Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Current passport or Real ID are required, and if travelling to Mexico, you must purchase Mexico Auto Liability Insurance (MALI). Roadside support is not available in Mexico. Travel in remote northern regions of Canada is allowed but subject to a Far North surcharge.

Travel in Death Valley is not permitted from June 1 until September 30. Ground temperatures may reach 140 degrees Fahrenheit or 60 degrees Celsius.

Yes, all Class C vehicles are equipped with one tether anchor for a child seat. All other seats are equipped with a lap belt only. Class B vehicles do not have a tether anchor but have three-point seat belts. El Monte RV does not provide child seats or boosters.

Renter and all drivers must be at least 21 with a permanent, valid driver’s license from their country of residence and current identification. Temporary replacement or provisional licenses are not accepted. An International Driver’s License translation is required if the original license does not have an English translation.

Summer and extreme temperatures can strain RV systems such as roof/dash A/C, generator, and refrigerator. Systems are maintained for all-weather travel, but performance under extreme conditions cannot be guaranteed. Roof A/C units cool the interior up to about 20 degrees cooler than outside.

Winterization is required in below-freezing temperatures to prevent plumbing damage. Denver, New York, and Seattle vehicles are always winterized between October 31 and March 31, and this may be longer depending on weather. Other locations may also winterize depending on temperatures. The Dempster Highway is not permitted September 15 to May 15.

No. Travel through Manhattan is not permitted. Travel through the Holland Tunnel connecting Lower Manhattan to Hudson Square is also not allowed.

Traveling on any private, gravel, dirt, fire or logging road, other non-public roads, beaches, etc. is not permitted.

The Far North Surcharge is an additional fee for rentals traveling to northern regions of Canada and Alaska. Travel into these regions must be requested and approved at reservation. Unauthorized travel may result in a $1,500 penalty and may void insurance coverage. Cell service may be limited, and satellite communication is recommended.

Yes. Pets are allowed in motorhomes at no additional charge. If the motorhome is returned with excessive pet hair, odors, stains, or pet-related damage, a cleaning and/or damage fee may be charged.

Customers may provide their own bedding or rent a Personal Convenience Kit.

Yes, towing is permitted with limitations: the object cannot exceed 1,500 pounds; only one object may be towed; combined length cannot exceed 65 feet; towing is allowed with all unit types except Class B; towing is allowed for one-way rentals; fee is $25 per night; customer must provide ball, mount, and adapter. El Monte RV provides no collision, liability, or VIP coverage for the towed object.

Yes, all motorhomes are equipped with an air conditioner.

Yes, all vehicles are equipped with a generator.

Full payment is required 7 nights before the pickup date and can be made in the secure Self Check-in portal.

A $300 deposit/down payment is required to secure the booking. It goes toward the rental cost once paid in full. It is refundable if cancelled within 48 hours, provided travel is more than 7 days away. After that it is non-refundable. Pickup within 7 days requires full payment.

Yes. Guests must bring their own bike rack at pickup and notify the branch team before departure so the hitch lock or pin can be unlocked or removed.

Yes, but parking availability and pricing vary by location and are not offered at all sites. Contact the preferred location in advance. Leaving a vehicle is at your own risk and requires a Vehicle Storage Agreement Waiver.

All motorhomes must be picked up and returned at the rental station. A few locations offer delivery and pickup for a fee. Contact reservations for details.

El Monte RV recommends storing luggage in the RV. Soft-sided or collapsible bags are best because they take up less space.

No. After-hours pickups cannot be accommodated. Renters arriving after hours must pick up the RV the next day the office is open.

Guests should be alert and fresh when picking up an RV. El Monte RV strongly recommends guests arriving from mid/long-haul flights pick up the RV the next day and book a hotel for the first night.

Bring a current driver’s license that will not expire during the rental period. Additional drivers must also have licenses and be present at pickup. Temporary licenses are not accepted. Non-English licenses require a translation. Bring a major credit card with sufficient available credit for the deposit and open balances.

