Intro to RVing in Ontario

Rent an RV

Similar to a car rental, when renting an RV in Ontario, you’ll want to make sure you meet the requirements, have the correct insurance and select the best vehicle for your needs.

Driver’s age and licence

Most companies require a minimum age of 21 to 25 to rent and drive an RV in Ontario.

A standard G-class Ontario licence is required to drive an RV up to 11,000 kilograms (or the combined weight of a trailer and towing vehicle). This includes most RV rentals in the province. 

Learn more about the driver’s licence classification in Ontario.

International visitors must present a valid driver’s licence from their home country and an International Driving Permit (IDP) if the licence is not in English or French.

Often, RV rentals require drivers to hold valid driver's licences for at least 12 months.

Vehicle insurance and other requirements

It’s essential that you are fully insured for the duration of your RV trip. Ask the rental company about the best insurance and liability coverage plan for your trip. You may also want to compare with your car insurance provider.

Some rental companies will require a security deposit, refundable upon the return of the RV.

Other requirements to tow and operate RVs include:

• The combined weight of the motor vehicle and RV is not more than the current 11,000 kilograms limit (for standard G-class licence)
• The RV is attached to the motor vehicle by a fifth wheel hitch hook-up
• Only one vehicle is being towed
• The RV meets Transport Canada manufacturing standards
• The RV is being towed for personal use only

Type and size of RV

Determine the type of RV you need based on the number of people you’re travelling with, your storage needs and your route.

RVs are grouped into three main classes: A, B and C. This classification is based on the model, length and size of the chassis. A chassis is the structural load-bearing frame of a vehicle, including the wheels and engine.

• Class A:  these RV’s are the largest and generally most luxurious self-contained models, similar in size to a bus or truck. A Class A RV can sleep up to eight, so it’s great for larger groups or families and easier to navigate outside cities.
• Class B: compact, self-contained vehicles comparable to the size of a passenger van. These campervans accommodate up to four passengers. The smaller size makes them easier to park and navigate, especially in urban areas.
• Class C: these RV’s are in the middle, a little more spacious than Class B, but smaller than Class A. These models often feature extra living space over the driver’s cab.
• You may also opt for a travel trailer, which requires hook-up and towing with a standard vehicle.

Go RVing Canada is an excellent resource for planning an RV vacation in Ontario, starting with this side-by-side comparison of different RV models and sizes.

Where to rent an RV

Several companies offer RV rentals, in addition to RV sales, across Ontario. These include:

• Motor Home Travel, Bolton
• CanaDream, Brampton
• Fraserway RV, Cookstown
• Outdoor Travel, Beamsville
• Camp-out RV, Stratford
• LeisureDays RV Centre, Kitchener, Smith Falls and Pembroke
• Long Haul Trailers, Listowel
• Owasco RV, Clarington

Search for more Ontario RV dealers near you.

RVezy provides RV rental information from across Canada.

RV routes and road trips

Ontario is vast, with diverse regions offering unique scenery, lakes, wildlife and tourist attractions. Whether you’re on a tight schedule or taking your time to explore, build an itinerary that suits your interests and discover all that Ontario has to offer. 

Ontario itineraries and road trips

Get inspiration for an RV adventure from this list of customized road trips across the province.

RV touring guide in Northern Ontario

Use this comprehensive RV touring guide to plan your trip along some of North America’s most epic RV touring routes in Northern Ontario.

GO RVing Ontario trip guides

Find curated RV trip guides from an Ottawa Valley summer vacation or a Kawarthas winter escape to epic road trips around Georgian Bay and along Lake Superior.

RV-friendly parks and campgrounds

A key part of planning your RV road trip is where to park. Many private campground properties and provincially-run parks and campgrounds throughout Ontario provide the necessary facilities and services for RV’s such as:

• Electrical hook-up
• Waste and grey water dumping stations
• Water filling stations
• Clothes washing and drying facilities
• Pet exercise areas

Campsites book up quickly, so research sites and book them in advance.

Ontario Parks

Use Ontario Parks reservations to search for specific parks and campsites with RV and trailer services based on your requirements.

Camping in Ontario

For additional RV camping options, browse private and family-run campgrounds and RV parks throughout the province.

KOA campgrounds

Find RV-friendly KOA campgrounds in Ontario by selecting “RV sites” in the filter options.

RV Life Campgrounds

RV Life is another resource that lists and reviews RV-friendly parks and campgrounds across Ontario.

Boondockers Welcome

RVers are a naturally friendly bunch! This membership-based resource provides a database of members who invite you to park and stay on their property for free. It is connected with Harvest Hosts, a program that offers RVers overnight parking on farms and wineries across Canada and the U.S. in exchange for their patronage.

RV travel tips and tools

As you plan your trip, keep track of where you can refuel, dump waste or get repairs if needed. Here are a few resources that can help make your trip a success.

Find a dumping station

RV Life offers Sanidump, an easy online tool to search for RV dumping stations nearby.

Find an RV repair shop

RV rental companies will provide information and instructions on repairs and on-the-road assistance; however, it’s a good idea to note this list of local RV mechanics in Ontario.

Rules of the road

Before setting out, familiarize yourself with provincial traffic laws, speed limits and toll highways.

Food trucks in Northern Ontario

Stop for your favourite roadside snack, including fish and chips, burgers and poutine. Here’s a list of some of the best food trucks in Northern Ontario.

RVing in Ontario captures the romance of the open road, where freedom, adventure and the comforts of home travel with you. Happy RVing!