If you are planning a road trip in the United States and would like to rent an RV, you may have heard of Cruise America. This company is one of the largest RV rental companies in North America and offers a variety of RV models at competitive prices.
However, if you are considering renting an RV from Cruise America for a one-way trip, you may come across a term called “one-way fee.” In this article, we will explain what a one-way fee is and how it works with Cruise America rentals.
What Is A One-Way Fee?
A one-way fee is a charge that rental car or RV companies impose when you pick up a vehicle at one location and drop it off at another location. This fee covers the cost of transporting the vehicle back to its original location or to another rental center. The amount of the fee varies depending on the distance between the pickup and drop-off locations, as well as other factors such as seasonal demand.
How Does A One-Way Fee Work With Cruise America?
Cruise America charges a one-way fee for all rentals that involve dropping off the RV at a different location than where it was picked up. The amount of the fee depends on the distance between the two locations and can range from $100 to $500 or more. If you are planning a long-distance trip, such as driving from Los Angeles to New York City, expect to pay a higher one-way fee than if you were driving from Los Angeles to San Francisco.
It’s important to note that Cruise America’s one-way fees are non-negotiable and must be paid before picking up the RV. The company also requires that you make reservations for your rental at least 14 days in advance if it involves dropping off at another location.
Why Does Cruise America Charge A One-Way Fee?
Cruise America charges a one-way fee because it incurs additional costs to transport the RV back to its original location or to another rental center. These costs include fuel, tolls, and labor for the driver who transports the RV. Additionally, one-way rentals can create imbalances in the company’s inventory, which can be costly to manage.
How To Minimize One-Way Fees With Cruise America
If you are looking to minimize one-way fees with Cruise America, there are a few strategies you can try. First, consider renting during off-peak periods when demand is lower.
This may allow you to negotiate a lower one-way fee with the company. You can also try choosing a pickup and drop-off location that is closer together, or even consider driving back to the original location if it’s feasible.
In conclusion, a one-way fee is an additional charge that Cruise America and other rental car or RV companies impose when you drop off a vehicle at a different location than where it was picked up. The amount of the fee depends on various factors such as distance and seasonal demand.
While one-way fees cannot be avoided entirely, you can minimize them by renting during off-peak periods or choosing locations that are closer together. With this information in mind, you can make an informed decision about renting an RV from Cruise America for your next road trip adventure.