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Largest camper van rental company in North America

Highest rated company at 4.8 star average

Spend half as much on gas as compared to an RV

Fully Equipped Premium Vans

Jeep Camper

Hand-painted exterior artwork, queen-sized bed, additional interior double-sized bed (48" x 80"), room to stand while inside the vehicle, rear bucket seats (no need to collapse to make bed), foldaway in-van table + benches, 2-burner propane stove, dual-powered refrigerator, 5-gallon water tank + sink, aux + bluetooth capabilities, drawers for extra storage space, interior built-in lighting in pop top area, available in denver, las vegas, los angeles, phoenix, portland, san francisco, salt lake city, and seattle.

Unique exterior artwork

1-burner propane stove, 3.5-gallon water tank + sink, sliding doors & storage space on both sides, aux capabilities, trunk door opens vertically, available in los angeles, san francisco & las vegas, optional rooftop sleeper, available in all us locations.

Available at all Escape locations

4wd drive-train, pop-up rooftop sleeper, dometic powered cooler, 3.5 gallon water tank + sink, 8.4-inch touchscreen, rear access door w/ spare tire, available in los angeles, san francisco, and las vegas.

Over 33,500 trips taken so far

What to expect when renting a campervan, 12 depot locations in north america.

Frequently Asked Questions:

How far in advance should i book my campervan.

Escape is typically one of the first companies to fill up. Even in the low season, our vehicles are in high demand. It is advisable to book your van prior to booking airline tickets. For the high season months (March 15 – Oct 15), it is advisable to book a few months ahead and in the low season at least a couple of weeks. If you are not that organized, contact us anyway as things can always change at the last minute and you could get lucky!

Because of our flexible cancellation policy , it is advisable to book as early as possible to ensure availability and lock in the lowest rates.

How much does it cost to rent a campervan?

Our daily rates fluctuate according to a variety of factors, including van model , demand, time of year, depot location , and length of trip. You can get a quick quote on our website or contact our reservations team.

What is the Estimated Mileage Charge?

• There will be an estimated mileage deposit at the time of pick up for 100 miles/day. The per-mile rate charged is according to your van model.
• Miles are taxable and will be charged at drop off. 
• At drop-off, if you have driven less than the amount covered by your deposit, you will be refunded at the corresponding mileage rate. At drop-off, if you have driven more than the amount covered by the deposit, you will be charged for excess miles at the rate that corresponds with your vehicle model.

Santa Cruz & Mavericks : the $30/day deposit covers 100 miles per day, averaged over your trip. Excess miles are charged or unused miles are refunded at $0.30 cents per mile.

Big Sur & Jeep Camper : the $33/day deposit covers 100 miles per day, averaged over your trip. Excess miles are charged or unused miles are refunded at $0.33 cents per mile.

Del Mar:  the $36/day deposit covers 100 miles per day, averaged over your trip. Excess miles are charged or unused miles are refunded at $0.36 cents per mile.

What is the cancellation policy?

Flexible, low-risk cancellation policy.

If a booking is canceled:

• More than 15 days prior to pick up: Full refund of deposit
• Between 3-14 days before pickup: $250 deposit stays on file for a future trip
• This includes the estimated mileage charge

If payments were made using AFFIRM, the refund amount will be dependent on the payment agreement entered into with AFFIRM, however, no refunds are issued for cancellation within 2 days of the pickup date.

• This policy does not apply to previously canceled trips OR rebooked trips.
• All changes and modifications are subject to availability
• No change fees: you can modify dates, locations, and vehicle model up to 3 days before pickup, subject to availability
• Higher or lower rates may apply if new dates are selected & available
• We recommend making changes to travel dates/locations/models as far in advance as possible to ensure availability.
• Trips can not be shortened within 2 days of pickup
• The deposit on file expires after 12 months of cancellation
• Should you have additional questions about this policy please contact [email protected] or 1-877-270-8267 (option 1) to speak with our reservations team about your booking.

How do I secure a campervan booking with Escape?

You may use our website or call our reservations department at 877-270-8267 opt 1 (US) or +1 (310) 672-9909 opt 1 (international) to get a quote or a booking request. There is a link inside the quote that says “Click here to turn your quote into a booking request.” The link is valid for 5 days. Once you submit your booking request, our reservations team will get back to you within 24 hours as to whether or not it has been approved. Your booking is not confirmed until our reservations team has approved it. Do not book any flights or campgrounds until your request has been confirmed.

Once it has been approved, Escape will charge a $250 USD ($400 CAD) deposit to reserve your campervan. The balance is not payable until you collect your campervan (many companies require full payment 4 weeks prior to travel). Read our full Rental Requirements for more information on booking a campervan. 

Why Escape Camper Vans

Escape Camper Vans is the largest  campervan rental  company in North America, with 12 convenient  depot locations  in the US and Canada. We have more than 600 custom-built campervans on the road, each uniquely hand-painted by top artists in Los Angeles. With New Zealand roots since 2003 and decades of experience guiding travelers, we pride ourselves on offering fun, hassle-free adventures for all.

Our campervans are economical and easy to drive, giving you the freedom to get off the beaten path into places that are inaccessible to  larger motorhomes and RVs —and no stress driving through the city. No matter where your journey starts or ends, your Escape campervan gives you the comforts of a home on wheels for the  best value .

We offer round trip and one-way rentals, so you can pick up locally or fly into your dream destination for a weekend away or an epic cross-country road trip. Each model comes fully-equipped with a bed and kitchen with sink, stove, and refrigerator, and we have kitchen supplies, bedding kits, and other  extras available for rent. Just pick up your camper, stock up the refrigerator, and hit the road!

How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Campervan for a Week?

While planning a weeklong trip where you’ll rent a camper van (also known as a class B RV ), you’ll want to budget appropriately for potential costs. Placing a booking request is the first step in the rental process and can include selecting insurance protection plans. At Escape Camper Vans, we want to help you make an educated decision before you choose a long term camper van rental. We’ve compiled this quick guide to detail average costs for RV rental in the U.S. and how to manage related expenses to maximize your trip.

How Much Do RV Rental Prices Cost to Rent a Camper Van in the US?

