Spokane, Washington, is the perfect launchpad for an unforgettable outdoor adventure. With the Spokane River winding through the city, Riverside State Park just minutes away, and easy access to North Idaho’s stunning lakes and mountains, it’s no wonder that RV travel is so popular here. If you’re looking for the freedom and comfort of a home-on-wheels, renting a travel trailer is an excellent choice. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about renting a travel trailer in Spokane, from the best places to find one to the top campgrounds and essential tips for a smooth trip.
Why Choose a Travel Trailer for Your Spokane Adventure?
Travel trailers offer a unique blend of comfort and flexibility. Unlike a motorhome, a travel trailer is towed behind your vehicle, giving you the freedom to set up camp and still have your car for exploring the city. They come in a range of sizes, from lightweight models perfect for a weekend getaway to spacious units with slide-outs for the whole family.
A travel trailer provides all the creature comforts you need, including a kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping quarters. This means you can enjoy the great outdoors without having to rough it. Many renters praise the convenience and amenities of these rentals, noting that they are “well maintained and well stocked” and provide “plenty of room.”
Where to Rent a Travel Trailer in Spokane
You have a few great options for securing a travel trailer rental in the Spokane area. Peer-to-peer rental platforms are a fantastic way to find unique RVs from local owners.
Peer-to-Peer Rental Platforms:
These platforms connect you directly with RV owners in the Spokane area. They offer a wide selection of travel trailers, often with more personality and amenities than a standard rental fleet. They also offer the convenience of having the trailer delivered and set up for you. Here are the most popular ones:
- Outdoorsy: This is a leading RV rental marketplace with a large selection of travel trailers in Spokane. You can easily filter by type, amenities, and price. The platform also includes insurance and 24/7 roadside assistance for peace of mind.
- RVezy: Similar to Outdoorsy, RVezy connects renters with local owners. It features a straightforward booking process and verified listings. This is an excellent option if you’re looking for a specific type of trailer or want to take advantage of host delivery services.
How to Rent a Travel Trailer: A Step-by-Step Guide
The process of renting a travel trailer is simple, especially on platforms like Outdoorsy and RVezy. Here is a quick breakdown:
- Search: Enter “Spokane, WA” as your location, along with your desired travel dates.
- Filter: Narrow down the results by vehicle type (travel trailer), the number of guests, and any must-have amenities like a pet-friendly policy or delivery option.
- Select: Browse the available trailers, read reviews from past renters, and look at the detailed photos and descriptions. Pay attention to what’s included—many hosts provide cookware, utensils, bedding, and even camping chairs.
- Book: Send a booking request to the host. This will usually include your basic travel plans so the host can get to know you and offer recommendations.
- Hit the Road: On the first day of your trip, the host will give you a thorough walk-through of the trailer, showing you how to operate everything from the water heater to the slide-outs.
Understanding Your Vehicle’s Towing Capacity
Before you fall in love with a 35-foot trailer, it’s crucial to know what your vehicle can safely tow. The most important factor is your vehicle’s towing capacity, which you can find in your owner’s manual. This figure represents the maximum weight your vehicle can pull, which includes the weight of the trailer and everything loaded on it.
- Know Your Limits: Pay close attention to your vehicle’s payload capacity as well. This is the total weight of passengers and cargo your vehicle can carry, and it is often the limiting factor before you hit your max towing weight.
- Check the Hitch: You’ll also need to ensure you have the right hitch receiver (e.g., a 2-inch receiver) and that the hitch ball size matches the trailer’s coupler.
- Trailer Size Matters: While some trailers are lightweight and can be towed by a large SUV or small truck, larger models will require a heavy-duty pickup truck with a fifth-wheel hitch.
If you’re unsure, always ask the host. They can confirm if your vehicle is suitable before you book. If you’d rather not tow at all, many hosts offer a delivery and setup service, bringing the trailer right to your campsite.
Top Campgrounds in Spokane for Your Travel Trailer
Spokane is surrounded by incredible campgrounds. Here are some of the best places to park your travel trailer:
- Riverside State Park / Bowl and Pitcher Campground: This park is a true gem, located just minutes from downtown Spokane. The Bowl and Pitcher Campground is highly praised for its beautiful river views and access to miles of hiking and biking trails.
- Amenities: Many sites offer full hookups (water and electric), and there is a dump station available. Bathrooms are noted as being well-maintained.
- Pros: Unbeatable location, scenic trails, clean facilities.
- Cons: Sites can be close together with limited privacy, especially during peak season. Also, be aware that water may be shut off from mid-October to mid-April.
- Spokane KOA Journey: A reliable choice for families, this KOA offers a pool, bike rentals, and clean shower facilities. It’s a convenient base camp close to shopping and the Idaho border.
- Pros: Good amenities, family-friendly.
- Cons: Some campers note train noise can be an issue.
- Northern Quest RV Resort: This newer resort in Airway Heights is extremely convenient for travelers, especially with its proximity to the Spokane Airport and the Northern Quest Casino. It offers a modern, well-maintained experience.
- Bergsparken RV Park: For a more private and secluded experience, consider Bergsparken. This quiet, wooded property has spacious, level sites that can accommodate even big rigs over 40 feet long. Guests have praised its beautiful views and peaceful setting.
Tips for a Successful Travel Trailer Rental Experience
- Book Early: Peak RV season in Spokane runs from May through October. If you’re planning a summer trip, it’s best to book your trailer 2-3 months in advance to get the best selection.
- Bring Your Own Essentials: While many trailers are well-stocked, it’s always a good idea to bring your own pillows, sheets, and comforters for the beds. A reviewer also recommended bringing a sheet pan for the oven and basic cooking staples like salt, pepper, and olive oil.
- Read Reviews: The reviews on rental platforms are a goldmine of information. They can give you a real sense of what the host is like, the condition of the trailer, and any quirks to be aware of.
- Inspect the Trailer: When you pick up the trailer, do a thorough walk-around with the host. Note any existing damage, check the tire condition, and make sure all the lights and connections are working before you drive away.
- Secure Your Load: Practice proper weight distribution by placing 60% of the weight forward of the trailer axle. This helps prevent the trailer from swaying or fishtailing while you drive.
- Don’t Forget Your Discover Pass: If you plan to visit any Washington State Parks like Riverside, remember you will need a Discover Pass for parking. You can purchase a daily pass for $10 or an annual pass for $33 from kiosks or online.
Ready for Adventure?
Renting a travel trailer in Spokane is the perfect way to explore the beauty of the Inland Northwest. With a variety of rental options, incredible campgrounds, and a vibrant city to explore, your next adventure is just a booking away. Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a cross-country road trip, the freedom of the open road awaits.