One-way RV rentals in Canada: What are the benefits and costs?
One-way RV rentals in Canada offer a taste of freedom you won't find with a round-trip journey. Imagine starting your trip watching the sunrise over Vancouver's serene coastline and ending it amongst the hustle and bustle of downtown Toronto, after having enjoyed a once in a lifetime Canadian road-trip. That's the promise of one-way RV rentals. But what else can you gain from this type of adventure? And what might it cost you if you choose to not return your vehicle to the same location. Let us guide you through it.
The growing popularity of one-way RV rentals
The growing appeal of one-way rentals is all about flexibility. It gives you the opportunity to see more of a region or country, as you don’t need to spend any of your vacation days driving through areas you’ve already spent time in. As more travelers prioritize flexibility over fixed itineraries, one-way RV rentals are surging in demand. According to the Canadian Camping and RV Council, one-way reservations have increased by 42% since 2023. The most popular routes are those between Toronto and Vancouver.
People love the idea of continuing their explorations without going back. That's especially true for digital nomads and visitors who want to get the most out of their trip without the travel fatigue.
Popular one-way road-trips in Canada
Canada is a vast country with many an awe-inspiring road-trip. Here are some to consider for your next one-way RV adventure.
Toronto to Halifax
Picking up an RV in Toronto is a great option, as there are plenty of suppliers and vehicles to choose from. This trip will then take you through the French-Canadian province of Quebec, including Montreal and Quebec City. You’ll then cross over to New Brunswick and eventually Nova Scotia taking in some remarkable scenery and exciting cities.
Vancouver to Calgary
You have two options for completing this RV road trip from Vancouver to Calgary you can either take the shorter route north via Kamloops and Banff National Park, or you can head east through Castlegar before heading north at Burmis. The former route is going to be more scenic, but also potentially more disruptive depending on the weather. You’ll want to include extra time to enjoy Banff and Glacier National Park if you head that way.
The Trans-Canada Highway
Let’s start with the big one. The Trans-Canada Highway is exactly what it sounds like, an extensive highway stretching from one coast to the other. You can either start your RV rental in Vancouver on the west coast, or somewhere like Halifax in the east. It is then up to you how much time you want take to enjoy what is truly a mammoth undertaking. Make sure you do some research and take into account the time of year, as weather will definitely play a factor in how easy this trip is.
How much does it cost to hire an RV one-way?
Like with a lot of things, convenience usually comes at a price. One-way fees can range from a few hundred dollars to more than a thousand dollars for your entire trip, depending on how long you want to hire your vehicle for. It’s something you’ll have to take into account when you’re budgeting for your trip.
To get an idea of the one-way hire charges, you can make a search with your desired start and end location, then choose a vehicle and click on ‘Show Price Breakdown’. It’s important to note that not all routes or vehicle suppliers will charge a one-way fee.
Why are some one-way RV rentals more expensive?
Well, there are several factors at play. Companies need to return the RV to its original hub, which requires extra drivers or transport logistics. That adds up. One-way trips also disrupt fleet balance, reducing availability in high-demand cities. And during peak summer months (June to September), fees skyrocket as companies struggle to meet surging demand across Canada's vast geography.
Certain one-way RV routes are more popular—and more expensive—due to their scenic allure and logistical complexity. Vancouver to Calgary, through the stunning Rocky Mountains, is a favorite among adventurers. Toronto to Halifax, a cross-country journey showcasing Canada's eastern charm, is another. Montreal to Vancouver, a 4,500 km epic voyage offering diverse landscapes, is a third.
If you want to save on one-way RV rentals, consider booking early (at least six months in advance), opting for relocation deals or off-peak travel.
Pros and Cons of One Way RV Travel
The pros of one-way RV rentals include freedom and flexibility, time savings and unmatched scenic variety. The cons are added costs (one-way fees can range from $300 to $1,500), availability (limited supply, especially on popular summer routes) and drop-off restrictions (not all rental companies allow one-way travel to remote areas).
Whether one-way RV rentals in Canada are worth it depends on your travel goals. If saving time and seeing more of Canada's beauty is worth $700, a one-way RV rental is an investment in experience.
A Glimpse of the Future of RV Rentals in Canada
What does the future hold for one-way RV rentals in Canada? Industry insiders think we'll see a shift toward pricing models that adjust in real-time, based on supply and demand. As electric RV infrastructure grows, costs should come down and so will the environmental impact. By 2030, one-way rentals might just become the new normal. That means more people will be able to explore Canada's natural wonders.
Conclusion: Is a one-way RV rental worth it?
Whether or not there is an extra cost, it is well worth it, for those of you who value freedom, efficiency, and an unforgettable Canada road trip. Careful and timely planning with the right booking can go a long way to minimize the extra fees and maximize the potential for adventure. There are experiences, like watching the soothing Northern Lights from a remote Yukon campsite, that you can't attach a price tag.
