You’ve got the playlist, the snacks, and a destination somewhere between a dream and a day’s drive away. Now comes the unglamorous but essential decision: what vehicle do you take?
It might be tempting to click “Rent SUV” on your favourite car rental site and call it a day. SUVs are the default choice: comfortable, stylish, familiar. But for longer road trips, especially those involving groups, gear, or unpredictable terrain, a passenger van or large van rental might quietly be the smarter move.
Let’s break down the real-world differences between renting a van and renting an SUV for your next vacation, and why the best road trip vehicle isn’t always the one with the most cup holders.
Road Trip Van Rental: Function Over Flash
Renting a van might not scream “Instagram-worthy,” but it quietly wins where it matters. Vans are designed to move people and cargo efficiently, with none of the compromises SUVs force you to make.
Why Rent a Minivan or Passenger Van?
- More room for passengers: Minivans typically seat seven. Passenger vans? Up to 15. Everyone gets their own space, their own window, and, crucially, less chance of an argument.
- More cargo space: No need to play Tetris with the luggage. Large van rentals have tall ceilings and deep trunks that let you bring it all without sacrificing legroom.
- Sliding doors and easy access: This is especially useful when you’re making frequent stops, travelling with kids, or dealing with gear.
The modern road trip isn’t just about getting from A to B. It’s about comfort, flexibility, and being able to say yes to whatever detour or surprise pops up. Vans make that easier.
The Case for SUVs: Style and Versatility
That said, there are reasons SUVs remain a go-to choice for travellers. If your road trip is less “family caravan” and more “couples escape” or “friends with flexible packing,” renting an SUV can still make sense.
Advantages of Renting an SUV for Vacation:
- Handles better on rougher roads: Mountain passes, unpaved detours, and rural highways? SUVs often offer better handling and traction.
- Fuel efficiency has improved: Newer SUV models close the gas mileage gap with vans, especially compact or crossover SUVs.
- Ideal for smaller groups: If you’re travelling light and don’t need a third row, an SUV can feel more agile and personal.
But the second you’re adding multiple passengers, awkward luggage (hello, skis), or longer drive days, the scales tip back toward vans.
Best Rental Cars for Vacations: What to Consider
When comparing a road trip van rental vs. SUV rental, the “best” choice really comes down to the kind of trip you’re taking. Here’s a quick checklist to make that decision easier:
- How many people are going?
More than five? Consider a large van rental. You’ll thank yourself when it comes time to stretch out or load in. - What kind of gear are you bringing?
Surfboards, bikes, coolers, photography equipment: it all fits better in a van. SUVs can work, but you may end up playing puzzle master. - How long are your drive days?
Vans win for legroom and upright seating. Over 6–8 hour drive days, your body will feel the difference. - Are you planning any off-road detours?
Stick with an SUV if you’re headed to remote locations that require more robust suspension or 4WD. - Do you care more about comfort or aesthetics?
Look, nobody is renting a 12-seater van to impress strangers at a gas station. But your back and your passengers may appreciate the trade-off.
Large Van Rental: Ideal for Group Travel
There’s something uniquely chaotic and wonderful about a group road trip. Friends, family, or coworkers all squeezed into one itinerary. But the biggest killer of a good trip isn’t bad weather or broken GPS. It’s lack of space and poor planning.
That’s where large van rentals shine. With extra room for both bodies and bags, nobody’s stuck balancing a duffel on their lap. People can actually sleep, stretch, or swap seats. Plus, with modern features like rear climate control, USB charging ports, and backup cameras, today’s vans are built for the long haul, not just shuttling soccer teams around.
Passenger van rentals are also more fuel-efficient than most people expect. When you factor in cost per person, they often beat renting two cars or overloading an SUV.
Final Verdict: Rent the Vehicle That Fits Your Trip
The bottom line? Don’t just rent what you know: rent what fits.
For weekend getaways with minimal luggage, a compact SUV can absolutely do the trick. But if you’re headed cross-country, travelling in a group, or packing heavy, road trip van rentals give you a level of comfort and practicality no SUV can match.
When in doubt, err on the side of space. It’s one of the few things you’ll never regret having more of on the road.
Find the Best Road Trip Vehicle With Ventures Car and Truck Rentals
Now that you know the pros and cons of vans vs. SUVs for your next road trip, Ventures Car and Truck Rentals can help you choose the right vehicle for your plans. Whether you’re exploring Ontario solo or packing in the whole crew for a coast-to-coast adventure, we offer a wide selection of well-maintained, late-model vehicles built for long-distance comfort and reliability.
Our minivans and passenger vans are equipped with modern technology, from navigation tools to Bluetooth connectivity, so you can stay connected and comfortable wherever the road takes you. We’ll also help you select the best fit based on your group size, destination, and itinerary.
Our experienced rental team makes the entire process fast and easy, so you can spend less time on paperwork and more time planning your next roadside stop.
Call Ventures Car and Truck Rentals at 1 (416) 656-3559 or contact us online to book your ideal van or SUV rental for your upcoming road trip.
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