Renting RV from Locals vs Big Companies in Australia: Which Saves More?

Renting a campervan or motorhome is one of the most popular ways to explore Australia—and for good reason. With thousands of kilometres of scenic coastline, inland highways, and remote national parks, the freedom of a self-contained vehicle makes it easy to turn any road into an adventure. But before you hit the road, there’s a key decision to make: should you rent from a big-name company or hire directly from a local RV owner?

Australia’s RV rental scene now offers two main options. Traditional companies like Apollo, Britz, and JUCY have been around for years, offering fleets of vehicles and structured service. On the other side, platforms like Camplify, Outdoorsy, and SHAREaCAMPER connect travellers with individual RV owners—allowing you to rent privately and often more affordably.

The big question: which saves you more money—and which offers the better experience?

In this guide, we’ll break down the pros, cons, costs, and hidden fees of both local and corporate RV rental options in Australia. You’ll get real-world comparisons, traveller-specific recommendations, and tips for avoiding surprises along the way. Whether you’re a first-timer planning a Great Ocean Road trip or a seasoned vanlifer chasing budget freedom, this article will help you make the smartest choice for your journey.

Overview of RV Rental Market in Australia

Australia’s love for road trips has fuelled a strong and diverse RV rental market—one that caters to everyone from backpackers and grey nomads to international families and digital nomads. Whether you’re cruising the East Coast or venturing into the Outback, there’s no shortage of campervan, motorhome, and 4WD hire options. But the way you rent has changed.

Two Main Rental Paths

1. Traditional Rental Companies:
These are large, commercial operations with fixed depots, customer service teams, and nationwide vehicle fleets. Big players include:

• Apollo Motorhomes

• Britz

• Maui

• JUCY

• Lets Go Motorhomes
  They usually offer branded vehicles, structured rental contracts, and extras like insurance packages and one-way hires.

2. Peer-to-Peer Rentals (Locals):
Powered by tech platforms like:

• Camplify (Australian-based)

• Outdoorsy

• SHAREaCAMPER (merged with Camplify)
  These platforms connect private RV owners with renters—similar to Airbnb but for campervans and motorhomes. You deal directly with the owner, often picking up from their driveway or agreed location.

Vehicle Types Across Both Models

Whether you rent from a company or a local, you’ll usually find:

• Campervans: 2–3 berth vans with basic facilities

• Motorhomes: Larger, self-contained RVs for 2–6 people

• 4WD Campers: Rugged off-road setups for remote travel

• Caravan rentals (stationary use only): Available through Camplify

The main difference? Local listings often include more variety—like vintage vans, fully customised off-grid rigs, or pet-friendly setups not available through commercial fleets.

Where Rentals Are Most Popular

Most RV hires start in or near major cities:

• East Coast: Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne (Great Ocean Road, Gold Coast, Blue Mountains)

• Top End: Darwin to Kakadu or NT laps

• Southwest WA: Perth to Margaret River and Esperance

• Tasmania: Hobart to Bay of Fires or Cradle Mountain

Both local rentals and big companies serve these regions—but not all offer one-way options or remote pickup/drop-offs, which can affect your route planning.

Renting from Big Companies

Renting from a large, established RV hire company is often the default choice for many travellers—especially international tourists or those looking for a straightforward, all-in-one experience. Companies like Apollo, Britz, Maui, JUCY, and Lets Go Motorhomes dominate the Australian market with depot networks across major cities and a consistent rental process.

How It Works

Big companies operate on a fleet model. You book through their website or a travel agent, choose your pickup and drop-off depot (usually located near airports), select your vehicle type, and customise your package with optional add-ons. Upon pickup, you’ll complete paperwork, receive a vehicle handover, and be on your way.

These companies cater to short and medium-term hires and offer vehicle relocation specials, discounted off-season rates, and multi-city pickup/drop-off options.

