Imagine turning your family RV into a money-making asset instead of letting it sit in the driveway for most of the year. When your RV is only used a few times a year, it can start to feel like it’s taking up space and slowly turning into an expensive lawn ornament. But did you know that you can rent out your RV, just like people rent homes on Airbnb? With the growing popularity of RV rentals, there’s never been a better time to make your RV work for you.
In this blog, we’ll explore the best ways to rent out your RV, the top RV rental platforms, and everything you need to know to get started. From listing costs to what you can expect to earn, we’ll cover it all so you can maximize your RV investment.
Why Rent Out Your RV?
Before diving into the details, let’s look at why renting out your RV can be a smart financial move:
- Earn Extra Income: Depending on your RV’s size, type, and location, you can earn anywhere from $75 to $300+ per night by renting it out. This could add up to several thousand dollars over a summer season.
- Offset Ownership Costs: RVs come with costs like storage fees, insurance, and maintenance. Renting your RV can help offset these expenses and even turn a profit.
- Demand for Unique Travel Experiences: As more people look for outdoor travel options, RVs have become increasingly popular for those seeking socially distanced vacations. This high demand means that renting out your RV can be a lucrative opportunity.
Top 3 Platforms to Rent Out Your RV
There are several platforms where you can list your RV for rent, each with its own set of features, costs, and benefits. Here’s an in-depth look at three of the most popular options:
1. Outdoorsy
Overview: Outdoorsy is often referred to as the Airbnb for RVs. It’s a user-friendly platform that connects RV owners with people looking to rent them. With insurance and roadside assistance included, it’s a great option for beginners.
Cost to List:
- Free to list your RV.
- Outdoorsy takes a 20% commission from each rental, which covers insurance, roadside assistance, and marketing your listing.
Potential Earnings:
- The average RV owner on Outdoorsy makes between $10,000 to $15,000 per year if they rent out their RV consistently.
- Rates can vary depending on the type of RV and location. A basic camper might rent for $75 to $150 per night, while luxury Class A motorhomes can command $250 to $400 per night.
Newbie Tips:
- Set a Competitive Price: Check similar RV listings in your area to price your rental competitively.
- Take Great Photos: Listings with high-quality photos get more views. Make sure to showcase both the exterior and interior of your RV.
- Respond Quickly: The faster you respond to rental inquiries, the higher your listing will rank on the site.
Insurance: Outdoorsy provides up to $1 million in liability coverage and comprehensive insurance for both owners and renters.
2. RVshare
Overview: RVshare is another major player in the peer-to-peer RV rental market. It offers a large network of renters and is known for its easy-to-navigate platform. It’s a great option for RV owners who want more control over the rental process.
Cost to List:
- Free to list, with a commission fee of 15% for standard insurance coverage or 25% if you opt for their premier insurance package.
Potential Earnings:
- Average earnings on RVshare are similar to Outdoorsy, with many owners making $10,000 or more per year.
- A travel trailer might rent for around $100 to $150 per night, while larger motorhomes can rent for $200 to $400 per night.
Newbie Tips:
- Optimize Your Listing: Use keywords like “family-friendly” or “pet-friendly” to attract more renters.
- Set Clear Rules: Make sure to set clear expectations for renters, such as rules for pets, mileage limits, and cleaning requirements.
- Offer Delivery: If you’re comfortable, offer to deliver the RV to a local campground or destination for an extra fee. This can attract renters who don’t have a tow vehicle.
Insurance: RVshare includes up to $1 million in liability insurance and comprehensive coverage with each rental, making it easy for beginners to get started.
3. RVezy
Overview: RVezy is popular in both the United States and Canada and prides itself on being an owner-friendly platform. With a smaller community feel and hands-on customer support, it’s a great option if you’re new to renting out your RV.
Cost to List:
- Free to list, with a 20-25% commission taken from each booking.
Potential Earnings:
- Owners on RVezy can earn up to $30,000 per year with consistent rentals. The average rental rate is about $100 to $250 per night, depending on the RV type.
- Luxury RVs and motorhomes tend to rent at the higher end of the spectrum.
Newbie Tips:
- Write a Detailed Description: Include information about the RV’s features, any recent upgrades, and why it’s perfect for family vacations.
- Provide Extra Amenities: Consider including small extras like camp chairs, a portable BBQ, or a s’mores kit. These little touches can make your listing stand out.
- Build a Good Reputation: Positive reviews will boost your rental opportunities, so aim to provide a great experience for every renter.
Insurance: RVezy offers $1 million in liability coverage, plus collision and comprehensive coverage. This is included in the rental commission fee.
How to Get Started with Renting Out Your RV
Renting out your RV may seem daunting at first, but by following these simple steps, you can have your listing up and running in no time:
1. Prepare Your RV for Renters
- Clean and Declutter: Make sure the RV is clean, both inside and out. Remove any personal items so that renters feel like they have a space of their own.
- Check Safety Features: Make sure your RV has working smoke detectors, a first aid kit, and all required safety features.
2. Create a Winning Listing
- High-Quality Photos: Take photos during the day with natural light. Show the layout of the RV, sleeping arrangements, and any special features like TVs or outdoor awnings.
- Write a Detailed Description: Share why your RV is perfect for a family adventure, including nearby campgrounds or attractions that renters might enjoy.
- Set a Competitive Price: Compare similar RVs in your area to determine your nightly rate. Offering a discount for longer rentals (e.g., 7 days or more) can attract more bookings.
3. Handle the Legal Stuff
- Check Local Regulations: Some areas may have regulations regarding RV rentals, so it’s important to verify what is required in your region.
- Get Insurance: While the rental platforms provide insurance, it’s a good idea to check if your personal RV insurance requires any additional coverage for rentals.
4. Communicate Clearly with Renters
- Provide a Detailed Walkthrough: Give renters a thorough walkthrough of the RV when they pick it up or when you deliver it. Explain how to operate features like the water heater, stove, and slide-outs.
- Be Available for Questions: Make sure renters know how to reach you if they have any questions during their trip.
How Much Can You Really Earn Renting Out Your RV?
The potential income from renting out your RV depends on several factors, including the type of RV, location, rental demand, and how often you make it available. Here’s a general breakdown:
- Travel Trailers & Pop-Up Campers: Typically rent for $75 to $150 per night. If rented out for 20 nights in a month, you could earn around $1,500 to $3,000.
- Class B Campervans: Rent for $100 to $200 per night, bringing in $2,000 to $4,000 with 20 nights rented.
- Class A Motorhomes: These luxurious RVs rent for $250 to $400 per night. With 15 to 20 nights rented per month, you could earn $4,000 to $8,000 or more.
Keep in mind that you’ll need to account for expenses like maintenance, cleaning, and platform fees, but overall, renting your RV can significantly offset these costs and generate a profit.
Conclusion: Turn Your RV into a Money-Making Asset
Renting out your RV is a fantastic way to make money when you’re not using it. With platforms like Outdoorsy, RVshare, and RVezy, it’s never been easier to turn your RV into a profitable side hustle. Whether you’re saving for your next big adventure or just want to cover some of your RV’s costs, renting it out can help you achieve your financial goals while letting others experience the joys of RV travel.
