HOUSTON — The camper and RV craze that began last summer during the pandemic is showing no signs of letting up, but while it appears to be a great way to travel, there are some downside to know about if you are thinking about renting one.
The vacation rage of 2020 is now the hot trend again in 2021: renting an RV, motorhome or camper.
Money magazine said it started because they were virus friendly since you drive across the country with your own bedroom and kitchen. However, the publication added that many people last year ended up surprised at the total cost.
Here's just a few of the expense renters run into:
RV rental can range from $100 to $300 per night similar to a hotel
Plus, campsites are another $50 to $150 a night.
Since they get just 4 to 10 miles per gallon, gas can cost $75 to $100 per day
As gas now edges past $3 a gallon — a dollar more than 2020 — a fill-up can now cost $150.
From the doesn't that sink file, the biggest cost surprise for many people, insurance. Your auto insurance may not cover the full value of that RV, and your credit card may not cover it at all.
You may have to pay $25 or more per day for RV insurance, but in the end. it's still cheaper than a $500 a night luxury resort.
You have your own COVID-free accommodations, which can be well worth the cost.
Bottom line: Campers are a great way to travel, but with $3 gas just know all the costs involved so you don't waste your money.