Pros of Renting from Big Companies

Standardised Quality:
Vehicles are generally newer, regularly serviced, and meet commercial safety standards. You know exactly what you’re getting.

Nationwide Support:
24/7 roadside assistance and backup vehicles are available if something goes wrong. Depots across cities make one-way rentals possible.

Structured Experience:
Ideal for first-timers. Everything is documented, insured, and handled professionally with clear terms.

Airport Pickup and Drop-Off:
Many depots are located near major airports, simplifying logistics for international arrivals.

All-Inclusive Options:
You can bundle insurance, kitchen kits, bedding, Wi-Fi routers, GPS, and more into one quote.

Cons of Renting from Big Companies

Higher Base Prices:
Expect to pay premium rates, especially during peak season (December to February and school holidays).

Hidden Fees:
Optional extras (like bedding, chairs, GPS) can add hundreds to your total. Cleaning fees, excess reduction, and toll administration charges are common.

Less Flexibility:
Strict pickup/drop-off times, depot hours, and vehicle use restrictions (e.g. no unsealed roads or pets allowed in many cases).

Generic Experience:
You’re one of many renters. The vehicles are often standardised and branded—less character, less personal.

One-Size-Fits-All Rules:
No personal negotiation. Need an extra hour for drop-off? It’s a fixed fee.

Who It’s Best Suited For

• International Tourists unfamiliar with Australian roads or language

• Luxury Travellers who prefer new models with high-end interiors

• Families with Young Children needing safety, space, and dependability

• Short-Term Hires where convenience outweighs cost

Example Pricing Snapshot

Let’s say you’re booking a 7-day Sydney to Melbourne trip in January for 2 people via Apollo:

• Base hire (standard 2-berth): $130 per day

• Insurance reduction: $40 per day

• Kitchen kit: Included

• Linen & bedding: $35 per person

• Camping chairs & table: $40

• One-way fee: $150

• Total (approx.): $1,250 – $1,450 AUD, excluding fuel and tolls

Compared to locals, this setup provides predictability and support, but often at a premium.

Renting from Locals (via Camplify, SHAREaCAMPER, Outdoorsy)

Peer-to-peer RV rental platforms have exploded in popularity across Australia over the past few years—led by Aussie-born Camplify, along with global players like Outdoorsy. These services connect RV owners with travellers, allowing you to rent directly from locals rather than a corporate fleet. It’s often more personal, flexible, and affordable—especially outside peak seasons.

How Peer-to-Peer RV Rental Works

You browse listings on a platform (e.g. Camplify), filter by location, price, and features, and book directly through the site. The RV is usually picked up from the owner’s home, a public meeting point, or sometimes delivered to your location or campground. Some even offer “stationary” hires—great for first-timers or families wanting a try-before-you-buy experience.

Camplify, SHAREaCAMPER (now merged), and Outdoorsy all provide insurance, 24/7 support lines, and secure payment processing. You’re still covered—but you’re also dealing with individual owners rather than call centres.

Pros of Renting from Locals

Lower Base Prices:
Private listings often undercut big companies by 15–40%. Especially in low season or rural areas, the savings are noticeable.

Greater Flexibility:
Owners may allow later pickup/drop-off, pet-friendly use, or customised arrangements (e.g. gear included, no kilometre limit).

Personal Touch:
Local owners share insider tips, camping advice, and may stock the van with thoughtful extras—like coffee, blankets, or even board games.

Unique Vehicle Choices:
From vintage kombis to off-grid rigs with solar and composting toilets, private listings offer variety and personality that companies usually avoid.

Home Delivery or Local Pickup:
Many owners deliver the RV to your home, Airbnb, or airport—convenient if you’re flying in or don’t have a car.

Cons of Renting from Locals

Inconsistent Vehicle Quality:
Not every owner maintains their van like a professional fleet operator. Always read reviews, look at detailed photos, and ask questions.

