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Important tips and general information about the world of motorhome rentals in the USA in particular and in North America in general
FAQ

Important tips and general information about the world of motorhome rentals in the USA in particular and in North America in general, and in Germany in particular and in Europe in general. Everything travellers ask us before they rent is answered in the Frequently Asked Questions further down this page. This part holds the two things an answer can't carry on its own: the plug and socket pictures, and the outside websites the answers point you to.

Electric plugs in RV parks in the USA and Canada

Motorhomes in the USA can connect to a main 110-120 volt, at a 60-hertz frequency. To connect your motorhome to the main electrical network you should use a marine plug, which is usually 30 Amps on both ends but sometimes converts from 50 Amps to 30 Amps. The rental motorhome will have an extractable cable that covers both options.

RV park mains power post with 30 Amp and 50 Amp outlets, USA and Canada

To connect your own electrical equipment in your rented motorhome in the USA you should use a dedicated plug - just like in any US home: 110 Volts. If you have 220 volts instruments you will need a converter.

Standard 110 volt US domestic plug and socket used inside a USA rental motorhome

Electric plugs in RV parks in Germany

Motorhomes in Germany connect to a main 220-240 volt, at a 50-hertz frequency. To connect your motorhome to the main electrical network you should use a marine plug like this:

Marine mains hookup plug used at RV parks in Germany and Europe

Inside your rental motorhome you will find 2 sockets like this:

Mains socket fitted inside a German rental motorhome

To connect your own electrical equipment in your rented motorhome in Germany you should use a plug like this - the same one used in Germany, France, Sweden, Denmark and Finland:

Continental European domestic plug used in Germany, France, Sweden, Denmark and Finland

Recommended links

The websites and maps our answers point you to:



Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I rent a motorhome in the USA?

At Bandana we provide more than 250 locations for renting a motorhome in the USA. The main gateways for international travellers into the US motorhome itineraries are: Los Angeles, San Francisco, Las Vegas, Denver, New York, Seattle and Miami.

Where can I park a motorhome in the USA?

The most popular source for camping grounds in the United States is Good Sam. In the USA parking outdoors is acceptable and allowed in most places, but absolutely forbidden in the national parks without prior reservations. There are also some free campgrounds where you can park your camper in the USA for free, and additionally, there are thousands of RV parks and campgrounds with a designated fee. A famous and very useful website for free campsites in the USA is Freecampsite.net. You'll find all three linked in the resources section of this page.

What is popular sightseeing for RV motorhome trips in the USA?

There are several amazing and breathtaking USA national parks such as Yellowstone, Yosemite, Grand Canyon, Arches, Bryce, Zion, Smoky Mountains, US Rocky Mountains, Upstate New York, and Niagara Falls. The list is endless - and our map of the most popular places to see in the USA is linked in the resources section of this page.

Which is better? Motorhome hire on the East coast of the USA or on the West coast?

That's the 'million dollar question' right there :-) It's really hard to choose between awesome and awesome. So many AMAZING choices on both sides of the continent. People who like travelling the East coast will say things along the lines of: 'We can see the sunrise over the Atlantic', 'There's a lot of fascinating History', 'You must witness a beautiful autumn in the North East once in your lifetime', and of course they will also mention the constantly great weather in Florida. West Coast lovers will say things along the lines of: 'We have the most beautiful National Parks in the world', 'Nothing beats the beaches of the Pacific Ocean', 'Grand Canyon, say no more', 'The amazing forests', 'The Rockies', and on and on. Well, it's hard to say. They're all absolutely right. I suggest you try both and decide for yourself :-) The best way to get your personal answer would be that it depends on when you can travel, the expected length of your trip, the season and weather, and of course your budget. Winter is pretty harsh in the North East and requires special preparations, so that can be a bit on the tough side for your first trip. Equally, some places in the west and midwest can be unbearably hot during the summer. Obviously, if you want to swim aim for summer and if you want to ski aim for winter, but you can be smart about it and edge around the start or the end of high-season to get much better prices.

