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Updated April 19, 2024
Why rent a Sprinter Camper van? Owning camper vans is exploding in popularity, and the growth of the “van dweller” lifestyle is trending daily, regardless of the various social media platforms. But why rent one, and what are the best places to rent a Sprinter camper van?
For the most part, peer-to-peer RV rentals are the way to go. It works just like an Airbnb, except you’ll be mobile instead of stationary. Outdoorsy, RVshare, and RV-Ezy, are three of the giants of the industry, with a ton of sprinter van rentals on their sites.
But don’t forget the smaller RV rental sites like Escape Campervans, which may also offer incredible deals.
These well-built vans come in various camper interior designs and rental prices. You’ll enjoy going over every detail of the camping opportunities they offer as much as enjoying the driving experience.
The variety of floor plan designs is also a bonus. You’ll be surprised what’s inside these Sprinter Class B Motorhomes and how many people can fit comfortably.
- What is a Sprinter Camper Van?
- How Much Do Sprinter Camper Vans Cost?
- How Many People Can Sleep in A Sprinter Van?
- 5 Reasons You’d Want to Rent a Sprinter Camper Van
- 5 Reasons You Wouldn’t Want to Rent a Sprinter Camper Van
- The 3 Different Sprinter Camper Van Types
- Are All Sprinter Vans Diesel?
- FAQs About Renting a Sprinter Camper Van
- Here’s How You Can Get $100 Off a Sprinter Van Today
- Are Sprinter Camper Vans Worth The High Cost?
- Final Words About Renting A Sprinter Camper Van
- Related Reading:
- Mike Scarpignato – Bio
What is a Sprinter Camper Van?
A Mercedez-Benz Sprinter Camper Van is a Class B Motorhome. You’ll find many of the same features seen in bigger drivable RVs that fit comfortably within this full-size van and other models.
There are thousands of camper vans out there, from DIY conversions, third-party van conversion companies, and RV manufacturer direct builds. But the Sprinter Vans are distinct.
When it comes to purchasing one, some can command a premium price tag, and for a good reason. The argument is often made that you’re paying for the brand. That’s true to a certain degree. However, Mercedez-Benz didn’t wake up one day and decided to be Hyundai and masquerade as a Rolls Royce.
The Mercedez-Benz brand has always manufactured premium products and a Sprinter Camper is well-made. Sprinter vans aren’t to be confused with other camper vans or Class C motorhomes.
How Much Do Sprinter Camper Vans Cost?
If you want to buy one, Sprinter Camper Vans costs begin at $120,000 +. By “plus,” we mean “PLUS.” Adding enough luxuries and advanced features to push into $250k territory is easy. You can piecemeal it, of course, in a DIY project over time.
If you want to do it that way, the base price for a barebones Sprinter Van is between $40,000 and $45,000. Sounds more palatable, doesn’t it? From there, start the conversion process one step at a time.
Your Sprinter camper van’s total price could be significantly less using a less luxurious camper design and compromise on some features. But you won’t have to dump $175,000 on the project.
Then there are the more palatable options, such as the Caravan Outfitter starting at $38,000, the Glampervan Promaster beginning at around $60,000, or even the Winnebago Solis at $101,000. When you compare price points, it’s easy to see that price really sets most Sprinter Camper Vans apart.
DIY and customized conversions can get even more expensive, though they tend to fall within the same window. A lot depends on the state of the van you purchase before the RV building process begins.
Buying a used Sprinter Cargo or Passenger Van and converting it (whether by yourself or through a professional service) is considered two of the cheapest ways to own a Sprinter Camper van.
How Many People Can Sleep in A Sprinter Van?
Sprinter van RVs are typically quite a bit smaller than other RV options. So, it makes sense that they would accommodate fewer people in their sleeping arrangements. Most sprinter van RVs will sleep 2 to 4 people. However, the large majority sleep two people most comfortably.
Because of their limited interior space, packing in beds can be a challenge. Typically, a sprinter van RV will have a rear bed with storage underneath. Adding more sleeping capacity typically means adding a bunk bed above the rear bed or bunks along the side.
