Vintage Surfari Wagons

The Ultimate Guide to Hire an RV Campervan in California

The call of the open road is strong, and what better way to answer than by jumping into a classic campervan and exploring the highways, byways, and hidden gems of sunny California? Here at Vintage Surfari Wagons, we are all about bringing that iconic California road-tripping experience to life with our fleet of meticulously maintained and lovingly refurbished Volkswagen campervans and modern equivalents.

This guide aims to provide all the information you need to hire an RV campervan for a memorable Californian adventure.

Understanding the Different Types of Campervans

Let’s begin with the basics.

At Vintage Surfari Wagons, we offer a range of campervans to cater to different preferences and needs. Our Bay Window campers are your classic hippie buses, ideal for those seeking to capture the spirit of the '60s and '70s. With a 200-mile daily mileage limit, these are perfect for leisurely drives along the coast or into the heart of the state.

When it comes to the Vanagon, a time-tested cross-country machine, the daily limit is 250 miles. These are great for those who want to explore the entirety of SoCal and perhaps venture further afield.

The Eurovan brings modern conveniences without sacrificing style. With a generous 300-mile daily limit, you're free to chart an ambitious journey around the Golden State.

Whereas our Mercedes Metris campers offer the comforts of a modern vehicle, perfect for long drives, as these vehicles are equipped with newer features (Air-conditioning, cruise control, and camping heater) and safety standards (airbags).  

Each vehicle has unique charms, so it's about finding the one that matches your vision of the ideal road trip.

Things to Consider Before Hiring an RV Campervan

Planning is an essential part of any road trip, and hiring an RV campervan is no different. Here are some factors to consider:

Your budget: This will determine the type of van you choose, as well as the length and scope of your trip. Take into account rental fees, extra mileage costs, fuel, campsite fees, food, pet fee, etc.

Your route and destinations: Are you heading for the beaches, the mountains, the cities, or a combination of all three? The type of terrain can influence your choice of vehicle.

The size of your travel group: Our campervans comfortably sleep and transport up to four people. Make sure you consider the size of your group when selecting a van.

Your comfort preferences: Each of our campervans comes with its own set of features. Decide what’s most important for your trip, whether it's a pop-up roof, built-in kitchenette, or modern conveniences like air conditioning.

Understanding rental policies: It's important to understand the terms and conditions of your rental. At Vintage Surfari Wagons, we require a minimum deposit of $250 to secure a booking and a security deposit of $1000 on a major credit card.

How to Book Your RV Campervan

Booking your Vintage Surfari Wagon is a breeze. You can browse our range of vehicles online, check their availability for your desired dates, and make a reservation directly on our website. A deposit of $250 is required to secure a booking.

It's also worth noting that each of our vans comes with a set mileage limit per rental day, beyond which mileage fees apply. These fees vary by vehicle type – for example, additional miles for the Bay Window are charged at $1.25/mile, while for the Eurovan, it’s 59 cents per mile.

You can prepay for additional mile packages at cost-effective rates if you plan to cover more ground. But don't worry; we understand that some days might be more travel-heavy than others, so unused daily miles roll over to the next day!

Picking Up Your RV Campervan

Once you've made your booking, picking up your campervan is a simple process. We're based in Southern California, and we'll have your chosen vehicle ready and waiting for you. Upon pick-up, our team will walk you through the camper’s features and ensure you're comfortable with its operation.

We're also happy to provide tips for your journey based on our extensive local knowledge. For those who want a one-way journey, we have provisions for rentals starting or ending in San Francisco.

Special Rates for Media Outlets

For those in media looking to capture the charm and essence of a classic road trip, our Vintage Surfari Wagons are available for media rates. With a time allotment of 8 hours for $750, we deliver the vehicle to your set and stay within eyeshot to provide technical and safety services. Extra charges apply for overtime and distances beyond our 100-mile delivery radius.

Its Time to Explore!

Exploring California in an RV campervan from Vintage Surfari Wagons offers an incomparable blend of freedom, nostalgia, and comfort. Whether you're heading for the beaches, the mountains, the cities, or all three (Be greedy; we don’t judge!), our machine will get you there in style and at your own pace.

With our range of campervans covered in this comprehensive guide, we hope to have made the process of you hiring a campervan a bit easier. Remember, road-tripping is about the journey as much as the destination, and we're here to ensure your journey is one for the books. Happy travels!