Less Structured Support:
While platforms offer roadside assistance, backup vehicle replacement isn’t guaranteed. In case of breakdown, you may face delays.

Fewer One-Way Options:
Most local hires are round trips unless otherwise arranged, limiting route flexibility for point-to-point travellers.

Insurance Complexity:
Insurance is offered through the platform, but excess limits, bond payments, and claims can vary depending on the owner’s plan.

Not Always Cheaper in Peak Times:
High demand periods (e.g. Christmas, Easter) can push prices close to or above commercial rates.

Who It’s Best Suited For

• Budget-Conscious Travellers looking for better deals

• Aussie Residents or road-trippers starting near the RV’s home base

• Pet Owners needing more flexible rules

• Experienced Travellers confident in managing minor issues

• Vanlife Testers trying different models before buying

Example Pricing Snapshot

Let’s take a 7-day Brisbane round-trip in March for 2 people via Camplify:

• Base hire (2-berth off-grid van): $85 per day

• Platform insurance cover: $10 per day

• Inclusions (bedding, chairs, cookware): Free

• Cleaning bond (refundable): $250

• Total (approx.): $665 – $750 AUD, excluding fuel

That’s a significant saving over major brands—and the personal experience often adds unexpected value.

Cost Comparison: Who Really Saves More?

When comparing RV rental costs in Australia, it’s easy to get lured in by the base daily rate—but the true cost goes far beyond that. Insurance, gear hire, kilometre limits, cleaning fees, and fuel policies can all impact your bottom line. Below is a detailed breakdown of where savings are made—or lost—when renting from locals versus big companies.

Direct Cost Comparison: Breakdown

Base Daily Rate:

• Big Companies: $110–$180 per day (2-berth)

• Locals (Camplify, Outdoorsy): $70–$120 per day (2-berth)

Insurance:

• Big Companies: $35–$50/day for excess reduction

• Locals: $10–$20/day via platform (depending on bond/excess choice)

Extras (linen, kitchen, chairs, GPS):

• Big Companies: Often charged individually ($100–$300 total)

• Locals: Often included for free or discounted in total price

One-Way Fee (if applicable):

• Big Companies: $150–$500 depending on route

• Locals: Rarely available, but if offered, may be cheaper or negotiable

Cleaning Fee:

• Big Companies: Usually a set charge or deducted from bond if van not spotless

• Locals: May be included or deducted from refundable bond if excessive

Example 1: 10-Day Sydney to Melbourne Trip (2 Adults)

Big Company (Britz or Apollo)

• Base Rate: $140/day × 10 = $1,400

• Insurance: $40/day × 10 = $400

• One-Way Fee: $250

• Extras (linen, gear): $150

• Total = $2,200

Camplify Local Listing

• Base Rate: $95/day × 10 = $950

• Insurance: $12/day × 10 = $120

• Cleaning Bond (refundable): $250

• Extras: Included

• Total = $1,070 + refundable bond

Savings: Over $1,000 in this scenario

Example 2: 7-Day Cairns Round Trip (Family of 4)

Big Company (Maui or Lets Go Motorhomes)

• 4-berth motorhome: $250/day × 7 = $1,750

• Insurance: $45/day × 7 = $315

• Gear rental (4 bedding sets, kitchen, chairs): $200

• Total = $2,265

Local Listing on Camplify (4-berth)

• Base Rate: $160/day × 7 = $1,120

• Insurance: $15/day × 7 = $105

• Extras: Included

• Total = $1,225 + refundable bond

Savings: Approx. $1,000, assuming both vehicles meet same needs

When Locals Are Cheaper

• Off-season or shoulder season (March–May, Sept–Nov)

• Round-trip bookings starting near the owner’s location

• Longer hires (10+ days), where platform discounts apply

• Travellers bringing their own gear (e.g. bedding)

