Security Deposits and Credit Cards

Why security deposits and credit cards matter in the USA

Security deposits and credit card rules often surprise international travellers hiring an RV or campervan in the United States. Even experienced European campervan drivers may find US practices unfamiliar. Deposits are usually higher, credit card requirements are stricter, and debit cards are often not accepted for the deposit itself. Understanding how deposits are authorised, when funds are released, and which cards are accepted can prevent problems at pickup—especially after a long international flight. This page explains how US RV rental deposits work, what kind of credit card you need, and how this differs from Europe, so you can plan your trip with confidence and avoid unexpected delays. As with many US travel rules, exact requirements can vary by state and rental supplier.

What is a security deposit in US RV hire?

A security deposit is a temporary amount held by the rental company to cover potential damage, late returns, refuelling, or interior cleaning. In the USA, this is usually taken as a credit card authorisation (a temporary hold placed by the card issuer), not a cash payment.

The money is blocked (pre-authorised), not charged, if the vehicle is returned in good condition.
The authorised amount is released after return, but it can take several business days to reappear, depending on your bank and card issuer.
Deposit amounts in the USA are often higher than in Europe due to larger vehicle sizes and higher repair costs, but the exact amount depends on the supplier and vehicle type.

Typical deposit ranges and insurance interaction

For context, many suppliers hold a deposit in the low to mid four-figure USD range, although this varies by vehicle class, location, and insurance options selected.

Choosing additional insurance or a damage waiver may reduce—but usually does not eliminate—the required deposit.
The deposit is separate from your daily rental rate and insurance premium.

Credit cards: what is required

Credit vs debit cards

Most US RV rental suppliers require a credit card (not a debit card) in the main driver’s name for the security deposit.

Credit card: Commonly accepted for deposits. The card must have enough available credit to cover the full deposit hold.
Debit card: Sometimes accepted for the rental payment but often not for the deposit. Acceptance, where allowed, is supplier-specific and may involve additional checks.

This is stricter than in many European countries, where debit cards are more commonly accepted.

Accepted card types

Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted. American Express is sometimes accepted but not guaranteed. Prepaid cards, virtual cards, or app-only cards are usually declined for deposits.

Name matching and additional drivers

The credit card used for the deposit must typically match the name of the primary driver on the rental agreement.

If travelling as a couple or group, ensure the cardholder is listed as the main driver.
Additional drivers are usually allowed, but many suppliers require the primary driver’s card to be used for the deposit. Policies can vary by company.

Timing: when deposits are held and released

In the USA, deposits are normally authorised at vehicle pickup and released after return.

Release times depend mainly on your bank, not the rental company.
International banks may take longer than US banks—sometimes up to 10 working days, and occasionally more.

This is important for travellers continuing to other destinations after their RV trip.

If your card is declined at pickup

If the deposit authorisation fails, the rental company may not release the vehicle.

Common causes include insufficient available credit, travel security blocks, or card type restrictions.
Having a backup credit card in the primary driver’s name can prevent delays.

Common reasons for deposit deductions

Deductions are not automatic and usually relate to clear issues documented after return:

Returning the RV late.
Fuel or propane (liquefied gas used for cooking/heating) not refilled. Fuel is sold in US gallons, not litres.
Waste tanks not emptied at a dump station (a designated facility for emptying toilet and wastewater tanks).
Interior damage or excessive cleaning.

If you are new to US RV systems, review campground facilities such as full hookups (sites with electricity, fresh water, and sewer connections) versus boondocking (camping without services, often on public land).

Location considerations: city depots

Deposit rules are broadly similar nationwide, but exact amounts and procedures can vary by supplier, depot size, and local demand.

Large international gateways like Los Angeles may apply higher deposit holds or stricter card checks during peak travel periods.
Outdoor-focused hubs such as Denver may place particular emphasis on cleaning and waste tank checks due to frequent national park itineraries.

Planning tips for international travellers

Check your credit limit well before departure and allow margin above the expected deposit.
Inform your bank about US travel to avoid fraud-related card blocks.
Carry the same physical credit card—not just a digital wallet or app.
Allow extra funds for the deposit hold when planning accommodation or flights after your RV trip.

General planning questions are also covered in our planning FAQs.

Next steps

Once you understand deposit and credit card requirements, you can compare vehicles and pickup locations with greater confidence. Check current RV and campervan availability on USARVRentals.com when you are ready to plan your route.