12 Tips for Planning a Road Trip with Vintage Surfari Wagons

Traveling isn't always about reaching the destination – it's about cherishing the journey. With Vintage Surfari Wagons, your journey will become an adventure. Our fleet of vintage VW campers stationed in Southern California can take you back in time while embracing the joy of the open road.

 Perfectly refurbished and equipped with all the essentials, these iconic vehicles are the perfect companions for your next vacation. In this blog post, we'll guide you through 12 handy tips for planning a memorable road trip with Vintage Surfari Wagons. Buckle up!

 

Choose the Right Vintage Wagon for Your Needs

 Your wagon sets the tone for your road trip adventure.

 At Vintage Surfari Wagons, we offer a slew of stunning VW and Mercedes campers, from nostalgic Bay Windows to modern Eurovans. Each van has its character, charm, and distinctive features, catering to different needs and styles.

 Want the vintage vibe of a 70s hippie bus? Try the Ala Lani. Craving modern conveniences without sacrificing style? A Mercedes Metris might be your pick. Consider your trip length, the number of travelers, and your preferences when selecting your wagon. And don't hesitate to ask us if you are unsure which one to pick.

 

Plan Your Route

 Once you've chosen your ideal camper, it's time to map out your journey. Southern California is home to many awe-inspiring destinations, and these wagons are ready to take you there. Use resources like campground directories, maps included in your van, or online trip-planning tools to identify interesting spots and hidden gems. Remember, the VW wave is universal, so don't hesitate to ask other vintage VW enthusiasts for recommendations!

 

Pack Smart

 Since all of our wagons come outfitted with almost everything you need for your expedition – from a fully equipped kitchenette with cooking utensils, pots, pans, and dishes, to other essentials like a coffee press and camping gear, we recommend you pack light. “But what about my personal items?” you may ask. Space in a camper van is precious, so every item you pack should be considered carefully.

 

●  Opt for versatile clothing that can be layered for varying weather conditions.

●  Pack compact toiletries, and consider bringing eco-friendly products to minimize your environmental footprint.

●  Don't forget essential items like medication, sunblock, and your favorite pair of sunglasses.

 

Check the Weather

 Weather can dictate your route, your wardrobe, and even your daily activities. Staying ahead of weather forecasts allows you to adjust your plans accordingly. Sunny day ahead? It's time to hit the beach! A little rain in the forecast? It might be the perfect day to explore a local museum or cozy up in your camper with a good book.

 Remember, Vintage Surfari Wagons are more than just transportation – they are mobile shelters equipped to handle whatever weather surprises come your way. Even if you encounter a spot of rain, you have a cozy, dry space to retreat to, complete with a fully equipped kitchen for a hot meal.

 

Understand Your Wagon

 Every Vintage Surfari Wagon is a classic – a vintage vehicle restored and equipped for modern adventure. These iconic campers are designed to be your home on wheels, complete with a pop-up roof, two fold-out beds, and a small kitchenette. Each wagon is unique, infused with its charm and personality, and furnished with everything you need for a fun and memorable road trip.

 If you're a first-time camper-vanner, the very idea of maneuvering these classics might seem daunting. But fret not! The friendly team at Vintage Surfari Wagons is always ready to give you a comprehensive walkthrough of your chosen van.

 

Don't Forget Entertainment

 A road trip, in itself, is a fun-filled adventure. But having a range of entertainment options can enhance your journey further. Board games can lead to memorable nights of friendly competition, a stack of good books can be your companion during quiet afternoons, and an instrument like a ukulele can lead to impromptu sing-alongs by the campfire.

 

Keep It Clean

 Our wagons are vintage vehicles and require a bit more TLC. Fortunately, each wagon comes equipped with basic cleaning supplies like brooms, dishwashing liquid, and sponges. Make a habit of cleaning up after each meal and before you start driving each day. Not only does it help maintain the vehicle, but it also enhances your overall road trip experience.

 

Practice Safe Driving

 Driving a vintage vehicle may feel different from a modern car, especially when it comes to braking distances, nimbleness, and cornering. These iconic vehicles have been lovingly restored and cared for by the dedicated team at Vintage Surfari Wagons. Hence, it's always a good idea to familiarize yourself with the machine before you set off. Remember, safety always comes first.

 

Final Thoughts

 Every journey with a Vintage Surfari Wagon is a unique adventure. With careful planning, thoughtful preparation, and a spirit of adventure, your road trip can become the vacation of a lifetime. As the saying goes, "Not all who wander are lost." So, pick your perfect vintage wagon, map your route, and let's make memories!