Prices for campervan rentals in the USA can vary depending on your state, the time of year, and the size of the vehicle you rent. You’ll typically see daily RV rental prices in the industry range from $75 to $150. If you were to rent one for a week, you could expect it to cost between $500 to $1,000. The rental period can significantly impact the total cost, with many rental companies offering discounts for weekly and monthly rates.

On top of the daily rental fee, it’s also industry standard to charge mileage fees for RV rentals. You’ll usually see these range from $0.30-0.40 cents per mile you drive. This fee structure helps base prices on how much you drive the vehicle, so you won’t have to pay more if you put fewer miles on it.

How the Type of Camper Van Impacts Costs

The camper van, or RV type, can also play a factor. Larger vehicles like our Del Mar model at Escape will cost more per day since their maintenance requirements are more extensive. More compact options like our Santa Cruz camper van typically have a lower daily cost. Rental costs for different campervans, including Class A, B, and C, can vary significantly based on size and amenities.

You might also see luxury campervans for rent with premium features like a full bathroom and shower. However, daily and weekly rental expenses will also be much higher. Most people prefer options like our vans at Escape since they’re more affordable. Plus, intricate features, like compact bathroom plumbing, can break down more easily, putting a damper on your vacation.

How Much Do Fuel Costs Impact the Cost to Fill Up an RV?

Another aspect you’ll want to account for when calculating costs is gas prices, fuel costs, and RV fuel efficiency.

The average class B RV has a 25-gallon tank. As of writing this article, the average price for regular gasoline across the U.S. is around $3.60 per gallon. So, it would cost about $90 to fill up a full 25-gallon tank on a class B camper van. The average camper van gets about 15.5 MPG, so a gas tank will last you for about 387 miles.

RV fill-up costs can vary depending on the type of fuel your vehicle takes. Some camper vans run on diesel fuel, and while diesel RVs typically get better gas mileage, diesel costs more per gallon than regular gasoline. All our vehicles at Escape run on regular gasoline, which most people usually prefer.

When budgeting for a campervan rental, it’s crucial to consider the total cost, including fuel costs, to avoid surprises and ensure a transparent rental experience.

What Is a Class B Motorhome? 

Class B motorhomes are the smallest type of recreational vehicle (RV) available, making them a popular choice for those looking to rent an RV. They’re usually called camper vans since they are oversized vehicles built on van chassis.

Since they’re more compact, most people find them much easier to drive than larger RV types like class A and C models. Most people also prefer compact options with fewer features because they’re easier to use and less hassle to maintain during vacation. Class B motorhomes like the ones we offer at Escape are also much more affordable to rent than larger RVs.

When renting a Class B motorhome, choosing a reputable RV rental company is important to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Featured Blog Posts

How-to's & resources, top 9 budget travel tips, renter guest posts, dispersed camping 101: free camping in the us, national parks, when to book national park campsites in 2024, campervan cooking, guest blog: 51 van life tips to make the most of your escape.

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13 Great Reasons to Rent an Escape Campervan

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If you are looking for an affordable way to travel the country, there is no easier way than with a camper van. The camper van movement is gaining in popularity as people are drawn to the simplicity and freedom that van travel offers. If you do not own a camper van, there are still ways for you to experience van life without purchasing your own rig.

It is now easier than ever to rent a campervan at an affordable rate. There are many corporate rental companies to choose from along with peer-to-peer camper van rental services.

The word is spreading about the ease and cost-effectiveness of campervan rentals. Renting a campervan is a very inexpensive way to travel. Most nightly rental rates are less than the cost of an average hotel room, and campervans give you the freedom to explore a wide area at a very low price.

We have researched all of the camper van rental options, and we recommend using Escape Campervans for your next road trip adventure. Escape Campervans USA was founded in 2009 and they are known for their unique painted exterior artwork on the vans. The company started with three friends in New Zealand who are all experts on the van camping lifestyle.

Escape Campervans now has thirteen locations in the United States and Canada. With over 600 rental vans in outstanding locations, like Las Vegas, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and New York, you are sure to find a camper van to meet your needs. Check out the 13 Best Reasons Why You Should Rent an Escape Campervan for your next epic holiday or vacation!

1. Affordability

Camper vans are a very affordable way to travel and see the world. With your rental car and lodging in one package, camper vans are the ultimate in economical travel. Escape Campervans offers four low-cost camper van rental options for your vacation. With peak rental rates between $114 and $150 per night depending on the model, a campervan rental is much cheaper than the average vacation rental or hotel room. It is also less expensive than the average RV rental! The low cost of a camper van rental means that you can take a more extended trip or spend your extra cash on an excursion during your vacation.

While renting a camper van is more expensive than tent camping, the camper van itself helps you save cash on your trip. With a camper van, you will have access to a kitchen with a propane stove, a sink with running water, and a dual powered refrigerator, which means you can make your own meals. Having a small refrigerator on board means you can easily store food during your journey. Since food is one of the highest expenses on vacation, being able to cook in your camper van can save you a lot of cash on your trip!

2. Camper Vans Upgrade Your Camping Experience

If you already enjoy camping on your own or with friends and family, renting a camper van is an excellent way to take your experience up a notch! Having access to a real bed, storage, and a kitchen is a considerable upgrade from tent camping. Some camper van models even come with a queen size bed and a full bathroom! At the same time, you will still have the experience of camping and being in the great outdoors.

If you are new to camping, renting a camper van is an excellent way to get started with the camping lifestyle. Having a few of the comforts of home with you on your vacation makes camping more comfortable and more convenient.

Another perk of camper van camping is that you can quickly move from one place to another without having to set up and break down camp each day. Being able to store your gear in the camper van and move easily allows you to cover more ground on your camping vacation. It also saves you time, a precious resource when on vacation.

3. Escape Campervans is the Industry Leader in Van Camping

Escape Campervans is quickly becoming a front-runner among RV rental companies in the United States. Escape is a unique company in the RV rental market. Instead of renting many different kinds of RVs, Escape rents 3 styles of camper vans and a truck camper model, as well. Their focus on camper van rentals means that you are sure to have an excellent experience with your van rental!

The founder of Escape Campervans USA is from New Zealand, where van camping has been popular for many years. The company has brought their knowledge and love for camper van travel to the United States and has been a significant part of the growth of camper van popularity. Renting from an industry leader is a smart move and one that you will be glad you made!

