Small RV Rental Guide: Costs & Tips

Meili Wyss • Last updated: December 3, 2025 • 4 min read

Your quick guide to choosing the right small RV

A small RV rental gives you all the essentials—bed, kitchen, storage—in a compact, easy-to-drive vehicle that’s cheaper to fuel and far simpler to park than larger motorhomes. It’s an ideal choice for first-time renters, solo travelers, and couples who want flexibility without sacrificing comfort. This guide explains what counts as a small RV, how much it costs, who it’s best for, and how to choose the right model for your trip.

What is a small RV rental?

A small RV rental is a compact, easy-to-drive vehicle—usually a Class B RV or a smaller Class C—that offers essential comfort without the size and complexity of larger motorhomes.

Small RVs typically include a sleeping area, kitchen setup, bathroom (in most models), and flexible seating. Many renters choose them because they feel similar to driving a large SUV, making them less intimidating for beginners.

You can explore more about how small RVs fit into the broader RV categories in the RV classes explained guide, which outlines the differences between Class A, B, and C RVs.

Small RVs vs camper vans

Many small RVs fall into the “camper van” category, but not all. Camper vans are typically Class B RVs with compact layouts and great maneuverability. If you want a deeper look at this style, see our camper van rentals page, which shows what features and setups you can expect.

A small RV rental parked at a scenic mountain viewpoint with two hikers getting ready for their trip.

Who is a small RV rental best for?

A small RV rental is ideal for solo travelers, couples, and anyone who wants maximum drivability with minimal setup.

These vehicles fit comfortably into daily-use scenarios, from road trips and weekend getaways to light off-grid camping. They’re also perfect for renters who want a simple, travel-friendly RV without extra size or complexity.

Best small RV options for solos & couples

For couples seeking a compact, comfortable setup, the Couple Condo offers a flexible bed layout and a private, cozy design that fits perfectly within the “2-person RV” search intent.

If you’re traveling solo—or want something adventure-ready—the Horizon Hopper provides an agile, compact build designed for off-grid exploration. It aligns naturally with the “1-person RV” and “small RVs for rent” use cases.

A small RV rental driving along a dirt road in a remote outdoor setting, perfect for off-grid exploration.

How much does a small RV rental cost?

Small RV rentals typically cost less than larger models, with prices changing based on season, location, model type, and trip duration.

The lower weight and efficient size of small RVs also help reduce fuel costs, and the nightly rate is often more affordable than what you’d pay for a larger RV class.

What affects the price?

Seasonality

Peak summer and holidays increase rates; off-season is cheaper.

Region

High-demand destinations tend to have higher rental prices.

Demand

Limited availability pushes prices up during busy periods.

Model features

Premium amenities cost more than basic layouts.

Add-ons

Extras like equipment or bedding increase total cost.

Insurance coverage

Different insurance packages (liability, collision, theft protection, deductible reductions) meaningfully change the final rental cost.

Small RV vs compact Class C: Which should you choose?

Small RVs (usually Class B) are designed for easy driving and quick maneuvering, which makes them practical for trips that involve frequent stops or city driving. Compact Class Cs offer more interior space and additional fixed beds, but they require more room to turn and park. If you want a deeper look at the differences, see our Class B vs Class C RVs guide.

This balance between space and mobility becomes especially noticeable when planning the length and pace of your trip. For short weekend getaways, the simplicity of a small RV often works in your favor—setup is quick, parking is easy, and you can move between stops without much planning. On longer journeys, small RVs are still comfortable if you prefer an efficient, minimalistic layout, while travelers who want more interior room may find a compact Class C more suitable for extended stays.

Because of their smaller footprint, many small RVs also fit into standard parking spaces. This gives you more flexibility at grocery stores, viewpoints, and trailheads, and removes much of the logistical effort required with larger RVs. If your trip involves regular errands, mixed terrain, or exploring towns with limited parking, this maneuverability can make a noticeable difference in how smooth the experience feels.

A small RV rental driving along a dirt road in a remote outdoor setting, perfect for off-grid exploration.

FAQs: Small RV Rental

Many small RV rentals include a compact wet bath, but some models trade the bathroom for extra storage or kitchen space. Always check the specific model’s features before booking.

Yes, most small RV rentals can handle light off-grid camping if equipped with solar panels, upgraded batteries, or additional water storage. For rugged terrain, look for all-wheel-drive or off-road-capable models.

Yes, small RV rentals are generally cheaper than larger RV classes because they use less fuel, have lower nightly rates, and avoid oversized-vehicle fees. Prices still vary based on season and location.

No, you do not need a special license to drive a small RV rental in the United States or most European countries. A standard driver’s license is sufficient because these vehicles remain under commercial weight limits.

Want to go deeper on RV rentals?

From picking the right RV class to planning routes and camping spots, our RV guides hub pulls everything into one place so you don’t have to piece it together from scratch.