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Canada Motorhome Holidays – FAQs

Explore the most commonly asked questions about motorhome travel in Canada. From planning and pickup to driving and returning your RV, we’ve got everything covered. 

Before You Go

What documents do I need to rent a motorhome in Canada? 

All drivers must present: 

  • A valid driver’s licence, valid until at least one day after your return date 
  • International guests: A valid passport 

 

Do I need to pre-book campgrounds in Canada? 

Yes, especially during peak travel months (June–September) and in popular provinces like Alberta and British Columbia. Many national and provincial parks book up months in advance. We can pre-book campsites for you in Alberta, British Columbia, Nova Scotia, and some U.S. areas, depending on your itinerary. Booking ahead gives you peace of mind and lets you focus on enjoying the journey. 

 

What’s included in your motorhome packages (Bronze, Silver, Gold)? 

All our packages include return flights, a hotel stay on arrival, and motorhome hire. The key differences are in mileage, insurance cover, and included equipment: 

  • Bronze: Standard liability, hotel night, and motorhome rental. Optional add-ons. 
  • Silver: Adds 500km mileage, kitchen and linen kits, and liability reduction. 
  • Gold: Includes 1,000km mileage, more insurance coverage, kits, and “Drop & Go” service. 

 

What should I pack for a motorhome holiday in Canada? 

We suggest bringing comfortable layers, walking shoes, a torch, insect repellent, and reusable water bottles. Kitchen and linen kits can be included in your package. Essentials like cutlery, bedding, and towels are usually provided, but check your booking confirmation to be sure. 

 

Do I need a special licence to drive an RV in Canada? 

No special licence is needed. A full UK driving licence is accepted, and you must be over 21 or 25 depending on the RV rental company. It’s important to carry your physical licence (not just a photo or digital copy). 

 

Should I pick up my motorhome on the day I arrive in Canada? 

We strongly advise against it. Most international flights arrive in the afternoon or evening, and rental depots often close by 4–5pm. Jet lag and fatigue also make driving unfamiliar vehicles risky. We include a one-night hotel stay in your package to let you rest and start fresh the next day. 

 

Motorhome Pick-Up FAQs

When can we pick up the vehicle? 

You can choose your pick-up time during Online Check-in, which opens five days before your scheduled departure. CanaDream offers a range of pick-up slots from morning through late afternoon. Times vary by station and depend on demand for the day. 

Early Pick-Up (before 12:30): Available for a $75 fee. 

Standard Pick-Up (from 13:00 onwards): No additional charge. 

To get the best choice of pick-up slots, we recommend completing Online Check-in as early as possible within the 5-day window. Please note that pick-up times cannot be booked in advance outside of Online Check-in. Arriving on time for your selected slot helps ensure a smooth and efficient handover. 

 

How long will the pick-up process take? 

Once Online Check-in is completed, the pick-up process typically takes around 15–20 minutes. By this stage, all essential steps like watching demo videos, signing documents, paying your deposit, and selecting optional extras should be done online — so the final steps are simply your self-guided vehicle tour and a damage inspection. 

Prefer a personal touch? CanaDream offers an optional One-to-One Personal Demonstration for $50, lasting 30–45 minutes. You can book this during Online Check-in or at the time of reservation. 

 

In what condition will I receive the vehicle? 

All CanaDream vehicles are thoroughly cleaned and fully prepared for your adventure. When you pick up your motorhome, it will come with: 

  • Fully charged coach and chassis batteries 
  • Full propane tanks 
  • Empty waste tanks 
  • A clean and sanitised interior 
  • Your optional Convenience Kits placed inside (if pre-booked) 

The team ensures your motorhome is “trip ready” so you can hit the road with confidence. 

 

Can I pick up or drop off on a Sunday? 

Yes — but availability depends on the season and location: 

May 1 – September 30: Sunday pick-ups and drop-offs are available at all stations (except Edmonton), with normal times. 

October 1 – April 30: Sunday operations are by request only, and a $375 service fee may apply. 

Edmonton: Closed on Sundays year-round. 

 

What is the security deposit at pick-up? 

CanaDream offer three different packages which effects the security deposit cost. 

Liablity Zero 

  • Reduces the Guest liability to $0.
  • Windshield/Tire protection is included (Covers windshield/tire replacement but not call-out charges).
  • The incident must be reported to CanaDream RV within 24 hours, otherwise the cover will not be accepted.

Liablity Reduction

  • Reduces the Guest liability to $1,000.
  • On return of the RV, in the condition it was picked up in, the security deposit will be refunded.
  • The incident must be reported to CanaDream RV within 24 hours, otherwise the coverage will not be accepted. 

