How much does a rental cost?

All of the prices and terms for motorhome rentals can be found on our web site. Use the online reservations to determine the cost of your desired rental.

What is the cost of mileage?

An estimated mileage charge will apply to your rental.  The charge will be a per night charge based on 100 miles for a local rental and 250 miles for a one-way rental.  The  rate is 29¢ per mile.  At the end of the rental you will be refunded for any excess mileage charges, or be charged at the rate of 29¢ for additional miles in excess of the estimated mileage.  Cruise America does reserve the right to modify the estimated mileage charge based on the type of rental.

In Canada, the nightly charge will be 160 kilometers for a local rental and 400 kilometers for a one-way rental. The rate is 28¢ per kilometer.

What deposits are required?

Upon confirmation, a $300 reservation down payment is charged to your credit card. This deposit will be applied toward your rental charges. A minimum damage deposit of $500 and estimated rental charges are payable at departure by credit card. Personal checks and ATM cards are NOT accepted. For certain rental applications, damage deposits may be increased at Cruise America's sole discretion. Credit card deposits are processed at departure. With payment of estimated rental charges other than by a credit card, a minimum deposit of $1000 ($1,500 CDN) is required at departure. Upon return, all extra charges, if any, are balanced against the damage deposit and a credit or check issued to cover the refund.

Notice: Estimated rental charge prepayment may be required in full in advance for special rental events, such as music festivals, auto race events, and gatherings in remote areas, at Cruise America's sole discretion.

Is there a charge for the generator?

Yes. The generator charge is $3 per hour. You can save on this expense by staying in locations that have electrical hookups and not leaving the generator running when you are not in the vehicle.

What about accommodating renters with special needs?

All Cruise America rental vehicles are available with hand controls for our physically disabled clients at no additional charge. Advance notice is required to allow for shipment and installation at the departure rental center. A disabled client must demonstrate they can competently and safely operate a motorhome. Cruise America makes reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities consistent with applicable laws. Qualified individuals are required to contact us for clarification and convey their travel plans at least two weeks in advance by email to: specialneeds@cruiseamerica.com. Be sure to include what special needs you are requesting, the number of adults/children traveling, expected dates of departure and return, and the location which you wish to depart from and return to.

Cruise America offers a special design, ADA friendly Fun Mover rental vehicle at select locations in the Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle, Las Vegas, Denver, Salt Lake City, Denver and Orlando areas. They are equipped with a wheelchair accessible entry via a rear power lift gate, a single bed is located in the rear compartment and the doors to the rear living space and bathroom are wider. Assist handles are installed in the bathroom. An able-bodied travel companion is required to operate some of the systems including the power lift. Vehicles are not to be used for emergency or other medical transportation.

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.

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

All you need is to be 25 years of age or older and possess a valid driver's license. No special endorsement is needed. Authorized operators 21-24 years of age may drive a motorhome subject to $25/day fee.

When can I pick up the motorhome?

Cruise America is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The normal pick up time is between 1 and 4 p.m. and the normal return time is between 9 and 11 a.m. Over the weekend, many rental centers have abbreviated hours of operation. The time of pick up may be earlier than 1-4 p.m.  RentalCentres are closed on Sundays and Holidays. Before you finalize any plans for pick up or return on the weekend, please confirm the locations hours of operations with us or the rental center.

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 equipped with pots and pans?

No, but we rent 2 types of packages for bedding and cookware.

• The Personal Kit costs $35 per person, for the duration of the trip. It includes a sleeping bag or blanket, pillow, pillowcase, flat sheet, bath towel, washcloth and dishtowel. All items must be returned at end of trip.
   

• The Vehicle Provisioning Kit costs $85 per vehicle, also for the duration of the trip. It includes a flashlight, can opener, bottle opener, broom with dust pan, plastic pail, spatula, cooking spoon, cooking fork, coffee cups, tumblers, plates, soup bowls, silverware, tea kettle, colander, mixing bowl, and a cookware set. All items must be returned clean at end of trip.

Besides the rental cost are there any other charges I will incur?

There is tax on the rental charges and any kits you order. The generator fee is $3 per hour and will be collected upon return of the rental. You will also be asked to pay fuel and cleaning/dumping deposits at the time of pick-up.

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 not a TV or stereo or cable hookup.

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.

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.

Cruise America wants you to have an enjoyable and safe vacation experience. Part of that experience is getting the right vehicle to meet your needs.

We realize that our customers use our vehicles for many purposes.

Some examples:

• As a comfortable means of travel not sleeping in them

• For "spare bedrooms" and not drive them.

• For on-site hospitality at special events like automobile races.

• As mobile offices.

• The possible uses are as numerous as your needs

In addition to many uses, there are a myriad of Federal, State and Local ordinances they may restrict the use of may be in conflict.

Lastly there are no universal standards that apply to Recreational vehicles.

