If you dream of driving an RV across the country or just taking an RV trip to a nearby state or national park, you don't have to purchase an RV to fulfill this dream. Numerous companies allow you to rent an RV to take on vacation.

Renting an RV is a great way to see if you like the RV lifestyle and want to purchase an RV. RV rentals are also just a great way to enjoy a different type of vacation.

1. Rental Deposits are Required

When you rent an RV, most rental places will have you put down a small deposit when you make your reservation. That small deposit is used to hold your reservation, and the money will go towards the cost of your rental, assuming you end up renting the RV.

Some rental companies may also ask you to place a security deposit on the vehicle as well. The security deposit generally doesn't go towards your rental fees; however, it is refundable once you return the RV in good shape at the end of your trip.

2. Always Get Insurance

When you rent an RV, it is wise to get insurance. Some rental companies will include insurance in the regular rental fees, and for other rental companies, insurance will be an add-on that you pay for.

If the rental company doesn't offer insurance, contact your car insurance provider. They can help ensure that the RV is insured for your trip. Fixing an RV can be expensive, which is why paying for insurance is worth it.

3. Seasonality Impacts Pricing

The RV rental business is a demand-driven business. During the peak seasons, renting an RV's daily rate tends to be higher than in the slow seasons. In general, the end of spring throughout the summer represents peak season for RV rental companies. If you are looking to travel in the winter, prices tend to be lower, as the winter tends to be the slow season for most RV rental companies.

4. Gas Mileage Isn't Great

As you budget to rent an RV, you also need to budget to spend a lot more on gas for your trip. Although modern RVs get slightly better gas mileage than their older counterparts, they still get lower gas mileage compared to a passenger vehicle. You will need to spend at least twice as much on gas and stop far more frequently when driving around in an RV. That is why many people rent a car once their RV is parked at their destination.

5. Be Prepared for Toilet Duty

One of the unglamorous parts of renting an RV is emptying out the toilets. This is something that you are going to have to deal with when you rent an RV. When it comes to emptying the toilets, always use an approved dump site at your RV campground.

Be sure to wear surgical gloves to protect yourself when emptying the toilet. You may also want to wear a filtered mask, as the smell is strong.

If you want to hit the road in an RV, you can rent an RV instead of purchasing one. When renting an RV, you may have to place a small deposit to reserve your reservation and a security deposit as well. Remember that time of year will impact rental pricing and that insurance coverage is always intelligent. Keep in mind that gas mileage may not be what you're used to, and you will have to stop more frequently with an RV.