4. Great Locations

Escape Campervans has thirteen locations in the United States and Canada. Although primarily located on the west coast, all of their locations are within a few hours of some of the top destinations in North America. Renting from Escape means that you will be within an easy drive of your destination, which makes them a convenient option for renters.

Escape also offers one-way rentals, which makes them an excellent choice for those planning on doing a lot of exploring. Many RV rental companies do not provide this convenience. Other companies may charge you extra for returning the van to a different location. Renting from Escape is an excellent choice if your trip is longer or if you plan to hit many destinations on one vacation.

5. Fantastic Add-on Options

RV and camper van rentals usually come with only the basics: the van itself, a bed, and a kitchen. If you are looking to save cash, you can do so by bringing your own bedding, linens, dishes, etc.

Sometimes it makes sense to rent these items, especially if you are flying to your destination. We love the add-on options from Escape as they are an excellent way to make your trip convenient and enjoyable.

Escape Camper Vans offers bedding, kitchen sets (bowls, plates, cutlery, etc.), GPS units, bike racks, camp chairs, tents, cookware, utensils, linens, pillows, blankets, camp tables, car seats, and canopy sunshades at a low additional cost.

Having such a wide variety of add-on items available with your rental will save you time and money on your trip as you will not have to bring these items with you or purchase them once you get to your destination.

6. Great Floor Plans

Escape rents five different types of campervans. The rentals can sleep anywhere from two to five people and have seating for up to six people. One important thing to note is that not all models are available at all of the local rental locations, so be sure to check the available options based on your destination.

1. Jeep Camper

The Escape Jeep Camper’s automatic rooftop tent makes it easy to set up camp after a long day of exploring. The custom-built kitchen in the back of the Jeep Camper includes a 1-burner pullout stove, sink with a 3.5-gallon water tank, and efficient Dometic cooler.

2. Santa Cruz 2 Person Campervan

The popular Santa Cruz model sleeps up to two people in a double bed. It also has a full kitchen on board along with additional storage space.

3. Mavericks Campervan

The Mavericks model sleeps up to five people and has a queen bed with extra storage. A full kitchen is included in this van, which is roomier than the Santa Cruz.

4. Big Sur Campervan

The Big Sur model is similar to the Mavericks and also sleeps up to five people. The Big Sur is available at all Escape locations and is a popular option for families.

5. Newport Truck Camper

The Newport Camper sleeps up to three and has a kitchen as well. In addition, there is a bathroom onboard complete with a sink, toilet, and shower. If you are camping at a location with hookups, you can also have air conditioning and heat in this model.

All of the models are 2 wheel drive so driving on the beach is not recommended or you might get stuck!

With five unique options to choose from, you are sure to find a floor plan that meets your needs. If you are traveling with additional people, consider renting a tent or the optional rooftop sleeper for the camper van from Escape.

7. Great Reviews

Escape Campervans is becoming an industry leader in camper van rentals, thanks in part to their excellent customer reviews. Escape customers comment on the ease of the rental process, helpful customer service, and the wide variety of amenities available in each camper van.

We recommend reading a few reviews before booking any rental, and based on our research of Escape Campervans, you will be pleased with their service and products.

Check out these amazing reviews from Escape Campervan customers!

8. Excellent Rating with the Better Business Bureau

Whenever you do business with a company, it is a good idea to check their rating with the Better Business Bureau. Escape Campervans has an A rating with the Better Business Bureau. Renting from a trusted company will give you peace of mind during your vacation.

9. Unique Designs

One cool thing about Escape Camper Van rentals is that each van comes with its own unique artwork painted on the van. Escape Camper Vans are easily recognizable on the road and in campgrounds meaning you will never forget where you parked! The artwork is also a great conversation starter, which makes them perfect for connecting with other campers during your trip.

10. Excellent Insurance Coverage and Options

Before renting a camper van, check your own automotive insurance to see if you are covered for rental vans. Credit cards often offer rental vehicle coverage as well. Since many people are covered by their own insurance plans, it can be an unnecessary cost to pay for extra insurance protection on your camper van rental. Unlike other rental agencies, Escape does not require you to purchase their coverage if you have your own. This can save you several dollars a day compared to other rentals!

For those wanting the protection and peace of mind that comes from an insurance plan, Escape offers five different plans for customers to choose from. These plans range from $10 to 28 dollars per day, with the higher-priced plan covering absolutely anything and everything that could go wrong with your rental!

11. Escape Campervans are Easy to Drive and Park

If you are new to RV camping, it can be intimidating to drive and or park a large RV. With a camper van, you will have no problem driving, navigating tight turns and fitting into narrow parking spaces.

Having a camper van gives you maximum freedom and flexibility, as you are not limited to larger parking spots or campsites. Anyone can drive a camper van, and Escape allows anyone over 21 to drive the vans. Each rental comes with permission for up to four drivers, meaning everyone in your group can have a turn at the wheel.

12. If You Love the Escape Campervan, You Can Buy It!

Escape Campervans often sell some of the vehicles in their rental fleet. If you fall in love with your camper van rental and decide that van life is for you, ask about purchasing a camper van from Escape.

13. Easy Rental Process

Thanks to the internet, renting a camper van is now easier than ever. Escape Campervans has a well designed, user-friendly website that makes renting a breeze. Reservations can be made by visiting their website and booking online. You can also make a reservation with Escape Campervans by calling their toll free number.

Scheduled pick up times are from 1pm to 4pm and the return time is from 8:30am to 10am. There is no after hours drop off or pick ups or drop offs so be sure you have scheduled enough time for yourself to meet the guidelines or you could be charged for an extra day rental.

The van rentals do charge a reasonable amount for mileage but there is an unlimited miles option available for $35 per day.

When you rent a campervan from Escape, you will deal directly with the company. Escape provides assistance with travel planning as well as 24/7 customer support. Ask your agent for trip recommendations and planning assistance, and they are happy to help!

Related Reading:

– best campervan rental companies: us and canada, – 25 must-have campervan accessories, – small rv rentals: hot deals on a small, mini or compact rv, mike scarpignato – bio.

