RV Rental California 🏷️ Compare Prices

A stay at an RV park will usually cost around $25–$80 (USD) per night.

The cost of campgrounds has risen in recent years due to the popularity of RV vacations in the US.

The majority of RV rental suppliers in the US do not include unlimited miles as a standard rental inclusion.

In most cases, miles are charged per mile or via prepaid mileage packs (for example, 100-mile packs), and additional fees will be incurred if you exceed what you’ve purchased/allowed. Refund rules vary by supplier—some refund unused estimated mileage deposits, while others do not refund unused prepaid miles. Some suppliers do include unlimited miles as standard.

Check our comparison tool for details.

A wide variety of RVs are available in the US, from smaller station wagons up to large RVs. Some of the common types include:

• Class A: (21-45 ft) The biggest and most expensive, can be hard to maneuver if you are new to driving RVs but often comes equipped with additional luxuries.

Class A RVs are built on either a vehicle chassis, commercial truck chassis, or a commercial bus chassis, and run on either diesel or gas, depending on the type of engine.

Usually, Class A vehicles are fully loaded with all amenities and a large living space.

• Class B: (17-19 ft) Small and affordable, easier to drive or maneuver. Class B vehicles are often known as conversion vans and are built on a smaller chassis than the Class A.

Some Class B vehicles may include a washroom or freshwater tanks but not always. Class B vehicles usually have basic cooking equipment, folding beds, and limited storage space.

Class B vehicles are great for short term getaways.

• Class C: (20-33 ft) Medium-sized, moderate storage space, and a few extra luxuries.

Class C vehicles are a smaller version of the Class A RV. They are built on a truck or van cutaway chassis and operate on a gas-powered engine.

The Class C RV generally has sleeping quarters above the cab and more sleeping space in the back. Some Class Cs also have a slide-out option that helps increase the living space when the RV is parked.

Class C vehicles come equipped with a good amount of facilities including a self-contained washroom, refrigerator, heating or AC and cooking facilities.

Class C vehicles are very versatile and are great for both short or long term getaways.

Our comparison tool will show you the specifications of each vehicle available to ensure you find an RV suitable for your needs.

As in the rest of the US, free camping is only allowed in designated areas, which can include national parks, state parks, truck stops, or rest stops as well as certain parking lots with permission from the store manager.

California is home to numerous RV parks and campgrounds, which cost around $35–$60 (USD) per night. These are suitable for all vehicle types, from travel trailers to larger recreational vehicles.

Yes, many companies have rental centres in multiple locations throughout California and the US, making one-way rentals a great way to see more during your road trip.

San Francisco is a great starting point for those wanting to explore Northern California, with many attractions in the surrounding areas, including the famous Yosemite National Park.

For those heading through Southern California, Los Angeles is a good starting point. From there, you can head down the west coast to San Diego and throughout the surrounding area.

Most rental companies only allow their vehicles to be driven on paved roads.

In addition, note the following restrictions regarding specific areas:

• Mexico - Travel to Mexico is generally prohibited in rental vehicles; some suppliers (such as El Monte) may allow it under certain conditions and with additional insurance.
• Death Valley - Restrictions can vary between suppliers. Some suppliers restrict travel during the hottest months of the year. Check with your rental supplier for full details.
• New York City/Downtown Manhattan - Some rental suppliers restrict travel in or through Manhattan (and sometimes parts of NYC). Check your rental agreement for full details.
• Canada - RVs are generally allowed; however, travel to certain locations may be restricted during colder seasons.

If you take your vehicle where it is not permitted, you will be liable for all damages incurred, and an additional fine may be imposed.

Check your rental agreement for any further restrictions regarding your RV rental.

Class A RVs are the biggest, most expensive vehicles, and often come equipped with additional luxuries. Being larger, they can be a little hard to manoeuvre for first-time drivers.

Class A RVs are built on either a vehicle chassis, commercial truck chassis, or a commercial bus chassis, and run on either diesel or gas, depending on the type of engine.

Usually, Class A vehicles are fully loaded with all amenities and a large living space.

All drivers must have a current and full driver’s licence to rent a vehicle. Foreign licences are generally acceptable if they are in English or accompanied by an accredited English translation, otherwise, an International Driving Permit is required.

In addition to your driver’s licence, you will often be required to show your passport at the time of pick up.

Some companies may require an IDP or official English translation depending on the language of your licence. For example, Road Bear requires an international driver's licence translation if the original licence doesn't have an English translation, and Britz recommends an international driver's licence for translation purposes.