Standard Liablity 

  • CanaDream requires a security deposit of up to $3,000 to be paid at pick up. 
  • On return of the RV, in the condition it was picked up in, the security deposit will be refunded.

The deposit must be paid by credit card and will be refunded to the same card used at pick-up. Please check your My Canada Trips to see what liablity you have booked. 

 

Are we permitted to tow anything behind the motorhome? 

No. CanaDream vehicles are not equipped with hitches, and towing is strictly prohibited. Attempting to tow will void your insurance coverage and may incur penalties. 

 

Can I put a canoe or other items on the roof? 

No. To ensure your safety and to protect the vehicle, roof access is prohibited. CanaDream does not install ladders on their motorhomes, and transporting items such as canoes or kayaks on the roof is not allowed. Accidents caused by rooftop storage are not covered by insurance. 

On the Road

Is it easy to drive a motorhome in Canada? 

Yes. Canadian roads are wide and well-maintained. RVs come with automatic transmission, power steering, and often a rear-view camera. Take it slow at first and allow extra time for parking and turning, especially in cities or when reversing. 

 

How do I get water, electricity, and waste services? 

Most campgrounds offer “hookups” for fresh water and electricity, and many have sanitary dump stations for emptying grey and black water tanks. It’s a simple process, and we’ll show you how everything works before you set off. Don’t worry—most first-timers are confident after the first night or two! 

 

Can I use the vehicle's awning? 

Although some vehicles are equipped with awnings, they have been disabled for guest use to avoid costly accidental damage. Awnings are one of the most frequently damaged items on RVs, and repairs are expensive — for this reason, CanaDream has chosen not to make them available. 

 

Can I use the generator? 

Yes, usage depends on the season: 

May 1 – September 30: $3.50 CAD per hour 

October 1 – April 30: Free of charge 

 

What if I break down or have a problem with the RV? 

Our Gold package includes the “Peace of Mind” service with towing, fuel delivery, lost key replacement, and more. Support numbers are provided in your welcome pack. You’re never far from help, and we’re only a phone call away. 

CanaDream offers 24/7 toll-free roadside assistance in the event of a breakdown or accident. Trained technicians will help troubleshoot your issue and get you back on the road safely. 

 

How many kilometres can I drive, and what happens if I go over? 


Your package includes either 500km or 1,000km depending on the level you book. You can pre-pay for additional mileage or pay for any overage locally at the depot. Most travellers average around 150–250km per day. 

 

Are there any driving restrictions or rules I should know about? 

Canada uses kilometres, not miles. Speed limits are clearly marked, and seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers. Watch out for wildlife, especially at dawn and dusk. If you’re driving through mountainous areas, take it slow and use lower gears on steep descents. 

 

Can I drive the Dempster Highway? 

Yes — but only from May 15 to September 14. Travel outside of these dates is prohibited due to hazardous conditions. Please note that: 

  • The Dempster Highway is remote and can be rough 
  • Mobile phone coverage is limited 
  • You must be well-prepared for emergencies 

 

Are there any extra charges for visiting the Yukon, Northwest Territories or Newfoundland? 

Yes, a Northern Surcharge of $500 CAD applies for trips that include: 

  • Yukon, Northwest Territories, Nunavut 
  • Newfoundland and Labrador 
  • Remote areas in northern Quebec or Alberta 
  • Any roads north of Fort St. John or Kitwanga, BC 

If you plan to travel in these areas, you must obtain permission at the time of booking. Unauthorised travel voids your insurance and will incur a $900 penalty. 

 

Can I travel in winter or shoulder seasons? 

Some RV rental companies offer “winterised” vehicles with insulated water tanks and extra heating, but many depots close or restrict travel from October to April. We’ll advise you on safe routes and seasonal availability. 

 

Can I take the RV on a ferry? 

Yes — you can take a CanaDream RV on most Canadian ferries, but you must comply with local ferry regulations. Please be aware: 

  • Many ferries prohibit propane tanks over 65 litres 
  • Maxi Motorhomes (MHA) often exceed this size and may not be accepted 
  • Consider choosing a Midi Motorhome (MHB), Super Van Camper (SVC), or Deluxe Van Camper (DVC) if you plan to use ferries 

Drop off FAQS

What do I need to do before returning the motorhome? 
Unless you’ve booked the “Drop & Go” service (included in Gold), you’ll need to: 

  • Empty the waste tanks 
  • Remove all rubbish 
  • Tidy the inside of the RV 
  • Refill the fuel and propane (if applicable) 

Return times vary by depot but are usually before 11am. Check your agreement to avoid late fees. 