Arrive during the time slot selected during online self check-in. No advance phone call is required. Allow 1-2 hours for vehicle orientation and rental contract processing. There is no refund if pickup is later than the booked departure day.

Toll costs and payment methods vary by location. Some accept cash/credit; some require prepaid accounts. Guests should research toll requirements in advance. Unlimited Toll Coverage, if purchased, covers tolls under a flat nightly rate.

Unlimited Toll Coverage charges a flat nightly rate from $5.95-$19.95. Guests are not recharged for tolls or toll admin fees during the trip. If declined, tolls are recharged plus a one-time USD $25 Toll Processing Admin Fee.

Renters may arrive during the selected Online Self Check-In time slot. Standard pickup is after 1pm weekdays, with earlier paid options possibly available. Allow 1-2 hours for pickup. If the branch closes early, a morning pickup may be required. Main renter and all additional drivers must be present.

Yes. El Monte RV provides videos and an orientation covering the most important aspects of the RV, plus guest guide PDFs and video walkthroughs.

Side view mirrors are adjusted by hand. Loosen a screw to move the mirror head, then tighten it to secure. Tool needed: 3/16 hex wrench.

Remove the wheel cover to access valve stems. Rear dual tires have one valve stem per tire, positioned diagonally. Use an inflator with fittings on both sides of the hose. Tire pressure specs are on the driver-side door frame sticker. Visit a tire shop or truck stop if assistance is needed.

The RV has 12-volt and 110-volt systems. The 12-volt system is powered by auxiliary batteries charged by engine, generator, or shoreline power. Never use the generator while plugged into shoreline. Check the AUX battery switch and charge the battery if 12V is not working; check breakers and fuse box if 110V is not working.

The furnace uses propane and auxiliary battery power. It can drain the battery, so check battery level every 6 hours and charge when needed. Furnace vents are near the floor. If blowing cold air, check propane and tank valve. If not turning on, check AUX battery and fuse box. Thermostat operation varies by vehicle.

Awnings extend from the passenger side. Use only when parked with parking brake on, AUX battery on, and keys out. Use the button by the entry door. Close awning before driving and keep closed in high winds.

The refrigerator uses auxiliary battery power and operates on propane or 110V electricity. Dometic models use Gas/Auto modes. Norcold models may show auto, plug, liquid, green, or red indicators. RV must be level; empty refrigerator takes about 6 hours to cool; do not overfill or add hot items; many newer models use 12V power.

Pull the gear selector toward you, then move it up or down. Tow Haul mode is activated by the button at the end of the selector and should be used only when towing. Gear options include P, R, N, D, 4, 2, and 1. Use 1 or 2 on steep hills.

Fresh Water fills the freshwater tank and requires the water pump to use tank water. City Water is used at campgrounds and does not fill the tank; keep the water pump off when using City Water. Santi Flush may not be labeled and is used to wash the black waste tank. Do not drink from the freshwater tank.

GFI outlets have built-in circuit breakers. If outlets are not getting power while using generator or shoreline power, use the bathroom outlet reset buttons. Press TEST then RESET. If this fails, check circuit breakers on the generator or campground shoreline post.

Follow instructions in the glovebox, including getting a police report and contacting the On Road Care Team within 24 hours.

All vehicles use unleaded gasoline only. Never use diesel fuel. Any octane 87 or higher is acceptable; 85 octane is not recommended. Return the vehicle with the same gasoline level as pickup.

To be eligible for a lost-use refund, the renter must contact El Monte RV’s On Road Care team, start a Customer Service Log, and follow all instructions, self-help tips, and/or repair recommendations.

For mechanical problems requiring repairs over $100, clients must call El Monte RV’s On-Road Care team for authorization.

It is recommended to stay at a campground. Dispersed camping is generally legal in the United States on public lands if guidelines are followed.