Where should we travel with a rented motorhome in the USA?

It is very common to explore the USA with a Motorhome via one of four popular routes. 1. The classic USA West coast southern tour: California (Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego), Nevada (Las Vegas and the great national parks), and Arizona. Yosemite National Park, Joshua Tree National Park, Sequoia National Park and Death Valley National Park are very popular stops in this area. The West Coast Golden Triangle refers to San Francisco, through Los Angeles and ending in Las Vegas or vice versa. 2. The USA West Coast northern tour starts in Seattle or Portland going through the Olympic national park, the American Rocky Mountains including Yellowstone National Park, Grand Teton National Park, Mount Rushmore, Big Horn National Park, Devil's Tower, Cody and the borders on the east in Denver Colorado or in Salt Lake City Utah. 3. The USA East Coast southern tour includes Florida (Miami, Orlando, Key West, Everglades National Park) up to Atlanta Georgia and the Great Smoky Mountains. Many take the opportunity to visit Disneyworld and the beaches of Florida. 4. The USA East Coast northern tour includes New York, Cape Cod, Acadia National Park, The White Mountains in Adirondack National Park, Niagara Falls, The Thousand Islands, Philadelphia, Washington D.C, and the Appalachian Mountains. Another very common route is driving 'coast to coast' from the East Coast of the USA to the West Coast. 2 options are very popular: - Starting in New York, going south to Florida and continuing all along the southern part of the USA passing through Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona and ending in California. - Starting from New York and driving along the northern part of the USA through Upstate New York, Niagara Falls, Chicago, Rapid City (Black Hills / Mount Rushmore), Big Horn National Park, Cody, Yellowstone National Park, and continuing all the way to the West Coast shoreline of Washington State, Oregon, and Northern California.

Should I bring or buy child safety seats when travelling with a motorhome in the USA?

Yes! Absolutely! Besides obviously wanting the best for your kids, Child Safety seat laws in each of the 50 states and the District of Columbia are strict. Please note that the law generally requires also older children to ride properly restrained in a booster seat, secured by the vehicle's safety belt system. Age coverage and other specific requirements vary by state. Please also remember that a specific state law does not necessarily represent the best practice. We recommend that you follow the laws of your original country as the minimum requirement for restraining your child while travelling. Children should use a booster seat until they weigh between 80 and 100 lbs. or 35 and 45 kg, and are at least 4 ft 9 in (57 inches) or 145 cm tall so that they can pass the Safety Belt Fit Test. For most children, that will be between ages 8 and 12. For more detailed information on state child safety seat laws and laws regarding seat belt use for older children, visit the Safe Kids website at www.usa.safekids.org, linked in the resources section of this page. Scroll down to 'Learn about Child Safety Laws and Regulations' on the right side of the page and then select your state from the drop-down menu.

What are the main characteristics of Motorhomes or RVs in the USA?

The majority of motorhomes, RV's, caravans and camping cars in the USA have a gas engine and automatic transmission. A gas stove and an Oven / Microwave instrument are almost always available for cooking in the camping cars in the USA. Many motorhomes are equipped with a Generator. The motorhomes in the USA that can be driven with a standard driving license weigh up to 11000 Lbs. or 5 tons and range from 7 meters (22 feet) up to 12 meters (35 feet) long. Motorhomes over 12 meters and diesel pushers require a class G. driver's license to drive in the USA. Passage with a rented motorhome between the United States and Canada is allowed without any problems as long as you have your passports, visas and international documents in order. For driving to Mexico you should apply in prior to an extra insurance for travel to Mexico.

How do I fill and empty water and sewer in a USA rental motorhome?

