Small RV Rental Guide: Costs & Tips

Meili Wyss • Last updated: December 5, 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. For broader RV travel advice and comparisons, you can visit the RV guides hub.

What is a small RV rental?

A small RV rental is a compact, easy-to-drive vehicle—typically a Class B camper van with a low profile and a shorter overall length. These vans offer essential comforts such as a sleeping area, kitchenette, flexible seating, and practical storage, all while remaining simple to maneuver and park in everyday spaces.

Examples of small RVs include compact pop-up camper vans like the Sunrise Suite, Surfer Suite, and Beach Hostel, as well as family-friendly options like the Camper Cabin and Camper Cabin Deluxe. These models stay close in size to a large SUV while offering the essentials needed for short getaways or light touring.

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 RV alternatives if you need more comfort or features

Small RVs represent the most compact end of the camper van category, but they aren’t the only option for travelers who want easy handling. Larger compact class B RVs—such as Sprinter RVs— offer more interior space and comfort while remaining more maneuverable than full-size RVs. The examples below show how these larger compact RVs differ in layout and use case.

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

Adventure-oriented compact RVs

Adventure-focused Sprinter RVs—such as the Horizon Hopper—offer more height, storage, and onboard systems than small camper vans. They provide extra space for gear and better clearance for varied terrain. Although they require more parking room than true small RVs, they remain easier to handle than larger motorhomes.

Man preparing a meal inside the compact kitchen of a Class B RV rental.

Comfort-focused compact RVs

Some Sprinter RVs use their larger footprint to prioritise comfort. The Couple Condo illustrates this style, with roomier seating, fixed beds, and a more homelike interior. It is larger than a small camper van and less nimble in tight areas, but offers noticeably more comfort for slower-paced or longer trips.

Now that you have a sense of what counts as a small RV and how they compare to slightly larger options, the next question is what they typically cost.

How much does a small RV rental cost?

Small RV rentals typically range from $90 to $190 per night, depending on the season, location, model type, and trip duration. Off-season dates and less busy regions generally fall toward the lower end of the range, while peak summer months or high-demand destinations tend to be more expensive. The base rate usually covers the vehicle itself, but the total cost of your trip can vary depending on mileage options, equipment packages, and insurance.

Below is a quick overview of the main factors that influence 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 meaningfully change the final rental cost.

How small RVs compare to larger compact RVs and Class C models

Class B RV rental parked in the mountains with a pop-top roof and a traveler enjoying the sunset view

Small RVs sit at the most compact end of the RV spectrum, while mid-size compact RVs (larger Class B vans) and compact Class C motorhomes offer more interior space with a trade-off in maneuverability. The table below highlights the key differences between these three sizes. For more detail on RV classes, see our Class B vs Class C RVs guide.

Feature Small RVs
(compact camper vans)		 Mid-size Compact RVs
(larger Class B)		 Compact Class C RVs
(small motorhomes)
Size & footprint Shortest; often fits standard parking. Longer/taller; needs more room. Wider and longest; requires dedicated RV parking.
Driving feel Most car-like; easiest to drive. Still manageable; feels larger. Least agile; larger turning radius.
Interior space Minimalistic, efficient layouts. More headroom, storage, features. Most space; fixed beds and larger kitchen.
Best for Weekend trips; frequent stops. Longer trips; gear-heavy travel. Extended stays; max comfort.
Parking & access Excellent in cities and small towns. Moderate; fits many but not all spaces. Limited; needs RV-friendly locations.
Learning curve Lowest. Moderate. Highest.

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.