Campgrounds in the United States are extremely popular, especially in summer. Reservations should be made as early as possible for a fun and stress-free vacation.

El Monte RV provides links to RV dump station locators. Grey tanks hold soapy water; black tanks hold toilet wastewater. Empty grey after black to rinse drain lines. Wear gloves. Water storage tanks must be emptied before return or charges may apply. Practice dump station etiquette and use resources such as RVdumps.com and Sanidumps.com.

Unlimited Toll Coverage charges a flat nightly rate from $5.95-$19.95. Guests are not recharged for tolls or toll admin fees during the trip. If declined, tolls are recharged plus a one-time USD $25 Toll Processing Admin Fee.

Toll costs and payment methods vary by location. Some accept cash/credit; some require prepaid accounts. Guests should research toll requirements in advance. Unlimited Toll Coverage, if purchased, covers tolls under a flat nightly rate.

No. Violations such as speeding cameras, red light cameras, and parking citations are processed and charged to contracts as received, along with a one-time violation administration fee.

Yes. Please click this link for more information: 

Toll Facilities in the United States - Policy | Federal Highway Administration

Debit cards can be used to pay the balance due, but not the security deposit.

The security deposit is $1,500 and due at pickup. It must be paid by credit card in the primary renter’s name. Higher deposits may apply during major events such as Burning Man or EDC.

Toll costs and payment methods vary by location. Some accept cash/credit; some require prepaid accounts. Guests should research toll requirements in advance. Unlimited Toll Coverage, if purchased, covers tolls under a flat nightly rate.

Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express can be used for the security deposit and balance due.

Stored value/prepaid cards and gift cards are not accepted for rental charges.

Until April 1, 2026: prepaid 100-mile packs are $32 each, or $0.37/mile at drop-off. After April 1, 2026: prepaid 100-mile packs are $37 each, or $0.38/mile at drop-off.

State fees listed include:

California Vehicle License Fee $2/night; Colorado Road Safety Fee $5.34/night; Florida Vehicle License Fee $0.70/night; Nevada Vehicle License Fee $10/night; New Jersey Vehicle License Fee $0.55/night; New Jersey State Security Fee $5/night; Texas Vehicle License Fee $1/night.

One‑way fees vary based on the drop‑off location and overall fleet availability. Typical one‑way fees range from $200 to $750.

In some cases, fees may be higher if returning the vehicle to the pick‑up location requires additional fleet relocation.

Yes. Additional costs may include mileage beyond allowance, optional Travel Extras, insurance, cleaning, propane, and event surcharges.

Nightly rates vary by season, RV type, and demand. Summer, holidays, and major events often increase demand and prices. Larger or premium RVs may cost more per night.

No. Generator use is included at no extra cost with every El Monte RV rental.

Yes. Gray and black tanks should be returned empty unless a paid dumping service is purchased at the rental center.

Yes. Insurance is required for all RV rentals. Coverage options include collision damage waivers, supplemental liability, and trip protection.

No. Fuel is not included. Renters are responsible for refueling before return. Fuel consumption depends on RV size, driving style, and route.

Yes. Propane tanks should be full upon return unless a prepaid propane refill option is selected.

No. Campgrounds must be booked separately. Costs vary by location, amenities, and season. Early reservations are recommended during large events.

Yes. Late fees apply if the vehicle is returned after the scheduled drop-off time. Fees include the difference between original and actual return time slot, plus $50 for each additional hour after scheduled drop-off.

Yes. El Monte RV requires a refundable deposit for all rentals, collected at pickup and held until the RV is inspected after return. Higher deposits may apply during major event periods such as Burning Man, RAAM, or EDC.

It provides financial protection for the renter and El Monte RV by helping cover damages, missing equipment, or contract violations and encouraging careful RV use.

The deposit is charged at pickup and refunded after the return inspection. Refunds are typically processed within 7-14 business days depending on payment method.

