Your options
| Option | How it works | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Hosted campervan trip | The operator supplies the vehicle and guides the group. Example: the Fresh Adventures guided campervan format in the Rockies | First-time travellers who want a short, organised trip |
| Rent an RV and join a caravan | You rent from a rental company and join an own-RV caravan if the operator allows it | People who want a longer trip but do not own an RV |
| Rent and travel independently | You rent and plan the route | Flexible travellers; see RV Camping Canada for routes |
| Try before you buy | Rent for a week to test the lifestyle before buying | People considering buying an RV. See our ownership guides |
Hosted campervan trips
A hosted trip usually bundles the vehicle, campsites, some meals and guided activities. It is closer to a guided small-group tour than a traditional caravan. Check whether the operator’s page is current, because one profile we reviewed still showed old dates.
Rent an RV and join a caravan
- Ask whether the operator accepts rentals, and whether rental companies allow the route (for example, cross-border or remote highways).
- Check the rental’s mileage limits, insurance, deductible and what happens in a breakdown.
- Learn how to operate the RV before departure; ask the rental company for a walkthrough.
- Find rental companies in our rentals directory.
Compare the options
Use the budget calculator with the rental cost entered under "Other", and compare the per-day figure against the guided tour fee for each option.
Frequently asked questions
Can I go on an RV tour without owning an RV?
Yes. Some operators run hosted campervan trips where the vehicle is part of the package, and you can rent an RV and join some caravans. Check each operator’s rules, because many tours require your own RV.
Is renting an RV cheaper than buying one for a tour?
For a single trip, almost always. Renting avoids purchase, storage and maintenance costs, but you pay rental fees, mileage and insurance, and some operators limit rentals.