Renting an RV in Nashville, TN: What to Know Before You Go

If you’re planning your first RV adventure, you’re not alone. More travelers than ever are discovering the freedom, comfort, and unique experiences that RVing brings—and Nashville is one of the best places to start. Known as Music City, Nashville isn’t just a hub for live music and culture—it’s also a gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains, historic Southern towns, and Tennessee’s beautiful lakes and parks.

Whether you’re setting out for a weekend road trip, a family vacation, or a cross-country journey, an RV rental in Nashville, TN makes it easy to turn your travel dreams into reality. But before you pick up the keys, it’s helpful to understand how the process works. This guide walks you through everything—from choosing the right RV to knowing what to pack—so you can hit the road stress-free and fully prepared.

1. Types of RVs Available in Nashville

Choosing the right RV for your trip is key. Nashville rental providers offer a range of options designed to fit different travel styles:

Class A Motorhomes

• The biggest, most luxurious option—ideal for families or long journeys.
  
  
• Features often include multiple slide-outs, full kitchens, bathrooms, TVs, and spacious sleeping areas.
  
  
• Perfect if you’re planning a multi-state road trip or want the comfort of a “home on wheels.”
  
  

Class C Motorhomes

• A popular choice for first-time renters.
  
  
• Easier to drive than Class A rigs but still include beds, kitchens, and bathrooms.
  
  
• Great for family trips to the Smoky Mountains or weekend getaways to state parks.
  
  

Class B Camper Vans

• Compact, fuel-efficient, and easy to maneuver—perfect for couples or solo travelers.
  
  
• Includes essentials like a bed, kitchenette, and small bathroom.
  
  
• Great for exploring winding roads in Appalachia or city-hopping from Nashville to Memphis.
  
  

Travel Trailers & Toy Haulers

• Require a tow vehicle, but offer flexibility and a wide range of layouts.
  
  
• Toy haulers are especially popular with outdoor enthusiasts who bring ATVs, bikes, or kayaks.
  
  
• A great option for camping near lakes like Percy Priest or Old Hickory.
  
  

Tip: Unsure what’s best? Most Nashville RV rental companies will walk you through the differences and recommend the right fit based on your group size, comfort level, and destinations.

2. Insurance and Driver Requirements

Before you hit the road, make sure you’re covered. Here’s what to expect when renting an RV in Nashville, TN:

• Basic Liability Coverage: Usually included in your rental cost.
  
  
• Collision & Damage Coverage: Available as an upgrade or required if you don’t already have coverage.
  
  
• Roadside Assistance: Highly recommended in case of a flat tire, lockout, or other hiccups.
  
  
• Driver Requirements:
  
  
  
  • Most companies require renters to be at least 25 years old with a valid U.S. driver’s license.
    
    
  • International visitors may need an International Driving Permit.
    
    
  • Special licenses are not usually needed for Class A, B, or C RVs.
    
    

Always review your rental agreement carefully so you know exactly what’s included.

3. Where to Go from Nashville

One of the biggest perks of renting an RV in Nashville is its location—you’re within a few hours of some of the South’s best destinations:

• Great Smoky Mountains National Park (3.5 hours east): America’s most-visited national park offers scenic drives, waterfalls, and over 800 miles of hiking trails.
  
  
• Memphis (3 hours west): Road trip to the birthplace of blues and rock ’n’ roll. Stop at Graceland, Beale Street, and Sun Studio.
  
  
• Kentucky Bourbon Country (2–3 hours north): Tour iconic distilleries like Maker’s Mark and Woodford Reserve.
  
  
• Tennessee State Parks (1–2 hours):
  
  
  
  • Montgomery Bell State Park: Hiking, biking, and lakefront camping just 45 minutes away.
    
    
  • Fall Creek Falls: Stunning waterfalls, zip-lining, and one of Tennessee’s most popular campgrounds.
    
    
  • Cedars of Lebanon: Known for unique cedar forests and cave systems.
    
    
• Lakes & Rivers Nearby:
  
  
  
  • Percy Priest Lake: 15 minutes from downtown Nashville, perfect for boating, fishing, and camping.
    
    
  • Old Hickory Lake: Great for family-friendly campgrounds and water activities.
    
    
• Blue Ridge Parkway Road Trip: Extend your trip eastward for one of the most scenic drives in America.
  
  

4. What’s Included in a Nashville RV Rental?

Most Nashville RV rentals come equipped with everything you need to get started:

• Kitchen Essentials: Pots, pans, dishes, utensils, stovetop, fridge, and microwave.
  
  
• Linens & Towels: Bedding and bath towels may be included—double-check before packing.
  
  
• Bathroom Facilities: Depending on the RV, you may have a toilet, shower, and sink onboard.
  
  
• Entertainment Options: TVs, DVD players, or Bluetooth speakers. Some even offer Wi-Fi boosters.
  
  
• Outdoor Gear: Camping chairs, tables, grills, and sometimes even fire pits.
  
  

Pro Tip: Ask about “turnkey packages” where rentals come fully stocked with everything you need, from cookware to lawn chairs.

5. What to Pack for Your RV Trip

Packing for an RV trip is about balancing comfort with space. Here’s a starter checklist:

Clothing & Personal Items

• Comfortable walking shoes & outdoor gear
  
  
• Layers for changing Tennessee weather
  
  
• Swimsuits, towels, and flip-flops for lakes or camp showers
  
  

Food & Kitchen Supplies

• Groceries for at least your first day
  
  
• Easy-to-make road trip snacks
  
  
• Trash bags, paper towels, and dish soap
  
  

Outdoor Gear

• Camp chairs, picnic blankets, and lanterns
  
  
• Bug spray and sunscreen
  
  
• Fishing poles or kayaks if heading to the lakes
  
  

Entertainment & Extras

• Books, board games, or playing cards
  
  
• Chargers, power banks, and adapters
  
  
• Offline maps or a printed road atlas (cell service can be spotty in the mountains)
  
  

Final Tips for First-Timers

• Book Campsites Early: Popular campgrounds near Nashville and the Smokies fill up fast.
  
  
• Do a Walkthrough: Ask your rental provider to show you how the hookups, tanks, and appliances work.
  
  
• Practice Driving: Try parking and backing up before leaving town.
  
  
• Slow Down & Enjoy: RVing is about freedom and flexibility—take your time and soak up the journey.
  
  

Ready to Hit the Road?

With its perfect mix of music, culture, and outdoor adventure, Nashville is the ideal place to start your RV journey. Whether you’re planning a family road trip to the Smokies, a music-themed loop through Tennessee, or a relaxing lakeside retreat, an RV rental in Nashville, TN gives you the freedom to explore on your own terms—with all the comforts of home.

Start your journey with the local experts at RV Rentals Nashville.
Browse available RVs, compare features, and book your ideal rig today.

Adventure is calling. Nashville is your starting line.