With summer approaching, many people are considering a road trip. A camper van rental is a great way to enjoy the #vanlife without breaking the bank.
The biggest way to save money on a camper van rental is by cooking more in the van and cutting back on dining out. Restaurant costs add up fast!
Plan Your Trip Ahead of Time
A camper rental in Iceland will always be more expensive than just renting a car, but there are ways to save money on your trip. One of the biggest ways to save is to cook more in the van and cut back on dining out. While eating out at restaurants is fun, it can quickly increase costs.
Another way to save is to plan your route ahead of time and stick to it. This will help you stay within your mileage limits, which can be expensive. Most companies will let you know how many miles are included in your rental agreement and the charges if you exceed that amount.
Finally, it’s a good idea to look for discounts. Many companies offer special deals on certain seasons or locations, so it’s worth checking them out before booking your trip.
Travel in the Off-Season
The time of year you choose to travel can greatly impact the cost of your camper van rental. Peak season rates are usually higher than off-season rates. For the best prices, try to avoid travelling during the summer months and instead opt for spring or fall. These shoulder seasons offer cheaper rates, and you’ll enjoy your destination without the insane crowds.
In addition, you’ll save on airfare and accommodation costs by traveling in the off-season. Some travel agencies even offer special packages during the off-season that bundle transportation and accommodation for an even better price. You can also cut back on dining out by cooking in your camper van. Restaurant expenses add up fast, and making meals at home is much more affordable! You’ll also enjoy a more authentic experience by trying out local restaurants and experiences.
Look for Discounts
Despite rising fuel costs and other commodities, RVing remains an affordable travel option for many families. One of the ways people keep costs down is by renting an RV and avoiding costly add-ons like delivery, set up, and cleaning.
In addition to the daily rental fee, there are often other fees like insurance (which is highly variable depending on your risk tolerance), roadside assistance, cleaning, and delivery charges. Make sure you know what the total cost of the rental will be before making a reservation.
To save money on your camper van rental, look for discounts. Many companies offer car rental discounts to members.
Cook More in the Van
It is important to learn how to cook various meals in your van in van life. By doing this, you can save money on food costs by eliminating the need to go to restaurants.
In addition, cooking in your van will help to cut down on waste and improve your health. This will allow you to eat more home-cooked meals made from fresh ingredients.
When travelling in your campervan, it is best to avoid meals that require a lot of ingredients or are difficult to clean up after. Instead, focus on one-pot wonders such as risotto, jambalaya, stews, and curries.
Also, try to eat more salads. These are a great source of nutrients and can be made using various ingredients, including boiled eggs, smoked salmon, chicken breasts, or tofu. Plus, they are easy to eat on the go!
Stay at Free Campsites
If you’re road-tripping or living a van life for an extended period, free camping will save you a lot of money. Paid campgrounds can cost $30 per night, which adds up quickly! Instead, look for dispersed camping spots on public lands. Just make sure to follow Leave No Trace guidelines when choosing a spot.
Cooking in your campervan will also help you reduce dining-out costs. Restaurants can get expensive, especially if you drink craft beers and enjoy fancy meals. But cooking in your van is easy with a 5-gallon pump sink, 2-burner Coleman stove, and dual-powered fridge. And you’ll save tons by not paying for overpriced eats!
Cut Back on Dining Out
Eating out is expensive, and preparing meals in the van can save you money. This is especially true if you travel in a high season when hotel costs can be sky-high.
Some camper van rental companies include all the essentials in their rentals, but others charge extra for cleaning fees or generator use. If you want to save money, ask about all the fees before making your reservation.
If you’re a fan of the van life lifestyle but aren’t ready to buy your rig, renting a camper can be a great option. By following these tips, you can save money on your camper van rental and enjoy a road trip that’s both affordable and fun!
