Last Updated on September 4, 2025
For many people, an RV is more than just a vehicle—it’s a symbol of adventure, family vacations, and freedom on the open road. Yet, for most owners, their recreational vehicle spends more time parked in the driveway or sitting in storage than actually being used. What if that idle time could turn into extra income?
That’s exactly what happened for Mike Braeuer, an ordinary RV owner who transformed his underused camper into a reliable side hustle. By listing his vehicle on RVshare, the largest peer-to-peer RV rental platform in the United States, Mike began earning an average of $1,500 per month and eventually surpassed $50,000 in rental income within two years.
This success story isn’t an isolated case. As more travelers look for affordable, flexible vacation options, the demand for RV rentals has skyrocketed. Platforms like RVshare make it simple for everyday RV owners to connect with renters who are eager for road trips, weekend getaways, and even long-term adventures.
In this article, we’ll explore Mike’s journey, share practical tips for anyone interested in listing their RV, and highlight why renting out your RV could be one of the most lucrative and flexible side hustles available today. Whether you’re curious about covering your monthly RV loan payment or looking to generate a steady stream of passive income, Mike’s experience offers valuable insights.
How Mike Braeuer Earned $50,000 in Two Years With RVshare
When Mike Braeuer first purchased his RV, he envisioned family road trips, cross-country adventures, and weekends in nature. Like many owners, however, reality set in: his camper spent more time in the driveway than on the road. Between work, family schedules, and everyday life, the RV was being used only a few weeks each year. Meanwhile, storage fees, insurance costs, and regular maintenance bills continued to pile up.
Instead of allowing his RV to become a financial burden, Mike decided to explore whether he could turn it into a revenue source. That’s when he discovered RVshare, a peer-to-peer rental marketplace where RV owners can list their vehicles for travelers to rent. The concept was simple: just like Airbnb connects homeowners with vacationers, RVshare connects RV owners with people looking for a mobile adventure.
From Idle Camper to Income Stream
Mike took the leap by creating a professional listing. He uploaded high-quality photos, wrote detailed descriptions, and highlighted the unique features of his RV. Within weeks, inquiries started rolling in. Families wanted to rent for summer trips, young couples sought budget-friendly weekend escapes, and retirees explored the idea of “test-driving” RV life before making a purchase.
Over time, Mike’s bookings became consistent. On average, he earned around $1,500 each month from his RV, sometimes more during peak travel seasons like summer and holiday weekends. After just two years, he had generated over $50,000 in income—enough to cover his RV’s costs, fund family vacations, and even put some money into savings.
Balancing Rentals With Personal Use
One of the aspects Mike appreciated most about RVshare was flexibility. He wasn’t giving up his RV entirely; he could block off dates whenever he wanted to take his family on trips. This way, his vehicle served both as a source of income and as a cherished family travel option.
Key Factors in His Success
Mike’s results didn’t come by accident. His success stemmed from a combination of preparation, customer service, and attention to detail:
- Professional Presentation: High-quality photos and a well-written description made his listing stand out.
- Responsiveness: Quick replies to inquiries helped secure more bookings.
- Customer Focus: Cleanliness, reliability, and small touches like a welcome kit earned him excellent reviews.
- Adaptability: He learned to adjust his pricing during off-season months to keep the bookings coming.
By treating his RV like a mini business, Mike transformed it into a dependable source of side income. His journey shows that renting out an RV isn’t just possible—it can be remarkably profitable if managed with care.
5 Tips for Listing an RV on RVshare
Mike Braeuer’s story is inspiring, but it’s not just luck that made him successful. He followed specific strategies that allowed him to consistently earn an average of $1,500 per month renting out his RV. If you’re considering doing the same, here are five actionable tips that can help you maximize your success on RVshare.
1. Master the Art of Letting Go
For many RV owners, the biggest barrier isn’t the logistics—it’s the emotional attachment. RVs often represent years of memories, freedom, and family bonding. Handing over your keys to strangers can feel unsettling at first.
Mike experienced the same hesitation, but he realized that his RV was sitting idle most of the year. By reframing it as both a personal asset and a business tool, he could still create memories with his family while generating income during unused months. If you’re able to let go of the “it’s just mine” mindset, you’ll unlock the financial benefits of renting without losing the joy of ownership.
