RV FAQs

RVs have two different electrical outlets: a 12-volt automotive-type DC system and a 120-volt AC household-type system. The 120-volt device is operated by an RV electrical hookup plug or a generator, and it runs the kitchen and large electrical appliances. Most lights, other appliances, and electrical motors operate on 12-volt, which allow for dry camping without plugging into an external power supply. When plugged in or running off a generator, the power is used to charge the 12-volt batteries and high-demand systems/appliances such as the air-conditioner or microwave.

To determine the type of motorhome needed for a camping trip ask yourself the following questions: What is the total budget and how many people will sleep in the RV? What size of unit is the driver comfortable with, what is the estimated trip distance and what kinds of roads will be navigated? Will a second vehicle be towed and is a bike rack necessary? Read our helpful article on RV rental tips, and after deciding what kind of motorhome is best suited to everyone’s needs, start your rental search.

If towing a recreational trailer, ensure that it has a proper licence plate. A utility trailer plate is used on trailers intended for personal use with no financial gain (such as the typical family travel trailer). They usually have a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of 4,600 kg or under. A standard driver’s licence allows for recreational trailer towing. If plans are to pull a trailer above 4,600 kg, and neither the truck nor the trailer has air brakes, the driver will need to upgrade his or her driver’s license to a Class 4 or 5, with a house trailer endorsement. If pulling a trailer above 4,600 kg and the trailer or the truck does have air brakes, the driver will need to upgrade his or her driver’s licence to a Class 1 commercial with air brake endorsement. For more information on towing a recreational trailer visit the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC).

There is a diverse selection of RV rental companies across British Columbia. For those who choose to venture outside of BC into other provinces, some with branches across Canada allow campers to pick up a motorhome in one province and drop it off in another. Note that each rental operation/platform has its own independent policies and fees. To begin your search visit our Camping Map and select ‘RV Rentals’.