 

What if I return the RV late or damaged? 

Late returns can incur additional daily rental charges. If there’s damage, your insurance will determine whether you're liable. Always report any incidents to the rental company as soon as they occur. Our team will help support you through the claims process if needed. 

 

What time do I need to return the vehicle? 

You will select a drop-off time slot during Online Check-in. Standard drop-off times are between 8:00 and 10:00 AM. Later return slots may be available for an extra fee. To avoid late fees, you must return the motorhome within your scheduled hour. 

 

How long does the drop-off process take? 

As long as the motorhome is returned clean, undamaged, and with all kits accounted for, the return process takes approximately 30 minutes. 

 

Do I need to empty the holding tanks before return? 

Yes — unless you’ve purchased the Platinum Package, you are responsible for emptying both the grey and black water tanks at a proper dump station. If the RV is returned with full tanks, a $100 fee applies. 

 

How much fuel do I need to return with? 

You need to return the vehicle with at least the same fuel level as you received it (usually a minimum of ¼ tank). If the fuel level is lower, you will be charged a refuelling fee. Propane tanks may be returned empty, and no refunds are given for unused fuel. 

 

How clean does the vehicle need to be? 

You should: 

  • Sweep the floors 
  • Empty and wipe down the fridge 
  • Wipe down the stovetop and surfaces 

If the vehicle is excessively dirty, a cleaning fee of $100 per hour may apply. 

General FAQs

What extras should I consider pre-booking? 

Our Canada Experts typically add two essential items to every booking: 

Kitchen Kit (per booking): Includes cutlery, plates, utensils, pots, dishcloths, and more. 

Linen Kit (per person): Includes a pillow, blanket, towels, and sheets. 

Additional optional extras include: 

  • Extra driver coverage 
  • Child seats 
  • Lawn chairs 
  • Bike racks (up to 4 bikes) 
  • Skyroam Solis Lite hotspot 
  • Platinum Package (includes Peace of Mind insurance upgrade, Valet service, windshield protection, and toilet chemical top-ups) 
  • Toaster or coffee maker 

 

What kind of fuel economy can I expect? 

RV fuel efficiency varies depending on road conditions, terrain, and driving style. A general estimate is 25 litres per 100 km, or roughly 9.4 mpg. 

 

What is the minimum rental age? 

You must be at least 21 years old and hold a valid driver’s licence from your country of residence. The licence must remain valid until at least one day after your return. 

 

Can I leave my suitcase at the pick-up station? 

Yes — if you are returning to the same station, you’re welcome to leave your empty suitcase there for safekeeping. This complimentary service makes it easier to travel light in your motorhome. 

 

How many people can travel in each RV? 

Each CanaDream motorhome is equipped with a specific number of seatbelts. Only as many passengers as there are seatbelts may travel in the vehicle, regardless of the number of sleeping berths. 

 

Are there radios or MP3 outlets in the vehicles? 

All vehicles come with a dashboard radio/CD player. Some models may have MP3 or AUX inputs, but these are not guaranteed. For full flexibility, we suggest bringing an FM transmitter if you want to play music from your phone or MP3 device. 

 

Do the motorhomes include TVs or DVD players? 

No. CanaDream vehicles do not include TVs or DVD players. While some may have screens installed from the factory, they are not for guest use. Instead, we recommend bringing a tablet, laptop, or renting one of the optional iPads. 

 

May I smoke inside the vehicle? 

Absolutely not. Smoking is not allowed in any CanaDream vehicle. A $500 defuming and sanitising fee will apply if smoke is detected upon return. 

 

Do you offer RVs for more than 6 people? 

No. The maximum number of passengers allowed in any CanaDream vehicle is six. This is based on the number of seatbelts, not sleeping spaces. Under Canadian law, all passengers must be buckled in while the vehicle is in motion. 

 

Is there a charge for additional drivers? 

Yes. One driver is included in your rental. Additional drivers cost $5.00 per night, per person. Only authorised drivers may operate the vehicle. Insurance is void if an unauthorised driver is involved in an incident. 

 

Are one-way rentals available? 

Yes, one-way rentals are permitted between CanaDream locations, but must be pre-booked. Please ask us for a custom quote. 

 

What are the one-way fees? 

A $940 CAD drop fee applies to one-way rentals, unless it is already included in your travel package. 

Our team of experts is on hand to help tailor-make your Canada holiday

Canada Expert CarolCarol
Canada Expert GillianGillian

Speak to one of our experts on 0800 021 7732

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