Motorhomes for hire come in all shapes, sizes and prices. The trick is to find a motorhome that meets your requirements and budget. VW Motorhomes are available to hire in many locations but the classic early VW Campers are slow and quite small. Later bay window campers still have charm but do have more mod cons.
However, if you’re planning a trip in the US, you might want to consider something bigger - possibly not even a VW motorhome at all!
There are several styles and sizes of motorhome to choose from, with varying levels of comfort and price. Smaller vans are easier to handle, but larger vans offer more comfort. If it’s your first time, I go for the largest van that you feel happy to drive, within your budget.
A hightop is basically a van conversion with a specially made high fixed roof. These come in various lengths, short, medium and long wheelbase, which is the distance between the front and rear axle. Motohomes with a medium wheelbase are popular hire choices as they are easier to handle than the long wheelbase versions, but still offer a good level of comfort. Some companies also offer motorhomes hire with folding lifting roofs. These are often referred to as camper vans or pop tops.
Coachbuilt motorhomes (C class) are generally much larger than campers and are more like a house on wheels. Most will have all the comforts of home and often a double bed. Many of the designs have a bed area which sits over the top of the drivers cab as well. Beware though, this type of motorhome can be expensive to run and to hire. They are also more of a challenge to drive.
Fuel costs are a key factor when deciding to hire a motorhome. This problem has been taken on board by some rental companies and manufacturers. Many motorhome hire companies now offer vans that have been converted to run on LPG. This should at least half your fuel costs.
For most people, the hire cost is a definite consideration when looking to hire a camper or motorhome. Don’t overstretch your budget on the rental cost. Part of the enjoyment of the motorhome is being able to visit and enjoy new places. If you are a couple, a medium wheelbase motorhome (such as a VW camper if you’d like a classic or the larger T25) will give you good comfort levels, ease of use and at a reasonable price.
Insurance cover for motorhome hire is another cost to factor in. It can be expensive and you should know up front exactly what you are covered for. Take time to read and review the policy. Remember to comply with most insurance policies you should carry out the daily maintenance tasks on the motorhome as specified by your rental agent.
You’ve booked the motorhome hire, now what - and where.
It depends on what type of holiday you are looking for. If you are using the motorhome as a base to visit new places then to get the most out of your hire, it’s always a good idea to plan your route in advance. This means that you will know each day where you are going and don’t waste any time deciding where to go while on your holiday.
Of course for some of you, there will be no set route and hiring a motorhome is all about enjoying the open road and finding a new adventure every day.