What Cruise America Is and How to Rent From Them

Cruise America is a motorhome rental company that operates rental locations across the United States. They rent Class C motorhomes — the mid-sized RVs that sleep four to six people — by the day, week, or month. You reserve a specific vehicle at a specific location, pick it up on your rental start date, and return it on your end date. The rental price covers the motorhome itself; fuel, mileage overage fees, insurance, and campground stays are separate costs you pay on top.

Cruise America has rental locations in major cities and tourist areas, including Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Denver, Phoenix, Orlando, and others. You can browse their fleet and check availability on their website, then book online or by phone. The company has been operating since 1983 and is one of the larger motorhome rental chains in North America.

Key Takeaways

  • Cruise America rents Class C motorhomes (mid-sized RVs) by the day, week, or month, with rental prices starting around $100 to $200 per day depending on season and location.
  • You must be at least 25 years old, have a valid driver's license, and provide a credit card to rent; some locations may require an International Driving Permit if your license is not from the United States or Canada.
  • The rental price does not include fuel, mileage over the included limit, insurance, or campground fees — these are additional costs you pay separately.
  • Cruise America motorhomes come equipped with a bed, kitchen, bathroom, and heating or air conditioning, but you should confirm what specific amenities are included in your rental agreement.
  • Cancellation policies and damage deposits vary by location and booking date, so review your rental agreement carefully before confirming your reservation.

Rental Rates and What They Include

Cruise America's daily rental rates vary by season, location, and how far in advance you book. Rates are generally lower in the off-season (fall and winter) and higher during peak travel months (summer and holidays). A Class C motorhome might cost $100 to $150 per day in the low season but $200 to $300 or more per day during peak times. Weekly and monthly rates offer a per-day discount compared to daily rates.

The rental rate covers the motorhome, basic insurance (liability only, in most cases), and a set mileage allowance — typically 100 to 150 miles per day depending on your rental agreement. Mileage over that limit costs extra, usually 30 to 40 cents per mile. You pay for fuel separately; the motorhome is returned with a full tank, and you fill it before return. Campground fees, parking fees, tolls, and any optional insurance upgrades are your responsibility.

Who Can Rent and What Documents You Need

To rent from Cruise America, you must be at least 25 years old and have a valid driver's license from the United States, Canada, or another country. If your license is not from the US or Canada, you may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) — ask the rental location when you book. You will also need a credit card in your name to hold a security deposit, which is typically $500 to $1,500 depending on the motorhome and location.

Some rental locations may ask for proof of insurance or a second form of ID. Drivers under 25 may be able to rent at certain locations, but you should contact Cruise America directly to confirm, as policies vary by branch. If you have a poor driving record or recent accidents, the rental company may decline your reservation or charge a higher deposit.

Pickup, Return, and Mileage Limits

You pick up your motorhome on your rental start date at the location you selected when booking. The rental company will walk you through the motorhome's systems — how to operate the stove, water heater, toilet, shower, and slide-outs — and point out any existing damage on a checklist. You will inspect the vehicle together and sign off on its condition. This inspection protects you by documenting that damage was already there before you took possession.

You return the motorhome on your end date, usually by a set time (often 10 a.m. or noon). The company will inspect it again for new damage, check the mileage, and verify the fuel level. If you exceed your mileage allowance, you will be charged for each extra mile. If the motorhome has damage beyond normal wear, you may be charged a repair fee, which comes out of your security deposit or is billed to your credit card.

Insurance and Damage Coverage

Cruise America's base rental rate includes liability insurance, which covers damage you cause to other people or property. It does not cover damage to the motorhome itself. To protect yourself from repair costs if you damage the rental, you can purchase a damage waiver or collision damage waiver (CDW) at the time of rental. This waiver typically costs $25 to $40 per day and reduces or eliminates your financial responsibility for accidental damage.

Some personal auto insurance policies or credit cards extend coverage to rental vehicles, including motorhomes — check your policy before you rent. If you have coverage through your own insurance or credit card, you may not need to buy the rental company's waiver. Read your rental agreement carefully to understand what damage is covered, what your deductible is, and what types of damage are excluded (such as damage from off-road use or towing).

Cancellation, Changes, and Refunds

Cruise America's cancellation policy depends on when you cancel and how far in advance you booked. Cancellations made well in advance (typically 30 days or more) may receive a full refund. Cancellations made closer to your rental date may be subject to a cancellation fee, which could be a percentage of your total rental cost or a flat amount. Cancellations within a few days of your rental start date may forfeit the entire payment.

If you need to change your rental dates or location, contact Cruise America as soon as possible. Changes may be possible at no charge if you have sufficient notice, or you may be charged a change fee. Your rental agreement will spell out the specific cancellation and change terms for your booking, so review it before confirming your reservation.

What to Expect Inside a Cruise America Motorhome

A typical Cruise America Class C motorhome sleeps four to six people and includes a bedroom with a bed, a living area with a dinette or sofa, a kitchen with a stove and refrigerator, a bathroom with a toilet and shower, and heating and air conditioning. The motorhome runs on diesel or gasoline and has a freshwater tank, greywater tank (for sink and shower water), and blackwater tank (for toilet waste). You will need to dump the tanks at designated RV parks or dump stations before returning the motorhome.

Amenities vary by specific motorhome model and age. Newer models may have a microwave, TV, or backup camera; older models may have fewer features. When you book, ask Cruise America what amenities are included in your specific motorhome. The rental company provides basic linens and kitchenware, but you should confirm what is included and what you need to bring yourself.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a special license to drive a Cruise America motorhome?

No, a standard driver's license is sufficient in all 50 states. Cruise America Class C motorhomes are not large enough to require a commercial driver's license (CDL). However, you must be at least 25 years old and have a valid license from the US, Canada, or an IDP if your license is from another country.

What happens if I run out of fuel before returning the motorhome?

You are responsible for returning the motorhome with a full tank of fuel. If you return it empty or partially empty, Cruise America will charge you for the fuel they add, usually at a premium rate higher than the local gas station price. To avoid this charge, fill the tank at a gas station before you return the motorhome.

Can I tow a car behind a Cruise America motorhome?

Towing is not permitted with Cruise America motorhomes unless you have prior written permission from the rental company. Towing can damage the motorhome's transmission and suspension, and it voids your insurance coverage. If you need to tow a vehicle, contact Cruise America before you book to see if they offer a tow-capable motorhome or alternative solution.

What if I need to extend my rental after I pick up the motorhome?

Contact Cruise America as soon as possible to request an extension. If the motorhome is available and you have not exceeded your mileage allowance, they may be able to extend your rental at the daily rate for the additional days. Extensions are not may provide, especially during peak season, so do not count on being able to extend after you pick up.

Are pets allowed in Cruise America motorhomes?

Pet policies vary by location. Some Cruise America branches allow pets for an additional fee; others do not. Contact the specific rental location where you plan to pick up the motorhome to ask about their pet policy before you book.