Camper Van Rental

I've always liked the idea of having a house on wheels while on vacation. I like the idea of stopping wherever I want, cooking my own meals and not having to unpack in a half dozen hotels on a week long trip. However, I didn't want to drive and park something the size of school bus. I recently discovered the perfect solution: renting a Volkswagen Westfalia camper van.

The Westfalia camper van is about the size of a standard mini-van, easy to park and drive. It is also a camper, with stove, sink and refrigerator, and, thanks to its easy-to-pop-up top, it has two double beds.

We enjoyed the convenience of the camper van, especially when we parked at a scenic spot, lifted the top, and enjoyed a meal with a view at our own private table. At night, we cooked dinner on our gas stove, ate at an insect-free table for two, and slept soundly on a comfortable bed. In the morning, we made coffee without stepping outside. When it was time to park, the camper van slid into a standard parking place with no fuss.

For two people camping in Yosemite, the Westfalia camper van's rental cost was comparable to lower-priced hotels in the park, and it was available with much less advance notice (and almost half of Yosemite's camping sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis). In other locations, an inexpensive hotel or motel may be less expensive than the camper van, but consider the cost of meals as well as convenience before making a decision.

If you decide to rent a camper van, here are few tips to help make your experience more comfortable:

• Be sure you know exactly what will be provided in the camper van. Ask about what's in the kitchen kit, and rent sheets and towels if you need them.

• The Westfalia camper van does not have electrical connections, but they do have interior lights that operate from the auxiliary battery.

• When you check the camper van out, it looks simple when someone else shows it to you, but it becomes complex when you have to do it yourself. Make notes, and do everything yourself. Otherwise, you'll spend the first three days of your trip wondering exactly how you were supposed to start the refrigerator, or how to turn off the heater.

• If you want to cook meals in the camper van, plan them in advance, and make a grocery list. You may want to bring a few staples from home, such as salt, sugar and cooking oil.

• Unless you are planning on traveling a very short distance, opt for unlimited miles. The small difference in daily rate pays for your peace of mind.

• The step in and out of the camper van is a little high, and you have to get over the wheel well. If anyone in your party has mobility problems, discuss them before you rent.

I rented the Westfalia camper van from California Campers in Redwood City (south of the San Francisco Airport). They also have an office in Los Angeles. Rentals are also available from other companies listed in the sidebar, including one that rents in San Diego.