Common reasons include RV damage, missing items, late returns, failure to refill fuel or propane, or excessive cleaning needs.

Yes. Collision damage waivers and liability protection can reduce financial risk if an accident occurs.

Refill fuel and propane, empty waste tanks, clean the RV, and return it on time. Take photos during pickup and return to document condition.

No. The security deposit is fully refundable if the RV is returned clean, undamaged, and on time.

If booking travel within 30 days, you can pay in full but no Pay in Full discount is offered. If pickup is within 7 days, full payment is required to secure the reservation.

If you make a booking for travel more than 30 days in the future, we are pleased to offer you a 2.5% discount on the value of the booking when you choose to pay the full value of your booking.  Please note, this discount only applies to products added at time of the initial booking.

We require a $300 deposit, or down payment to secure your reservation.   This goes toward the cost of your reservation when full payment is made. 

When you pick up your rental RV, we take an authorization from your credit card of $1500 to cover any damages that may occur while the vehicle is in your care.  

This is usually not a charge to your credit card, and the funds will not be taken from your card unless damages actually do occur.

Full payment is required 7 nights before the pickup date and can be made in the secure Self Check-in portal.

A $300 deposit/down payment is required to secure the booking. It goes toward the rental cost once paid in full. It is refundable if cancelled within 48 hours, provided travel is more than 7 days away. After that it is non-refundable. Pickup within 7 days requires full payment.

RLI is Primary Third-Party Liability Insurance up to required financial responsibility limits. It protects the renter from claims up to state minimums if the renter damages someone else’s property or injures someone with the motorhome.

ELI extends RLI by increasing auto liability coverage beyond state minimum financial responsibility limits, providing additional coverage up to $500,000 for third-party bodily injury and/or property damage claims.

VIP reduces the deductible to $1,500 per occurrence for accidental damage to the motorhome, subject to conditions and exclusions. Without VIP, renters are responsible for full repair and downtime costs.

VIP Plus is optional and reduces the renter’s financial responsibility for covered physical damage to $0, subject to exclusions. It is not insurance.

A card down-payment is required and is non-refundable if cancelled, applied to the contract. Full balance is due at least 7 days before pickup. Cancellation within 48 hours is free when booking is more than 8 days away. Minimum cancellation fee is $300. Different refund penalties apply from 8 days, 7-4 days, and 3 days or less before departure.

Yes, changes may be possible during the trip. Changes may require additional miles and a one-way drop fee. One-way fees vary by drop-off location and fleet availability, typically $200-$750, and may be higher in some cases. Contact Customer Service as early as possible.

Yes, changes to RV type may be possible based on availability. Changes may result in additional costs and should be confirmed with Customer Service.

Bookings made and cancelled within 48 hours are free of charge if intended travel is more than 8 days away. Otherwise, the reservation deposit/down payment is not refundable.

Contact Reservations to see if an extension is possible based on availability. There is no refund on unused rental nights if returning early.

A monthly RV rental includes essential features, mileage, and support services: full kitchen, bathroom, sleeping areas, heat/A/C, up to 1,500 miles per month, unlimited generator use, roadside assistance, and maintenance support.

Monthly rental offers include up to 1,500 miles, with additional miles available for purchase.

Yes. Generator usage is unlimited and free with every booking.

Basic insurance is not included. Protection plans are available through Travel Extras.

All RVs include a refrigerator, stove, microwave, bathroom, air conditioning, and sleeping quarters. Additional amenities such as kitchen kits, linens, and outdoor chairs can be selected during booking.

Nationwide roadside support is included with every rental for common issues such as flat tires, battery jumps, and mechanical help.

All rentals receive preventive maintenance before pickup, with support during the journey if needed. Guests can contact El Monte RV’s service team for help at any time.

Yes. Add-ons include kitchen kits, linens, outdoor chairs, Wi-Fi hotspots, and more.

Class A, Class C, and campervans are available for monthly rentals. Each has different layouts, sleeping capacity, and amenities.

