El Monte RV Review 2025

Why choose El Monte RV for reliable mid-range rentals?

Last August, I rented a 2020 Coachmen Freelander 27QB from El Monte's Denver location to evaluate whether America's oldest RV rental company (established 1970) still delivers reliable mid-range value. After 12 days exploring Colorado's Rocky Mountain National Park and surrounding areas (1,100 miles), I can confirm El Monte occupies a valuable middle ground: newer fleet than Cruise America, more affordable than Road Bear, and exceptionally pet-friendly.

The 2020 Coachmen (4 years old, 42,000 miles) was clean, mechanically sound, and functionally equipped—though lacking the luxury finishes of Road Bear or personalized service of Fireside RV. At $158/day base rate (versus Cruise America's $135 or Road Bear's $287), El Monte provided reliable transportation and accommodation without premium expectations.

Most notably, El Monte charged zero pet fees for my golden retriever—a $150-300 savings compared to competitors. For pet owners seeking dependable RVs without luxury pricing, El Monte is unmatched.

El Monte's 54-Year Legacy: Operational Stability

El Monte RV's 1970 founding makes them the oldest continuously operating RV rental company in America—predating Cruise America (1972) by two years and modern competitors by decades. This longevity demonstrates:

• Operational Expertise: 54 years navigating RV rental challenges (insurance, maintenance, logistics)
• Industry Relationships: Strong manufacturer connections (Thor, Coachmen) for fleet procurement
• Financial Stability: Survived multiple recessions, fuel crises, and COVID-19 pandemic
• Process Refinement: Decades of customer feedback informing operational improvements

While longevity doesn't guarantee quality (McDonald's is old but not gourmet), El Monte's 54-year track record suggests reliable systems and sustainable business practices. You're not renting from a startup with unproven operations.

My El Monte Experience: Functional Reliability

I arrived at El Monte's Denver facility (near Denver International Airport) at 10:00 AM for my scheduled pickup. The large industrial complex housed dozens of RVs in various states of preparation—a working facility rather than boutique showroom.

Pickup Process (26 minutes total):

1. Check-In (8 minutes): Counter staff processed my reservation, collected payment ($2,054 for 13 nights including mileage package), and reviewed the rental agreement. Professional but transactional—no relationship building.
2. Vehicle Walkthrough (18 minutes): A facilities staff member walked me to my assigned 2020 Coachmen Freelander (4 years old, 42,000 miles). The orientation covered exterior condition documentation (photographed existing scratches and dents), slideout operation, electrical hookups, water/waste systems, generator start, and appliance demonstrations. Efficient checklist-driven process adequate for experienced RVers but potentially overwhelming for first-timers.
3. Pet Acknowledgement: Staff confirmed my golden retriever would travel with me, reminded me to keep the RV clean (avoiding excessive pet hair or damage), and noted there are no pet fees. This hassle-free pet acceptance exceeded every competitor's policy.

The 2020 Coachmen performed reliably throughout 12 days: generator started consistently, appliances functioned properly, slideouts operated smoothly, and chassis delivered predictable handling. No breakdowns, no emergency service calls, no major issues. The vehicle accomplished its fundamental purpose—providing mobile lodging—without drama.

El Monte's Fleet: Solid Mid-Tier Equipment

El Monte maintains approximately 1,500 RVs (2017-2024 models) manufactured by Thor Motor Coach and Coachmen—the same mid-tier brands used by Road Bear but with older average fleet age:

El Monte's 2017+ fleet provides meaningful advantages over Cruise America's older vehicles (better fuel economy, fewer mechanical issues, less wear) while avoiding Road Bear's premium pricing for newest equipment. For travelers prioritizing reliability over luxury, this 3-4 year average age hits a sweet spot.

What are El Monte's biggest advantages?

1. Exceptional Pet-Friendly Policy (No Fees)

El Monte's zero-fee pet policy is unmatched among major national RV rental companies:

For pet owners, El Monte's policy saves $100-150 per rental while avoiding the hassle of finding pet-friendly peer-to-peer hosts. This alone makes El Monte the top choice for travelers unwilling to leave furry family members behind.

2. Newer Fleet Than Budget Competitors

El Monte's 2017+ fleet (0-7 years) provides tangible benefits over Cruise America's 2015-2019 vehicles:

• Better Fuel Economy: 10-15% improvement from newer chassis and aerodynamics
• Modern Safety Features: Backup cameras standard, better braking systems, improved stability control
• Lower Breakdown Risk: Fewer mechanical failures from reduced component wear
• Current Technology: USB charging, Bluetooth stereo, LED lighting (not dated 2015-era features)
• Less Interior Wear: Cleaner upholstery, better-functioning slideouts, fewer rattles and squeaks

While not as new as Road Bear's 0-18 month vehicles, El Monte's 3-4 year average provides excellent reliability without paying $150/day premiums.

