Anyone wanting to try out van life before jumping in...

[Queen]

Found a neat company in SLC Utah that rents out converted vans: http://www.basecampervans.com/  Some nice options if someone wanted to try the life before they buy in.  We might give it a go while we're still working, just to save the vacation time needed for the drive out west.

They also rent out the small dodge cargo van with the Wayfarer conversion, it's a nifty, but pricey conversion package.  Conversion kit: https://wayfarervans.com/

 

[Vanholio]

In California, there's http://www.jucyusa.com. I've recommended to folks in the area for a test run, too. Not cheap to rent for a week, but maybe better than jumping in without a trial.

 

[Queen]

In California, there's http://www.jucyusa.com. I've recommended to folks in the area for a test run, too. Not cheap to rent for a week, but maybe better than jumping in without a trial.

I found a couple more companies when I was looking but they tried to turn them into tiny RV's, packing way too many "features" in them.  I like the simplicity of Basecamper ones.

 

[ArtW]

I'd like to do that, but nothing like that in my area, as far as I know

 

[Queen]

I'd like to do that, but nothing like that in my area, as far as I know

Same here (Illinois), but thought it would be nice to see some of those cool Western parks.  Keep an eye out for a cheap flight and try it out for a few days.

 

[DrJean]

Thanks...but I can't. One of the reasons I'm buying/converting my own is because to rent a handicapped van here it's $125 a day plus mileage over 200 and you cannot take it out of the state :O

 

[eDJ_]

Some of us have kicked around the idea of fabricating a set of plans to make a quick install interior for these $20 a day U Haul Rentals such that they would have a carpeted floor,  a bed, and a kitchenette.  An ice chest would provide short term refrigeration,  and some 5 gallon plastic Jerry Jugs provide water storage.

I've showcased this type of build in my first website below,  but it is more of a permanent set up.  If a person was to build such an interior where it could be temporarily installed for a week end or a few days....then it could be removed and the Van returned after the interior is removed and stored for another time.

There would not be much expense in doing this.   It may, however, take a little more thought
as to how the interior would be built for temporary use.  And to the available models of Vans where
the interior could be adapted to fit any of them.

If a person had such a kit,  within an hour or two they could have a "weekender" or "day tripper" rental Van
they could use for travel, camping,  fishing or hunting.  Or even attend a meet up if it is within a reasonable
distance. 

It's just a thought for those who are wondering if it would be for them and are willing to spend only a little money to find out.    They could also evaluate the Vans made by Ford, GM, and Dodge this way too should they be interested in buying a Van but wanting to get some experience with it first.

 

[ArtW]

Only problem with that, Ed, is they charge $.50 per mile of travel
That ads up quick

 

[eDJ_]

Yes,  I agree.   But for someone who doesn't mind spending $100 to see if it is for them, or try it a few times through the year to make sure.  it could be a small price to pay.  They would have the interior all ready built
and ready to go if they decide to buy a Van.  If not...then there is Craig's List and there would likely be eager
buyers. 

There may be other agencies who would rent a Van cheaper,  I'm just using U-Haul as an example.

 

[jonthebru]

Here is another company, I saw one of these at the RV parking lot at the Grand Canyon.

https://www.escapecampervans.com/

The company started in New Zealand.
http://www.escaperentals.co.nz/

 

[ArtW]

Yes,  I agree.   But for someone who doesn't mind spending $100 to see if it is for them, or try it a few times through the year to make sure.  it could be a small price to pay.  They would have the interior all ready built
and ready to go if they decide to buy a Van.  If not...then there is Craig's List and there would likely be eager
buyers. 

There may be other agencies who would rent a Van cheaper,  I'm just using U-Haul as an example.

I totally agree, if it weren't for the mileage, I'd contemplate renting one for the RTR, much more comfy than my little Ranger with a cap, for sure

 

[NeedAnEscape]

I totally agree, if it weren't for the mileage, I'd contemplate renting one for the RTR, much more comfy than my little Ranger with a cap, for sure

Drive there in the ranger and rent the van once near the RTR

 

[ArtW]

Lost, if my ranger proves too cramped, i may do perzactly that, but I do want to see how it works before I write it off as a camping choice

 

[DrJean]

I was thinking just a handicap accessible van... at that cost...but there just aren't any handicap accessible RVs available...even though they come up on search...