Monthly rentals are useful for travelers, remote workers, seasonal relocators, and event attendees who need comfort, flexibility, and mobility for extended trips or temporary housing.

El Monte RV offers nationwide locations, a diverse fleet, and more than 50 years of rental experience.

Weekly pricing varies based on RV class, travel season, and demand. Larger RVs and peak seasons typically cost more. Weekly rentals often provide better per-night value than daily rentals.

RV class, travel dates, mileage, and optional extras such as kitchen kits or insurance all contribute to the final cost.

Yes. Events such as Burning Man, Coachella, the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta, and July 4th weekends can cause demand spikes and higher rates.

Yes. Weekly rentals usually have a lower per-night cost compared with daily rentals, making them ideal for vacations or trips lasting a week or more.

Weekly rentals include a mileage allowance. Additional miles can be purchased in advance or paid per mile at return. Prepaid bundles are often more cost-effective.

Yes. El Monte RV provides unlimited generator use with all rentals.

Travel off-peak, book early, and check promotions. Longer rentals may also offer additional savings.

Class C RVs balance comfort and cost, Class B campervans are compact and efficient, and Class A motorhomes provide luxury and space for longer road trips.

Yes. RV rental rates change throughout the year. Peak season is late spring through summer, shoulder seasons are spring and fall, and off-season is winter.

Peak season is late spring through early fall and usually most expensive. Shoulder seasons are spring and fall with moderate pricing. Winter off-season usually offers the lowest rates and greater availability.

Yes. Major events such as Burning Man, Coachella, Stagecoach, Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, Daytona 500, and RAAM increase demand and rates.

During large gatherings, RVs serve as both lodging and transportation. This increases demand and pricing.

Book early and travel off-peak. Reserve several months in advance for summer or major events. Spring and fall shoulder seasons offer more moderate pricing.

Yes. Popular events often sell out months ahead. Booking early reserves a vehicle and may help secure a better rate.

Yes. Understanding peak, shoulder, and off-season pricing helps budget more effectively and maximize value.

Yes. Same-week reservations are often available depending on demand and location. El Monte RV has a nationwide network near major cities and airports.

You can often book an RV just days before departure. Be flexible with pickup location and RV type and reserve as early in the week as possible.

Class B campervans are good for solo travelers or couples; Class C motorhomes are ideal for families and beginners; Class A motorhomes offer luxury and space for groups or upscale escapes.

Yes. RVs are a great choice for festivals, tailgates, and multi-day events. Availability can be limited during popular weekends, so early booking is recommended.

Optional Travel Extras include kitchen kits, linen kits, camping chairs, bike racks, Wi-Fi hotspots, and more.

Bring your driver’s license, payment method, and itinerary. At pickup, inspect the RV, check fuel/propane, and review essential systems such as slide-outs, hookups, and generator.

Refuel the gas tank, refill propane or prepay, empty waste tanks, and clean the RV interior to avoid extra charges.

Yes. Insurance is required for all rentals, including short weekend trips. Optional protection plans are available.

Visit elmonterv.com, enter pickup location and dates, browse available vehicles, then reserve online or call an RV expert. Contact El Monte RV if no vehicles show online.

The complete Route 66 journey takes 7-21 days depending on pace. Seven days is tight; 10 days balances highlights and flexibility; 14 days allows deeper exploration; 21 days offers the most immersive experience.

Spring and fall offer ideal conditions. Summer has full attraction hours but high desert heat and busy campgrounds. Winter has lower rates and fewer crowds but possible snow/ice and reduced attraction hours.

Yes. Route 66 works in both directions. Many prefer westbound from Chicago to Santa Monica, while eastbound travelers may enjoy tailwinds and dramatic landscapes first.

Reserve in advance for summer, holiday weekends, and popular areas. Shoulder seasons can allow more flexibility. Winter rarely requires reservations except near warm-weather destinations.

