Renting a campervan is an exciting way to explore the great outdoors, offering freedom, flexibility, and a unique sense of adventure. But with so many rental options available, how do you choose the perfect campervan for your upcoming journey? Worry not!
In this blog post, we'll discuss five essential factors to consider when selecting a campervan rental, ensuring you have the best possible experience on your road trip.
Size and Sleeping Capacity
The size of your campervan and its sleeping capacity are crucial factors to consider when choosing a rental. You'll want a campervan that offers enough space for all travelers while remaining comfortable and easy to maneuver.
Here's what to look for:
Sleeping capacity: Ensure the campervan has enough sleeping areas for everyone in your group. Vintage Surfari Wagons offers VW camper vans with two fold-out beds, comfortably accommodating up to four people.
Storage space: A good campervan should have ample storage for your belongings, food, and equipment. Check for built-in cabinets, under-bed storage, or additional storage options to keep your items organized and accessible during your trip.
2. Amenities and Comfort
The amenities provided by your campervan rental will play a significant role in the overall comfort and enjoyment of your trip. When evaluating campervans, look for the following features:
Kitchenette: A functional kitchenette, complete with a refrigerator, stove, and sink, allows you to cook your meals and store perishable items during your trip. For example, Vintage Surfari Wagons' camper vans come equipped with a small kitchenette and camping gear for convenient and enjoyable meal preparation.
Pop-up roof: A pop-up roof offers extra headroom, ventilation, and even additional sleeping space, making your campervan feel more spacious and comfortable. Did we mention that our camper vans come with a pop-up roof?
Bathroom facilities: Some campervans include built-in toilets or showers, while others provide portable options. Consider your preferences and the availability of campground facilities when choosing a campervan with or without bathroom amenities.
3. Reliability and Maintenance
When embarking on a campervan adventure, the last thing you want is a breakdown or mechanical issue. Ensure your rental company has a reputation for well-maintained, reliable vehicles.
Age and condition of the vehicles: Check the age and condition of the campervan fleet. Newer vehicles tend to have fewer issues, but a well-maintained older vehicle can also be a reliable choice. Vintage Surfari Wagons has been not just renting VW campers since 2005, but also restoring and building custom camper vans. Not to brag, but countless number of rentees ended up buying their own buses and reached out to us for restoration.
Roadside assistance: Choose a rental company that offers roadside assistance in case of emergencies. This service provides peace of mind, knowing you'll have support should any issues arise during your trip.
4. Customer Support and Service
Exceptional customer service is essential when choosing a campervan rental company. Friendly, knowledgeable staff can provide valuable guidance and support during your journey.
Availability of support: Ensure the rental company has a responsive support team available to answer questions, address concerns, or provide assistance during your trip.
Reviews and testimonials: Read customer reviews and testimonials to gain insight into the company's reputation and level of customer service. Positive feedback is an excellent indication of a trustworthy and supportive rental company.
Social Media Following: A quick glance at a rental company’s social media profiles will give you valuable insights such as customer experience, fleet quality, customer loyalty, etc. For example, Vintage Surfari Wagons has got some amazing following in Instagram.
Press mentions: Not every camper van rental company gets mentioned in media outlets. It takes great customer experience, credibility and a whole lot of other things to get noticed and cited by news outlets. Vintage Surfari Wagons is proud to be featured in major publications, including The Guardian, Apartment Therapy, The New York Times, and Los Angeles Times.
5. Rental Cost and Inclusions
Consider the cost of the campervan rental and what's included in the price. Be sure to compare prices, considering any additional fees or charges that may apply.
Rental rates: Research rental rates for different campervan companies, taking note of any seasonal pricing fluctuations or promotional discounts that may be available.
Inclusions: Determine what's included in the rental fee, such as insurance, mileage allowances, and additional equipment like camping gear or kitchen supplies. Vintage Surfari Wagons, for example, offers well-equipped VW campers that come with a small kitchenette, refrigerator, stove, camping gear, and other amenities, providing exceptional value for your campervan adventure.
Extra fees and charges: Be aware of any additional fees, such as pet fee, cleaning charges, insurance upgrades, or fees for extra drivers. Understanding these costs upfront will help you make an informed decision and avoid unexpected expenses during your trip.
When planning a campervan adventure, selecting the perfect rental is an essential first step for a memorable experience. By considering the factors discussed in this blog post, you'll be well-equipped to choose a campervan that suits your needs and preferences, ensuring a comfortable, enjoyable, and stress-free journey.
Vintage Surfari Wagons has been helping adventurers hit the road in style since 2005. So why not begin your next road trip with Vintage Surfari Wagons and explore the stunning landscapes of California and beyond in the comfort of a classic VW camper van? Happy travels!