USA Rental Motorhomes, RV and mobile homes have direct connections to water and sewer, which may be less common in European motorhomes. For filling the fresh water tank you can use a water hose (supplied) as city water (direct connection on the side of the motorhome) or by filling the water tank via the filling cup. The grey water (water you have used in the shower and sinks) and the black water (the toilet water) is emptied by using a 3 inch hose connecting in one side to the holding tanks drain valve and in the other end to the sewage system of the campground. In many national parks in the USA, the camping sites do not have a sewage system so filling and emptying the holding tanks should be done in the main dump station, usually located in the entrance to the campground. Dumping in unpermitted sites is dangerous, may be hazardous to the environment and is, of course, illegal and can carry heavy fines.

Do I need a special driver's license to drive a motorhome in the USA?

All you need is to possess a valid driver's license and a recognized credit card. No special endorsement is needed. Temporary licenses are not accepted. Authorized operators 21-25 years of age may be subject to an extra fee. In some instances, credit and employment references or a foreign passport are required prior to the rental and will be verified. All drivers must be present, listed on and sign the Rental Agreement and will be bound by Terms and Conditions of the Rental Agreement at vehicle pick up. Big rigs or diesel pusher motorhomes over 12 meters or 35 feet in length require a G driving license.

How old do I need to be to make a motorhome reservation in the USA?

In the USA, the renter's minimum age is 21 years. For the diesel pusher RV group, the minimum age is 25 years.

Are there always toll roads in the USA, and do I have to pay to use them?

You will likely pass through toll roads if you are driving your motorhome through metropolitan areas. When driving an RV Rental in the USA, you are responsible for paying toll fees, so it is important to be aware of these roads before you travel. Most navigation tools such as Google Maps and Waze will warn you about those unless you set the warning off. Sometimes the toll route is recommended for better safety or use of driving time. Refer to the toll road information for driving on USA toll roads when you plan your trip or your next leg.

What should I know about safe driving for motorhomes in the USA?

Driving in the USA is on the right-hand side of the road. If you come from a country where motorists drive on the right-hand side of the road, there's not much more to know, and you should easily adjust to driving in the USA by following local driving customs and laws. If you come from Australia, UK, Ireland, Japan or from any other country where people drive on the Left-hand side of the road, there'll be a bit to get used to, and take that into account for the first days of your trip, to be conservative on distances and give yourself time to adjust for better safety and more fun.

What are the important tips for parking my motorhome?

Always park in a well-lit area, to allow for an easy and safe exit. Always park in reverse into the parking spot if possible, to allow for an easy exit. Have someone outside the RV watching for obstacles or people as you back in. Have your keys ready when you return to the vehicle. If your vehicle has remote control central locking, it's a good idea to set it so that it only opens the driver's door, so you always control who's in and around the motorhome. Try to keep a charged mobile phone with you at all times for use in an emergency.

How do I get to the rental location in the USA?

In most cases USA motorhome rental centres, you will pick up and drop off your motorhome at the rental centre itself. In some motorhome rental centres in the USA, you will need to arrange your own transportation to and from the motorhome rental location. Some RV rental centres offer shuttles from airports or airport hotels and back to the airport at the end of the rental, at an extra fee. When booking through us this option will be made available in advance with all the information.

What documents do I need to bring in the USA?

- A valid driver's license. The license CANNOT expire during the rental period. Any additional drivers to be added to the contract must have their current driver's license as well and must be present personally at pickup. - A major credit card with sufficient available credit. - Sufficient cash for a deposit. Rare but possible in some cases. - If you are an International customer, please bring your Passport.

Can I add additional drivers to the rental contract?

Yes. However, they must be present at the time of pickup and have a valid driver's license that will not expire during the length of the motorhome rental contract. Additional fees may apply at some locations.

What kind of security Deposit is required in the USA?

The Security Deposit for recreational vehicle rentals in the USA is usually USD 500-1,500 hold on a recognized credit card. Some suppliers require leaving a deposit only via Visa credit card or MasterCard. Some (fewer) rental stations in the USA require leaving a cash deposit and do not accept credit card deposits. When you receive your motorhome rental voucher, it will contain a note about how to pay the deposit. It is highly recommended to be well prepared in advance for deposit payment as required, because no motorhome in the USA is delivered without leaving the deposit as required by the law.

