There's nothing like taking a motorhome cross-country, lugging your hotel room with you and never having to unpack. You do have to batten things down, though, lest they roll off tables and shelves, but that small duty is well worth the less-than $22 a night it can cost, if you swing the right deal. And you can bring Rover or Fifi, making travel with pets a breeze.
Helping you make the arrangements is El Monte RV, one of the largest motorhome rental companies in the country (more than 30 rental agencies). In order to shift their vehicles around from one location to another where the company needs them most, they offer huge reductions in rates for travelers who want to experience the fun of life behind an RV wheel.
Examples include a seven-night one-way special from Los Angeles to Dallas in a 22-foot Class C motorhome for $151, with 1,500 free miles on the meter. The pricing includes special rates (up to 50% off) of 5 nights at $15 and 2 nights at $21, plus a vehicle (California state) licensing fee of $14 and a $20 RV starter kit. There are no drop-off charges. Top-of-the-line, Class A, bus-style motorhomes are available at the half-off rate as well.
El Monte has an 8-step program for renting RVs:
1. Decide where you want to go
2. Pick your dates
3. Determine your needs (size of vehicle, etc.)
4. Use the company's rate sheet as a guide
5. Contact the company
6. Consider any special services you may need (housekeeping, airport pickup, etc.)
7. Confirm your reservation (with a deposit)
8. Pick up the RV
The firm has 1,800 units for rent and is the only company offering the Class A vehicles nationwide, renting only newer models. They are headquartered in Santa Fe Springs, California, and can be reached toll free at 800/337-2141 or on the Web at www.elmonterv.com. Be sure to click on "One Way Specials" on the mainpage.
