and cooling capabilities.
What Are Your Comfort Preferences?
Sleeping Arrangements: Are you a solo traveler who prefers a compact bed or a couple who wants more space to stretch out? Or maybe you’re a young family whose kids would love a pop-top RV as their own little private area.
Kitchen Setup: Basic kitchen or a fully equipped one? Think about how much cooking you’ll want to do on the road. Do you need a microwave or just a burner or two? Is a mini fridge adequate or do you need space for perishables?
Bathroom Facilities: Some small RVs have full dry baths with a separate shower, toilet, and sink. Others have a wet bath where the toilet and shower share the same space. If you’re staying at campgrounds with full restrooms, a smaller bathroom may be fine. But having your own bathroom is very handy when you’re on the road or camping off-grid. Learn more about small RVs with bathrooms.
Storage Space: If you’re bringing bikes, hiking gear, or camera equipment, compare the storage capacity across models. Some have dedicated exterior compartments; others rely on interior space.
Off-Grid Power: Will you need power for camping off-grid? Look for solar panels, generators and lithium-ion batteries for backup power.
Air Conditioning: Most smaller RVs have front air conditioning while the motor is running, overhead “house” cooling is an optional feature ideal for hot temperatures. Unless you have off-grid power, most house AC units require being plugged in to shore power at a campground.
“We had the Winnebago Ekko and what an excellent choice it was! Big fridge, microwave, convertible toilet to shower bathroom, beds more comfortable than the Hampton Inn.”
How Big Is Your Group?
Solo Travelers: You might like compact camper vans with essentials like a bed, kitchenette, and easy maneuverability.
Couples: Look for small RVs with amenities that provide a touch of romance—cozy beds, upgraded appliances, and multiple windows to enjoy the view.
Two Friends: You might want separate beds or convertible seating for downtime.
Young Families: Our customers with kids love renting our RVs, especially the Winnebago Solis PX with its pop-up top sleeping area that’s perfect for kids.
Ready to see these RVs in person? Visit any Blacksford rental location!
Best Small RV Models to Rent
When you rent an RV from Blacksford, you’re in for a treat: We are known for offering premium RVs that cater to travelers looking for convenience and comfort.
Here are a few of our customers’ favorite RVs:
Winnebago Revel - Class B Camper Van
Length: 19'7"
Sleeps: 2
The Revel features a 49" x 79" bed that converts from a living space to a sleeping area. Its wet bath combines a toilet, sink, and shower in one efficient space with a flexible showerhead.
The kitchen includes a single-burner induction cooktop, 3.0 cu ft 12V refrigerator, and stainless steel sink with folding faucet.
Customers love its 4x4 capabilities, swivel seats, solar power for off-grid adventures, easy drivability, gear storage, and fuel economy of around 18-22 MPG.
Winnebago Solis PX - Class B Camper Van
Length: 19'9"
Sleeps: 4
Winnebago Solis PX
The Solis’ main cabin has a convertible bed (42" x 72") and the pop-top roof expands to create an upper sleeping area (49" x 79"), which kids love.
The bathroom features a cassette toilet, sink, and indoor/outdoor shower system with magnetic curtain. The kitchen has a 2-burner stove and refrigerator.
Customers love its easy city parking and fuel economy of 18-22 MPG.
Winnebago EKKO - Small Class C RV
Length: 23'1"
Sleeps: 4
Winnebago EKKO
The EKKO’s main sleeping area has a Murphy+ bed system, comfortable for two adults (54" x 80"), that converts into lounge seating. And its fun pop-top area adds sleeping for two more (48" x 80").
It has a full dry bath with separate shower, toilet, and sink—rare in this size class. The complete kitchen features a 3-burner stove, microwave, and 12V refrigerator.
Customers love its temperature controls, solar power system, off-grid capabilities, and fuel economy of ~15–18 MPG.
How Much Do Small RVs Cost to Rent?
The cost of renting a small RV depends on factors like the vehicle’s model, age, amenities, rental duration, seasonality, and location.
Average RV rental rates:
Class B (Camper Vans): $100–$350 per night.
Compact Class C RVs: $150–$300 per night.
Travel Trailers: $50–$200 per night.
Most rental companies charge extra for mileage, generator use, plus things like linens and cookware (all included with Blacksford rentals).
Review your rental agreement to understand all potential fees.
Insurance Costs
RV rental insurance is required and typically costs between $15–$30 per day, depending on the level of coverage and the value of the
RV. Most personal auto policies, credit cards, and AAA plans do not cover RV rentals, so you’ll likely need to purchase coverage through the rental company or a third-party provider. Blacksford offers insurance options at checkout. Learn more about RV rental costs and insurance.
Prices and policies vary greatly between rental companies and locations, so confirm the latest information directly with the rental provider.
Additional Costs When Renting an RV
“We LOVED that the all-inclusive-mileage model meant we never had to make decisions based on cost for where our journey would take us.”
Mileage Charges: Rental companies typically charge $0.25–$0.50 per mile. Calculate your trip distances to estimate this cost. (Blacksford has unlimited mileage.)
Generator Charges: Many rentals charge $3–$5 per hour for generator use, especially if you plan to run air conditioning or other energy-intensive appliances. (Yep, Blacksford has unlimited generator usage.)
Kitchen and Bedding Supply Fees: Kitchen equipment and linens are often add-on costs, typically $50–$150, unless you bring your own (you guessed it—cookware and linens are included with Blacksford).
Security Deposit: Most rentals require a refundable deposit, usually $500–$1,500, which is returned if the RV is undamaged.
Fuel Costs: Smaller RVs are more fuel-efficient, but gas should still be a line item in your trip budget depending on the size of the RV and your route.
Camping Fees: Nightly campground or RV park fees range from $30 to $150+, depending on location and amenities. Boondocking (camping off-grid on public land) is often free but may lack hookups or facilities.
Dump Fees: If your campsite doesn’t have full hookups, expect to pay $10–$30 to use a dump station to empty waste tanks.
Food Costs: Plan for groceries and meals out. Cooking in the RV can save money but still requires budgeting for supplies. (Blacksford will stock your groceries via Instacart for a fee.)
Additional Fees: Some companies charge for cleaning, dumping, roadside assistance, pets, additional drivers, early/late drop-off, or add-on items like bike racks or grills.
Review these costs in advance to stay within budget and avoid surprises after your trip.
Rent a Small RV for a Big Adventure
Small RVs give you the comfort and convenience of a larger vehicle without the stress of driving and parking one.
Whether you’re a couple, a small family, friends traveling together, or a solo traveler, a small RV lets you go where you want, when you want, with everything you need on board.
Ready to hit the road? Browse Blacksford's small RV rentals and book your trip.