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The exciting RV lifestyle has grown in popularity.  Surprisingly when you think of RVs you might imagine a larger than life, rock star-ready, mini-mansions on wheels.  However, the truth is that there is a whole lot of small, lightweight RVs you can choose from.  You will learn about the smallest RVs to rent today and still enjoy glamping to its fullest. 

Smaller, lightweight models afford a remarkably ideal compromise between the multiple available options. Besides, their compact build, they are surprisingly luxurious, and ideal for both full-time nomads and short-term adventure trips.

If you are contemplating renting a small RV but are unsure of the available sizes and types and how much it would cost, we have got you covered! This article has everything you need to know about renting small RVs, the different types of small RVs, their average cost per night, and so much more!

Ready for the adventure? Let’s get started….

Why You Should Rent a Small RV

RVs range in type and size and smaller campers offer numerous benefits over their relatively larger counterparts.  They can still be surprisingly cozy and offer mobility and freedom you can’t enjoy from a larger model.

Many highly desired National Park campgrounds, such as Arches National Park, have limited (or no) large campsites.  So, you will have a larger variety of campsites to choose from. Additionally, having a small motorhome or campervan will make driving through the park, oh, so much easier. 

Also referred to as ‘compact’ RVs, the smaller models offer all the luxuries associated with larger models but on a conveniently smaller scale. Perfectly designed to accommodate fewer persons, smaller RVs are an ideal choice for a group of travelers who don’t require as much space.

In fact, going for a little less space inside may mean opening up more options on travel day.  For example, campervans are built on a van chassis and fit right in any parking space.  (If you have tried to navigate the grocery store parking lot in a big rig, you know this is an important point).

Another benefit is you will spend less at the pump.   Driving or towing a small RV is considerably more fuel-efficient. This is especially great for persons planning to travel long distances as the fill-ups generally add up much quicker than you would assume.

In general, smaller recreation vehicles are more budget friendly.  Buying and renting smaller models are usually cheaper. The average nightly rate will be half or less than larger rigs. 

The Top Smallest RVs You Should Rent Today (plus length and average cost per night)

When it comes to small RV rentals, the biggest question in most people’s minds is which type should I rent? Unfortunately, this is always a tricky question to answer.

RVs are generally divided into various classes depending on Length, weight, and features, among other factors. If you are looking for the smallest RV you can rent, we have compiled a useful list of eight smallest RV rentals, as well as their average rental cost per day (depending on the age and class of the RV).

Psst:  Read more about the types of RVs to rent before deciding which one is best for you.  Read more on our blog here: Which type of RV is right for me?

Class B Motorhome

AVERAGE LENGTH: 15-23 feet

AVERAGE COST PER NIGHT: $95- $295

AKA campervan, this RV option is quite small compared to bus sized, Class A options. These small but mighty RVs can usually be basic (storage and bed space) or boast various extras such as dining areas, bathrooms, and a spacious room comfortably and sleep 2-6 people. The average cost per night is $95 to $295.   

Note:  I did notice that some advertisements for camper vans have inaccurate links for example one description of a dodge van conversion had an impossible length of 11 feet. Just use some common sense when looking through the listings.

This tiny Mavericks campervan has a big queen-sized bed and sleeps up to 5, all fit in 17 feet.  You can rent it near Denver at this link on RVShare.  

Class C Motorhome

• LENGTH: 16-30 feet
• COST: $150 to $200 per night

Class Cs are a little roomier than the campervan but still offer smaller sizes.  The bunk over the cab offers more sleeping space too.  Typically, they average between 20 to 30 feet in length, although more compact options can be as small as only 16 feet.

Some models come with slide-outs that add more space when you are camped.   You can find plenty of 24-foot options that sleep 6 but we found some even smaller.  Here are some of our favorites:

Check out this tiny 19-foot class C called Batman’s vacation home (and one of the cheapest motorhomes around).  See the latest price on RVShare.

