RV Rental Cost Calculator
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Estimate your total rental cost based on vehicle type, season, duration, and additional fees.
Want to hit the open road in an RV but not sure how much it’ll cost? You’re not alone. People ask this question all the time - and the answer isn’t simple. Renting an RV isn’t like booking a hotel room. Prices swing wildly depending on the season, the type of vehicle, where you pick it up, and even how long you rent it. In 2025, you could pay as little as $80 a day or as much as $500. Let’s break down exactly what you’re paying for - and how to avoid overpaying.
What kind of RV are you renting?
The biggest factor in your rental price is the type of vehicle. There are three main categories: Class A, Class C, and campervans.
Class A motorhomes are the big ones - think bus-sized, with full kitchens, bathrooms, and sometimes even slide-outs. These are luxury rigs. In Australia, renting one in peak season (December-January) will set you back $400-$500 a day. Off-season? You might find them for $250-$300. They’re great for families or long trips, but they guzzle fuel and cost more to park.
Class C motorhomes are built on a truck chassis. They’re smaller than Class A but still have a full bathroom and kitchen. These are the sweet spot for most people. In 2025, expect to pay $200-$300 a day in high season. Shoulder season (March-April or September-October) drops that to $130-$180. They’re easier to drive, cheaper to fuel, and still comfortable for two to four people.
Campervans are the smallest option - think Volkswagen Transporters or Ford Transit conversions. They’re perfect for couples or solo travelers. You’ll sleep in the back, cook on a small stove, and use a portable toilet. Daily rates? $80-$150 in peak season, $50-$90 off-season. Many people think campervans are cheaper just because they’re smaller - but they’re also harder to find in good condition, so demand pushes prices up.
When you rent matters more than where
Timing is everything. If you rent an RV during school holidays, long weekends, or summer break, you’re paying a premium. In Australia, the biggest spikes happen between mid-December and late January. During this time, prices can jump 60-80% compared to May or August.
Here’s what real renters paid in 2025:
- Family of four rented a Class C in Sydney in mid-December: $320/day
- Same vehicle rented in late April: $165/day
- Campervan in Melbourne during Easter: $180/day
- Same campervan in June: $75/day
Even the day of the week matters. Picking up on a Monday or Tuesday can save you 10-15% compared to Friday or Saturday pickups. Companies charge more for weekend starts because they know people want to leave right away.
Hidden fees you can’t ignore
That $120/day rate? It’s probably not the full price. Most rental companies hide fees in plain sight.
One-way fees - If you pick up in Sydney and drop off in Brisbane, you’ll pay $200-$400 extra. Some companies charge even more if you’re returning the vehicle to a different state.
Mileage limits - Many rentals include only 100-150 km per day. Go over? You’ll pay $0.30-$0.60 per extra km. On a two-week trip, that adds up fast. Look for unlimited mileage plans - they’re usually worth it if you plan to drive more than 1,000 km total.
Insurance - Basic coverage is included, but it usually has a $2,000-$5,000 excess (the amount you pay if there’s damage). You can buy down that excess for $15-$30 a day. Many people skip this - then panic when they scratch a bumper. A $300 repair could turn into a $2,000 bill if you’re not covered.
Cleaning fees - Most companies charge $80-$150 to clean the interior after you. Some let you do it yourself for free - but only if you leave it spotless. If they find food crumbs, dirty dishes, or wet towels, they’ll charge you anyway.
How to save money on RV rentals
You don’t have to pay top dollar. Here’s how real people cut their RV costs in 2025:
- Book early - Reserve at least 3-4 months ahead for peak season. Last-minute rentals cost 30-50% more.
- Travel off-season - April, May, August, and September are quiet. The weather’s still great in most places, and prices drop hard.
- Use local companies - Big national chains like Jucy or Apollo charge more. Smaller operators in regional towns often have better rates and fewer fees. Try searching for ‘campervan hire Melbourne’ or ‘RV rental Adelaide’ - you’ll find hidden gems.
- Check for weekly discounts - Renting for 7+ days often cuts the daily rate by 15-25%. A $150/day campervan might drop to $115/day for a week.
