Want an RV for the Fourth? A vacation? You can now rent them in Springfield
A family of RV owners, Rick Williams and his daughter Carley Joy realized a void in the Ozarks.
The area's ample outdoors options have long inspired residents to purchase the large and often stationary vehicle. More have considered one, but don't have the budget, the space or the time to maintain such a commitment.
But getting the RV experience for a weekend or a few weeks, without the long term financial commitment? The rental option hadn't been an option in Springfield.
It is now at Joyride RV Rental, which recently announced its opening on West Republic Road.
"We wanted to allow individuals and families in the community to enjoy RVing as much as we do without making the commitment and responsibility of purchasing and owning an RV," said Williams, who co-owns Joyride RV Rental with Carey Joy, whose surname inspired the name of the business.
Joyride currently has eight RVs in its fleet, which have been rented for holidays, tailgating parties, extensive road trips, and an in-between home for families whose houses are being built or renovated.
Among the RVs amenities are bunk beds, bathrooms, smart TVs, indoor and outdoor kitchens and bike or kayak racks. Most of Joyride's travel trailers are light-weight and can be pulled by small to midsize SUVs and light trucks.
The veteran-owned company is currently offering a 30 % off Fourth of July special.
"We opened last year. but we're starting to get our feet wet," Joy said. "We've been getting busy this summer and we're continuing to expand our feet. The next RV rental (business) is more than an hour away, so there's a niche here we wanted to fill."
Each rental comes with camping chairs, a shade canopy, kitchen kit with all essential cookware and utensils as well as a cleaning kit.
Who can rent a RV?
If you're at least 25 years old, have a valid U.S. driver's license and can submit a $500 refundable deposit two days before the rental, you can rent an RV.
Non U.S. residents can also rent from Joyride, but must present a valid passport.
How long can an RV be rented out?
The most popular length of a rental is four days, Joy said, and some renters have gone weeks. The minimum rental is three days and there is no capped maximum.
Can pets be on the RV?
Yes, but dogs only.
OK, so how much?
The smallest travel trailer goes for $79 a night and goes up to $109 a night for the largest. A $75 prep fee is required, which includes preparing, cleaning and dumping the tanks, as well as a basic daily insurance package for approximately $20 a day.
This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: Want an RV for the Fourth? You can now rent one in Springfield.