When can I pick up and drop off the motorhome in the USA?

In most cases, USA motorhome pick-up is between 13:00 and 16:00 depending on vehicle readiness. Please allow 1-2 hours for pick up procedures. Drop off should usually be between 09:00-11:00 and takes no more than 30 minutes unless there are problems or accidents to report. It is possible to pick up in the morning or dropping off as late as 16:00 or 17:00 for the cost of one rental day for each and according to availability. Some stations are closed on Sundays so make sure that you set your other travel arrangements such as flights and taxis to the proper dates.

Do I need to schedule a pickup time?

No. You just have to come at the pickup hours unless specifically instructed otherwise.

What travel restrictions apply to a USA motorhome rental?

Travel restrictions may apply. Please refer to the terms and conditions of your rented motorhome. In general, nonpublic roads, logging roads, blocked roads inside parks, parts of Death Valley, and crossing to Mexico, are prohibited. Any exception to the restrictions must be coordinated in advance with the rental provider.

Is there any coverage provided with the rental RV in the USA?

Yes. In general, your rented motorhome will include: Auto Liability - basic minimum statutory auto liability coverage is included in the rental rates on a secondary basis. All coverages are subject to the Terms and Conditions of the Rental Contract. Supplemental Liability Insurance - included with USA and Canada Rentals, not valid in Mexico. SLI provides excess liability coverage up to a total of USD 1,000,000 combined single limit of coverage per occurrence against claims made by third parties for bodily injury, death, and/or property damage caused by operation of the vehicle. EXCLUSIONS APPLY. A partial list is contained in the Rental Contract. Please check at departure. Coverage Summaries for USA Departures - provided you abide by the Terms and Conditions of the Rental Agreement, report accidents and/or damage promptly, and avoid prohibited vehicle uses, your coverages include: Auto Liability: statutory and excess Supplemental Liability Insurance up to USD 1,000,000. Vehicle Damage / Loss: per occurrence or incident, only USD 1,000 of responsibility. You are covered for amounts in excess of USD 1,000 under most conditions. Trip Reimbursement: travel expenses incurred as a result of mechanical breakdown up to USD 3,000 per trip. Please refer to insurance terms of your specific rental motorhome.

Can we travel one way to another destination in the USA, or do we always have to do a round trip?

One Way reservations are available in the USA with some providers. Take note that one-way rentals are subject to an additional drop fee. Drop fees depend on pick-up or drop-off location, rental dates and vehicle availability.

Is it difficult to drive a motorhome in the USA?

Motorhomes handle themselves much like a big car. Motorhomes in the USA are not difficult to drive, and that is one reason why they have become so popular. If you are an experienced driver, you can adapt to the greater size, weight, and height of a recreational vehicle fairly easily. However, when you are behind the wheel of your RV, it is a good idea to make use of all your defensive driving skills. We highly recommend to drive calmly and surely and to always stay on the safe side with your decisions. Staying alert, planning ahead and driving defensively are critical to the safe handling of your RV. When you become one of the big rigs on the road, you are responsible for the safety of your passengers as well as the safety of the other vehicles with which you share the road. Always keep a cool head and make sure that if you are disturbed by something inside or outside the motorhome you stop and take care of the situation. Always stop in permitted areas and stay clear as far as possible from the driving lanes if you stop.

Is there a limit to how many people can ride in the motorhome in the USA?

We understand the confusion these situations create. Therefore, we recommend the following: - NEVER exceed the maximum capacity as posted for the actual vehicle you will be using. Maximum capacity includes the vehicle, all fluids, all occupants and their gear. - All passengers should use the provided seatbelts. The total number of seatbelts will vary according to the vehicle and according to the floor plan of the actual vehicle that you are using. - Child safety seats should be used where applicable. The installation and use of these seats should follow the recommendation of the child seat manufacturer. - Overhead areas designed only for sleeping should not be occupied while the vehicle is in motion. - The vehicle should be properly secured prior to travel. This includes locking the doors and dead-bolting them where applicable. Stow the entry step and secure the outside compartments.