- Bring your own gear - Skip renting bedding, cooking supplies, or tables. Most places charge $10-$25 per item. Bring your own pillow, pots, and towels - it saves $100+.
What’s included? What’s not?
Always ask for a written list of what’s included. Here’s what you should expect:
- Always included: Basic insurance (with high excess), kitchen utensils, LPG gas, water tank, battery, and basic navigation.
- Usually extra: Wi-Fi, satellite TV, awnings, bike racks, rooftop carriers, extra drivers, and GPS devices.
- Never included: Fuel, campsite fees, tolls, and cleaning. Don’t assume any of these are covered.
Some companies now offer ‘all-inclusive’ packages - these are great if you want to avoid surprises. They bundle insurance, unlimited mileage, cleaning, and even a few free campsites. But they cost 20-30% more upfront. Only choose them if you’re not confident about managing costs yourself.
Is renting an RV worth it?
Let’s say you’re planning a 10-day trip from Sydney to the Blue Mountains and Port Stephens. You rent a Class C motorhome for $170/day. That’s $1,700. Add $250 for insurance reduction, $100 for extra mileage, $120 for cleaning, and $300 for fuel. Total: $2,470.
Compare that to staying in motels: $150/night for 10 nights = $1,500. Add $200 for meals out, $100 for parking, $150 for attractions - you’re still at $2,000. But here’s the difference: with an RV, you cook your own meals, sleep where you park, and have your whole home with you. You’re not just saving money - you’re gaining freedom.
RVs aren’t cheap. But they’re not just a vehicle - they’re your hotel, kitchen, and transport all in one. If you’re planning a road trip longer than 5 days, it almost always pays off.
Where to rent in Australia
You’ll find major rental companies in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth. But don’t overlook smaller operators in places like Byron Bay, Cairns, or the Gold Coast. They often have newer vehicles, better customer service, and lower prices.
Check reviews on Google and Trustpilot. Look for mentions of:
- Hidden fees
- Vehicle condition
- Customer support
- Drop-off process
One person in 2025 rented from a company that didn’t tell them the fridge didn’t work until they were 300 km from the depot. They ended up buying ice every day. Don’t be that person.
How much does it cost to rent a campervan in Australia for a week?
For a basic campervan, expect to pay between $500 and $900 for a week in peak season (December-January). Off-season (April-May or August-September), you can find weekly rates from $350 to $600. Most companies offer a 15-25% discount for rentals longer than 7 days. Always check if the price includes insurance, mileage, and cleaning - many don’t.
Can I rent an RV with a regular driver’s license?
Yes, in Australia, you can rent most campervans and Class C motorhomes with a standard car driver’s license. Class A motorhomes may require a special endorsement depending on weight - check with the rental company. Your license must be valid, not suspended, and in English. If it’s not in English, bring an International Driving Permit.
Is it cheaper to rent an RV or stay in hotels?
For trips longer than 5 days, renting an RV is usually cheaper. A hotel costs $150-$250 per night. An RV rental might cost $150-$300 per day, but you save on meals (cook your own), parking (sleep where you park), and transport (no need for taxis or car rentals). On a 10-day trip, you can easily save $500-$1,000 by using an RV.
What’s the best time of year to rent an RV in Australia?
The best time for value is April-May and August-September. Weather is still pleasant across most of the country, crowds are low, and prices drop 30-50% compared to summer. Avoid December to February if you want to save money - it’s peak season, and bookings fill up fast. If you’re heading to the outback, avoid the wet season (November-March).
Do I need to pay for campsites separately?
Yes. RV rental prices never include campsite fees. Public campsites cost $10-$30 per night. Private parks charge $30-$70, depending on amenities like showers, Wi-Fi, and laundry. Some national parks offer free camping - but you’ll need to be self-sufficient. Always check the rules before you park.
Can I rent an RV if I’m under 25?
Most companies require renters to be at least 21. Some allow drivers aged 18-20 with extra fees and restrictions. If you’re under 25, expect to pay a young driver surcharge - usually $15-$30 per day. Some companies won’t rent Class A vehicles to drivers under 25 at all. Always check age policies before booking.