Compact Travel Trailer

• LENGTH: 10-40 feet
• AVERAGE COST PER NIGHT: $50- $155

Travel trailers are a trailer mounted unit and connect via bumper hitch to be towed by a separate vehicle.  Travel trailers range widely from less than 10 feet to 40 feet. These trailers are ideal for campers looking to unhitch and use their vehicle to explore the area.   (Our current trailer is in the large category but previously we owned a 20-foot vintage camper).

These are some of our favorite that we found for you to rent:

This Winnebago Micro Mini is also in California. You can sleep 3 comfortably in 19 feet. You can see this trailer here on Outdoorsy.

You can visit Yellowstone National park for less than $100 a day in this Jayco Baja.  With a dry weight of less than 2,500 pounds, you could easily tow this with a small SUV.  Check prices for the Jayco Baha.

Pop-up trailer

• LENGTH: 8 – 16 feet
• AVERAGE COST PER NIGHT: $50-$175

Also, popularly called folding trailers, these are lightweight RV models that can fold into themselves.  The compact design allows for more effortless towing and storage.  If you love to tent camp, you will love this kind of trailer.  The canvas sides allow you to enjoy the fresh night air and sounds of camping. I remember camping in a pop-up as a kid with my family.

Although, a pop-up folds down to tow they can be very roomy when expanded.  This pop-up in the Ozarks actually sleeps 8!  You can rent this foldable travel on RVShare at this link. 

Hybrid Travel Trailer

• LENGTH: 8 – 16 feet
• AVERAGE COST PER NIGHT: $50-$100

A hybrid travel trailer is a towable mix of a basic travel trailer and a pop-up.  You will find a big variety of different styles.  Many have beds that pop out at the end and slides that open up the center.  A nice feature of the hybrid model is that you can stay in the trailer without opening up the extra sides.   

I had my heart set on this type of trailer before we bought the huge camper that we have now.  A good hybrid can be difficult to find!

This hybrid trailer is perfect for a large family getaway to the Grand Canyon.  You can sleep 10 people in just 25 feet!  You can get everyone together with less than the cost of 1 hotel room. Check the current rental price on RVShare. 

I love the layout and set up of this one.  This amazing smaller, hybrid travel trailer is only 2612 lbs but sleeps 7 and rents for less than $100 a night on RVshare. 

Teardrop Trailers

• LENGTH: 11-20 feet
• AVERAGE COST PER NIGHT: $50-$150

This is the ultimate when it comes to small RV camping! These adorable, tear-shaped compact campers are basic models with most only featuring a bed and perhaps fold-out external kitchens. Some relatively larger models also have a bathroom. Teardrop campers are lightweight, hence easy to tow and can accommodate one or two persons. 

Imagine visiting Yellowstone National Park in “The Escape Pod” Check availability here.

Truck Campers

• LENGTH: 14-18 feet
• AVERAGE COST PER NIGHT: $75 to $175

Easy to drive and remarkably economical, these campers are built by attaching a hard-sided camper to the bed of a regular pickup truck. They usually accommodate between 2 to 4 occupants and afford a small dining, cooking, bath, and storage facilities. Truck campers are ideal for spontaneous travelers and weekend warriors who prefer off-roading, affordability, and flexibility over luxury.

I was surprised to find truck campers on the national rental site of Cruise America, but it’s true.  You can browse the selections and prices here. 

There you have it the best smallest RVs. I hope I have convinced you that there is an RV for everyone! You can rent a small RV and have luxury accommodations in a tiny package. Choosing a small camper is not the only way to save money on an RV. Get all my hacks for planning a vacation by following along this series on Renting and RV for Your Family Vacation:

Part 3: Finding the Cheapest RV Rental Rates

Part 5: Which Type of RV is Right for You

Hi, I’m Shauna – Welcome to Family Travel Fever.  We are a large family, that was bitten by the travel bug!  We travel with kids and extended family.  I take the kids by myself sometimes because I don’t mind flying or driving solo with my crew to discover the coolest places.

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