OKEMOS, Mich.-Motorized or towable? Class A or class C? Folding camper or travel trailer? With so many options, how do you know which recreation vehicle is right for you and your family? RV vacations offer greater control and a flexible way to travel, allowing you to bring along all the comforts of home. But is it for you? Rent one for a weekend. Many RV dealers offer RV rentals, providing the opportunity to try-before-you-buy.
The Michigan Association of RVs and Campgrounds (MARVAC) has at least 30 member dealers who offer state-of-the-art RV rentals in a range of sizes and styles. The type, size and available features vary by dealer. Folding campers, travel trailers, class A and class C motorhomes are available for rent. Don't worry. Your RV rental dealer will demonstrate how to operate the unit before you leave for your trip. RVs are easier to drive/tow than you might think.
Affordability is another benefit of RV rentals, which are more affordable than other vacation types. Motorhomes average $90 to $200 per day; folding campers and travel trailers average $50 to $120 per day. Remember, that fee includes your transportation, sleeping accommodations, and kitchen, which provide the option of reducing food costs. Some dealers offer packages of three to 10 days. In general, RV vacations are more affordable than traveling by personal car, airline or cruise ship, even with high gasoline prices. A study by PKF Consulting found that a family of four can spend 26 percent to 74 percent less when traveling by RV.
Renting an RV is increasing in popularity among consumers. The RV Rental Association (RVRA) reports significant growth in domestic rentals since 2002. The RV rental business is now an over $350 million industry. It grew by 36 percent in 2005.
To find a dealer who offers rentals, visit www.marvac.org, click "Dealers" then select "rents RVs" from the search criteria. To narrow the results even further, search by region or zip code. Some even have Web sites with floor plans, pricing and online rental applications.
The Michigan Association of Recreation Vehicles and Campgrounds (MARVAC) is celebrating its 65th anniversary, making it one of Michigan's oldest trade associations. MARVAC is a statewide, non-profit organization dedicated to encouraging growth in the recreation vehicle and private campground industries while contributing to the quality of Michigan tourism. For more information, visit MARVAC's Web site, www.marvac.org. MARVAC, 2222 Association Drive, Okemos, Mich. 48864-5978; 517.349.8881.
For additional information, please visit our All About RVing section of this web site. Here you will find various articles spotlighting the people and places that makeup the RV and Camper lifestyle.