Is it possible to travel with an RV in the USA during the winter, in colder areas?

Yes, it's possible and there are magnificent things to see also in winter. However, some very important things to note: - In locations with harsh winter weather, motorhomes are 'winterized', i.e. treated for winter, from approximately November to March. This means the owners have drained the water and holding tanks and filled them with anti-freeze liquid. This will prevent the tanks and pipes from freezing and bursting, and water is not available through the tanks and must be bought and carried additionally. - In some cases, there's an option to have your rental motorhome 'de-winterized' (so that you can use your sink, shower, and toilet). This will cost between USD 50-150. If you choose this option, you will need to exercise extreme care while travelling in a 'de-winterized' motorhome during frigid weather. You will need to run the heater at all times to protect the tanks and pipes from freeze damage, and in extreme cases, you may need to put anti-freeze in the water and holding tanks (by doing so, you can only use the toilet). If the pipes or tanks were damaged from freezing, it is considered as negligent damage and you may be asked to pay a USD 5,000 deductible for the repairs. If you have any more questions on the rental policies during winter, please contact the rental centre where your trip would originate. They can provide you with specific information.

Are there any places where we cannot take the motorhome in the USA?

Yes. Coverages are invalid if problems occur in some restricted areas and all recovery expenses are at the renter's own cost. Violations of these restrictions void damage waivers and the renter will be held liable for all vehicle damages including to tires, towing charges and other related expenses as a result of a breakdown associated with operating in these areas. Please strictly refer to the terms and conditions on each motorhome's terms and conditions page.

How much does it cost to stay in campgrounds in the USA?

Campground rates vary based on time of year and what facilities they offer. Generally, you can expect to pay between USD 20 and USD 150 per night depending on the season, demand for the location and the level of facilities provided. A simple spot with no electricity and water will usually be on the low end of prices and a park with full hookups, a pull-through parking spot, direct access to facilities, a swimming pool, attractions for kids, etc. will be on the higher end of prices.

How clean does the motorhome have to be when I return it in the USA?

Campervans and motorhomes in the USA are handed over to you in a clean and tidy condition on the inside as well as on the outside, and shall also be returned by you in a clean and tidy state. External cleaning is usually included in the price. If, following the return of the vehicle, inside cleaning, emptying of the sewage water tank and/or emptying of the toilet holding tank have to be carried out by the rental provider, whether in part or in full, they will charge a cleaning fee. Please note that such possibly incurred costs are to be paid directly on site.

How and where will I get fresh water on the way?

You can get fresh water for filling purposes at many petrol stations and camping grounds as well as at thousands of supply and disposal stations. In most cases, only a small fee will be charged for filling up fresh water, if at all.

Are there any size restrictions on campgrounds or parking lots in the USA?

There may be some campgrounds that will not allow RVs above an overall length of approx. 10 m. or 30 feet.

Is it possible to camp in the wild in the USA?

'Overnight Parking' in the wild is common in places that are not campsites, where you are officially allowed to stop over with your motorhome. Many of these stop-over sites are equipped with motorhome facilities like sanitary stations or hookups. Some charge a fee, some don't. We do not recommend to camp in unofficial or unregistered places for security reasons.

How am I to behave in case of an accident or in the event of damage?

Upon handover of the motorhome to you, you will receive a damage report form which you are obliged to complete in any event of an accident. In case of fire, theft, damage caused by animals or other damage, police and the renting station must be notified. The renting station must also be notified of any details concerning the circumstances of an accident. Claims for damages of other parties involved in the accident must not be acknowledged.

What are the electric plugs in RV parks in the USA and Canada?

