For some, renting an RV is the perfect way to travel

For those who love the idea of seeing the country in a recreational vehicle without having to purchase one, several rental companies offer an alternative.

According to Fany Lopez, general manger for the Camping World rental department, the company at 13175 Las Vegas Blvd. South has 65 coaches for rent. The fleet includes a 32-foot model that sleeps as many as eight people.

Interestingly, rental customers come from across the world and range in age from the 20s to senior citizens. In fact, 70 percent of the Camping World RV rental business is to Europeans.

There are many reasons for the interest from customers abroad, including Las Vegas’ close proximity to the Grand Canyon in Arizona and Zion National Park in Southern Utah.

“I would also have to say that the business from the Europeans is also because of the currency exchange between the dollar and the euro,” Lopez said. “Europeans love the beauty of some of the destinations that are close to Las Vegas.

“I would estimate that customers average about 2,000 miles for each trip.”

Rental rates vary with mileage charges of 42 cents a mile (500 miles can also be purchased for $190) with a required deposit of $1,000. Daily rental rates depend on the season and average about $120 a day.

Lopez said Camping World is sold out each summer, and the annual NASCAR Sprint Cup weekend each March also generates peak levels of business.

She added that customers need only bring personal belongings, and Camping World even rents items such as linens and cooking utensils.

“All they really need to bring is driver’s license and a credit card,” she said.

Other companies that offer RV rentals in Las Vegas include Cruise America, El Monte, Sahara RV, Apollo RV and Road Bear RV rental.