• Those open to older or custom-built rigs

When Big Companies Can Be Cheaper

• During flash sales or relocation specials

• When bundled with airfare or hotel packages

• For last-minute bookings in popular locations with high turnover

• Short weekend hires near depots, where convenience offsets cost

Additional Factors Affecting Final Cost

• Fuel Efficiency: Some older or converted vans use more fuel

• Bond Requirements: Refundable, but high upfront cost (up to $7,500 with some companies if no excess reduction taken)

• Toll Handling Fees: Big companies charge admin fees per toll—locals may not

• Per KM Charges: Some big companies cap daily kilometres (e.g. 250 km/day), with excess fees

• Pets: Big companies often charge fees or ban pets altogether; locals may allow them for free

Verdict:
Renting from locals is almost always cheaper if:

• You’re not booking at the last minute

• You don’t need one-way convenience

• You’re comfortable with a more DIY, personal rental process

Big companies can still win on structure, reliability, and ease—but you’ll usually pay more for it.

Hidden Fees and Inclusions: What to Watch For

Whether you’re renting from a local owner or a big-name company, the base price is just the starting point. To truly compare value, you need to look at the fine print—because hidden fees can quickly add hundreds of dollars to your final bill. Here’s what to keep an eye on in both rental models.

Insurance Excess and Bond

Big Companies:

• Offer tiered insurance plans. The basic rate usually includes a high excess ($5,000–$7,500 AUD).

• To reduce the excess, you must pay daily fees ($30–$50/day).

• Some charge a bond even with full cover, refundable after inspection.

Locals via Camplify/Outdoorsy:

• Insurance is handled through the platform with set excess limits.

• You usually choose your own bond level—higher bond = lower daily cost.

• Refunds can take 5–10 business days depending on the platform.

Tip: Always compare total insurance cost over your full trip—not just per-day price.

Cleaning Charges

Big Companies:

• Some include it; others charge up to $200 if the van isn’t returned spotless (interior and exterior).

• Excessive cleaning (e.g. pet hair, stains) may incur extra fees.

Locals:

• Often offer more leniency. A light clean is usually fine.

• Most deduct from the bond if the van is left dirty—but not always a flat fee.

Tip: Ask in advance what “clean” means and whether cleaning is included.

Kilometre Limits

Big Companies:

• Some rentals include unlimited kilometres; others cap daily use (e.g. 250 km/day) with excess charges (30–50c/km).

• Check if your route fits the allowance.

Locals:

• Often offer unlimited kilometres on round trips or fair-use limits with flexibility.

• Always confirm the policy for long trips or remote destinations.

Gear and Add-Ons

Big Companies:

• Charge separately for:

  • Bedding and linen: $25–$35 per person

  • Kitchenware: $50–$80

  • Camp chairs/table: $25–$50

  • GPS or Wi-Fi: $10–$15/day

  • Baby seats: $30–$50

Locals:

• Inclusions vary by owner, but most include all gear in the base price.

• Many also include extras like BBQs, eskies, board games, or coffee kits.

Tip: Don’t assume anything is included. Ask for a full itemised list.

Fuel and Toll Charges

Big Companies:

• Often charge a fuel refill fee if the van is returned less than full (e.g. $3/litre).

• Add admin fees to toll notices, sometimes $15–$25 per toll.

Locals:

• Fuel return policies vary, but are often more relaxed (e.g. “return it as received”).

• Tolls are usually passed on directly or not charged at all unless invoiced later.

Road Use Restrictions

Big Companies:

• Many ban unsealed roads, certain regions (e.g. Cape York, Gibb River), and beach driving unless in specific 4WD rentals.

• Violating road use terms can void insurance.

Locals:

• Some owners allow careful off-road use with prior approval.

• Always confirm road rules and get written permission if unsure.

Carefully checking these fee categories—before you book—can prevent nasty surprises and help you calculate the real cost of your rental. Transparency varies between platforms, so always request a full breakdown of inclusions and exclusions.

