Campervan Hire California 🏷️ Compare Prices

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

The cost of campsites has risen in recent years due to the popularity of motorhome holidays in the USA.

The majority of campervan hire suppliers in the US do not include unlimited miles as a standard hire 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 campervans are available in the US, from smaller estate cars up to large motorhomes. Some of the common types include:

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

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

Usually, Class A vehicles are fully equipped with all facilities and a large living space.

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

Some Class B vehicles may include a toilet or fresh water 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 motorhome. They are built on a truck or van cutaway chassis and operate on a petrol-powered engine.

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

Class C vehicles come equipped with a good amount of facilities including a self-contained toilet, fridge, heating or air conditioning 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 a campervan suitable for your needs.

As in the rest of America, free camping is only allowed in designated areas, which can include national parks, state parks, truck stops or service areas as well as certain car parks with permission from the shop manager.

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

Yes, many suppliers have depots 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 location 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 hire companies only allow their vehicles to be driven on tarmac roads.

In addition, note the following restrictions regarding specific areas:

• Mexico - Travel to Mexico is generally prohibited in hire 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 hire supplier for full details.
• New York City/Manhattan City Centre - Some hire suppliers restrict travel in or through Manhattan (and sometimes parts of NYC). Check your hire agreement for full details.
• Canada - Motorhomes 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 hire agreement for any further restrictions regarding your motorhome hire.

All drivers must have a current and full driving licence to hire 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 driving 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 driving licence translation if the original licence doesn't have an English translation, and Britz recommends an international driving licence for translation purposes.

This depends on the company. Several suppliers will allow you to travel to Canada in your hire vehicle, including Road Bear, El Monte, Cruise America, Escape Rentals, Campervan North America and Travellers Autobarn (Canada entry fee applies).

Please contact support for information on other suppliers. You must comply with visa and customs requirements at all times.