First-Timer’s Guide to Renting an RV in the U.S. for the 2026 Soccer Tournament

You’ve got tickets. You’ve got team colors. The last boss fight? Where to sleep without torching your budget. Hotels are rigid and pricey; an RV is flexible, affordable, and way more fun. If you’ve never rented one, don’t sweat it—this is your simple, step-by-step playbook.

Step 1: Choose Your Ride (don’t overthink it)

For first-timers, you really have two winners:

• Class C motorhome: The movie-star RV (van front, living space over the cab). Easy to drive, generous on space, perfect for couples or families. If you can handle a van, you can handle this.
  
• Campervan / Class B: The nimble option. Great for solo travelers or duos who’ll spend most of the day exploring and just need a comfy crash pad.
  

First-timer verdict: Go Class C. You’ll appreciate the space and the “I’ve done this before” driving feel.

Step 2: Book It (yes, it’s actually easy)

Use a peer-to-peer platform like Outdoorsy:

1. Search by city (e.g., “Los Angeles, CA”).
   
2. Set dates & filter to Motorhome → Class C for the best starter options.
   
3. Read reviews (the most important step). Prioritize hosts praised for responsiveness and well-maintained rigs.
   
4. Ask questions in platform chat: “First-timer friendly to drive?” “Do you offer campground delivery?”
   
5. Reserve early. Summer 2026 demand will be wild—book 8–12 months out for price + selection.
   

If you’re visiting from abroad:

• Driver’s licence: A valid national licence usually works; an International Driving Permit (IDP) is smart backup.
  
• Insurance: Required—and baked into the booking flow on platforms like Outdoorsy. Easy.
  

Step 3: Pickup Day = Walkthrough Day (record everything)

Your host will show you how the rig works. Treat this like a mini masterclass:

• Record on your phone while they demo features.
  
• Learn the Big Three:
  
  1. Generator (power when you’re not plugged in).
     
  2. Water & sewer tanks (checking levels + where/how to dump—easier than it sounds).
     
  3. Slide-outs (extend/retract safely so nothing binds).
     

Rule: Don’t leave until you feel 100% good. No “dumb” questions—only preventable headaches.

Power Move for First-Timers: Delivery

Many hosts will deliver and set up the RV at your campground (for a fee). You rideshare from the airport, walk up to a fully set rig, get your walkthrough on-site, and your vacation starts. For big cities and international arrivals, this is clutch.

Quick-Hit Checklist (save this to Notes)

• ✅ Book RV + campground 8–12 months out
  
• ✅ Confirm seatbelts and sleeping capacity for your crew
  
• ✅ Ask about linens, kitchen kits, & camp chairs (included or add-on?)
  
• ✅ Screenshot dump station locations near your route
  
• ✅ Learn your rig’s height (tape it to the dash—bridges are unforgiving)
  

Rookie Mistakes to Avoid

• Winging it on campsites. Summer + mega-event = sold-out campgrounds.
  
• Ignoring hookup types. “Full hookups” (water/electric/sewer) keep life simple.
  
• Underestimating size. Give yourself wide turns; check fuel stations for RV-friendly lanes.
  
• Leaving without a leveling plan. Chocks/levelers = better sleep and happy appliances.
  

Why this beats a hotel (especially for 2026)

You control costs (nightly rate + campsite + fuel), wake up near the action, cook your own meals, and pivot with the bracket instead of paying change fees. It’s lodging, tailgate, and road-trip magic in one.

Bottom line: Renting an RV for the first time is easier than it looks—and it turns a great soccer trip into an unforgettable one. Lock the rig, book your sites, ask your host a few smart questions, and you’ll be road-ready like a pro.