Customer Experience and Support Comparison

Price matters—but so does the support you receive before, during, and after your RV trip. The overall rental experience can vary significantly between big companies and local owners. Here’s how they compare in real-world situations.

Booking Process and Ease of Use

Big Companies:

• Offer instant bookings, clear terms, and structured processes

• Useful for travellers who want everything locked in quickly

• Professional websites and mobile apps make it easy to compare models and add extras

Locals (via Camplify, Outdoorsy, etc.):

• Booking is often request-based, depending on owner approval

• Response times can vary between owners

• Platforms have improved interfaces, but listings vary in detail

Tip: If you’re booking last-minute or need certainty, big companies offer faster turnaround.

Vehicle Handover and Instruction

Big Companies:

• Standardised handover process at depots

• Staff walk you through vehicle features, rules, and paperwork

• You’ll get printed instructions or a link to a support video

Locals:

• Handover happens directly with the owner—often more relaxed and informative

• Many provide personal tips, custom instruction sheets, and walkthroughs of features

• Some even offer pre-trip checklists or WhatsApp support

Tip: Local owners often go the extra mile in customer care—especially for first-time travellers.

Support During Your Trip

Big Companies:

• 24/7 roadside assistance

• National depot network for vehicle swaps if breakdown occurs

• Call centres offer structured procedures—but you may be on hold during peak times

Locals:

• Roadside assistance is provided by the platform (e.g. Camplify uses NRMA)

• Backup vehicle replacement depends on availability and owner willingness

• Owners may be available by phone/text, offering direct and immediate help

Tip: Big companies offer more scalable support, but locals can provide faster personal help if something small goes wrong.

Transparency and Reviews

Big Companies:

• Professional branding, but review platforms are often general (e.g. Trustpilot, ProductReview)

• Vehicle-specific reviews are limited

Locals:

• Platforms like Camplify and Outdoorsy show owner-specific reviews

• You can read feedback on vehicle condition, cleanliness, communication, and accuracy

• Star ratings help you choose reliable listings

Tip: With peer-to-peer rentals, always choose listings with multiple positive reviews and verified photos.

Overall Experience

• Big companies offer consistency, structure, and peace of mind—ideal for risk-averse or first-time travellers.

• Locals provide warmth, authenticity, and often a more memorable, human experience—ideal for flexible, experienced travellers.

The right choice depends on your comfort level with uncertainty. If you value personal interaction and budget, locals often win. If you prefer predictability and nationwide coverage, traditional firms are safer.

Which Is Better for Different Traveller Types?

Not all RV travellers are alike—and neither are their rental needs. Whether you’re flying in from overseas, road tripping with pets, or travelling long-term with kids, the right rental provider can make or break your experience. Here’s a guide to help match your traveller type with the best rental option in Australia.

International Tourists

Best fit: Big Companies
Why? These companies offer airport-friendly depots, clear insurance options, structured support, and help navigating Aussie road laws. For those new to RV travel, this level of service is reassuring. Language barriers and timezone issues are less of a concern when dealing with 24/7 call centres.

Long-Term Travellers & Grey Nomads

Best fit: Locals via Camplify or Outdoorsy
Why? Weekly and monthly discounts are common with peer-to-peer rentals, and many local owners are happy to negotiate longer hires. You’ll save significantly over multi-week periods, and self-contained rigs with solar setups are often more affordable from private listings.

Pet Owners

Best fit: Locals
Why? Most major companies prohibit pets or charge high cleaning fees. Many private owners, on the other hand, allow well-behaved animals and may even include pet accessories. Just be sure to confirm rules and cleaning expectations upfront.

Solo or Budget Travellers

Best fit: Locals
Why? If you’re travelling alone or with a partner and trying to keep costs low, local RVs almost always offer better base rates and fewer mandatory add-ons. Plus, they’re often flexible with pickup times and bond arrangements.