Some sprinter vans will come with a pop-up roof that extends the space for additional sleeping areas.
5 Reasons You’d Want to Rent a Sprinter Camper Van
There’s a lot to love about a good Sprinter Camper Van. Everything is within arms reach and layered in comfort and technology geared towards convenience and relaxation. While bigger motorhome classes are more spacious, there’s something elegant about the performance and convenience of the camper van.
Here are some great reasons to rent a Sprinter Camper Van!
1. Try Before You Buy
Most people don’t just buy cars without taking them out for a test drive. Why should a Sprinter Camper Van be any different? You don’t have to rent the thing for a month to get the feel for it and decide whether or not it’s you.
Rent a Sprinter Camper Van out from a peer-to-peer RV rental company for a few days. A weekend or even a week-long rental won’t shatter your checking account. You can consider it a deposit or a downpayment on the real deal later on.
2. Have a Non-Commital Getaway
If you and your significant other are the outdoors type, a romantic adventure in a Sprinter Van is a great idea. The best part is you don’t have to commit to buying one, followed by the maintenance and upkeep of holding on to it or storing the van.
A simple trip out and back, and you’re all done. It’s like taking a cruise but far more quiet and laid back. Like the “try before you buy,” there’s nothing saying you have to buy the thing. Enjoy it, experience it, and bring it back when you’re done—preferably how you found it.
3. It’s Easier To Drive Than a Class A or C Motorhome
If you’ve ever driven a van before, it’s not much different, and it’s much easier than navigating heavy traffic in a Class A Motorhome. Class Cs are like camper vans with a wider back end and usually a loft above the windshield, making them more difficult to drive as well.
A Sprinter Class B Motorhomes is as easy as sliding off the couch and into the driver’s seat. Not to mention the cluster of advanced driving and convenience features they come with, making your life a whole lot easier.
4. Reliable Brand
We glossed over this earlier, but a Mercedez-Benz chassis stands for quality. In fact, this chassis is used on a wide variety of camper vans, and they don’t use it because it’s cheap. The Mercedez Sprinter is consistently a top-five chassis on the market, along with the Ram ProMaster and Ford Transit.
The Mercedez-Benz van traces back to the 1890s, so no one can say that they lack experience in this business. Over a century of manufacturing and the 1990s inception of the Sprinter van say otherwise.
RVBlogger Note About The Recent Recall: While unfortunate, the 2023 recall on the Sprinter’s parking brake was mostly a software issue that Mercedez took responsibility for and repaired efficiently. In today’s automotive and RV industries, recalls happen for many reasons. The “measuring tape” we all should use is how manufacturers deal with the situation.
5. Park it Virtually Anywhere
Sprinter Camper vans are basically cargo vans or large passenger vans with a camper interior. They’re just as easy to drive and park. You would probably have more trouble parking a 350/3500 Series pickup truck than a Sprinter Camper Van.
5 Reasons You Wouldn’t Want to Rent a Sprinter Camper Van
Unfortunately, there’s a downside to everything. If you’re considering renting a Sprinter Camper Van, it’s important to carefully consider the pros and cons, mostly because there are always cons, and it’s a good idea to be in the know.
1. Uncomfortable Driving a Vehicle Larger Than a Car
A camper van isn’t for everyone. If the biggest car you’ve ever driven is a Prius, a Sprinter Camper Van will be a challenge. They’re much bulkier than compact or mid-size cars. Also, you must use your mirrors and rely on your accident avoidance technology more often than you would in a car.
2. Tight Sleeping Quarters
If it’s just you or your with a significant other, there’s enough room to sleep comfortably. But not all of them have a rear king (only the rear fold-down bench models), drop-down queen, or dual twin beds.
Extra sleeping space for kids or friends can be more complicated. Bunk spaces come in a pop-top ceiling, seating behind the driver, or a mattress across the driver and passenger seat. Taller friends may be unable to stretch out for the night since some of these spaces are better suited for children.
