USA and Canada RV / Motorhomes FAQ's

What kind of gas mileage will we get?
Mileage depends on the size of the motorhome and the driving conditions. Generally, you will get between 7 and 13 miles per gallon or approximately 20-23 litres per 100km.

Do I need a special driver's license to drive a motorhome?
All you need is to be 21 years of age or older and possess a valid driver's license. No special endorsement is needed.

Is it difficult to drive a motorhome?
Motorhomes, handle much like a car, especially the "C" class which has a van chassis.

Are motorhomes difficult to hook up?
No. At departure you will be given a 30-60 minute familiarization tour and learn how to hook it up and operate appliances, and be shown a video at most rental centers.

Does the motorhome come with a TV, VCR or stereo?
There is an AM/FM radio with a cassette player or cd player in the dash. There is generally not a TV or stereo or cable hookup. (Some larger vehicles with El Monte come with TV as do some vehicles with Road Bear) For long rentals you could consider hiring one locally or for a one way rental or where it is essential, we can suggest buying a 2nd hand one and then selling it at the end of your rental.

What kind of power supply does a motorhome have?
Motorhomes generally have either a V8 or V10 engine. The refrigerator, heater, water heater, stove and range operate on propane gas and/or battery. The dash air conditioner is powered by the engine while driving and the overhead air conditioner(s), microwave and other items by either an outside 110V power supply or by a generator.

Are there rollout awnings on the motorhome?
No. We suggest you bring a canopy if you need shade or check with the RV park if you are staying in one.

Are pets allowed in the motorhomes?
Pets are welcomed at Cruise America. Customer agrees to clean up after their pet and return unit in same condition as received, or be subject to a cleaning fee up to $250. With El Monte, they are allowed at a fee of USD$50. Not allowed with Road Bear

Can I tow with the RV?
Please check with us as the rules and conditions and costs vary between companies. Currently Cruise America, El Monte allow towing with additional cost. Moturis do not allow towing.

Is there a limit to how many people can ride in the motorhome?
The Compact motorhome can hold a family up to 4, the Standard motorhome can hold a family up to 5, and the Large can hold a family up to 7 maximum for traveling. Road Bear is the only company that has a vehicle able to accommodate 8 persons.
We recommend never exceeding 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 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.
Overhead areas designed only for sleeping should not be occupied while the vehicle is in motion.

Can we leave our luggage at the rental location?
Often this is not a problem, but again, check with your rental center. Anything left at the rental center is at your own risk.

Are the depots open on Sundays?
Cruise America, Road Bear, Moturis, Go West are closed on Sundays all year round.
Some El Monte depots are open on Sundays. Eg. Los Angeles, San Francisco, Las Vegas
Canadream vehicles can be collected/returned on Sundays for additional fee

Are we allowed to travel into Canada (or vice versa)?
US registered RV's may enter Canada and return to the US and Canadian registered RV's may enter the US and return to Canada without problem. One way rentals between the two countries are not allowed. We suggest using the Seattle depot which is easily accessible to Vancouver. Transfers are available at additional cost

How much does it cost to stay in campgrounds?
Campground rates vary based on time of year and what facilities they offer. Generally you can expect to pay between $10 and $50 per night. See http://www.koa.com or http://woodalls.com to get an idea of costs, locations etc.

What kind of facilities might a campground offer?
A partial list of commonly found facilities would include: electric, water, sewer hook-ups, washer, dryer, swimming pool, playground, BBQ pits, on-site convenience store.

Is it possible to travel in the winter in the colder areas of the U.S.?
Yes, however, in locations with harsh winter weather, motorhomes are "winterized" from approximately November to March. This means we have drained the water and holding tanks, and filled them with anti-freeze. This will prevent the tanks and pipes from freezing and bursting. If you chose to have your rental motorhome "de-winterized" (so that you can use your sink, shower, and toilet) and a cost of approximately USD$70 may be involved. This varies between companies. Please ask us for details for each individual company. You will need to exercise extreme care while traveling 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, or in extreme cases you would need to put anti-freeze in the water and holding tanks (by doing so, you could only use the toilet). If the pipes or tanks were damaged from freezing, it is considered negligent damage and you would have to pay a $5000 deductible for the repairs.

What if I am late in returning the vehicle?
The vehicle is overdue after 11:00 AM on the date of return. A fee of approx $25 per hour will be charged for each hour you are late. Please notify the rental center if you will be late in returning. With El Monte and Moturis a late return will invalidate your return transfer.

Is there a ladder so we can get on the roof to get better views?
We do not have ladders on the RV for safety reasons and to prevent damage to the motorhome.

Are there bikes and bike racks?
With Cruise America -No. With El Monte, racks are available but not bikes. The rental staff will be happy to advise where these may be hired privately. With Moturis you can get bikes and bike racks.

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