Families with Children

Best fit: Big Companies
Why? Travelling with kids can be unpredictable. You want reliability, safety checks, and structured vehicle layouts. Big firms offer newer models with seatbelt compliance, larger water tanks, and family-specific layouts (like bunks and dual living areas). The peace of mind may be worth the extra cost.

Adventure Seekers & Off-Road Explorers

Best fit: Depends

• For light off-road travel and unique van builds: Locals often list 4WD conversions, rooftop tents, or lifted vans built for tracks.

• For remote Outback tours: Big Companies like Britz 4WD or Apollo Adventure offer dedicated off-road campers, full insurance, and recovery options.

Summary of Recommendations (in paragraph form)

If you’re a short-term tourist or travelling with a family, renting from a big-name company ensures consistency, clear policies, and access to help no matter where you are. But if you’re a budget traveller, a local road tripper, or planning an extended off-grid adventure, renting from a local owner through platforms like Camplify or Outdoorsy can offer huge savings, personal touches, and a more flexible experience.

Think about how much structure, support, and certainty you want—then balance that with your budget, route, and travel style.

Final Tips for Choosing the Right RV Rental in Australia

With so many variables—vehicle type, insurance, fees, inclusions, and support—it’s easy to feel overwhelmed when comparing RV rentals. But with a few smart strategies, you can find the best deal and the right experience for your trip.

1. Book Early, Especially for Peak Season

Australia’s RVs book out fast during school holidays, summer (December–February), and long weekends. Booking 3–6 months in advance gives you the best selection and lower prices—especially for local listings, which are more limited in number.

2. Compare Multiple Listings

Don’t settle on the first option you find. Use rental aggregators (like Motorhome Republic for big firms) and peer-to-peer platforms (like Camplify) side by side. Filter by:

• Inclusions (gear, insurance, km)

• Pickup/drop-off times

• Past reviews

• Cancellation policies

Make a spreadsheet if needed—hidden fees often appear only at checkout.

3. Read the Fine Print

Ask for clarity on:

• Insurance excess and bond

• What’s included (and what costs extra)

• Cleaning expectations

• Kilometre limits and road restrictions

• Fuel and toll policies
  Understanding these terms avoids frustration on return day.

4. Communicate with the Owner (or Staff)

If renting from a local, reach out and ask questions before booking—about inclusions, pickup flexibility, and what they recommend for your route. If renting from a company, call and clarify extras and support coverage.

Good communication sets expectations and helps identify reliable listings.

5. Plan Pickup and Drop-Off Logistically

Factor in how you’ll get to and from the rental location. Big companies often offer airport depots or shuttles. Local owners may be flexible with home delivery or city pickup, but not always. Choose the option that fits your travel timeline.

6. Know What You Need—and Don’t Overpay

Do you really need Wi-Fi or a GPS if you already have your phone? Bringing your own bedding and gear can reduce costs. Choose the features that matter for your trip, and skip the upsells.

Taking a bit of time to compare thoroughly and plan ahead can mean hundreds of dollars saved—and a much smoother, more enjoyable RV adventure across Australia.

Conclusion

So, which is better—renting from locals or going with a big-name RV company in Australia?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. If you value structured support, nationwide depots, and the peace of mind that comes with consistency, big companies like Apollo, Britz, or JUCY are a reliable choice. They’re especially ideal for first-time travellers, international tourists, or families who want everything taken care of.

But if you’re looking to save money, enjoy a more personalised experience, or take your time off the beaten path, renting from local RV owners via Camplify or Outdoorsy can offer serious advantages. From unique vehicles to flexible pickup and a lower total cost, peer-to-peer rentals are often the smarter option—especially for confident or longer-term travellers.

Ultimately, the right choice depends on your travel style, trip length, comfort level, and budget. Whichever path you choose, understanding what’s included, what’s not, and what to expect will help you get the most out of your Australian road trip.

Choose wisely, travel prepared—and enjoy the freedom of the open road.