Motorhomes in the USA can connect to a main 110-120 volt, at a 60-hertz frequency. To connect your motorhome to the main electrical network you should use a marine plug which is usually 30 Amps on both ends but sometimes converts from 50 Amps to 30 Amps - the rental motorhome will have an extractable cable that covers both options and that you roll out and use to connect when parked. To connect your own electrical equipment in your rented motorhome in the USA you should use a dedicated plug - just like in any US home: 110 Volts. If you have 220 volts instruments you will need a converter. You'll find pictures of both plugs in the electricity section of this page.

Where can I rent a motorhome in Germany?

We have more than 200 stations for motorhome Rentals in Germany. The main gates into Germany are: Munich, Frankfurt, Berlin, Dusseldorf and Hamburg.

Where can I park a motorhome in Germany?

In Germany parking outdoors is acceptable and allowed in most places. Free RV parks in Germany are called 'Wohnmobilstellplatz' or 'Reisemobilstellplatz' and offer parking lots where you can park your camper for free. Additionally, there are thousands of paid RV parks.

Where should I travel with a rented motorhome from Germany?

It is very common to go out into one of two popular routes. - To the western part of Germany, where you can find the Rhine Falls, Lake Titisee, the Black Forest, Lake Constance and more. Many motorhome travellers like to include Austria, Switzerland and Northern Italy in this trip. - Going out of Germany southward to Croatia and Slovenia, possibly passing through Austria and Italy. Croatia, Slovenia and Italy are full of parks and attractive because of their proximity to the coast of the Mediterranean Sea on one side and on the other side of their proximity to the Alps and the famous landscapes of Europe. Well known sites are the Black Forest, the dolomitic, Italian Alps. Our map of points of interest for Motorhomes in Germany and in Europe is linked in the resources section of this page.

So why not just rent the motorhome in Italy instead of Germany?

Prices are pretty similar in both countries. What you should take into consideration are several significant differences between the experience of renting in Italy and Germany: Motorhomes in Italy vary a lot between suppliers in quality and condition, as well as cleanliness. The advantage is that RV rental stations in Italy usually bring the motorhome to the airport or train station you arrive at about half an hour after your landing time and then come to collect the motorhome from the airport at the end of the rental. That can be a significant convenience in some cases. In addition, Italians tend to be more flexible and sometimes allow receipt and return outside official hours, on holidays or Sundays. All these exceptions include additional fees of course. Motorhomes in Germany are probably the cleanest and tidiest you will ever see and are usually in impeccable mechanical condition. Everything is as described to the letter and you can expect very few surprises. Motorhome rentals in Germany work in a similar format to hotels. You receive your motorhome in the afternoon (usually 15:00 to 17:00) and return it in the morning (usually 9:00 to 11:00). If you want to get the motorhome earlier or return later, you will be charged for an additional day for early pickup and/or late return. It's also less common to get picked up and brought to the rental station.

Should I bring child safety seats when travelling with a motorhome in Germany?

Yes! German law states that children up to the age 6 have to be strapped to a safety seat and children aged 6 to 12, or up to the height of 150 cm (4 ft 11 in) must be belted on a booster.

What are the main characteristics of motorhomes in Germany?

Most if not all motorhomes in Germany have a diesel engine and a manual gearbox. In the majority of motorhomes available, the only means of cooking is a gas stove. Some models also feature a microwave. The motorhomes permitted to drive with a standard driving license in Germany are up to the weight of 3.5 tons (7000 lbs) and range from 6 meters up to 7.5 meters. Trailers over 7.5 meters weigh more than four tons and a G. driver's license is required to drive. Passage with a caravan from Germany to neighbouring countries is allowed without problems.

How do I fill and empty water and sewer in a German motorhome?

Unlike what is common in the US or Canada, motorhomes in Germany don't have a direct connection to water and sewer. To fill fresh water use a water hose (supplied on site) and for grey water (water used in the shower and sinks) there are dedicated emptying stations. Usually, you briefly park over a drain and open the bailing tap. In Germany motorhomes also have a container for toilet waste that can be extracted (contains up to about 10 litres), emptied into designated dumping positions, and then needs a mild rinsing with clean water before placing back. During use, there are chemicals that you add back after rinsing to help break down the waste and to avoid unpleasant smells.