Mike Scarpignato created RVBlogger.com over five years ago in 2018 to share all we have learned about RV camping.

Mike is an avid outdoorsman with decades of experience tent camping and traveling in his 2008 Gulf Stream Conquest Class C RV and 2021 Thor Challenger Class A motorhome.

We attend RV Shows and visit RV dealerships all across the country to tour and review drivable motorhomes and towable trailers to provide the best evaluations of these RVs in our blog articles and YouTube videos.

We are 3/4-time RVers who created RVBlogger.com to provide helpful information about all kinds of RVs and related products, gear, camping memberships, tips, hacks and advice.

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Renting an Escape Camper Van: Everything You Need to Know

If you’re looking for a unique vacation idea in order to get out and see the outdoors, an Escape Campervan rental is the perfect bucket list experience! If you’re like me and love the idea of spending more time in nature but don’t love the idea of sleeping on the ground, an Escape Campervan rental is a great option for you! And the best part, you don’t have to break the bank to do this! 

Nowadays, there are tons of companies that offer reasonably priced camper van rentals. And no, I’m not talking about giant RV rentals that are impossible to drive (anyone seen that Robin Williams movie with JoJo?!) I’m talking about small vans (typically 9-passenger like a Ford Transit) that have been converted into a “ campervan !” With a real bed, a sitting area, and maybe even a kitchenette. 

Renting an Escape Campervan allows you to explore the great outdoors without having to pack and unpack in hotel rooms or set up and break down tents. Your entire stay is packed into the van, which may sound a little cramped, but it’s actually quite roomy!  Below I’m breaking down all you need to know about renting a camper van and planning your trip, including where to rent, what to pack, where to go, and more! 

So without further ado, let’s get into it! 

Note: This post contains affiliate links. If you click an affiliate link or book through an affiliate program, I receive a small commission at no cost to you! 

Everything You Need to know About Renting an Escape Campervan

Where to rent your campervan.

There are a few different companies out there that offer reasonably priced camper van rentals! We rented our van from Escape Campervans , so I’ll be speaking mostly about my experience with them. But other popular companies include Native Campervans, Outdoorsy, and ROAMERICA. If you already know where you want to go, you can just google “Location Campervan rental” and see what your options are! I

Escape Campervans specifically has rental locations all over the USA, including Los Angeles, Orlando, Las Vegas, New York, and more! Of course, where you pick up your van will depend on where you live or where you are planning a trip to! Here are some road trip ideas based on Escape’s van rental locations:

Road Trip Ideas

• Orlando : One Week Around Florida’s Beaches and Natural Springs
• Las Vegas: National Parks Trip ( Zion , Grand Canyon , Bryce Canyon, & Antelope Canyon)
• Los Angeles/San Francisco: Up the California Coast (Big Surf, Redwoods, Yosemite)
• Seattle or Portland: Pacific Northwest Adventure
• Denver : Rocky Mountain State Road Trip

Campsites versus Dispersed Camping

One of the best parts about renting an Escape campervan is the versatility! You can stay at a fancy hotel one night and sleep on the side of the road the next night. Waking up to watch the sunrise? No need to wake up early to pack up the campsite – just climb into the front seat and go!

A big part of the campervan rental trip is deciding where to sleep. Because it was our first time renting a van and camping, we decided to stay at real campsites. On our trip, we stayed at Mather Campground in the Grand Canyon, Wahweap Campground in Page, and Zion Canyon Campground outside of Zion! You can read more about that trip here .

If you’re trying to save money (and don’t mind not having a bathroom!) you can try out dispersed camping, which just means camping on public land for free. You can read more about dispersed camping on the Bureau of Land Management website!  

When to Go on a Campervan Trip

Where you go will also depend on the time of year you are planning your trip! It’s important to consider the average temperatures and weather of where you are going before renting an Escape campervan.

Of course, sleeping in a camper van is a little better than sleeping in a tent in terms of exposure! You’re out of the rain and slightly shielded from the cold, but it’s important to remember that these Escape campervans are not temperature controlled at night like a hotel room! 

On our trip, we got extremely lucky with the weather. The lows at night were in the 40s, which was just cold enough to be comfortable in the van with some sweatpants, socks, and blankets! If it’s going to be snowing, I highly recommend renting the winter kit (if you’re renting an Escape campervan), which includes hot water bottles, a warmer comforter, etc. It will be cold in the van if temperatures are below freezing.

If you’re planning a trip in the summer (especially in the desert), be prepared to be warm!! I personally do not sleep well in the warmth, so I was happy with our choice to go in October.

Most people who camp in the summer put up bug window shields , so you can put the windows down while sleeping. No matter what you choose, make sure to do your research on the area so you can prepare for whatever weather is in store!

What Kind of Van to Rent 

If you decide to rent with Escape Campervans , there are a few different options for van types! Which you choose should depend on your budget and how many travelers you have! Here is a quick breakdown of the different options for you to ponder! Make sure to check the Escape website as well, since not every location has every type of van. 

The Santa Cruz

The Santa Cruz is the smallest of the Escape Campervans. It is a Ford Transit Connect and can only fit 2 people. The van consists of just the two front seats and a queen bed in the back seat. There is no sitting area or table in this van! Perfect for couples who don’t need a ton of space.

The Mavericks

Next up is the Mavericks Campervan. The Mavericks is what we rented for our One Week National Parks Road Trip , and we thought it was perfect! It’s slightly bigger than the Santa Cruz and has a table and additional seats when the bed is put away. See photo below to see what I mean!

Note that the table and benches are only available when you fold the bed away. I thought we would use the table and bench a lot more than we did. In fact, after making the bed the first night, we never broke it down to bring out the table and bench again!

This was mostly because all of our campsites had picnic tables to eat at. But I can see how it would be beneficial to have if it’s raining or snowing or the bugs are really bad!

The Mavericks advertises that it sleeps up to 5 with the rooftop sleeper, which you can rent directly from Escape! Without the sleeper, I’d say it sleeps 2 adults, maybe 2 adults and a small child (it’s a queen bed!). The Mavericks was the same price as the Santa Cruz when we rented, so we went with the Mavericks even though there was only 2 of us!