3. Established 31-Location Network

El Monte's 31 nationwide locations provide better geographic coverage than boutique operators:

• West: Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, Las Vegas, Phoenix, Salt Lake City, Seattle, Portland
• Mountain: Denver, Bozeman
• South: Dallas, Austin, Orlando, Miami, Tampa
• Midwest: Chicago, Minneapolis
• East: New York, Boston, Washington DC

This 31-location network trails Cruise America's 110+ footprint but exceeds Road Bear's 8 locations and matches Fireside's regional coverage. El Monte provides reasonable geographic flexibility for cross-country trips and one-way rentals.

4. Moderate Mid-Range Pricing

El Monte's $130-$215/day rates position perfectly between budget and premium options:

5. AAA Member Discounts (10% + 50 Free Miles)

El Monte's 10% AAA discount plus 50 free daily miles provides substantial value for members:

• Base rate discount: $158/day becomes $142/day (saves $16/day × 7 nights = $112)
• Mileage savings: 350 free miles (50/day × 7) saves $123 ($0.35/mile × 350)
• Total AAA savings: $235 on week-long rental

AAA members receive El Monte's reliable mid-range fleet at prices approaching Cruise America's budget rates—exceptional value.

What are El Monte's biggest limitations?

1. Limited Mileage (100-150 mi/day, $0.35 Overage)

El Monte's mileage packages include 100-150 miles per day depending on the plan purchased, with $0.35/mile charged for additional mileage. For long-distance trips, these charges accumulate quickly:

Budget-conscious travelers can choose Cruise America ($0.38/mile) or pay premium prices for unlimited mileage providers. El Monte's $0.35/mile sits uncomfortably in the middle—not cheapest, not unlimited.

2. Inconsistent Vehicle Condition and Maintenance

El Monte's quality control varies significantly by location. Some facilities maintain excellent standards while others show inconsistent attention to detail:

• Highly-Rated Locations: Denver, Los Angeles (main facility), Orlando consistently receive positive reviews for vehicle cleanliness, thorough pre-rental inspections, and maintenance quality
• Mixed-Review Locations: Las Vegas, Phoenix, Miami show variable quality—some renters report excellent experiences while others encounter dirty interiors, incomplete repairs, or inadequate pre-rental inspections

This inconsistency reflects El Monte's franchise-style operation where individual location managers significantly influence quality standards. Research location-specific reviews before booking.

3. Basic Service Model (Not Personalized)

El Monte's service approach mirrors budget providers despite mid-range pricing:

• 20-25 Minute Orientations: Standardized checklist walkthroughs without extended hands-on coaching
• Corporate Processing: Transactional pickup/return without relationship building
• Call Center Support: 24/7 assistance through national hotline, not direct agent contact
• Rotating Staff: Different personnel for pickup, return, and phone support

For first-time RVers seeking patient coaching and personal support, Fireside RV's owner-operated service model provides vastly superior experience. El Monte's strength is reliable equipment at moderate prices, not service excellence.

4. Standard Interiors (Not Luxury)

El Monte's 2017-2024 Thor and Coachmen models feature functional but basic interiors:

• Vinyl upholstery (not leather)
• Laminate countertops (not solid-surface)
• Standard appliances (not premium brands)
• Basic lighting (not designer fixtures)
• Cloth blinds (not pleated shades)

These finishes are perfectly adequate for camping and travel, but travelers expecting luxury interiors should choose Road Bear's leather couches and premium appliances. El Monte delivers reliable function, not upscale aesthetics.

5. Mandatory Add-On Fees

El Monte's base rates exclude several charges that increase total cost:

• Mileage packages: $0.35/mile beyond included amount (100-150 mi/day)
• Kitchen kit: $75-125 mandatory rental (dishes, utensils, cookware, bedding)
• Generator use: $3.50/hour (not included in base rate)
• Insurance add-ons: $15-35/day for collision/comprehensive coverage
• Propane refill: $25-35 if not returned full
• Cleaning fee: $150 if returned excessively dirty

Always calculate total cost including these fees when comparing to competitors. El Monte's advertised base rates can be misleading without context.

How does El Monte compare to other mid-range RV rentals?

El Monte vs Cruise America: Newer Fleet vs Lower Price

Choose El Monte if: You're bringing pets (saves $100), prefer newer vehicles (2017+ vs 2015-2019), and operate near one of their 31 locations. The 8-15% price premium justifies better fleet condition.

Choose Cruise America if: You need widest geographic availability (110+ locations), prioritize lowest base price, and can tolerate older fleet. Best for budget-focused travelers without pets.

What do real El Monte customers say?