Do I need a special driver's license to drive a motorhome in Germany?

All you need is a valid driver's license that is valid all through the rental period and a recognized credit card. No special endorsement is needed. Temporary licenses are not accepted. Authorized drivers 21-24 years of age may be subject to an additional fee. In some cases, credit and employment references or a foreign passport are required and might be verified. All drivers must be present, listed on and sign the Rental Agreement and will be bound by Terms and Conditions of the Rental Agreement at vehicle pick up.

How old do I need to be to drive a motorhome in Germany?

For motorhomes weighing up to 3.5 tons (7000 lb) the minimum age is 21 years. For motorhomes over 3.5 tons, the minimum driving age is 25 years.

Do I have to pay to use toll roads in Germany?

Just like any other private or rented vehicle, toll fees are the driver's responsibility. Toll roads in Germany are very well maintained and operated and have convenient rest stops. For longer legs or trying to get from one general area to another, they might be a smart choice.

What should I know about safe driving of motorhomes in Germany?

Newsbreak: Driving in Germany is on the right-hand side of the road. If you come from a country where motorists drive on the right-hand side of the road, there's not much more to know, and you should easily adjust to driving in Germany by following local driving customs and laws. If you come from Australia, UK, Ireland, Japan or from any other country where people drive on the Left-hand side of the road, there'll be a bit to get used to, so take that into account for the first days of your trip, and try to be conservative on distances and give yourself time to adjust for better safety and more fun.

How do I get to the rental location in Germany?

In most cases in Germany, you will need to arrange your own transportation to and from all rental locations.

What documents do I need to bring in Germany?

- A valid driver's license. The license CANNOT expire during the rental period. Any additional drivers to be added to the contract must have their current driver's license as well and must be present personally at pickup. - A major credit card with sufficient available credit. - Sufficient cash for a deposit. Rare but possible in some cases, and sometimes campgrounds are cash only. - If you are an International customer, keep your passport handy.

What kind of security Deposit is required in Germany?

The security deposit for recreational vehicle rentals in Germany is usually a EUR 1,200-1,500 hold on a recognized credit card. Some suppliers require leaving a deposit only via Visa or MasterCard. Some (but much fewer) rental stations in Germany require leaving a cash deposit and do not accept credit card deposits. When you receive your motorhome rental voucher, it will contain a note about how to pay the deposit. It is highly recommended to be well prepared in advance for deposit payment as required, because no motorhome in Germany is delivered without leaving a deposit.

When should I pick up and drop off the motorhome in Germany?

In most cases, Germany's motorhome pick up time is between 15:00 and 17:00 depending on vehicle readiness. Allow 1-2 hours in your schedule for pick up procedures. Drop off should usually be between 09:00-11:00 and takes no more than 30 minutes unless there are problems or accidents to report. It is possible to pick up in the morning or drop off as late as 16:00, usually for the cost of one rental day for each extension and according to availability. Some stations are closed on Sundays so make sure that you set your other travel arrangements such as flights and taxis to the proper dates.

What travel restrictions apply in Germany?

Travel restrictions may apply in some locations. Please refer to the terms and conditions of your rented motorhome.

Is there any coverage provided for the rental in Germany?

When renting a motorhome in Germany, in most cases you are granted comprehensive insurance with a EUR 1,200-1,500 own contribution per case of damage, limited cover insurance with a EUR 500.00 own contribution per case of damage and a liability insurance with a EUR 50,000,000.00 flat-rate amount of coverage (damage to persons with a maximum of EUR 8,000,000.00 per person). Refer to insurance terms of your specific rental mobile home and make sure you understand everything.

Can I travel one way to another destination in Germany, or do we have to travel round trip?

One Way reservations are not very common in Germany. However, some rental centres do allow one way rental subject to a drop fee. Drop fees may be increased or decreased based on pick-up or drop-off location, dates and vehicle availability.

Is it difficult to drive a motorhome in Germany?