Pro tip! If you are renting the Mavericks or the Big Sur, I highly recommend setting up your bed in the daylight! We waited until we arrived at our campsite when it was already dark, and it was a struggle! Make sure to watch the video Escape provides before your trip so you are familiar with the van 🙂

The Big Sur

Next up is the Big Sur! The biggest of the van options, the Big Sur sleeps up to 5 with the rooftop sleeper (same as the Mavericks!) but has a larger interior. It’s a little longer than the Mavericks, which allows you to keep the rear bucket seats up even when you put the bed down. In the Mavericks, there are only two available seats when the bed is down. So, the Big Sur is a great option for families with car seats.

The 4×4 Jeep

If you’re looking for even more adventure, Escape also offers Jeep Wrangers to rent! Of course, Jeeps are your best option if you’re looking to go off-roading or have off-the-beaten-path adventures. The Jeep seats 5 but only sleeps 2 via the rooftop tent! It does include the kitchenette in the back just like vans though! 

Other Things to Consider

Age of the vans.

It’s important to note that the other Escape campervans are older vehicles that do not do great in off-roading conditions. According to the website, the average age of the Mavericks vehicles are 2012, while the Santa Cruz and the Big Sur are 2016/2017. Our Mavericks van was a 2010 and had about 130,000 miles. It did have cruise control which would’ve been ROUGH if not.

We kept to mostly highways plus a little bit of dirt roads. Escape recommends not going over 65mph in the van, which I recommend following. Above 65mph and the van started to shake a bit and was significantly louder. Overall, the vehicle was in pretty good condition but just know that you aren’t getting a brand new van when renting an Escape camper van!

  Note : Most of the vans only have an AUX cord outlet, so make sure to pick up a AUX to lightning converter so you can use your iPhone for the sound system in the van!

ALL Escape campervan rentals include a kitchenette in the back of the van. This was so incredible to have and one of the best parts of renting with Escape versus a normal rental car! Each kitchenette includes a fridge (or cooler), a two-burner propane stove, and a sink!

The fridge in the Mavericks was the perfect size for a week-long trip, and the stove and sink worked great! I’ll include a grocery list later in the post, so you can see what we were able to fit in the fridge and cook on the stove!

It’s important to note that the fridge is powered by solar panels on the roof of the van, and the panels charge when the van is running! For us, we were driving pretty much every day of our trip, so this was not an issue.

If you are staying in one place for more than 1-2 days, Escape recommends starting the van for about 30-minutes in order to give the solar panels time to charge! 

The sink is a small pump sink. The tank is on the side of the van and can be filled up easily with a gallon jug! It drains right at the bottom of the van when the back-fill gets full.

Optional Add Ons + What to Pack

Escape also offers tons of different add-ons for your trip, which really come in handy if you are flying and then renting your van and can’t pack all of these things. Here are the main add-ons that Escape offers to rent:

• Bedding Kit
• Kitchen Kit
• Electric Kit
• Tents, Chairs, Canopies. etc.

For our one-week road trip, we rented their bedding kit , which includes pillows, a sheet, and a comforter, and their kitchen kit , which includes everything you would need for cooking in the van (plates, cups, silverware, etc.) We also added on the electric kit which included an extension cord and converter for campsites, as well as a space heater (which we didn’t up needing!) They also have other add-ons like camping chairs, car seats, tents, propane, and more! These options are perfect if you’re picking up your van in a new city and can’t bring your own stuff from home. It was all very affordable. Overall, we spent $125 in add-ons, and they were worth every penny!

Packing List

While we’re on the topic of add-ons, let’s talk about packing for a campervan road trip! No matter what van you rent or company you choose, packing on the light side will be extremely important since you will be living in the van! Make sure to check the available storage in your van when the bed is down and plan accordingly.

For example, the Mavericks van’s main storage space is in the front of the van directly behind the front seats. When the bed is folded down, this area is underneath the bed, so we had to partially pull up the bed every day in order to get to our bags.

The only other storage is the front seats (and the space in between them) plus some small storage areas in the kitchen area for food and other items.

In total, we had two large checked bags (one suitcase and one large duffel), one carry-on size suitcase, and one small duffel bag. We stored the large duffel and the carry-on suitcase in the storage bench. The checked-size suitcase was too big to fit inside the storage bench, so we had to keep that in the front seat in between the driver and passenger seat for the whole trip.

So please note, the storage bench doesn’t fit checked-size bags!!  I recommend bringing a small duffel back that you can leave outside the storage area with things that you will use every day (toiletries, etc.).

I won’t bore you with my entire packing list for the trip, but here are some ESSENTIAL items that I recommend for ANY campervan trip!

• A Headlamp (KEY for night time activities like walking to the bathroom, cooking dinner, etc!!)
• Portable Charger (so you aren’t reliant on your van for charging!)
• Sleeping Pills (if you’re a light sleeper!)
• Baby Wipes (in case showers are limited, these are crucial)
• Quick drying towels (these ones from Amazon came in clutch and were dry by the next morning!)
• Rubber Flip Flops (for showering at campsites – don’t forget these!)
• First aid kit (accidents happen and you want to be prepared!)

Insurance for the Van

No matter what company you are renting from, insurance is extremely important to consider ! For Escape Campervans specifically, there are different insurance options to choose from, depending on what you feel most comfortable with, and your budget!

Their insurance options range from “Absolutely No Worries”, which includes Collision protection plus 3rd party liability insurance, to “All Worries”, aka no insurance. 

Before choosing an insurance option through the van company, make sure to check in with your credit card companies and see what insurance they provide ! Most travel credit card companies offer some form of rental car insurance as part of your normal coverage – all you have to do is pay for the rental with that credit card!

However, I highly recommend calling your credit card company or reading the fine print before you book. My Capital One Venture card insurance did NOT cover our Escape van because it was a “modified” van – aka modifications to turn it into a “sleeper van”. Make sure to investigate this before relying on it! 

Because of this caveat, we ended up getting the full insurance package through Escape Campervans, as we didn’t want to have to worry about anything on our trip. This option includes roadside assistance from Escape as well. For a one-week trip, the insurance added just under $200 to our rental costs! For us, this was worth it for our peace of mind.

