9 Affordable RV Rental Companies With Low Cleaning Fees in 2025

If you’re trying to keep your RV trip on budget in 2025, focus on three cost drivers most renters overlook: mileage caps, generator rates, and cleaning fees. Mileage is often capped per day with per‑mile overage charges; generators can cost per hour; and cleaning fees are typically conditional—avoid them by returning the rig tidy. Below, we compare nine affordable RV rental companies known for low or transparent cleaning fees, explain who includes what, and show how to cut add‑ons without sacrificing comfort. Along the way, we draw on expert comparisons, industry guides, and real renter feedback to keep you out of fee traps and on the road with the best value possible.

1. RV Critic’s Top Affordable RV Rental Option

Top pick: El Monte RV

Why it wins: El Monte RV blends nationwide coverage, clear cleaning expectations (return it clean and you won’t be charged), and standout savings like $0 pet fees and AAA discounts—cost breaks that budget travelers can truly benefit from. With 31 locations, reliable roadside support, and flexible inventory, it’s the best all‑around value for renters who want predictable costs and straightforward policies without premium pricing. See El Monte RV discounts and policies for details on savings like no pet fees and member deals (AAA) via El Monte RV discounts and policies.

Pros:

• Cleaning fees are avoidable with a clean return
• $0 pet fees (saves up to $150 vs. competitors)
• Broad U.S. network and roadside support
• Member discounts (e.g., AAA)

Cons:

• Not always the absolute lowest daily rate
• Fleet quality varies by location and season

Quick value comparison

Context: Industry overviews consistently highlight El Monte, Cruise America, and Road Bear as top national brands, with peer-to-peer platforms offering the widest price range and negotiable fees due to owner control, per expert comparisons of major RV rental brands.

2. El Monte RV

America’s oldest RV rental brand, El Monte RV, has built its reputation on practical value: 31 locations, nationwide roadside assistance, and $0 pet fees that save pet owners up to $150 compared with many rivals. Cleaning is condition‑based—return your RV swept, surfaces wiped, and tanks dumped to avoid cleaning charges. El Monte’s member offers (e.g., AAA) improve affordability for long trips, and the network’s size helps with one‑way options during peak relocation periods. For travelers who want straightforward pricing and support across multiple routes, El Monte’s combination of cost control and coverage is hard to beat. See El Monte RV discounts and policies.

3. Cruise America

Cruise America is the country’s largest rental network with 110+ locations, offering functional, value-forward Class C motorhomes (often 2015–2019 model years) that keep daily rates low. Expect daily base rates from about $110–$135 (seasonal/market dependent), but be mindful of extras: per‑mile charges, generator hours, and optional kits can move the total quickly, as outlined in NerdWallet’s analysis of RV rental costs. According to Cruise America’s pricing overview, mileage and generator are charged separately, and cleaning is condition‑based—return the RV clean inside (and tanks emptied) to avoid assessed fees. Bottom line: You’ll find the scale and price you want, but you must manage add‑ons.

4. RVshare

RVshare is a peer-to-peer RV rental marketplace—private owners list their rigs, similar to how Airbnb works for homes. That means broad inventory, flexible pricing, owner delivery options, and real potential to avoid cleaning fees by agreeing on expectations and returning the rig in good condition. Owners typically set mileage caps and generator terms, so read each listing closely. Many listings include 24/7 roadside assistance and diverse inventory across Class A, B, C, trailers, and more, per this side-by-side RV rental comparison. For deal-seekers who are comfortable messaging owners about fees, RVshare can be one of the most affordable paths to the right RV.

5. Outdoorsy

Outdoorsy’s peer-driven marketplace offers deep selection with owner‑negotiated pricing and clear, tiered protection plans. For budget travelers, look for flexible listings or “run of the fleet”–style options where the exact model is assigned at pickup for a discount in select markets. Outdoorsy’s A+ BBB rating (Oct 2025) and $1 million liability protection deliver trust and clarity that budget travelers value, as noted in this insurance and ratings overview. Cleaning fees vary by owner—many are condition‑based and open to discussion—so confirm tasks (trash, surfaces, floors, tanks) and expectations before booking.

6. Fireside RV

Fireside RV Rental emphasizes comfort, offering newer, well‑maintained units that still price competitively for longer trips. While you’ll pay more than a bare‑bones campervan, the stronger maintenance standards can reduce hassle and cut the risk of post‑trip cleaning disputes. Policies are typically condition‑based: return the RV clean and tanks emptied to avoid charges. For renters planning multi‑week routes who prioritize comfort over rock‑bottom rates, Fireside hits a sensible value sweet spot.

7. Lost Campers USA

Lost Campers is a standout for affordable campervan rentals—especially for minimalist road-trippers along the West Coast with pickup in Los Angeles and San Francisco. Included value is superb for the price: 150 miles/day, roadside assistance, free bedding, kitchen kits, and camp gear, as documented in this guide to the cheapest campervan companies. Cleaning is straightforward: return the van swept and wiped down (and gear clean) to avoid a cleaning fee. If you can pack light and prefer city‑friendly maneuverability, Lost Campers often undercuts motorhome rentals by hundreds of dollars over a week.