El Monte's customer reviews reflect their mid-range positioning: generally positive for reliability and value, with concerns about inconsistent service quality.

Positive Reviews (Focus on Value and Pets)

"Rented a 2019 Thor Quantum from El Monte's Los Angeles location for a 10-day California coastal trip with our two dogs. Zero pet fees was huge—saved $300 compared to Road Bear. RV was clean, functioned perfectly, and staff didn't hassle us about the dogs at all. Exactly what we needed at a fair price."

"We're AAA members and got 10% off plus 50 free miles per day, which made El Monte cheaper than Cruise America for a much newer RV (2020 vs 2016). Denver location was professional, vehicle was well-maintained, and we had zero issues during our 2-week Rocky Mountain trip. Would definitely rent from El Monte again."

Negative Reviews (Focus on Inconsistent Quality)

"Phoenix location was a mess. Our 2018 Coachmen hadn't been properly cleaned—trash under seats, sticky counters, unmade bed. Staff rushed through 15-minute orientation and seemed annoyed by questions. Vehicle ran fine mechanically, but the lack of attention to detail was disappointing for $175/day."

"Paid $1,800 for a week-long rental from Miami location. RV was functional but older than advertised (2017 model with 68,000 miles, not the 2019-2020 we expected). Slideout mechanism was temperamental, requiring manual override twice. For this price, expected better quality control."

The pattern is clear: El Monte delivers reliable mid-range value when expectations align with their positioning. Travelers seeking newest luxury equipment or personalized service will be disappointed. But pet owners, AAA members, and value-conscious renters consistently praise El Monte's practical approach.

How much does El Monte RV actually cost?

El Monte's pricing includes base rental, mileage packages, and optional add-ons. Here's a realistic total cost breakdown:

Real-World Cost Example: 10-Day Southwest National Parks Trip

Which RV models does El Monte offer?

El Monte's fleet includes Thor Motor Coach and Coachmen models across three categories:

Class C Motorhomes (Small, Medium, Large)

• Small C (19-22 ft): Sleeps 4, easier driving, better fuel economy, ideal for couples
• Medium C (25-27 ft): Sleeps 6-7, one slideout, balanced space/maneuverability, most popular
• Large C (28-30 ft): Sleeps 7-8, multiple slideouts, maximum family space
• Models: Thor Four Winds, Thor Quantum, Coachmen Freelander, Coachmen Leprechaun
• Daily Rate: $130-$195 depending on size and season

Class A Motorhomes (Luxury)

• Size: 32-36 feet, sleeps 6-8
• Features: Bus-style entry, multiple slideouts, residential appliances, premium finishes
• Models: Thor Challenger, Coachmen Mirada, Thor Miramar
• Best For: Extended trips (2+ weeks), experienced drivers, maximum comfort
• Daily Rate: $190-$270

Budget "Mighty" Brand (Economy Option)

• Size: 19-25 feet, sleeps 3-5
• Features: Basic amenities, older fleet (2015-2018), functional interiors
• Best For: Extreme budget travelers accepting older vehicles for lower rates
• Daily Rate: $95-$135

Final verdict: Should you rent from El Monte?

El Monte RV delivers exactly what their 54-year reputation promises: reliable mid-range RV rentals at moderate prices. They're not the cheapest (Cruise America), not the newest (Road Bear), and not the most personalized (Fireside RV)—but they occupy a valuable middle ground combining newer fleet, established reliability, and exceptional pet-friendly policy.

Their 3.8/5.0 rating reflects solid performance marred by inconsistent quality control across locations and limited mileage policies. When expectations align with their mid-range positioning, El Monte provides good value. When expectations exceed their corporate service model or demand unlimited mileage, disappointment follows.

Choose El Monte if: You're traveling with pets (zero fees saves $100-150), qualify for AAA discounts (10% off + 50 free miles), prefer newer fleet than Cruise America (2017+ vs 2015-2019), and operate near their 31 locations. Best for experienced RVers seeking reliable equipment without premium pricing.

Choose Cruise America if: You need widest availability (110+ locations), prioritize absolute lowest cost, and can accept older fleet (5-9 years). Save 15-20% versus El Monte for more basic vehicles.

Choose Fireside RV if: You're a first-timer needing personalized coaching, want unlimited mileage included, and value direct owner support. Pay 10-15% more than El Monte for premium service and newer fleet.

Choose Road Bear if: You demand newest fleet (0-18 months), luxury interiors, and have flexible budget. Pay 70-85% more than El Monte exclusively for vehicle newness and upscale finishes.

El Monte occupies a practical niche: established reliability for budget-conscious pet owners and AAA members. Just understand you're paying for dependable mid-range equipment, not luxury service or unlimited mileage freedom.