2. Secure the Right Insurance Coverage
One of the top concerns for new RV hosts is: What happens if someone damages my vehicle? That’s where RVshare makes things easier. The platform provides up to $1 million in liability coverage along with comprehensive and collision insurance for every rental.
Mike didn’t simply rely on the basics—he reviewed the terms thoroughly and even supplemented coverage for extra peace of mind. By making sure he was fully protected, he could rent out his RV with confidence instead of constant worry. Before you list, take time to understand how the insurance works and what’s included so you’re not caught off guard.
3. Hold Up Your End of the Bargain: Maintain Good Customer Service
In the peer-to-peer rental world, reviews are everything. A clean RV, clear communication, and good hospitality can make the difference between a one-time renter and a repeat customer.
Mike went above and beyond to ensure every booking ended with happy renters. He:
- Delivered a spotless, well-maintained RV.
- Provided simple instruction guides for setup and use.
- Added personal touches like bottled water, snacks, or a welcome note.
These efforts earned him glowing reviews, which helped him rank higher in RVshare’s search results. More visibility meant more bookings, and better reviews allowed him to charge premium rental rates over time.
4. Anticipate These Costs and Get Creative to Keep Them Down
Renting out an RV isn’t 100% profit. There are always costs like cleaning, regular maintenance, restocking supplies, and RVshare’s service fees. But smart hosts learn how to manage these expenses effectively.
Mike handled basic maintenance himself, scheduled deep cleans only when necessary, and encouraged renters to return the RV fueled and tidy. By controlling his expenses, he protected his bottom line and maximized net profit.
5. Note the Highs and Lows of Seasons
RVs are seasonal income generators. Demand soars during the summer, around holidays, and during popular local events. Winter, on the other hand, can be slower depending on your location.
Mike adjusted his strategy by:
- Raising prices during peak travel months.
- Offering discounts in slower seasons to keep bookings flowing.
- Promoting special experiences like fall foliage tours or winter camping for adventurous travelers.
By anticipating seasonal highs and lows, he kept his rental calendar steady all year round.
Renting Out Your RV: A Side Hustle Worth Exploring
The rise of the sharing economy has transformed how people travel, work, and even earn money. Just as Airbnb turned spare bedrooms into profitable guest rooms, platforms like RVshare have opened the door for RV owners to generate steady income from their vehicles. Renting out an RV isn’t just about making a little pocket change—it can be a serious side hustle with real financial benefits.
Why the RV Rental Market is Growing
The demand for RV rentals has surged in recent years. Families are looking for affordable vacation alternatives, millennials crave unique experiences over traditional hotels, and retirees often want to “try before they buy.” Add in the increased popularity of road trips after the pandemic, and it’s easy to see why RV rentals have become so attractive.
With this growing market, owners who take advantage of platforms like RVshare are in a prime position to profit. An RV that might otherwise collect dust can instead generate hundreds or even thousands of dollars every month.
Flexibility That Fits Your Lifestyle
One of the biggest benefits of this side hustle is flexibility. Unlike a traditional second job, renting out your RV doesn’t require fixed hours or constant oversight. Owners can choose when their vehicle is available and when it’s reserved for personal use.
Mike, for instance, blocked off dates for family trips and listed the RV for rent the rest of the year. This balance allowed him to enjoy his camper on his own terms while still earning money consistently.
Low Barrier to Entry
Getting started is surprisingly simple. You don’t need a business license, special permits, or years of industry experience. Creating a listing on RVshare involves:
- Writing a detailed description.
- Uploading photos that highlight your RV’s best features.
- Setting a rental price that reflects demand in your area.
- Responding to inquiries and maintaining good communication.
In short, if you can manage a booking calendar and keep your RV clean and maintained, you can succeed.
Financial Rewards Beyond Profit
The financial upside is clear—Mike averaged about $1,500 per month—but the benefits extend beyond dollars and cents. Renting out your RV can also:
- Offset monthly loan payments and insurance costs.
- Cover annual maintenance and storage fees.
- Provide extra savings for family vacations, home projects, or retirement.
In Mike’s case, his rental income didn’t just pay for the RV; it essentially turned his vehicle into a self-sustaining asset.
Who Should Consider This Side Hustle?
