Ultimate Guide to Road Tripping California in a JUCY Campervan: Rentals, Tips & Essentials
Traveling by campervan is one of our favorite ways to explore, having rented them in Australia, Iceland, and now our home state of California. After our positive experience with JUCY in Australia over eight years ago, we were thrilled to try their U.S. fleet on a recent road trip to Yosemite and Mendocino County. Here's your complete guide to renting and driving a JUCY campervan in California.
Types of JUCY Vehicles
The JUCY "Trailblazer"
The Trailblazer combines minivan maneuverability with motorhome comforts. It features two double beds (one inside, one rooftop), a compact kitchen with a 30-liter compressor fridge, sink, storage under bench seats, a built-in table, two butane gas stoves, a 20-liter fresh water tank, and a 25-liter grey water tank.
Note: Stock up on a sponge and dish soap at the grocery store, as they're not provided.
The JUCY "Wanderer"
More compact than the Trailblazer, the Wanderer is ideal for couples. It includes a double bed, 20-liter fresh water tank, 25-liter grey water tank, internal table, and kitchen with two gas stoves, sink, and 30-40 liter fridge.
What's Included in Your Rental
Every JUCY rental (minimum 5 days in peak season, 3 days off-peak) covers the vehicle, additional driver fees, taxes, and liability insurance with a deductible.
Add-ons include kitchen kit, bedding, camping chairs, picnic table, child seats, solar shower, grill, car adapter, and winter pack to suit your trip.
Insurance Options
JUCY offers four insurance tiers for peace of mind:
- Collision Damage Waiver & Supplementary Liability (Bond $500): $22/day
- Standalone Collision Damage Waiver (Bond $500, Excess $0): $10/day
- Standalone Supplementary Liability (Bond/Excess $1500): $12/day
- Basic Coverage & Statutory Liability (Bond/Excess $1500): Free
JUCY Rental Locations in the USA
Rent from San Francisco (San Leandro), Los Angeles (Lawndale), Point Roberts (WA), or Las Vegas. Drivers must be 21+ with a valid license. No airport shuttles, but locations are near major airports.
Camping Fees and Options
Campervans offer flexibility across California's campgrounds and state parks, with fees from $15-$50/night based on amenities. Free dispersed camping is available but more remote, often with basic or no facilities—pack a bear box.
For free sites: Keep clean, camp 200ft from water, check fire rules, and note stay limits.
Bear Safety Tips
Northern California is bear territory. Store no food in your van, use bear canisters if needed, follow Leave No Trace, and cook/wash dishes away from camp.
Campervan Packing Essentials
Headlamp: Essential for hands-free lighting—better than phone flashlights.
Comfortable Shoes: Slip-on sandals for camp/showers; hiking shoes for trails.
Biodegradable Wipes: Versatile for any campervan adventure.
Beanie Hat: Nights get chilly year-round.
Car Power Inverter: Charge laptops/drones beyond USB ports.