Route 66 is excellent for families with children of all ages. 

The journey naturally engages children through constant variety: giant roadside statues, quirky museums, swimming holes, vintage diners, and ever-changing landscapes prevent boredom that might occur on monotonous interstate highways. 

RV travel eliminates hotel check-in stress and allows flexible scheduling around nap times, mealtimes, and energy levels. Children can nap while you drive, play games at the dinette, or watch scenery from comfortable seats. 

Shorter driving days (200-300 miles) with frequent stops suit children's attention spans better than marathon highway drives. The 10-day or 14-day pace works particularly well for families. 

Interactive attractions like spray-painting Cadillac Ranch, feeding wild burros in Oatman, exploring caves at Meramec Caverns, and playing at campground pools create memorable experiences. 

Educational opportunities abound: American history, geography, geology (Petrified Forest), cultural diversity, and local crafts provide learning disguised as adventure. 

Comfortable capacity depends on RV class and your group's expectations: 

Class B campervans sleep 2-3 people comfortably. Perfect for couples or solo travelers with one companion. 

Class C motorhomes accommodate 4-6 people with sleeping areas including the over-cab bunk, dinette conversion, and rear bedroom. Ideal for families or small friend groups. 

Class A motorhomes sleep 6-8 people in multiple sleeping zones with greater living space for daytime activities. This is best for larger families or groups prioritizing space and comfort. 

Consider that sleeping capacity differs from comfortable living capacity. While an RV might sleep six people, spending days together in limited space requires patience and good humor. Groups should realistically assess their tolerance for close quarters. 

Yes, Route 66 suits senior travelers exceptionally well, particularly with proper planning. 

RV travel eliminates hotel loading and unloading every night. Your belongings stay organized in one place throughout the journey. 

Climate control ensures comfort regardless of outside temperatures. Air conditioning battles desert heat while heating handles cool mountain mornings. 

The 14-day or 21-day pace allows shorter daily drives (140-175 miles for 14 days, 115-150 miles for 21 days) with ample rest time. There's no pressure to rush through attractions or drive exhausting distances. 

Campground amenities at KOA locations provide clean bathrooms, laundry facilities, swimming pools, and social opportunities with fellow travelers. 

Accessible attractions characterize most Route 66 stops. Many roadside attractions, museums, and vintage sites offer easy walking with minimal stairs or rugged terrain. 

All El Monte RV rentals include 24/7 roadside assistance, ensuring help is always available if needed. 

Try deep-dish pizza and corn dogs in Illinois; Kansas City barbecue, St. Louis ribs, and frozen custard in Missouri; onion burgers and chicken-fried steak in Oklahoma; steaks and Tex-Mex in Texas; red/green chile and sopapillas in New Mexico; Southwestern flavors and fry bread in Arizona; seafood and California-style Mexican food in California.

A mix works best. Cook breakfast in the RV, eat lunch at iconic Route 66 diners, prepare dinner at campgrounds several nights per week, and splurge on special regional dinners. Stock groceries in larger cities.

Cell service varies. Major cities have excellent coverage; small towns generally have adequate service; remote desert sections may have no service for 30-60 miles. Download offline maps.

Conditions vary across 2,448 miles. Modern highway sections are generally good. Historic alignments may have old pavement, potholes, cracks, narrow lanes, and steep grades. Secure loose items and drive cautiously.

Yes, with proper planning. Most sections accommodate Class A, Class B, and Class C RVs. Large Class A drivers should consider bypassing the steep, tight route through Oatman, Arizona.

You can drive approximately 85% of the original Route 66 alignment. Some sections were destroyed or are on private property, but most remains drivable using Historic Route 66 signs and guidebooks.