Motorhomes handle much like a car. You should pay attention to the vehicle dimension e.g. height, length and width. While driving in reverse, the driver's field of view is naturally limited and the driver must be assisted by someone outside the vehicle making sure there is no person or objects behind the vehicle.

Is there a limit to how many people can ride in the motorhome in Germany?

This is a confusing part. Therefore, I recommend the following: NEVER exceed the maximum capacity as posted in the actual vehicle you will be using. Maximum capacity includes the vehicle, all fluids, all occupants and their gear. All passengers should use the provided seatbelts. The total number of seatbelts will vary according to the vehicle and according to the floor plan of the actual vehicle you are using. Child safety seats should be used where applicable. The installation and use of these seats should follow the recommendation of the child seat manufacturer. Also, do not get tempted to let your kids sleep in the overhead areas designed only for sleeping while not driving. They should not be occupied while the vehicle is in motion, this can be very dangerous. Make sure the vehicle is properly secured prior to travel. This includes locking the doors and dead-bolting them where applicable. Stow the entry step and secure the outside compartments - it's not fun and can be very dangerous to pull over on a busy highway to collect something you just ripped off your motorhome.

Is it possible to travel in the winter in the colder areas of Germany?

Germany is a great skiing country and some people use motorhomes for that. However, you should bear in mind that new laws clearly state that under icy and snow conditions you have to use winter tyres. Since it is difficult to predict the weather it is advisable to have winter tyres between October and April. Your rental provider will supply you with these tyres, but changing them midway when you come off the icy areas will probably be less of an option. If you go skiing or park in a low-temperature area for another reason, it is strongly recommended not to turn off the motorhome heater. Otherwise, the water in your rental dormobile can freeze and damage the water system. Many German motorhomes are equipped with an automatic drain valve that automatically opens and drains all the motorhome water when the water temperature reaches less than 4 Celsius / 40 Fahrenheit.

Are there any places we cannot take the motorhome in Germany?

There are some areas with limited accessibility or clearly under construction or blocked where coverages are invalid if problems occur and all recovery expenses are at the renter's own cost. Violations of these restrictions void damage waivers and the renter will be held liable for all vehicle damages including to tires, towing charges and other related expenses as a result of a breakdown associated with operating in these areas. Make sure you know which areas are not allowed when picking up the motorhome.

How much does it cost to stay in campgrounds in Germany?

Campground rates vary based on time of year and what facilities they offer. Generally, you can expect to pay between EUR 20 and EUR 50 per night. High season in popular destinations like the Black Forest might push prices even higher and it's recommended to reserve in advance for these periods.

How clean does the motorhome have to be when I return it in Germany?

A motorhome in Germany will always be handed over to you in a clean and tidy condition on the inside as well as on the outside, and shall also be returned by you in a clean and tidy state. External cleaning is included in the price. If, following the return of the vehicle, inside cleaning, emptying of the sewage water tank and/or emptying of the toilet cassette have to be carried out, you will be charged a cleaning fee, directly on site.

Are there any size restrictions on campgrounds or parking lots in Germany?

There may be some campgrounds that will not allow motorhomes above an overall length of 7.5 m. or 24 ft 5 in.

Is it possible to camp in the wild in Germany?

'Overnight Parking' in the wild is very common, especially in a Stellplatz (short for 'Wohnmobilstellplatz' or 'Reisemobilstellplatz') which are locations not on a campsite where you are officially allowed to stop over with your motorhome. Many of these Stellplatz sites are equipped with motorhome facilities like sanitary stations or hookups. Some charge a fee, some others don't.

What are the electric plugs in RV parks in Germany?

Motorhomes in Germany connect to a main 220-240 volt, at a 50-hertz frequency. To connect your motorhome to the main electrical network you should use a marine plug. Inside your rental motorhome you will find 2 sockets, and to connect your own electrical equipment in your rented motorhome in Germany you should use the standard continental European plug. You'll find pictures of all three in the electricity section of this page.