Class A rental Tampabay area

We had two TT before we got a Class C. The class C was a mistake. We now have DP class A. It is so much easier to drive and use. With a motor home setup is breeze. Overnight parking in rest area's is much simpler.

Hi,

Here's my $0.02.

You already rented a Class C so you know (or should know) the advantages of a motorhome for travelling. In my opinion, it is THE BEST way to travel. The Class A will be similar in those regards, just more room in the cab area with a MUCH larger view ahead, and (most likely) more counter space, more storage, larger holding tanks, larger refer, etc.

The actual camping experiences will be the same, although the class A's are usually easier to get setup because they will typically have hydraulic levelers (not sure the rentals will have those).

The real big difference is the driving experience between the C and the A. So, I'd just start showing up at various dealers and ask to take some models out for a test drive. Depending upon age and chassis, you may notice a marked difference between various Class A's. I'm assuming you're interested in gassers only. The general "rule of caution" around here is not to take a diesel pusher out for a test drive unless you really want it, as they usually are a better driving experience than the gassers.

In my opinion, driving a rig another 10' longer than the C's you rented isn't really a big adjustment except when backing and maneuvering. But again, if you're used to moving your 29' trailer with truck, the motorhome will be a piece of cake. Most will have a back-up camera to assist you.

Anyway, with most Class A's, the biggest driving adjustment is to drive closer to the centerline of the road than you're used to in your car. You can usually tell novice class A drivers as their passenger side wheels are riding on the shoulder-marker line in the road.

Four nights at $500/night is a good down payment, or a lot of gasoline, you can use on your camping expeditions.

We bought our class A after doing some extensive research (2+ years, most of it right here on the Open Roads Forums) . It was our first RV of any type. I test drove a few first. I had never camped in anything else before our purchase except for a couple of nights in a tent 2 decades earlier. Several people here suggested to rent first, but I just thought it was a huge waste of $$$ that could go toward the down payment. We're thrilled with our purchase and very glad we didn't "waste" the money renting. We still have the same rig.

I know others have their successful rental stories, but in your case, after already renting the class C, I'd think carefully about throwing more money into a rental.

Good Luck,

~Rick

check the thread on www.RVshare.com
bumpy

I am also finding $250-$500 a day with the newer ones closer to the $400-$500 range. I really hate to spend that much money but I really want to take one out for a few days and see if it's something that we like. I don't mind pulling my 30' TT but I know the experience from driving a Class A will be much different.

Having owned an RV rental company, I would advise seeking out Mom and Pop's on Craigslist or companies that specialize in Class A rentals. They are usually cheaper, nicer units and easier folks to deal with. The majors (cruise America etc) will typically offer a stripped down Class C and usually they are pretty beat up.
Class A's are a bit pricey and range about $350 - $500/day.

Having rented before you may be aware but just in case, Most rentals will have insurance already via MBA. It should be included in the price. If they charge extra, ask if you can get your own rider on your personal policy. They may also ask if you want the MBA rider for about $12/day. I would decline. Standard MBA covers you on all the state limits that you would normally have if you owned it yourself. The rider simply adds $1 MM in liability (which you would never purchase on your own) and it's really not needed.

Most will have a damage deposit anywhere from $1 - 2k. This will be refunded provided there is no damage but - buyer be ware - they can also use this money for a cleaning fee. Make sure it's spotless when you bring it back and note any dirt, smears, smudges, nicks etc before you go out. I was a stickler for the clean thing, our units were like brand new when they went out and I expected it to be that way when it came back. Otherwise I charged the fee. Also ask if the exterior is required to be washed. I never required this as I didn't want folks using washing materials that might damage the finish. Tanks will need to be empty and LP full, Gas tank full. Also ask about mileage allowance and gen usage. Those things can add up. Sorry I ramble but a lot of rentals will nickel and dime you on incidentals that you may be shocked when the final bill comes upon return.


Here's a few to look at:



Tampa RV

Private ones

The daybreak and the Suncruiser are home runs on their daily prices and fairly newer.

MidFLA