Gas and Mileage

Given the gas prices right now, I’m sure you’re wondering how many miles per gallon these vans get, and how much gas is going to cost you! Again, this will of course depend on the type of van you rent. Gas is not included in the rental cost, and you’re expected to return the van with a full tank! Escape advertises 19 miles per gallon for the Mavericks van.

For our trip in October 2021, we drove approximately 1000 miles and spent $271 on gas for the whole trip – not too bad in my opinion!

If you’re planning an off-the-beaten-path trip, I highly recommend planning out your route and finding some potential gas stations along the way. This isn’t 100% necessary but will give you peace of mind! The last thing you want is to be stranded on a dirt road with an empty tank!

In terms of mileage, the standard rental fee with Escape Campervans includes 100 miles/day you rent for, and they charge $0.30 per mile for any overages. For us, we drove about 1000 miles and rented the van for 7 days, so we had to pay an extra $90 for miles overage. Not horrible! Plus 1000 miles in 7 days was a LOT!

What to Eat in a Campervan

We loved the kitchenette in the back of the van because we were able to cook food on the go and not rely on restaurants or building a fire for a hot meal! Plus, with the fridge, you can grocery shop at the beginning of your trip and not have to worry about packing a cooler, buying ice, etc. With a two-burner stove, you have tons of options for cooking easy but delicious meals! I’ll be writing a full blog post on our grocery list and all my cooking tips, but here is a quick list of what we ate for each meal. Of course, a few nights we skipped cooking and headed to a restaurant for a break!

Breakfast : Oatmeal with nut butter and blueberries, canned coffee, granola bars, bananas Lunches : Turkey wraps, peanut butter and jelly sandwiches Dinners : Tacos, Quesadillas, Spaghetti with meat sauce Snacks : Dried fruit, trail mix, beef jerky, protein shakes, hot chocolate! + plenty of bottled water!! We ended up buying like 7 gallons total!

Comfort Level and Safety

As a female traveler, safety is of course very important to me! I was a little nervous for our camper van trip, as it was just myself and my girlfriend (2, 25-year old girls!) alone in a van. We take safety very seriously, so I made sure to do my research on the campgrounds we stayed at. Overall, we felt extremely safe in the van at our campsites! We locked up the van every night before going to sleep and had no issues at all!

To be as safe as possible, I highly recommend sharing your location with friends or family members before you travel anywhere! In addition, share your itinerary with them so they have a general idea of where you will be and when. This way, if they check your location and something seems off, they’ll know immediately!

When traveling alone as a female, I try to limit interactions with strangers as much as possible. If someone asks if you are traveling alone, always say no. I typically say I am traveling with my husband or family and say they are nearby. In general, practice street smarts and you will be fine!

Final Thoughts

Well, that about wraps up my review of an Escape Campervan Rental . Overall, I would definitely rent a van again – we had such an epic time! Renting a camper van offers such a unique way to travel and see the gorgeous USA!

And if you’re planning a road trip, don’t forget to check out my other National Parks Guides: How to Spend One Day in the Grand Canyon 3 Days in Zion: Perfect Zion Itinerary Grand Canyon, Zion, and Bryce Canyon Road Trip Itinerary Zion National Park to Antelope Canyon Guide

Don’t forget to pin this post for future planning!

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Escape Campervans

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Review Highlights

“ I rented a van for nine nights to travel through Yellowstone , Grand Teton and Rocky Mountain National Parks. ” in 4 reviews

“ RV's were a big too much for what we needed, but our Escape Campervan was perfect! ” in 2 reviews

“ The folks at the Denver office could not have been nicer or more helpful! ” in 2 reviews

Location & Hours

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3538 Peoria St

Aurora, CO 80010

About the Business

Business owner information

Business Owner

At Escape Campervans, we offer fully-equipped campervans for rent, along with insider's tips and local knowledge to get you off the beaten path for a once-in-a-lifetime trip. We are America's largest and most trusted campervan rental company, providing travelers with a fun, reliable, turnkey and safe way to tour America and Canada. Escape Campervans are more compact and easier to maneuver than traditional recreational vehicles/motorhomes. With a fleet of hundreds of 'minibagos' and depot locations that include Los Angeles, San Francisco, Las Vegas, New York, Miami, Denver, and Seattle, Escape Campervans has a vehicle and location to suit every travel itinerary. Each Escape Campervan is unique - hand painted by local artists - and custom-built to include everything a traveler requires while touring the open road: a full bed and bed linens, stove, cooking utensils, flatware and other cutlery, corkscrew, running water, fridge and even a kitchen sink. …

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Will you have long term opening for April 2nd?

Hi Kay, sorry for the delay here. What kind of long term opening are you looking for specifically? Thanks!

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• 2 star rating Could’ve been better
• 3 star rating OK
• 4 star rating Good
• 5 star rating Great

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Overall rating

This was our first time using this company and vacationing like this. The pick up process was easy. The staff was great and informative. The van was really cool. We did some add-ons; kitchen set, bedding set, and canopy. The ability to travel wherever you wanted, cook for yourself right off the back of the van, sleep comfortably where we chose to (KOAs) and have all of our stuff with us at all times was such a great way to travel around a new place. Drop off was easy.and again, the staff was great. We'll miss you Perch (the name of our van). We highly recommend Escape Campervans and we will definitely be traveling like this again. Try it, you'll love it!

Such a great experience. The customer service was excellent. Especially when we locked ourselves out of the van in Yellowstone on a Sunday. They helped immensely and got us back on the road. Support was great from beginning to end.

My boyfriend and I had a snowboard trip to different mountains in the middle of winter. It was fun and we had a blast. The price was crazy affordable and the staff at escape Campervans, especially the sweetie Hensley, made it awesome. She hooked us up with extra bedding which was necessary for the chilly nights. Overall comfy ride and easy to drive the big van which I was a little nervous about but it was very doable. I would def do this again and recommend to anyone looking to try the Campervan experience. Thanks!!

Cooking out back on the side of a mountain. Life isn't bad

Watts aka our home away from home.

