Planning a road trip in Canada? Renting an RV is a great way to explore and experience everything Canada has to offer – the beautiful scenery, life altering activities, and outstanding events.
This guide will help you find the right RV rental company to match your needs, understand the importance of research, understand the different terms and conditions and even know what is required of you – the renter.
Insurance coverage options are important and you need to understand what will be right for you.
Once you’ve rented an RV in Canada it’s time to plan your route and destination coming up with camping options, and what activities you can get involved in.
It’s time to plan your RV travel adventure!
Table of Contents
Research and Compare Rental Companies
Before renting an RV, it’s really important to do your research. compare rental companies, check online reviews, compare prices and ask your friends for recommendations. Focus on the size and type of vehicle you need, your budget, safety features and policies of the rental company before making your decision on your RV rental.
Note: Some companies may offer incentives such as discounts for long term rentals and off-peak seasons. Don’t forget to ask!
How much does it cost to rent an RV in Canada?
Sorry, I can’t quote prices because they differ so much from rental company to rental company. They can range anywhere from $100 per night to as high as you want to pay.
Check to see what is all included – and ask yourself these questions.
- How much is the insurance?
- Does the bedding, dishes, lawn chairs, etc come with the rental?
- Does the rental company charge for route planning?
- Is there a one-way drop off fee?
- Is there a mileage charge?
Look for package deals – I’ve seen some companies offer special packages depending on the number of kms you plan on traveling or “Best Value” packages.
Note: Some companies may offer incentives such as discounts for long term rentals and off-peak seasons. Don’t forget to ask!
Know the RV Rental Companies Requirements
In order to rent an RV, all RV rental companies have requirements you have to meet. This includes having a valid driver’s licence, being over the age of 21 for some companies and 25 for others, and showing proof of full insurance coverage. You might also be asked to supply documents such as proof of address and credit card information for a security deposit.
Note: If you’re planning on taking the RV rental out of Canada you best check with the rental company first – they will have some specific requirements.
International Driver’s Licences: Please make sure you bring your original driver licence along with your International Licence – RV Rental Companies will require both.
Understand the RV Rental Companies Terms & Conditions
Don’t sign any paperwork until you understand all of the terms and conditions of your RV rental agreement. Know what kind of responsibility you’re undertaking with regards to the RV. What happens if you are in an accident – what does the rental company expect? Know what is expected of both you and the rental company.
Note: Read the rental contract very carefully before you sign it so there are no surprises at the end of your journey!
Choose your Coverage Options Carefully
There are several different types of insurance that you can include when you are choosing the coverage options when renting an RV in Canada. These can range from basic-collision insurance to full-coverage. It’s important for you to understand what each option covers before you decide which type of coverage is best for you needs. Ask questions if you’re unsure and if necessary get it in writing.
Note: Read through the details carefully!
Investigate Local Laws and Restrictions Before you Leave
Before you head out it’s really important to know what the local laws and regulations on the route and destination you’ve chosen. There could be weight restrictions and local by-laws impacting your plans. This could be for parking in cities, boon docking and even licensing laws.
If you’re crossing provincial borders make sure your RV rental company is aware of this.
RV Rental Companies in Canada
RVs can be rented right across Canada from many of the major RV rental companies. It makes it easy to pick up and drop off in many different destinations.
Some of the popular locations for picking up or dropping off RV rentals include Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Toronto, Montreal, Halifax and Whitehorse. Each of these locations have international airports making it convenient for international travellers coming into and leaving Canada.
Some of the major RV Rental Companies include:
In the past most of us were restricted to renting an RV from those major RV rental companies but there are other options available – giving renters options!
A couple of excellent apps worth exploring are RVezy and Outdoorsy. I’ve seen these described as similar to Airbnb where RV owners rent out their own RVs safely thru the app. This gives the renter options of different types of RVs, styles and quite often cheaper rates.
Looking for something a bit different?
I’ve recently learned of Honest Camper in Coquitlam, BC and JustGo Vans on Vancouver Island. I have heard of RV renters using Wicked Campers and Escape Campervans as well. I don’t have any personal experience with any of the above but that doesn’t mean they aren’t excellent RV rental companies.
Please note: I am not affiliated with any of the RV Rental Companies. The information provided here is from my own research.
Careful Planning Ensures your RV Rental in Canada is a Success
Renting an RV in Canada isn’t difficult – thousands of people do it each year. The secret is to be aware of what is needed in preparation and once that’s done – go for it. Find an RV in Canada for rent, plan your route and pack your bags. There’s lots to see and do!
For a bit more help in finding things to see and so visit The 10 most popular APPS for Canadian Campers.
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