📋 What you'll discover
- Compare the top 4 RV rental platforms side by side
- Find great prices with peer to peer marketplaces
- Understand insurance and protection differences
- Choose the right platform for your trip type
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Comparison Transparency
Smart RV Hub earns a commission on qualifying purchases or subscriptions made through links to Outdoorsy. We have no affiliate relationship with RVshare, Cruise America, and El Monte RV. This material connection may influence which brand we recommend, though our underlying analysis is based on published specifications and verified user reviews.
Outdoorsy platform figures (fleet size, member count, country coverage, insurance) verified July 2026. Check outdoorsy.com for current details.
Our Top Pick: Outdoorsy
Outdoorsy ranks first of the four platforms we compared, for its wide selection and the insurance included on every booking.
Outdoorsy runs one of the biggest RV rental marketplaces, with owner listed rigs available in every US state.
Each reservation carries $1 million of damage protection and round the clock roadside support, backed by high customer service ratings.
Compare their features below to see if it fits your travel needs.
Not sure of your exact dates? Every Outdoorsy booking includes a 24 hour grace period for a full refund when your departure is 7 or more days away.
After that, owner policies vary: moderate policies typically refund 50 percent for cancellations 7 to 30 days out and 100 percent if you cancel 30+ days in advance.
Check each listing for specifics.
Popular RVs for major summer holidays often book up 60 or more days ahead.
Which RV Rental Website Wins on Selection, Price, and Insurance?
Outdoorsy leads on selection (200,000+ vehicles) and 5 star Trustpilot share; RVshare ties on insurance and roadside at roughly half the listing count; traditional fleet renters like Cruise America offer airport pickup at higher base rates.
| Platform | RV Selection | Insurance | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Outdoorsy | 200,000+ | $1M included | Most renters |
| RVshare | 100,000+ | $1M included | Alternative option |
| Cruise America | 4,000+ | Available | One way trips |
| El Monte RV | 1,500+ | Available | Budget traditional |
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What matters most in a rental platform?
Pick your priority and see how Outdoorsy measures up.
Outdoorsy
200,000+ vehicles
A deep marketplace means more chance of finding the right rig near your dates and your town.
Figures verified July 2026.
Start your search on OutdoorsyAffiliate link. We may earn a commission if you book through our links, at no extra cost to you.
RV rentals make road trip adventures accessible to everyone
Detailed Platform Reviews
Outdoorsy ranks first for selection and included protection, RVshare is the closest alternative, and Cruise America and El Monte RV suit one way trips and traditional fleet renters. Each review below lists inventory, insurance, pros, cons, and who it fits best.
Outdoorsy
Popular ChoicePros
- Listings in all 50 US states
- Responsive customer service
- International availability (14 countries)
- $1 million protection on every booking
- Professional photos and verified reviews
Cons
- -Service fees can add up on longer rentals
- -Availability varies by location
RVshare
Solid AlternativePros
- Large selection of RVs
- Similar insurance coverage
- Good mobile app
- Competitive pricing
Cons
- -Smaller selection than Outdoorsy
- -US and Canada only
- -Customer service ratings slightly lower
Cruise America
Traditional RentalPros
- Standardized fleet (you know what you get)
- One way rentals available
- No owner coordination needed
- Airport pickup locations
Cons
- -Higher prices than peer to peer
- -Limited RV variety
- -Older fleet average
- -Basic insurance requires upgrades
El Monte RV
Budget TraditionalPros
- Competitive traditional rental pricing
- Multiple pickup locations
- One way rentals available
Cons
- -Limited fleet size
- -Mixed customer reviews
- -Additional fees can add up
Why Renters Choose Outdoorsy
Listings in All 50 States
The widest selection means you will find the right RV for your adventure, wherever you start
$1 Million Protection
Included on every booking, with 24/7 roadside help whenever you need it
Adventure Anywhere
International availability for worldwide RV adventures
Own an RV Instead of Renting One?