I rented a van for nine nights to travel through Yellowstone, Grand Teton and Rocky Mountain National Parks. The van as modified is perfect for the solo traveler or the pair comfortable with sleeping in tight quarters, IF you have access to toilet and shower facilities (for example, when staying in a campground). You can also park overnight in rest areas in most states if you don't actually camp, and then shower at a truck stop. The back-end setup (sink, propane stove and -- most important -- the solar-powered refrigerated drawer) is brilliant. The van, with automatic transmission and power-everything, is easy to get used to (just be aware that they are not as maneuverable as your typical car, and be sure to turn off the cruise control when going up steep hills, as there is no "CVT"). The prices are highly competitive, especially compared to fully equipped (shower and toilet) campervans. (Be sure, though, to compare local taxes for each pickup location -- Utah, for example, charges an obscene 16% tax on rental cars. This is not something the company has any control over but can mean a big difference in the final cost.). Also be sure to estimate your miles so you can choose the best of their three pricing options. Finally, a special shout-out to Drew in the Denver office -- super friendly and helpful!

See all photos from Christopher M. for Escape Campervans

Business Customer Service

Aug 2, 2018

Hi Christopher! Thanks so much for your thoughts - so glad you had such a great time! Be sure to stay tuned on all of our new locations and models for your next trip! Cheers.

My friend and I rented a camper van for 10 days and had a great experience. The camper van (we got the extra bedding) was comfortable and we had no issues with the van. The front desk was super friendly and we got money refunded for the extra mileage we didn't end up using.

We loved driving Ms "Daisy" during our 10 day escape in CO. We flew in, took the A line with less than a 5 min walk to the Campervan home. We have an 8 mo old- they had a car seat available for us, which was a huge help with packing light. Picking up was easy and we were given great advice, thorough explanation of all the vans workings, tips and even sweet spots to explore! We had an amazing trip..slept well in the comfy bed and ate like camping royality since we had a fridge & big camping stove. Dropping off was a breeze- We can't wait to do it again! Thanks!!

This place is the BIGGEST joke ever! They will put you in a vehicle, send ya out on an adventure and then leave you stranded to figure it out, in their unreliable vehicle thousands of miles from home.... Then they will LAUGH at you when you express how upset and frustrated you are when THEIR vehicle breaks down!!! I'm in absolutely disbelief that this company lacks so much customer service and empathy for customers that they have stranded in their vehicles they advertise to "escape and go on adventures" in!! I wish I didnt even have to select a star, it'd be a zero! Do yourself a favor and DO NOT rent from this AWFUL, RUDE, & UNPROFESSIONAL company!!

Jul 30, 2020

Hi Erika, We're so sorry we let you down on your recent experience. There is no excuse for the kind of service you are describing and it is not the typical Escape service. We would like to make it up to you and speak directly about what went wrong so we can take all the steps to learn from our mistakes and improve our service. Best, Katie Team Escape

We rented a campervan in Denver to go to Yelllowstone and do a roadtrip in Wyoming. We had an amazing time. Even if it was cold outside, sleeping in the van or on the roof tent was perfect and we didn't suffer from the cold. I will totally do it again!

My best friend since high school and I rented a van from denver and travelled southern utah! Escape camper vans had the best customer service - they were enthusiastic, patient and generous. They made us feel comfortable and even more excited for our trip. The vans itself was PERFECT! The bed was comfortable and very easy to set up/break down each day. The kitchen in the back was also just right. We grilled each night which made camping even more enjoyable! We bought the insurance package with the most coverage to also put us at ease if anything happened to the van - which basically covered every possible damage. I would most definitely recommend to a couple of people who want to road trip in style and comfort!

Camping with a van, you can be more comfortable than in a tent, but still find lots of nice camping sites away from the RV crowd. The folks at the Denver office could not have been nicer or more helpful! Do it!

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State sues Anchorage RV rental company alleging deceptive business practices

ANCHORAGE, Alaska (KTUU) - The State of Alaska is suing an Anchorage RV rental company and its owners, alleging deceptive practices.

The lawsuit against Alaska Motor Home, Inc. by Alaska Attorney General Treg Taylor claims the company charged patrons $2,500 damage deposits before RV’s were picked up, charged consumers taxes which were not owed, and forged a customer’s signature on receipts to win a credit card chargeback dispute.

One Texas man, Harold Smith, told Alaska’s News Source on Friday he made a reservation for an RV rental with Alaska Motor Home in September 2023 for a trip in June 2024. A rental confirmation shows Smith paid $5,500 upfront to lock in the 2023 rate.

Imagine his surprise when six days before his planned Alaskan adventure, he received a letter saying the company was going out of business.

“Well, we were pretty ticked off,” Smith said. “We are scheduled to pick up this motorhome on June 19 ... couple days. So we scrambled and secured another motorhome that is costing us a couple $1,000 extra.”

Smith, his wife, and sister-in-law plan to be in Alaska for three weeks. He says they’ve been to the state before and had rented an RV from a different company but decided on Alaska Motor Home for this booking specifically because of the price.

“We have contacted our credit card company, and they are investigating, but they said it is outside of the time period that they normally would charge back,” Smith said. “So that’s all up in the air right now.”

Smith is only one of possibly hundreds of customers affected, according to Assistant Attorney General for Alaska John Haley.

“I hate to say it, [but] I do think this is a little bit of a black eye on the tourism industry,” Haley said. “It’s unfortunate to have this many people having the reservation canceled. I’m sure it’s going to be difficult for them to find new accommodations and new transportation and have that dream Alaska vacation at the last second.”

This isn’t Alaska Motor Home’s first legal brush with the State of Alaska.

“We’ve sued them before in 2019 and settled that case in 2021, I believe,” Haley said.

The lawsuit alleges that the company and owners, Peter and Cole Harkovitch, violated the injunction entered in 2019.

“We’re going to do our best to try and help people. We’re going to try and recover as much money as we can, whether from the company or possibly from the individuals,” Haley said.

The state said it believes the company’s decision to cease operations relates to Peter Harkovitch currently being incarcerated in Florida. He’s awaiting trial on charges relating to domestic violence and threatening a law enforcement officer.

“They claim that [Peter’s] wife took the company’s cash reserves, and they lacked funding for that,” Haley said.

The Smith family still plans on visiting Alaska next week, but the question of whether or not they get their money back from Alaska Motor Home looms like a dark cloud.

“I’m glad there is action being taken against them,” Smith said.