It takes some getting used to sleeping in a camper van, and it’s understandable if tight sleeping quarters aren’t your thing.
3. Not Great for Large Groups
There’s very little walking and moving space inside any camper van. If you’re looking to rent a Sprinter Camper Van for a group of five, you’re better off finding something more suitable for your group.
4. Camper Van Bathroom Sizes Can Be Small
Sprinter Campers aren’t known for their large, spacious bathrooms, even if you share with only one person. If you and your friend hit up the “quarter oysters, dollar drafts” at a local seafood spot and the oysters are, uh—let’s say, “ripe,”—it’s going to be mortal combat over that tiny bathroom.
5. It Can Be Pricey
There’s little doubt that renting a Sprinter Camper Van is far cheaper than purchasing one. There are excellent RV rental companies out there that give you some price-checking and leverage power.
The 3 Different Sprinter Camper Van Types
You’ll find 3 different Sprinter Camper Van types when you look through the various RV rental websites. Each has its advantages and disadvantages. This is also true for the various other Class B Motorhome versions as well.
You’ll find that those that come finished from an RV manufacturer are feature-rich, while van conversion and DIY Camper Vans have “out-of-the-box” creative layouts and amenities not seen from the factory-made choices.
1. RV Manufacturer Class B Motorhome
A Sprinter Camper Van that was shipped as a bare van but finished by an RV manufacturer will have the most popular floor plans with the latest technology and features inside.
The RV manufacturers mostly use the 2500 version, but some use the narrower 1500. Expect to find a lounge with a movable table, a wet bath, a kitchen sink, an oven, and even a dinette in some.
A hot water heater, furnace, refrigerator/freezer, awning, and plenty of storage are all common features you’ll find on an RV manufacturer’s Sprinter Class B Motorhome. Of course, every brand has its own standard and optional features. It all depends on what the RV owner chose when they bought the van.
2. Van Conversion Company Camper Vans
This is about as involved in the process as you can be without embracing the full DIY mentality. The only difference is you’ll work with a professional builder and have a lot of input throughout the build process.
There are a lot of van conversion companies out there, and some of the things they offer in their builds are pretty incredible. With a custom build, you can decide on the smallest details, such as trim, floor plan, the extent of the battery power you want, and all the additional features you can pack into it.
For those that lack the expertise, this is a fantastic option. However, it can be incredibly time-consuming. Many of these builds can take months. Many of these custom-designed camper van builders are true craftspeople and have inspired the RV manufacturer designs.
3. DIY Sprinter Camper Van
DIY Sprinters are the most involved, for obvious reasons. But it might not be as extensive as you think, depending on how far you want to go. For instance, if you have excellent carpentry skills, you can do much of the interior independently.
If not, there is an endless array of kits out there. The best part about a DIY job is you can do whatever you want, design it in any way or style that suits you, or keep things entirely simple.
The DIY Sprinter Van is the quintessentially personal conversion. It won’t look like anyone else’s and will be entirely unique to you and yours. The best part is you can buy a used Sprinter Cargo Van and start from scratch at a smaller start-up cost.
Are All Sprinter Vans Diesel?
Not all Sprinter vans are diesel. The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van comes in both diesel and gas versions. If you are looking at Sprinter-style vans from other manufacturers, you will find that most also have the option for diesel or gas.
The benefit of purchasing a Sprinter van with a diesel engine is power. Diesel engines tend to have greater torque, which equates to more power. Diesel engines tend to also have better fuel efficiency than gasoline engines. This is a great benefit if you are traveling long distances in your Sprinter van RV.
FAQs About Renting a Sprinter Camper Van
1. How much will it cost to rent a Sprinter Camper Van?
On average, you can expect around $100 to $400 per day, but it can be a lot higher or lower. It depends on what RV rental company you go through, the price the owner sets, the size, the length of time you want to rent, and what kind of accommodations you want with the rental.
