RV Rental ‘Basics’
What do I need to know about renting an RV?
Nothing really; you just need to know where you want to spend your vacation in it! Below you will find all sorts of questions that have been asked with answers explaining everything you would need to know about renting an RV or motorhome. If you decide to use another RV rental company, these questions are all very important to have answers to before you ever pickup the RV.
Does the RV rental come with fuel?
Yes! The fuel is topped of before you pickup the RV rental. You have to bring the RV back with a full tank of gas. If not there is a fee associated with filling it up. If for some reason the tank wasn’t filled at arrival, take a photo of the gauge to show an accurate reading.
Does the RV rental come with propane?
Yes! The propane is topped of before you pickup the RV rental. You have to bring the RV back with a full tank of propane. If not there is a fee associated with filling it up. If for some reason the tank wasn’t filled at arrival, take a photo of the gauge to show an accurate reading. Does not apply to trailer propane tanks.
Does the RV rental come with water?
No. We can have it full for you for an addtional charge.
Does the RV rental come with towels, sheets and pillows?
No.
Does the RV rental come with pots, pans and cooking utensils?
No.
Does the RV rental come with plates, bowls and flatware?
No.
Does the RV rental come with food?
No.
Are the RV rentals cleaned and prepped?
Yes! The RV is always cleaned and ready to go for your rental.
I’ve never driven a motorhome or RV before, do you provide any training?
Yes! A representative will assist you in driving around the parking lot and around the block until you feel comfortable handling the RV.
Do I need to hook the RV up to power, water and sewer at a campsite?
Not necessarily, but it is always a good idea to stay somewhere with ‘full hook-ups.’ This will be electricity, water and sewer. TV and internet is completely optional. This way you will not have to depend on the generator to power your RV rental.
What if the campsite doesn’t have any hook-ups?
If your location has nothing to hook-up to, then you can run the generator, use the propane and use water from the fresh water reservoir. There is a fee to run the generator (see RV description for details), but this is not recommended. You can easily run out of these necessities depending on the length of your trip. If you are able, it is always best to find a location with ‘hook-ups.’
How long will the batteries last in the RV? Do I need to use the generator?
The batteries in an RV are not designed to run the whole electrical system. They are designed to get you between powered locations. Meaning from one campsite to another or if you are dry camping from one night to the morning. You will have to use the generator to keep the batteries charged or turn the engine on.
How long will the generator last?
This depends on the size of the fuel tank for each RV. The generator runs off the same fuel as your engine but it will never go below a quarter (1/4) of a tank. This way you will not run out of fuel and be stranded somewhere.
Is smoking allowed in the RV rental?
No! Never. There is a fee associated with this if there is any evidence of smoking inside one of the RV rentals.
What are the different types of RV rentals? What does each class represent?
Class C
The class "C" motorhome is the workhorse of the RV rental business, comprising a vast majority of motorhome rentals. The class "C" models are generally designed for families and quite often offer more sleeping capacity then class "A" motor homes. They have driver / passenger side doors for easy access to the cockpit. They are easier to maneuver and have decent mpg. Most are built with a gas engine, but some newer models are coming out with diesel engines. You recognize a Class C RV because of its cab-over design.
Class A
Class “A” motorhomes is very much in demand, and generally rent for more than class “C’s”. The challenge with Class A rentals is the size and complexity. They are a bit harder to drive but there is direct access to the cockpit area and the rest of the motorhome whereas a Class C has a more secluded cockpit. Many larger class "A" motorhomes are "diesel pushers". This means that the engine is diesel, has more power for towing and climbing and located in the rear of the vehicle. Driving a powerful diesel pusher is a memorable experience. You recognize a Class A motorhome because it looks like a straight block on wheels.
Class B
Class “B” motorhomes are van conversions, and always in demand. Van conversions are smaller, easier to drive, and can go places that larger motorhomes cannot. Yet they only sleep 3 - 5 comfortably. But they can carry up to 10 people comfortably for a long distance trip! You recognize a Class B because it looks like a large van or delivery van with a roof ac.
Travel and Tent Trailers
There is constant demand for towable RVs. The popularity, price and simplicity of towable RVs make them a profitable rental vehicle. The fact that the renter drives his own vehicle simplifies the rental. The popularity of SUV’s makes towing easier than ever. Validate the compatibility of the renter’s hitch and wiring harness in advance. Make sure that you have the ability to get wiring or hitch modifications made locally. Larger travel trailers have trailer brakes which must be connected to the renter's tow vehicle. Tent trailers are very popular rentals. They are very easy to tow, and can be taken into campsites that conventional travel trailers cannot access.
Toy Haulers
Toy Haulers are increasingly popular with renters who ride motorcycles or ATV's. These toys can be driven into the back of the motorhome for travel. That space is reclaimed as living space when the motorhome is parked, and the toys are outside. These get requested quite often.
Fifth Wheels
Fifth wheel camper trailers are not the first choice of most renters; at some locations they are being successfully rented. The towing vehicle needs to be a large pickup truck with a specialized hitch mounted in the bed. Hightened Path RV Rentals does not rent fifth wheels.
RV Rental ‘Insurance Questions’
Is insurance provided with the RV rental?
No. You will need to provide your own insurance through a binder. Otherwise you can purchase commercial insurance. See the RV rentals description for specific prices. Prices vary depending on unit.