This opportunity is ideal for:
- Occasional RV users who don’t take trips year-round.
- Owners with multiple vehicles who can afford to list one regularly.
- Entrepreneurial-minded individuals seeking passive income streams.
If your RV spends more time parked than on the road, then this could be one of the most practical side hustles available today.
Conclusion
The story of how one man makes $1,500 per month renting out his RV is proof that sometimes the best opportunities are right in front of us—or in this case, parked in the driveway. What began as an underused vehicle quickly became a profitable side hustle for Mike Braeuer, generating more than $50,000 in just two years. His journey highlights an important lesson: with the right mindset, strategy, and platform, anyone can turn a depreciating asset into a steady source of income.
By mastering the art of letting go, securing the right insurance, delivering great customer service, managing expenses wisely, and understanding seasonal demand, Mike created a system that works. His RV still serves his family for personal adventures, but during downtime, it transforms into a money-making machine.
For RV owners, the takeaway is simple: if your camper spends most of the year unused, renting it out can not only offset costs like insurance and maintenance but also provide a reliable stream of income. Whether you’re looking to cover your monthly loan payment, save for your next vacation, or simply build a new side hustle, platforms like RVshare make it possible.
If Mike could earn an average of $1,500 per month by sharing his RV, so can you. The market is there, the tools are simple, and the rewards can be life-changing. All it takes is the willingness to take the first step.
FAQs
1. How much money can you realistically make renting out an RV?
Earnings vary depending on your RV type, location, and demand. On average, many owners report making $1,000–$2,000 per month when their RV is rented regularly. In peak summer seasons or near popular vacation spots, owners can earn even more. For example, Mike Braeuer consistently brought in about $1,500 per month and over $50,000 in two years.
2. Is it safe to rent out your RV to strangers?
Yes, especially when you use a trusted platform like RVshare. Every booking includes $1 million in liability coverage and comprehensive collision insurance. Renters are screened, and you can set requirements such as minimum driver age or prior experience. Many owners find that with insurance protection and proper vetting, the risks are minimal compared to the financial rewards.
3. Do I need to clean and maintain the RV after every rental?
Yes, maintaining your RV’s cleanliness and mechanical reliability is crucial. Most owners either:
- Charge a cleaning fee that covers professional cleaning, or
- Provide renters with a checklist for returning the RV in good condition.
Mike, for example, asked renters to return the RV fueled and tidy, which reduced his workload and expenses. A well-kept RV not only ensures positive reviews but also keeps long-term maintenance costs lower.
4. How do I set the right rental price for my RV?
Rental prices depend on your RV type, age, and market demand. A motorhome may rent for $150–$250 per night, while a smaller travel trailer might rent for $50–$100 per night. RVshare provides pricing tools and lets you see comparable listings in your area. Mike adjusted his prices seasonally—charging premium rates in summer and offering discounts during slower months—to maximize bookings.
5. Can I still use my RV if I rent it out?
Absolutely. One of the biggest perks of platforms like RVshare is flexibility. You control your rental calendar, blocking off dates when you want to use your RV personally. Mike balanced his rental schedule with family vacations, ensuring he still enjoyed the lifestyle benefits of RV ownership while earning steady side income.
6. What types of RVs rent out the best?
Almost every type of RV has demand, but popularity depends on your location. Family-friendly motorhomes, compact campervans, and easy-to-tow travel trailers are among the most requested. Renters often seek vehicles that are clean, well-maintained, and easy to operate. Even older RVs can perform well if they’re reliable and presented with good photos and descriptions.
7. What are the hidden costs of renting out an RV?
Some common expenses include:
- Routine maintenance (oil changes, tire checks, brakes).
- Cleaning supplies or services.
- Restocking essentials like linens or kitchen gear.
- RVshare’s service fee.
However, these costs are often outweighed by rental income. Mike kept costs low by handling minor maintenance himself and encouraging renters to return the RV in clean condition.
8. Is renting out an RV worth it?
For many owners, the answer is a resounding yes. Instead of letting a vehicle depreciate in the driveway, you can generate consistent income, cover ownership expenses, and even turn a profit. Mike’s experience proves that this side hustle can be both rewarding and financially sustainable. If you’re open to treating your RV like a small business asset, the potential is significant.
