Find the Right Van for You

Sometimes, you need more room than a car, but renting an entire coach bus is too oversized for your trip. That’s where van rentals shine. They give you a lot of room for passengers and cargo while being more cost-effective and flexible than a bus. But with so many options out there, what van do you book? This guide covers how to choose a van rental so you can keep your next trip stress-free.

1. Identify Your Van Rental Needs

Before you can choose a model or filter by price, you need to know what you want. Clarifying your needs before exploring rental options helps you find the right fit faster. Simplify the van rental booking process by first narrowing down:

• Passenger vs. cargo: Are you moving people or items? A passenger van rental is perfect for family reunions, sports teams or church groups. If you need to move boxes or furniture, opt for a cargo van rental.
• Trip type: Shorter trips require less space. For longer distances, rent a larger van so everyone has the space they need. These often have additional features like reclining seats and air conditioning.
• Special requirements: Think beyond size. Do you need wheelchair accessibility? Extra towing capacity? Luxury seating and Wi-Fi for business clients? 

Always size up if you’re unsure about the van type or size. Extra seats and leg room are more comfortable than not having enough. 

2. Types of Vans Available for Rent

Once you’ve outlined your initial travel needs, it’s time to look at the different van types you’ll run into when comparing rentals:

• Passenger vans: These range from seven-seat minivans to 12 or 15-seat passenger vans for larger trips. They’re great for group outings and ensure everyone has a seat on the ride.
• Cargo vans: If you need space for cargo instead of seats, a cargo van is the best van for moving. They feature open interiors and wide rear doors, making them easy to load.
• Sprinter vans: These vehicles have tall roofs, making them perfect for moving cargo and shuttle groups. Airports, tour companies and businesses use sprinter vans as short-term travel solutions. 
• Luxury or executive vans: These vans come with high-end touches like leather seats, entertainment systems and Wi-Fi. Choose luxury vans for weddings or important client transportation.
• Specialty vans: Specialty vans include camper-style builds and wheelchair-accessible models. These are the best options if you have a specific need and want custom features.

3. Key Features to Consider

Even within different van categories, there are key features that can influence your rental decision:

• Seating: Make sure the van comfortably fits your group. An extra seat or two gives people room to relax and ensures everyone has the space they need on longer trips. If you want a little more flexibility, look for removable or foldable seating.
• Storage space: Moving day or road trips call for extra storage space. Cargo vans have open layouts for holding bulkier items, while passenger vans provide overhead or rear storage.
• Comfort features: Entertainment systems, USB ports and air conditioning make a major difference on long road days. If you want to travel in style, explore luxury or executive models.
• Safety features: Modern vans often come with backup cameras and lane-assist technology. Look for these features when renting so you can drive more safely, even in an unfamiliar vehicle. 

Vans consume more fuel and require wider turns than everyday cars. Factor in gas mileage and drivability before making your choice so you can get a better idea of your fuel expenses.

4. Budget and Pricing Tips

Price is always a factor, whether you’re choosing a van rental for group travel or a moving trip. The daily or weekly rental rate is the fee the company charges you just to have the van for your rental period. You also have to budget in insurance, deposits, cleaning, young driver costs and other expenses.

Van rental companies typically require a deposit. This protects the company from cancellations. Be sure to ask what coverage is included when renting, as there might be insurance you need to pay for. The other major fee is mileage — some companies offer unlimited mileage, while others charge per mile.

5. Comparing Rental Companies

Keep in mind that, even if several van rental companies seem to have the same options, they don’t all offer the same level of service. Make sure to look at:

• Reputation and reviews: What do the customer reviews say? A company with a long history and lots of good feedback will probably deliver a good rental experience. Working with a third-party company that links you to reputable rental options is a great way to have the screening work done for you.
• Fleet variety and availability: Larger providers usually have a wider van selection and lower rates, while smaller van companies may offer more personalized options and attentive customer service.
• Location and van convenience: Pickup and drop-off locations are also important. Airport branches make traveling around more convenient, while local locations can save you money on mileage. 

6. Booking Tips and Best Practices

Once you have your van and rental company picked out, it’s time to rent your vehicle. If you want to get the most convenient, affordable experience possible, use these van rental tips:

• Book in advance: Vans are in higher demand during holidays, summer and weekends. Book early to get the best van selection.
• Check for discounts: Check for corporate rates, membership discounts or loyalty programs. Rental companies might also run seasonal specials, giving you a better deal.
• Inspect the van: Walk around the vehicle and note any scratches or damage inside and outside before you leave the lot. Take photos and document the van’s condition to help avoid penalties when returning it.
• Understand the rental agreement: Read the rental contract closely. What are the policies on fuel, insurance, mileage, late return fees and drivers?
• Confirm age requirements: It’s common for rental companies to require drivers to be at least 25 or pay an added fee. Always bring your ID and a credit card to the pickup location.
• Know the height and size: Larger vans, like 15-passenger models or sprinters, might not fit in parking garages or low-clearance areas. Plan your route with these limitations in mind to avoid damaging the van or adding unexpected detours to your route.

Find a Van for Your Next Trip With BusRates

Ready to make your next trip easier? Whether you need the best van for moving or a luxury ride for a group retreat, the right van rental can save you time and money. With BusRates, you can find exactly what you need. Our free-to-use directory connects you directly with van and bus operators across North America so you can compare vans and request quotes for free. 

Search today on BusRates, and find the perfect van rental for all your trip needs!

 

Linked sources:

1. https://www.busrates.com/blog/how-to-plan-a-family-reunion 
2. https://www.busrates.com/cities 
3. https://www.busrates.com/travel-tips 
4. https://www.busrates.com/buses/bus-types/van-rental 
5. https://www.busrates.com/review