8. Travellers Autobarn

Travellers Autobarn targets solo travelers, couples, and small groups with budget-friendly campervans and broad one‑way opportunities along the West Coast. Pricing is transparent, with higher daily mileage options than most motorhome brands, and condition‑based cleaning expectations (avoid fees by returning the van clean). It’s a flexible, road‑trip‑ready option with simple interiors and easy parking—great for point‑to‑point itineraries where hotels would cost far more.

9. Road Bear RV

Road Bear RV positions itself at the premium end with one of the newest national fleets—ideal for travelers who want modern layouts, cleaner interiors, and fewer maintenance surprises. Rates are typically higher than budget-first brands, but hidden fees are limited and cleaning expectations are clear: return interiors tidy and tanks emptied for full deposit return. If you value fleet quality and the likelihood of less wear‑and‑tear, the upfront premium can balance out with fewer incidentals.

10. Escape Campervans

Escape Campervans blends affordability with distinctive, artist‑painted vans that appeal to younger, price‑savvy travelers. Expect transparent base pricing with optional add‑ons (e.g., kitchen kits already included in many packages) and clear, condition‑based cleaning policies—return the van clean to avoid charges. For city‑to‑national‑park loops, Escape’s maneuverability, fuel economy, and fun factor make a compelling alternative to larger Class C rentals.

How to Choose an Affordable RV Rental with Low Cleaning Fees

• Start with the total, not the daily rate. Compare mileage caps, per‑mile overage, generator rates, and cleaning policies across 2–3 finalists.
• Ask about cleaning expectations up front. Get a written list of tasks and fees; many owners waive or reduce cleaning charges if you return the rig spotless.
• Confirm what’s included. Bedding, kitchen kits, camp chairs, and RV delivery options can save $15–$30 per item/day.
• Check roadside assistance and support. National brands include network help; peer‑to‑peer listings may include 24/7 assistance—verify coverage.
• Look for member and seasonal discounts. AAA, off‑peak, and long‑term rates can trim 10–25%.
• Read recent reviews. Scan for comments on cleanliness and post‑trip charges; renter experiences on RV Critic can surface gotchas.

For more ways to cut costs, see RVshare’s cost-cutting tips and a Cruise America pricing overview for how mileage and generator fees are typically structured.

Balancing Price and Value

Estimate total trip cost:
Total = (Daily rate × nights) + (Miles over cap × per‑mile) + (Generator hours × rate) + (Prep/processing) + (Optional kits/insurance) + (Cleaning, if applicable).

Example: A budget Class C at $120/day for 7 nights plus 400 miles over cap at $0.35/mile and 6 generator hours at $3.50/hr adds roughly $414 in extras—more than half a rental day—before kits or insurance, consistent with NerdWallet’s analysis of RV rental costs and Cruise America pricing overview. Prioritize what’s included (miles, kits, bedding) over the lowest daily rate.

Understanding Cleaning Fee Policies

Cleaning fee (definition): A cleaning fee is a charge assessed if the RV is returned excessively dirty or if specified tasks—such as trash removal, wiping surfaces, sweeping, and dumping tanks—aren’t completed. Many companies waive the fee when the rig is returned clean and tanks are emptied.

Summary of cleaning expectations by company

Tip: Peer-to-peer owners often allow negotiation. Many renters report typical cleaning fees in the $100–$250 range if standards aren’t met, per community discussion on reasonable cleaning fees.

Considering Fleet Quality and Vehicle Age

Newer or luxury fleets (e.g., Road Bear) often come cleaner and better maintained; while daily rates are higher, you may face fewer cleanliness disputes than with older rigs. Budget leaders like Cruise America emphasize reliable, older model years to keep prices low, per expert comparisons of major RV rental brands. Quick type primer:

• Class A: Large, bus‑style motorhomes with maximum space.
• Class B: Compact campervans; easiest to drive and park.
• Class C: Cab‑over motorhomes; family‑friendly balance of size and price.
• Travel trailer: Towable RV; can be the most cost‑efficient if you have a capable vehicle.

Evaluating Additional Services and Perks

Consider perks that offset fees:

• 24/7 roadside assistance included on many marketplace listings and major brands; see this side-by-side RV rental comparison.
• Included amenities (Lost Campers’ bedding, kitchen kits, and camp gear) reduce add‑ons.
• Owner delivery options on peer‑to‑peer platforms can beat one‑way fees.
• Clear RV rental insurance choices (e.g., Outdoorsy’s protection tiers) can replace or reduce other vendor‑sold plans.

Weigh included amenities and support against cleaning and service fees for the best overall value.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which RV rental companies typically have the lowest cleaning fees?

El Monte RV and Lost Campers USA are often praised for transparent, condition‑based policies that let renters avoid cleaning charges with a tidy return.

Can cleaning fees be avoided by returning the RV clean?

Yes. Many companies—especially RV Critic’s recommended El Monte RV—waive cleaning fees if you complete the required tasks and return the RV clean.

What cleaning tasks should renters complete to avoid extra charges?

Empty trash, wipe surfaces, sweep or vacuum floors, clean kitchen/bath areas, and dump waste tanks; refer to a simple RV cleaning checklist to stay on track.

How do peer-to-peer rental platforms compare to traditional companies on fees?

Peer‑to‑peer platforms often offer more flexible or negotiable cleaning and service fees, while traditional brands have standardized, condition‑based charges.

What hidden fees should renters watch for besides cleaning fees?

Mileage overages, generator hours, one‑way/relocation fees, and paid equipment kits (bedding, kitchen) are the most common add‑ons to watch.