Planning a long US trip before we move — anything to know about doing it by RV?

[AlexGreeneRVF]

We're hoping to spend a few months driving around the US in a rental RV before we settle here — West Coast parks first, then the Southwest in winter. For those who've done a long one-way rental like this, what are the big gotchas on mileage caps and one-way drop-off fees? Any regions or seasons to avoid on that kind of timeline?

 

[AlexGreeneRVF]

Update: we've tentatively booked the rental for March, West Coast first. Our move paperwork is still mid-process — can't tell if a tourist trip right before the visa interview would look odd. Has anyone done a long US trip like this while waiting on immigrant-visa processing? Found this rundown of interview questions while waiting for our appointment confirmation (US visa interview 2026: questions and 10 real stories), but real 'we did exactly this' stories would help more.

 

[Brian H.]

Wish I could offer some advice but I don't on these points. I just didn't want you to think the forum wasn't listening.

I do wonder though; rv rentals can be quite expensive. If I may ask, what sort of deal are you getting on a long term rental?

 

[Trav_lr]

Can't help with long term RV rental costs & pitfalls in the US, but I'll share our 2027 Snowbird plans. We're in the midst of planning a 4 month RV adventure in New Zealand and Australia. The estimated monthly rental cost was going to be almost NZ$15,000 per month so we've decided to buy a used, fully self contained campervan for a whole lot less than the 4 month rental cost. When we're done, we'll sell it to recoup most of the purchase price. Something to consider.....

 

[Headhunter]

Just some food for thought. RV rentals can become very, very expensive. Rental fees, mileage costs, and more. After RVing for 25 years, I find it hard on planning a two month RV trip with a coach that you own and know very well. Not to mention a rental that you don't know at all?

If you are looking to start out west just remember your plans on stays should be made like 6 months in advance. March out west can be iffy with snow storms still at large in the mountains.

And you don't know about the timing of your visa interviews? Maybe consider after your interviews.

HH