How old do I have to be to rent the RV?
You have to be 25 years of age or older with a valid drivers license and proper insurance.
Are my valuables covered under the commercial insurance policy?
No.
Is there anywhere I am not allowed to drive the RV rental?
RV’s and motorhomes are supposed to be limited for use on paved roads. We understand there are occasions when you need to take dirt roads to get to your destination. Just remember you are responsible for the tires on the RV should something happen. Trips into Mexico are not permitted. Also travel through extreme desert areas such as Death Valley during hot periods is very much prohibited. If you have specific questions please contact us.
Do you offer road-side assistance?
Yes, We do.
Is there a safe in the RV rental or a place to lock up my valuables?
No. Midwest RV is not liable for any personal belongings while you are renting the RV. Midwest RV recommends you secure your valuables or do not bring them along.
What if I damage the RV or something inside?
First off make sure you let your representative know. Your insurance should cover any damages you might encounter. Most insurance companies do no include anything on the inside. Otherwise the damage deposit will cover any loses.
What happens if I break down?
Midwest RV Rentals understands things happen. Please contact us immediately. You are not authorized to perform any work on the RV rental. Depending on what is wrong we will do our very best to get you back on the road. If it is no fault of your own or neglect and is just an RV issue we will cover the repairs. If it is determined that you, the renter is at fault, you will cover the repairs. If we cannot get you back on the road, you will be refunded the difference for your remaining trip. We do not cover any hotels or car rentals.
RV Rental ‘Logistics’
Where do I pick up the RV rental?
Please see the description of each RV rental to determine where to pick the unit up.
What are the pickup times and return times?
Pickup times are scheduled at 9am and later the day of your rental. Drop offs are before midnight the last day of your rental.
Can I come and see the RV rental before reserving?
In most cases yes but most of the time the RV is currently rented out. Please us to schedule a meeting.
How long does it take to show me how to use everything?
This can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 1.5 hours depending on a few things. If you watched the videos, pre-read the legal documents, have already rented a motorhome or are familiar with them then the time will drastically decrease.
What is the minimum number of nights for the RV rental?
Between 3 and 7 depending on time of year and which unit.
What is the maximum number of nights for an RV rental?
Unlimited as long as there is no one else that has booked the RV.
How many nights in advance do I need to book the RV rental?
ASAP
Do I need a special license to drive the RV?
No. Unless the RV is a semi-truck or another type of special diesel, you do not need any special classes on your license.
What the average miles per gallon (mpg) on an RV rental?
6-10 is the average mpg(s) on a Class A or Class C motorhome. Class B will get 15-20 mpg’s depending on the model. See the description for more details.
Do I have to clean the RV rental?
Yes. You have the option to clean the RV yourself or have us do it for you “A La Carte” for a fee.
Are pets allowed in the RV rental?
Yes, but there is a $25 per day addtional cost.
What happens if I get pulled over?
You are responsible for any and all citations while using the RV rental. The insurance card and registration is in each RV for your convenience. Please let us know if this happens to make sure it doesn’t get put on the owner.
Does everyone need a seatbelt? Does my infant or child need a car seat / seatbelt?
Not necessarily. This is a personal preference and RVs are considered to be like sitting in a bus. The passengers in the front seat do require to wear seatbelts but passengers in the rear is completely up to you. Of course we recommend that every passenger uses a seatbelt and we absolutely recommend using a car seat and seatbelt for your infant. Please see each individual state rules.
What kind of gasoline do I use for the RV rental?
87 octane and higher. Much like you use in your vehicle.
Does the RV rental have manual or automatic transmission(s)?
All of the RV rentals have automatic transmissions.
Where do I go to dump the tanks or fill the propane for the RV rental?
You can usually do this at a park or a campground where you are staying.
Can I park my vehicle at the pick-up location?
Yes.
Do you have one way rentals?
No.
Where can I park / stay at night if I haven’t reached my destination?
24 hour Wal-Mart Supercenters, Cracker Barrel, Casinos and Rest Stops are the most common places to stay. Always let the manager or someone know that you will be there for the night. Always make sure you are parked in a safe environment.
Can I tow something behind the RV rental?
Yes.
Do you offer pickup and delivery? What about setup and teardown?
Possibly, please contact us for availability.
Can I pickup the RV early or the night before?
Yes. But you will have to pay for another day.
RV Rental ‘Costs’
Are there any other fee’s associated with the RV rental?
All RV rentals have a prep fee, tax, tax and a processing fee.
Is there a deposit needed to reserve the RV rental?
Yes. 50% upfront and remainder due 45 days before arrival
Is there a damage / security deposit needed to rent the RV?
Yes. All of Midwest RV’s require a credit hold of $1500 for a Class C and $750 for trailers. This is to cover the insurance deductible in the event of a claim and any minor replacement or repair costs if the vehicle is damaged. This is only an authorization on your credit card and is not taken until time of pickup; similar to a hotel or car rental.
What is the cancellation policy should something come up?
Cancellation up to 45 days before pickup will incur a $400 fee, then no refund after that
Is there a refund for an early return?
No. We have no way to rent the RV once it is returned early. The calendar would show unavailable.
Are there late fees for returning the vehicle late?
Yes. Please read the rental agreement for more details.
Are there fees to run the generator?
Yes. In most cases it is only $4 /hour. But make sure to read each RV rental description for the exact cost.
