How to Rent a Caravan — Complete Guide

Thinking about renting a caravan but don't know where to start? We've prepared a complete guide that walks you through the entire process from choosing dates to returning the vehicle.

1. Choose your dates and book

The first step is selecting your travel dates. On the VANWAYS website you'll find an availability calendar showing free and occupied dates. Fill in the booking form — we need your name, email, phone and requested dates.

After submission, we'll contact you within 24 hours with confirmation and further information. Communication is always personal — no automated systems.

2. Arrange the details

After booking confirmation, we'll discuss details: planned route, insurance, rental conditions and deposit. At VANWAYS, conditions are always transparent with no hidden fees.

3. Pick up your caravan

On handover day, we meet in Prague-Velká Chuchle. We personally hand over the campervan, explain how to operate all systems (kitchenette, shower, heating, solar panels) and answer your questions. Handover takes approximately 30–45 minutes.

4. Hit the road!

After handover, you're ready to go. The VANWAYS campervan is fully equipped — just pack personal belongings and food. We also provide tips on campsites, viewpoints and interesting places.

5. Return the caravan

After your rental period, drive back to the handover location. The vehicle should be returned in the same condition (clean, same fuel level). The check takes just a few minutes.

What do you need to rent a caravan?

• Category B driving licence
• Age at least 23 years
• Valid ID card or passport
• Deposit per agreed terms

Tips for beginners

• Start with a shorter trip (5–7 days) to get used to driving and operation
• Plan daily driving of max. 200–300 km — enjoy the journey, don't chase kilometres
• Book campsites in advance during peak season; off-peak allows improvisation
• Pack light — there's plenty of room in a caravan, but less is more

What to bring on a caravan trip?

When renting a caravan from VANWAYS you get a fully equipped vehicle. Still, we recommend packing:

• Personal clothing — adapt to weather and planned activities
• Hiking shoes — comfortable footwear for walks and hikes
• Food for the first day — so you do not need to shop right after pickup
• Medications and first aid kit — basic medicines, sunscreen, insect repellent
• Documents — ID/passport, driving licence, insurance card
• Chargers and power banks — for phones, tablets and cameras
• Maps and guides — even with GPS, paper maps always come in handy

Camping etiquette with a campervan

Campervan travel has unwritten rules worth knowing:

• Respect quiet hours — most campsites enforce quiet time from 10 PM to 7 AM
• Dispose of waste responsibly — empty the chemical toilet only at designated facilities
• Conserve water — the water tank is limited, especially off campsite
• Respect nature — when wild camping, leave the spot clean
• Be considerate to neighbours — maintain reasonable noise levels at campsites

Common beginner fears (and why you should not worry)

Many people interested in caravan rental have concerns that are entirely unnecessary:

• "I cannot drive a large vehicle" — the VANWAYS campervan has automatic gearbox and drives like a larger van. We explain everything during handover.
• "I do not know how to operate the systems" — during personal handover we walk through all systems step by step. Plus you have our 24/7 phone support.
• "Where will I park?" — the VANWAYS campervan fits in a regular parking space. Campsites have dedicated spots for campervans.
• "What if something breaks?" — the vehicle is brand new and regularly serviced. In case of any problem we are always available by phone.

With VANWAYS, caravan rental is a worry-free experience even for complete beginners. We take care of everything so you can fully enjoy your trip.

Planning your first caravan rental and not sure where to go? Here is inspiration for beginners and experienced travellers alike. Each of these destinations is easily accessible from Prague and offers excellent campervan campsites.

Czech Republic — ideal start for beginners

If you are new to caravanning, we recommend your first trip within the Czech Republic. The advantages are clear: short distances, low costs and beautiful nature. Top destinations include:

• Lipno and Sumava — Lake Lipno is a paradise for families. Lakeside campsites, cycle paths, treetop walkway. About 2.5 hours from Prague.
• South Moravia — vineyards around Palava, historic Lednice and Valtice, thermal spas. Campsites overlooking vineyards. About 2.5 hours from Prague.
• Bohemian Paradise — rock formations, castles, hiking and cycling routes. Sedmihorky campsite is popular among caravanners. About 1.5 hours from Prague.
• Krkonose Mountains — mountain hikes, waterfalls, lookout towers. Ideal for active holidays. About 2 hours from Prague.

Croatia — the most popular international destination

For your first international caravan trip, Croatia is the number one choice. The journey from Prague takes 8-10 hours via Austria and Slovenia. Croatian campsites are of very high quality — many offer pools, restaurants, children entertainment and direct beach access. We recommend booking at least 2 months ahead in peak season (July-August).

Practical apps for caravanners

Modern technology significantly simplifies caravan travel. We recommend these apps:

• Park4Night — the largest database of campervan overnight spots in Europe with community ratings.
• ACSI Campsites Europe — overview of thousands of campsites with detailed info and booking.
• CamperContact — waste tank emptying and water refill locations.
• Google Maps — navigation with vehicle dimension settings to avoid low clearances.
• Fuel Flash / Clever Tanken — fuel price comparison at petrol stations.

How much time do you need for caravan rental?

Minimum caravan rental period at VANWAYS is 5 days. Based on experience we recommend:

• 5-7 days — ideal for a Czech Republic trip or Austria/Slovenia
• 10-14 days — optimal for Croatia, Italy or a multi-country road trip
• 14+ days — for Scandinavia, Spain or an extensive European tour

Remember that with a rented VANWAYS caravan you have unlimited mileage. No restrictions — drive wherever you want, as far as you want. The journey is the destination.

Heading on your first caravan rental and want to know how the campervan technical systems work? This guide will help you understand the basics.

Water system

The VANWAYS campervan has a 100-litre fresh water tank. Water is pumped electrically to the kitchen sink and shower. Hot water is provided by a gas boiler — a hot shower is available anytime. Used water drains to a grey tank under the vehicle. The chemical toilet has its own cassette, emptied at designated points in campsites.

Practical water management tips:

• Save water when showering — turn off while lathering
• Use a basin for washing dishes instead of running water
• Refill the tank at every campsite — it is free
• 100 litres lasts a family approx. 2-3 days without refill

Gas system

The campervan uses propane-butane for cooking, water heating and backup heating. The gas bottle is in a safety compartment. With normal use (cooking, water heating), a full bottle lasts approximately 2-3 weeks. Gas bottle exchange is simple and available at most petrol stations across Europe.

Electrical system — 12V, 230V and solar

The campervan has three power sources:

• 12V battery system — powers lighting, USB sockets, water pump and heater fan. Charged while driving from alternator, from solar panels and when connected to 230V.
• 230V connection — at campsites connect to mains via CEE plug. Charge laptop, use hair dryer or vacuum.
• 140 W solar panels — charge the battery on sunny days even off-campsite. Ideal for wild camping.

Types of campervan camping

When travelling with a rented caravan you have several overnight options:

• Classic campsite — full service: electricity, water, toilets, showers, often pool and restaurant. Price 200-1,500 CZK/night.
• Stellplatz/aire — simple motorhome parking spots, usually with water and electricity. Price 100-500 CZK/night.
• Wild camping — parking in nature without services. Permitted in some countries, not others. Free.
• Farms and vineyards — growing trend where local farmers offer caravan pitches. Authentic experience.

With a rented VANWAYS caravan, thanks to solar panels and a large water tank you have maximum flexibility in choosing your camping type.