Whether you’re a seasoned road tripper or just TikTok-obsessed with tiny home adventures, van life has become one of the most romanticized (and realistic) ways to travel. But before you go all in on buying and building out a van, renting one through Outdoorsy is a smart, low-stakes way to test if it’s right for you.
I rented a van for a month to road trip around New England to go leaf peeping, and it gave me a true taste of the lifestyle. Everything from waking up to foggy forest views to figuring out how to make breakfast in a 12-square-foot kitchen
Here’s what you should know before booking, what to look for in a van, and how to make the most of your rental experience.
What Is Outdoorsy?
Outdoorsy is like the Airbnb of RVs and campervans. It’s a peer-to-peer rental platform that connects travelers with RV and van owners. The site features a diverse range of vehicles, including luxury sprinter vans, vintage Airstreams, compact teardrop trailers, and full-size RVs. Think of it as a rental marketplace for every kind of road trip style.
You can filter by vehicle type, amenities, price, location, and even pet-friendly options. Many vehicles come with built-in extras like kitchen kits, bedding, solar power, and outdoor showers.
Why Rent a Campervan?
Buying and building out a van can cost anywhere from $10,000 to $150,000 or more. That’s a big investment if you’re not 100% sure van life is for you.
Renting through Outdoorsy lets you:
Experiment: See how you like sleeping, cooking, and living in a small space.
Compare styles: Try out a few different builds before committing to a layout.
Avoid maintenance: Enjoy the perks of van life without worrying about breakdowns or build-outs.
Explore new destinations: Road trip with more freedom than a hotel stay, but more comfort than a tent.
How to Choose the Right Van on Outdoorsy
Start by thinking about your priorities:
How many people are traveling? Vans range from solo micro-campers to family-sized rigs.
Do you need a bathroom or shower? Some vans have them, others don’t. Consider campground access and your comfort level.
What climate will you be in? Look for heating, AC, or insulation based on your destination.
What’s your budget? Daily rates vary widely—most campervans range from $100–$250 per night.
Once you find a few vans that fit your needs, read reviews, look at photos, and check the details: mileage limits, delivery options, generator usage, and what’s included (bedding, cooking gear, camp chairs, etc.).
Pro tip: Choose a van with solar power if you’re planning to camp off-grid.
What It’s Like to Rent a Van on Outdoorsy
Once you book, you’ll coordinate pickup with the owner, similar to an Airbnb check-in. Most owners give a walkthrough, so you understand how everything works. There is usually a manual provided as well for the electrical system, how to fill and empty water tanks, how to operate the stove or fridge, and anything unique to their rig.
Driving a campervan is easier than a full-size RV, but it’s still bigger than your average car, so give yourself some time to adjust. I recommend driving around town or through a neighborhood first before jumping on highways or mountain passes.
Sleeping in a van feels cozy and adventurous. If you’re off-grid, you’ll need to be mindful of your power usage and battery charge, but solar panels make this easier. Most vans come with blackout curtains, soft lighting, and a surprisingly comfortable mattress.
Campgrounds, national parks, and dispersed camping spots are all options. You’ll be surprised how much freedom you have to explore without needing to unpack and repack every night. And waking up next to a lake or trailhead? That never gets old.
What to Pack
Every Outdoorsy listing is different, so make sure to read the details about what’s included with your specific van. That said, here’s a suggested list of what to bring with you:
- Headlamp and lantern
- Reusable water bottles and/or a large water jug
- Offline maps or a road atlas
- Portable phone charger or battery bank
- Lightweight daypack
- Hiking shoes or sandals with grip
- Layers (sweatshirts, rain jackets, thermal underwear, depending on season)
- Compact towel and swimwear
- Sleepwear and cozy socks
- Groceries and snacks (easy meals like pasta, oats, rice, canned beans, granola)
- Eco-friendly toiletries and toilet paper
- Bug spray and sunscreen
- A journal or book
Don’t forget to pack the 10 Essentials for an outdoor adventure and remember to follow the 7 Leave No Trace Principles!
Being well-prepared makes your trip smoother, especially if you’re boondocking or off-grid for a few nights.
If you’ve ever dreamed of van life or just want to switch up your travel routine, renting a campervan through Outdoorsy is the perfect test drive. It gives you the freedom of the open road, without the price tag or pressure of van ownership.
My advice? Start small, go somewhere scenic, and keep it flexible. The magic of van life isn’t just in the vehicle; it’s in the freedom to chase sunrises, take the long road, and make the whole world your backyard.