RV fuel economy varies by class, driving conditions, and loaded weight: 

Class A motorhomes: 8-10 MPG on highways, less in stop-and-go traffic or mountain driving 

Class C motorhomes: 10-12 MPG on highways, slightly less in challenging conditions 

Class B campervans: 14-18 MPG on highways, the most fuel-efficient option 

Headwinds, mountain grades, air conditioning use, and stop-and-go driving all reduce fuel economy. Budget conservatively using the lower end of these ranges. 

For Route 66's 2,448 miles plus side trips and backtracking, expect to travel 2,700-3,500 total miles depending on your itinerary and detours. 

Total costs vary significantly based on trip duration, RV class, group size, and dining preferences. 

10-Day Route 66 Budget Estimate (per person):

• RV rental (share cost among travelers)
• Fuel: $800-$1,200 total (2,700-3,000 milesat 8-12 MPG)
• Campgrounds: $315-$675 total (9 nights at $35-75/night)
• Food: $150-$800 per person (depending on cooking vs. dining out)
• Attractions: $100-$200 total (most roadside stops are free)

Total per person: Approximately $2,000-$4,000, depending on choices 

21-Day Route 66 Budget Estimate (per person):

• RV rental (share cost among travelers)
• Fuel: $900-$1,400 total (3,000-3,500 milesincluding side trips)
• Campgrounds: $700-$1,500 total (20 nights at $35-75/night)
• Food: $315-$1,680 per person (depending on cooking vs. dining out)
• Attractions: $200-$400 total (includes Grand Canyon and extended visits)

Total per person: Approximately $3,000-$6,000, depending on choices 

These estimates exclude RV rental costs, which vary by class and season. 

Learn through museums such as the Oklahoma Route 66 Museum and Route 66 Hall of Fame & Museum, local town museums, Historic Route 66 Association, state Route 66 associations, books like The Grapes of Wrath and Route 66: The Mother Road, EZ66 Guide, documentaries, and local visitor centers.

Several strategies reduce Route 66 costs without sacrificing experience: 

Travel during shoulder seasons (spring or fall) when campground rates drop and fuel demand decreases. Avoid peak summer pricing. 

Cook most meals in your RV rather than dining out three times daily. Stock up on groceries in major cities where prices are lower and selection is better. 

Book longer rentals to take advantage of weekly or monthly rates that offer better per-day value. 

Check for promotions at Rental Deals before booking. El Monte RV frequently offers special rates for bookings or specific travel periods. 

Use GasBuddy to find the cheapest fuel prices along your route. Price differences of 20-30 cents per gallon add up over 3,000 miles. 

Choose state park campgrounds over private RV parks when possible. State parks typically charge $25-45 per night versus $50-75 at private facilities. 

Focus on free attractions. Most iconic Route 66 roadside attractions (Cadillac Ranch, Blue Whale, Gemini Giant, vintage motels) charge nothing for photos and visits. 

Useful resources include Roadtrippers, Google Maps offline downloads, EZ66 Guidebook, GasBuddy, AllStays Camp & RV, Weather.com/Weather Underground, Route 66 Facebook groups, and the Historic Route 66 Association.

Route 66 delivers everything a great American road trip promises: stunning landscapes, quirky attractions, friendly towns, and pure freedom. Traveling in an RV from El Monte RV ensures comfort and flexibility to explore at your own pace. 

Explore available RV options, check current promotions at El Monte RV Rentals, and review special offers at Rental Deals. 

Additional miles, insurance options, and Travel Extras like kitchen kits, linens, and camping equipment customize your rental to match your needs perfectly. 

Your Route 66 adventure starts now. The road is waiting. 

Must-see attractions include Lou Mitchell’s, Gemini Giant, Chain of Rocks Bridge, Ted Drewes, Blue Whale of Catoosa, POPS, Cadillac Ranch, Midpoint Café, Blue Swallow Motel, Petrified Forest National Park, Wigwam Motel, Oatman, and Santa Monica Pier.