2. How do you find a good Sprinter Van to rent?
For the most part, peer-to-peer RV rentals are the way to go. It works just like an Airbnb, except you’ll be mobile instead of stationary. Outdoorsy, RVshare, and RV-Ezy, are three of the giants of the industry, with a ton of offerings on their sites.
But don’t forget the smaller RV rental sites like Escape Campervans, which may also offer incredible deals. Many of these sites also offer to drop off and pick up, so you never have to drive anywhere to get your rented RV.
3. Do Sprinter Camper Vans Have Bathrooms?
Many Sprinter Camper Van models do have bathrooms, and some don’t. Generally, camper vans with bathrooms mostly have all-in-one wet baths.
Top-end luxury Sprinter Class B RVs do find a way to separate the shower from the sink and toilet, making it a dry bathroom. As we mentioned, luxury features mean luxury prices.
Here’s How You Can Get $100 Off a Sprinter Van Today
Finding a good Sprinter Van rental isn’t difficult. Outdoorsy, RV-Ezy, and RVshare all offer Sprinter Camper Vans. Escape Campervans doesn’t offer Sprinter Van rentals, but you could still rent a really cool van there.
Using peer-to-peer RV rental services is a highly popular option, just like Airbnb, mostly because of its simplicity. It also helps that both the owners and renters are incentivized to keep the Sprinter RV in tip-top shape.
Renting a Sprinter Camper Van is an exciting moment, whether you’re heading off alone for your own adventure, looking for the ultimate romantic getaway, or just spending time with your friends. Fortunately, it’s also one of the most cost-effective options available to enjoy the RV experience.
Are Sprinter Camper Vans Worth The High Cost?
Many people are surprised to learn that Sprinter van RVs are more expensive than some larger RV and travel trailer options. The reason for this increased cost is that the interior features have to be made smaller to fit in the narrow space. For many RVers, it is worth the higher cost to have a compact and versatile option.
Some of the benefits of a Sprinter van camper that make them well worth the added cost are:
- Fuel Efficiency: While you may pay more upfront, you will find that Sprinter vans tend to be more fuel-efficient than other RV options. This means that you spend less on fuel while traveling. If you want to further increase your fuel efficiency, consider a diesel Sprinter Van.
- Quality Construction: Mercedes-Benz, the maker of the Sprinter van is known for high quality, long-lasting construction of their products. If you do your research and purchase your Sprinter van RV from a RV manufacturer that is also known for quality construction, you can feel comfortable knowing that your hard-earned dollars are for an exceptional product.
Final Words About Renting A Sprinter Camper Van
If you are looking to take a road trip and want the comforts of a motorhome without the daunting task of maneuvering a large rig and spending half your budget on fuel, a Sprinter camper van could be the right choice.
Sprinter vans are popular so booking your rental in advance is recommended. Once you’re booked you can plan out the ultimate road trip or just hop in and hit the road with no plan!
Related Reading:
– Drivable vs. Towable RV Rentals – Which is Best?
– Private RV Rentals vs. RV Dealers with Large Fleets
– The Wrong RV Rental Insurance Leaves You Exposed
– How to Find Cheap RV Rentals Under $100 a Night
Mike Scarpignato – Bio
Mike Scarpignato created RVBlogger.com over five years ago in 2018 to share all we have learned about RV camping.
Mike is an avid outdoorsman with decades of experience tent camping and traveling in his 2008 Gulf Stream Conquest Class C RV and 2021 Thor Challenger Class A motorhome.
We attend RV Shows and visit RV dealerships all across the country to tour and review drivable motorhomes and towable trailers to provide the best evaluations of these RVs in our blog articles and YouTube videos.
We are 3/4-time RVers who created RVBlogger.com to provide helpful information about all kinds of RVs and related products, gear, camping memberships, tips, hacks and advice.
We rented a sprinter van through RVnGO and loved the whole experience. When we were comparing prices between the sites, RVnGO saved us 32% for the trip. We also liked how transparent it was. The owner of the van was fantastic and very helpful. We also used the RVnGO perks discount program to save on dinners and the passes to Universal Studios.