“I was kind of wondering, you know, if we get this chargeback from the credit card company, who’s really footing that bill?” he asked. “Is my bank going to have to foot this bill? You know, this just sounds like a scam that these people are pulling on us.”

The Department of Law says any consumer who had reservations with Alaska Motor Home can file consumer complaints with the Alaska Attorney General’s Office . No guarantees will be made that restitution and reimbursement are possible. It’s encouraged to review your credit card provider’s rules and agreements to see if you may be eligible for a chargeback.

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Anchorage RV rental company shuts down abruptly, leaving hundreds of visitors scrambling

RVs are parked in the lot at Alaska Motor Home, an RV rental company, on Friday, June 14, 2024 in Anchorage. The state announced it was suing the company on Thursday, alleging that the company engaged in deceptive business practices. (Loren Holmes / ADN)

An Anchorage motor home rental business closed abruptly Friday, leaving hundreds of visitors out thousands of dollars and scrambling for replacements at the peak of Alaska’s summer tourism season.

The shutdown came a day after the state filed a civil lawsuit accusing the business, Alaska Motor Home Inc., of deceptive practices.

The state claims the company illegally charged customers for deposits before they picked up RVs, overcharged for taxes, and forged at least one customer’s signature, according to a complaint filed Thursday in Anchorage Superior Court.

The complaint names owner Peter Harkovitch and his son, Cole Harkovitch, as defendants along with the business.

The company decided to close without intending to refund customers, yet was still accepting reservations and payments through July, the complaint said.

An Alaska Department of Law spokesman said officials believe there are hundreds of victims in the case, given the company’s anticipated fleet of 60 motor homes this summer.

Other RV companies in Anchorage this week reported a deluge of calls from visitors looking for last-minute rentals. Great Alaskan Holidays received about a hundred inquiries from Alaska Motor Home customers, according to marketing director Bob Johnson.

“It started yesterday morning as soon as we opened, and it has only probably within the last hour began to settle down,” Johnson said Friday afternoon, adding all requests have been accommodated.

At Alaska Motor Home’s offices in South Anchorage on West 64th Avenue near C Street on Friday, two longtime employees expressed sadness over the sudden closing. One cleaned RVs still being returned by customers — the employees said they expected more to be returned through the month — while another said he was shuttling customers to cruise ships or the airport to catch flights home to the Lower 48.

Cole Harkovitch removed his name from the business in May, leaving his father as the sole officer, according to a state corporations database. Cole Harkovitch declined to comment when contacted by the Daily News at the business Friday, saying that “we’re still trying to hash things out. I’m just one of the people caught in the crossfire.”

In a letter to the state Department of Law Wednesday, an attorney representing the company said it was ceasing operations Friday because it was “impossible” to stay in business due to several factors, including the fact that Peter Harkovitch is incarcerated. The letter also references issues with cash reserves, restricted access to computer records, and financing for 20 new motor homes.

“As you are well aware, there will be numerous complaints filed with your office,” attorney Terry Draeger wrote. He was out of state and could not be reached for comment Friday.

Alaska Motor Home, an RV rental company, photographed Friday in Anchorage. (Loren Holmes / ADN)

This is the second time the state has filed suit against Alaska Motor Home on charges of unfair practices. The state sued the company and owners in 2019, citing similar problems.

A judge in 2021 ordered a $110,000 fine but as of this week, the company had paid only half, state law officials said Friday. Customer complaints about Alaska Motor Home date back at least as far as 2014, when the company accused the Better Business Bureau of harassment, prompting a wave of criticism .

The state’s complaint also accuses 66-year-old Peter Harkovitch of “a history of using Alaska Motor Home’s assets as his personal assets” to pay for his mortgage, credit card bills, pool cleaning services as well as ATM withdrawals in Florida, Las Vegas, Spain, Italy and other locations. His wife was also able to pull money out of the company’s account, according to the state’s complaint.

Peter Harkovitch is currently incarcerated at Pinellas County Jail in Florida, according to online records. He is charged with aggravated battery, threatening a public servant and criminal mischief, according to online records. Harkovitch is accused of assaulting a family member in March, leaving them in critical condition, according to a complaint filed in that case. He is also accused of destroying the apartment where they lived and urinating on a police officer, according to a sworn affidavit.

The complaint against Alaska Motor Home names a number of customers reporting issues ranging from large fees put on credit cards without authorization to contracts promising insurance the company did not offer and charging taxes above the tax rate.

Peter Harkovitch sent a woman from Utah threatening messages and eventually asked for an “unconscionable” amount of more than $20,000 after a damages dispute, the complaint said. The woman was unable to recoup $7,500 in credit card charges because someone forged her signature on two receipts, it said.

Another customer making his first trip to Alaska this summer told state consumer officials on Tuesday that he prepaid $3,700 for an RV rental and left several messages but no one returned his calls, according to the complaint.

Reynolds Holiman, a Florida engineer who owns property in Homer, said in an interview Friday that he paid $1,840 to drive a new RV from Indiana to Alaska. But in March, Alaska Motor Home put an unauthorized $2,500 deposit on his credit card, Holiman said. Then a few days before the trip was supposed to start in mid-May, he said, the business said the RV was no longer available. He asked for a refund.

Holiman said he had received about $1,400 and the attorney general’s office told him Thursday that the $2,500 deposit was illegal. He said he’s glad to have at least some of the money back.

“Fraud is a strong word, but if they charged me $2,500 they weren’t due yet for a motor home they weren’t paid for yet, that almost sounds like fraud,” Holiman said.

A temporary restraining order requested by the state asks a judge to require Alaska Motor Home to notify customers about the closure, halt new reservations, and preserve company assets and records.

State officials encourage anyone who made reservations with Alaska Motor Home via credit card to check their eligibility for a chargeback and file a consumer complaint .

Zaz Hollander

Zaz Hollander is a veteran journalist based in the Mat-Su and is currently an ADN local news editor and reporter. She covers breaking news, the Mat-Su region, aviation and general assignments. Contact her at [email protected].

Tess Williams

Tess Williams is a reporter focusing on breaking news and public safety. Before joining the ADN in 2019, she was a reporter for the Grand Forks Herald in North Dakota. Contact her at [email protected].