The North American RV rental fleet is expected to grow more than 12 percent in 2017, with almost two-thirds of rental operators expanding their rental fleets, according to a new survey by the Recreation Vehicle Rental Association (RVRA).

“This segment of the market continues to be a winner for the RV industry,” said Scott Krenek, RVRA Chairman and owner of Krenek RV Super Center in Coloma, MI. “The RV rental market is healthy and growing. That’s why so many RVRA members are looking forward to a great summer. Renting RVs is not only a good business for dealers, it helps drive interest in RV travel and use.” Krenek owns and operates Krenek RV Super Center in Coloma, MI.

Fueling the growth in RV rental fleets is a rise in rental revenue over the past 12 months. Nearly a quarter of those responding to the survey (24 percent) said their rental revenue grew by 50 percent or more in 2016. Another 17 percent said their rental revenue increased 20 to 49 percent, while 22 percent said their rental revenue increased 10 to 19 percent last year.

There are more options for consumers to rent an RV than ever before, either by picking up the unit themselves or having it delivered to where they want to stay. In fact, 74 percent of the dealers responding to the survey say they’re willing to deliver a rented trailer to the campground — or other location — where the customer intends to use it. Among dealers who rent towables, 68 percent said more and more customers are asking to have a rented trailer delivered to the place where they will use it.

The average length of a rental contract last year was for four to five nights, according to 44 percent of the dealer respondents. Another 33 percent said six to seven nights was the average length of their RV rental contacts. Thirteen percent said three nights was the average length, and 9 percent said it was seven or more nights.

Larger RVs — as measured by the number of sleeping areas — are the most popular rental units, according to survey respondents. Forty-four percent of dealers said units with at least four sleeping areas are the most popular, while 24 percent said at least six sleeping areas was the most popular floor plan. Another 31 percent said at least two sleeping areas was the most popular.

RV Rental Advice

With the surge of interest in RV travel, Krenek recommends that people who want to take an RV rental vacation book as soon as possible to get their desired dates and the unit that fits their needs. “It’s wise to make reservations for the both the RV and campgrounds as early as you can,” he says.
Prior to renting an RV this summer, RVRA recommends customers ask their rental agent these basic questions:

  • Does the rental agency keep regular hours for drop off and pick up?
  • For first-time RV renters, does the rental company provide an orientation on the RV’s systems and components?
  • If customers have questions about the RV during the trip, is there a phone number they can call or text for help?
  • What are the terms for the security deposit?
  • Is the RV that was described online the actual model that will be available at time of pickup?
  • Who owns the RV that you’re renting and how does the insurance coverage work?

“RV rental vacations are a great way to make memories with family and friends,” Krenek says. “Some advance planning before you set out on your trip will make the experience even better.”