These same platforms let owners earn rental income. If you have a rig sitting idle, learn how to list your RV on Outdoorsy and start booking.
Renting an RV opens up endless camping adventures across the country
How to Choose an RV Rental Platform
1. Consider Selection Size
More RVs means better chances of finding the right fit at a good price.
Outdoorsy lists RVs in all 50 US states to help you find exactly what you need.
Check current Outdoorsy deals before booking.
2. Check Insurance Coverage
Look for platforms that include real protection on every booking.
Outdoorsy bundles $1 million of damage protection and round the clock roadside support, while traditional rentals may charge for those extras.
3. Read Real Reviews
Peer to peer platforms have verified reviews from real renters.
Check both platform and individual RV reviews before booking.
Our first time rental tips explain what to look for in reviews.
For free overnight stays between campgrounds, consider a Harvest Hosts membership.
4. Compare Total Costs
Include service fees, insurance, mileage, and generator charges. Use our RV Rental Cost Calculator to estimate total costs.
Planning your first RV rental? Use this checklist to prepare
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best website to rent an RV?
Outdoorsy runs one of the biggest peer to peer RV marketplaces, and you can browse owner listed rigs in every US state.
Each reservation carries $1 million of damage protection plus round the clock roadside support, with nothing added to the nightly rate. Weigh its selection against rival platforms to land the right RV for your trip.
Is Outdoorsy or RVshare better?
Both platforms offer similar insurance and pricing. Outdoorsy has more selection and international availability in 14 countries.
RVshare operates in the US and Canada. Compare both to find the specific RV that meets your needs.
Where can I rent an RV online?
The top RV rental websites are Outdoorsy (peer to peer marketplace), RVshare, Cruise America (traditional fleet rental), and El Monte RV (traditional fleet).
Peer to peer platforms typically offer more variety and owner direct pricing.
How much does it cost to rent an RV?
RV rental costs range from $75-$350 per night depending on RV type, size, and location.
Class A motorhomes typically cost $200-$350/night, Class C motorhomes $125-$250/night, travel trailers $75-$150/night. Prices vary by season and location.
Which RV rental company has the best prices?
Peer to peer platforms like Outdoorsy and RVshare often offer competitive prices compared to traditional rental fleets because individual owners set their own rates.
Compare prices across multiple platforms for your specific dates and location.
Is it safe to rent an RV from Outdoorsy?
Outdoorsy bookings come with $1 million of damage protection and round the clock roadside support, alongside verified owner reviews and secure checkout.
The platform has been operating since 2014.
Can you rent an RV for a one way trip?
Traditional fleet companies like Cruise America and El Monte RV offer one way rentals, where you pick up in one city and drop off in another.
Peer to peer platforms such as Outdoorsy and RVshare are usually round trip, since most owners want their RV returned to its home base. Some owners do allow one way trips for an extra drop off fee, so check each listing.
Do you need a special license to rent an RV?
In most US states you do not need a special license to rent or drive an RV under 26,000 pounds, which covers most Class B and Class C motorhomes and towable trailers.
A standard driver's license is enough for the rentals most travelers choose. A few states require a non commercial Class B license for the largest Class A motorhomes, so confirm the rules for your state.
How far in advance should you book an RV rental?
Book two to four weeks ahead for regular travel and two to three months ahead for peak summer or holiday trips.
Popular RVs near national parks and major events can sell out even earlier, so reserve as soon as your dates are set. Booking early gives you the widest selection and the best pricing.
Smart RV Hub Editorial Team
RV Technology Research and Reviews
Our writers research smart RV technology full time, covering solar power, connectivity, security, and power management.
Every guide draws on published manufacturer specifications and verified owner reviews, so you can compare options with confidence.
Meet the editorial team and our review standardsReady for Your Adventure?
The right RV is just a few clicks away. Explore owner listed rigs nationwide, with $1 million of damage protection and round the clock roadside support on every reservation.
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