Top photo opportunities include Cadillac Ranch, Wigwam Motel, vintage neon signs, Gemini Giant, Blue Whale of Catoosa, POPS, Petrified Forest/Painted Desert, Chain of Rocks Bridge, Blue Swallow Motel, Cuba murals, and Art Deco districts.

The South Rim is about 60 miles north of Williams, Arizona. It may be too much for 7-day trips, possible for 10-day trips, highly recommended for 14-day trips, and essential for 21-day trips.

Most iconic roadside attractions are free, including Cadillac Ranch, Blue Whale of Catoosa, Gemini Giant, neon motel signs, murals, and historic buildings. Paid attractions include national parks, caves, museums, and dining.

Yes, with standard precautions. Stay in established campgrounds, share your itinerary, keep your phone charged, carry a backup battery, trust your instincts, and join Route 66 communities for updates.

All El Monte RV rentals include 24/7 roadside assistance. Pull safely off the road, call the roadside assistance number, provide location and RV details, follow coordinator instructions, and wait safely. In remote no-service areas, drive to signal before calling if possible.

The best RV class depends on your group size, comfort priorities, and driving confidence. 

Class C motorhomes provide the ideal balance for most Route 66 travelers. These mid-sized RVs (typically 25-32 feet) offer comfortable sleeping for 4-6 people while remaining maneuverable through small-town streets, vintage parking lots, and mountain passes. Class C RVs include full kitchens, bathrooms, and over-cab sleeping areas. 

Class A motorhomes deliver maximum space and luxury for families or groups prioritizing comfort. With spacious living areas, multiple sleeping zones, and premium amenities, Class A RVs create a true home-on-wheels. However, their larger size (typically 32-40 feet) requires extra caution on tight turns and narrow historic sections. 

Class B campervans excel in fuel efficiency and easy parking. Perfect for couples or solo travelers seeking a compact, nimble option, Class B vans provide essential amenities (sleeping area, small kitchen, bathroom) while achieving the best fuel economy and most effortless urban navigation. 

Several features transform a Route 66 trip from challenging to comfortable: 

Air conditioning is non-negotiable. Desert sections through Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona regularly exceed 100°F during the summer months. All El Monte RV rentals include air conditioning systems capable of handling extreme heat. 

Unlimited generator use powers your RV's climate control, appliances, and electronics anywhere, regardless of campground hookups. Every El Monte RV rental includes unlimited free generator usage at no additional charge. 

Backup cameras help navigate tight vintage parking lots and small-town streets where Route 66 attractions were built decades before RVs existed. 

Full kitchen facilities allow meal preparation on your schedule. Rural Route 66 sometimes offers limited dining options, making self-sufficiency valuable. Cooking in your RV also saves money compared to eating at restaurants three times daily. 

Adequate fresh water and waste tank capacity ensure comfort between campground stops, particularly if you plan any dry camping at vintage motels or parking areas.

RV rental costs vary based on vehicle class, rental duration, and travel season. 

Weekly and monthly rental rates provide better per-day value than daily rentals. Monthly rentals include up to 1,500 miles, making them ideal for extended Route 66 adventures with additional exploration. 

Additional mileage packages, insurance options, and Travel Extras like kitchen kits, linens, and camping equipment are available to customize your rental. 

Check current rates and promotions at El Monte RV Rentals and Rental Deals for the most up-to-date information. 

No special license is required for any RV class offered by El Monte RV. 

A standard driver's license valid in the United States is sufficient for operating Class A, Class B, and Class C motorhomes. No commercial driver's license (CDL) is necessary. 

If you're an international traveler, check whether your country participates in the International Driving Permit (IDP) program. Some rental companies accept IDPs along with your home country's license, though requirements vary by state. 

For heat, drive early, use A/C, hydrate, avoid peak-hour hiking, and park in shade. For storms, monitor forecasts, avoid driving in intense storms, stay inside during lightning, and lower antenna/jacks in high wind. For snow/ice, check road conditions, slow down, increase following distance, delay travel if needed, and carry chains if required.