The Benefits of Renting a Camper Van with Peace Vans

Camping in a van provides the perfect combination of ease and access. We might be a little biased, but we think there’s no better place to explore than the Pacific Northwest and no better method than by camper van. Whether you’re looking for the coolness of a vintage VW camper or the convenience of a modern Mercedes Metris van, our rental fleet has you covered.

When you drive away from our shop in Seattle, you'll experience the freedom that only a classic road trip can offer. No tour guides, no restrictions, no boundaries. Just you, the van, and the open road. 

We chatted with Jess, Peace Vans Rentals Manager, to get the scoop on our offers, special perks, and some of our favorite PNW road trips.

Let’s start with the age-old question: Vintage or Modern? What’s important to consider when looking at Peace Vans’ different camper van options? What entices people to pick one model over another?

Our Vintage vans are perfect for the Pacific Northwest—Washington, Oregon, and Idaho. Our Modern vans are great for longer trips—places like Glacier, Yellowstone, and California. Our Vanagons can go to these destinations, too; you'll need a few more days since cruising will be slower. They’re great vans, they'll go 65 MPH on flat roads, but you won’t have the same power up hills or over passes.

Think about the features you’d like. One thing to consider if you're traveling with smaller kids is that the Vanagons don't have the LATCH system for car seats or airbags as it abides by the 80’s vehicle laws. The VW Vanagons do have 3-point seatbelts, however, and many families choose this option for an epic family vacation. On the other hand, the Metris vans will have a LATCH system and airbags but no roof tether.

Climate and time of year are also things to consider. For hotter months, the windows down in the VW Vanagon work tremendously and are one of the best parts of driving in a VW, but if you think you need A/C, then the Mercedes Metris is an excellent option. We usually recommend taking out a Mercedes Metris for the cooler months, as most of the Vanagons have propane heaters that must be refilled every four days. The Mercedes Metris camper vans are heated from their fuel tank, so as long as you have 1/4 tank gas in the car, you can use the heater while camping.

It’s also essential to think about the vibe you want. Simply put, it's just enjoyable to road trip in a vintage VW camper van. They have a lot of personality. You won't get as many people giving you peace signs in a Mercedes.

Suppose you’re not looking to camp, but want something funky and full of character for a gathering, wedding, party, or promotional event. In that case, Frida is our 1977 VW Bus that we converted to electric. She’s super cute—bright yellow with little details like chili peppers inside the doors. She’s for day use only and is a fun addition to creative events.

What are some of the goodies, excellent products, and gear stocked in the rental vans?

They come with everything you'd ever need besides your clothes and linens—and you can even rent linens from us if you want to pack light and only bring clothes and groceries. We have fantastic bedding, Rumpl blankets, and Big Agnes sleeping bags. 

The van kitchen is better stocked than my kitchen at home! Our vans are stocked with reputable, high-quality brands like GSI, Coleman, and REI. We have a 3-piece pot set, every utensil you’d need: spatulas, a garlic press, a spice kit with ten different spices, and specialty salt from a local company in Ballard. For coffee lovers, we’ve got a vast coffee selection—moka pot, Aeropress, french press, single serve pour over ... you can choose whatever coffee brew method you’d like.

And then we have everything you need to sit outside—chairs, a table, an outdoor mat, a Coleman stove. We equip you with options to cook inside or outside the van fully. 

Why choose Peace Vans over another camper van rental company? What makes Peace Vans unique? Are there any exclusive perks? 

You are well taken care of the entire trip, from your first inquiry about renting to when you return your camper van. There’s a 24/7 text line where you can contact us with questions anytime while adventuring in the camper van. 

We have exclusive Peace Vans campsites. When you rent with us, you have free access to different camping spots around Washington State. A scenic, excellent place to stay for free is a significant perk that can relieve the stress of finding a campsite. We’re adding more and more every year!

Your van is fully stocked with high-quality gear that is consistently rotated out when worn, so you're getting the best experience.

And then there’s the credibility of our years as a nationally-renowned VW Vanagon repair shop. It's how our business started, well before we ever dipped our toes into camper van rentals. Our Vanagons have seen thousands of dollars of repair work before they hit the road. So you know you’re getting something that’s been thoroughly looked at before you leave on your trip. 

Another benefit is that Peace Vans doesn't cover our vans in loud murals, giant logos, or flashy branding. You don't have to feel like you’re driving a big mobile advertisement for Peace Vans. You'll be able to enjoy your trip without people constantly approaching you with questions. We don't expect you to be a salesperson; we hope you kick back and relax!

And the biggest thing for me is the opportunity to rent with our team. The rental experience, like everything we do at Peace Vans, is very non-transactional. We share a mutual love of travel, the outdoors, and adventure. We are here to get people on amazing trips to our favorite places.

Is it possible to rent a camper van year-round? Are there any specifics to know for the winter months?

Camping in the deep winter will be chilly even with the heaters. Your pop top is tent material, so when it is popped, it will release air, but your heater certainly takes the edge off. We tend to recommend the Mercedes Metris camper vans for the winter months since they have a fuel tank heater you don’t have to worry about refilling with heavier use. 

Our camper vans, Mercedes & VW, are 2-wheel drive, so we don’t allow them to go on snow. Places like the Olympic Peninsula or the Oregon Coast are great options in the winter because they aren’t going to get that heavy snowfall.  

If you’re new to camping in a van, we encourage you to rent with us in the warmer, drier months so your first trip is a memorable experience—in a good way! Before your trip, we ask many questions to help you find the right fit. Have you camped before? Do you have small children? Do you want to drive to California and back in 2 days? We vet everyone.

What’s your favorite PNW road trip? 

If you've never been to the area, you should go to the Olympic Peninsula! You'll be on the beach and the forest the same day; it’s the best of both worlds. And on a clear day, you’ll get incredible views of stunning mountains. There are cute, small towns to stop and tour during your journey. You can grab groceries and check out some excellent restaurants in places like Port Townsend and Port Angeles. 

Are there any additional steps Peace Vans takes to make renters feel extra loved?

Macarons for every first-time renter! After checkout, we give every renter a box of macarons made by a local Seattle woman. We’ll write “Just Married” on vans. We’ll do champagne for anniversaries. Nice personal touches to improve your trip. How can we make it feel like the best, most comfortable, most relaxed home on wheels? 

Let’s chat van names! The Peace Vans fleet features characters like Skookumchuck and Elwha. What’s the story with the camper van names?

Our vans are named after waterways in Washington—our favorite rivers and lakes. We come up with names as a team. It brings our local nature and a sense of place to each van. 

What do you love about working at Peace Vans?

The people. The #1 thing is all the team members are great people, and that’s important to me. We share similar interests and passions and go on camping trips together. I love being a part of the Peace Vans Family!

Take Your Next Vacation with Peace Vans

Ready to hit the road on your next trip? Visit our rentals page or email us, and we’ll get you started on your journey.