We understand the confusion these situations create. Therefore, Cruise America recommends 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 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.

• 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.

• We ask that you use good judgment and prudence in your decisions

YOU ARE REQUIRED TO COMPLY WITH APPLICABLE LAW

Where can I rent a motorhome?

We have a listing of all of our motorhome rental centres on the web site.

Are there facilities close to the rental centre where we can purchase supplies, propane and dispose of holding tank contents?

The staff at the rental centre will be glad to direct you to the closest shopping centre, fuelling facilities and waste treatment centre.

Can I park my car at your rental centre while we travel?

Parking at some canters is very limited. Call your rental centre in advance to see if they can accommodate you. If you are allowed to park, it is at your risk entirely

Can we leave our luggage at the rental location?

Often this is not a problem, but again, check with your rental centre. Anything left at the rental center is at your own risk.

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. Canadian residents are not allowed to rent a US registered vehicle in the US and enter Canada.

Are we allowed to travel into Mexico?

Cruise America does allow travel into Mexico with its motorhomes, however there are restrictions. Travel into mainland Mexico is limited to within the northern states of Mexico contiguous to the US border. If the motorhome is taken beyond the northern states of Mexico, it will void the contract. The primary contract holder would be personally liable for any damage, accident, or breakdown. Also, we offer Mexican accident coverage for $20 per night.

Fantasy Caravans offers planned tours throughout Mexico and if you travel with them on an escorted tour you can go anywhere in Mexico. Their telephone number is 1-800-952-8496 and their Web address is www.fantasycaravans.com.

Can we travel one way to our destination or do we have to travel round trip?

One Way reservations are available between most rental centers by advance reservation only and are subject to availability and some restrictions.

Drop fees may be increased or decreased based on pick-up or drop-off location, dates and vehicle availability.

How do I pay for the rental?

Cruise America requires that all payment be done with a major credit card. We accept Visa, MasterCard.  This payment policy is very strict and there are no exceptions.

Can I tow my car or boat behind the motorhome?

We do allow towing with all sizes of our motorhomes. The motorhomes are only equipped with a receiver hitch, so you would need to provide your own tow bar. We allow a maximum tongue weight of 200 lbs. and a maximum gross weight of 2500 lbs. Towing also costs $12 per day extra. You will need to inform us of your intentions to tow, so we can reserve a motorhome specifically with a receiver hitch.

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.

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.

Do you plan itineraries for trips?

Sorry, we do not have specific information on points of interest or itineraries. For that type of information, we recommend you contact "Tracks and Trails". Their web address is www.tracks-trails.com, and their phone number is 1-800-247-0970. We do provide KOA listings in your departure kit. For information on campgrounds, we recommend that you check with Woodalls. Their web site is www.woodalls.com. For guided caravan tours contact Fantasy Caravans 1-800-952-8496 or on their web site www.fantasycaravans.com.

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

Yes, however, in locations with harsh winter weather, our motorhomes are "winterized" from approximately mid-October to late 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) it may cost up to $40. 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 will be responsible for the full cost of all repairs. If you have any more questions on the rental policies during winter, please contact the rental center where your trip would originate. They can provide you with specific information.
 

Are there any places we cannot take the motorhome?

Yes. Travel in Death Valley and other desert areas are not allowed during the hot months. Also vehicles are not allowed on logging or other non-public roads such as the Apache Trail in Arizona. Check with your pick up location for any local restrictions.

What if I return the vehicle before the date it is due?

No refunds will be made for early returns or late pick ups.

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 $25 per hour will be charged for each hour you are late. Please notify the rental center if you will be late in returning.

Do you have baby car seats and cribs available?

No. Please plan to bring your own car seats.

Is it safe to drink the water from the motorhome tank?

No, we do not recommend this. It is difficult to know if the water is potable when you fill the tank at a variety of locations. We recommend you use bottled water for drinking and cooking. The water from the tank is fine for washing and bathing.

What if I am involved in an accident?

You must notify Cruise America within 24 hours of an accident and make a full report in writing as well as file a police report.

What if the motorhome breaks down?

Cruise America provides a 24-hour toll free travelers assistance line. All repairs in excess of $75 must have prior approval from our customer service department. The toll free number is 800-334-4110.

Is there a ladder so we can get on the roof to watch the race?

We do not have ladders on the RV for safety reasons and to prevent damage to the motorhome.

Are there bike racks?

No. Check with the rental centers where you will be picking up, some have them available for rent or can suggest a place to rent them.

Are there levelers provided?

No.

Can you pick me up/ drop me off at the airport?

You must arrange your own transportation to and from the airport. You may call the rental center where you are picking up for recommendations of transit options.

What if I have to cancel my reservation?

You may cancel your reservation up to 4 business days prior to the pick-up date and you will be refunded your reservation down payment. With less notice you will forfeit your reservation down payment.