About Go Cheap Motorhomes
From campervans to motorhomes, GoCheap Motorhomes offers the same fleet of Toyota, VW, and Fiat models that cater to travelling couples and families up to 6.
GoCheap Motorhomes started in Tasmania but has now partnered with Cruisin' Motorhomes, hence the same depots. They take on the older models―4 to 7 years old―from their sister company.
GoCheap has been operating in Tasmania since 1999. They are proud to offer campervans and motorhomes. These vehicles are meant for couples, small families, and large groups. Their depots are at all the main places―Hobart Airport, Launceston and Devonport. But do take note that these depots are also Cruisin' Motorhomes pick-up and drop-off branches. It is because these two are sister companies. So, at the end of the day, it is just semantics; you will be picking up a Cruisin' branded campervan at the Cruisin' depot if you book from either company. The newer vehicles go to Cruisin while GoCheap acquires these models when they are 4 to 7 years old. One thing to mention about GoCheap is that they offer a price match promise that allows you to find the same GoCheap unit for a lower price and they'll beat the competitor's price. Plus, they can give discounts for long hires.
It is quite common for campervan hire companies to hand their older models to a different brand: Apollo Campers hands down its older models to Cheapa Campa, Britz to Mighty Campers, Jucy hands down to Lucky Campers, and Cruisin' to GoCheap. It just means the campervans aren't new enough to represent the premium brand, but they aren't ready for the scrap yard either. GoCheap supplies 2 berth, 3 berth, 4 berth, and 6 berth campervans and motorhomes that are sourced out from their sister brand. All bedding is included with the price, so you'll enjoy the doona (duvet) rather than a sleeping bag. Even during summer, Tasmania can and does get cold at night―much more during the non-summer period where it can be freezing. So with the inclusion of some doonas, sheets, and pillows, you get enough warmth at night and snuggle comfortably. Plus, baby seats and booster seat can be fitted in their vehicles, which makes it a great feature for traveling families.
GoCheap Motorhomes' standard liability is $3,000 for their Hi Top and $5,000 for the remaining vehicles. The liability is also the same amount for the security bond. This is to be taken at the time of the rental agreement via credit card. There is an administration fee amounting to $100. To limit the liability as well as the bond to $0, you need to pay $29 (Hi Top) or $45 per day (other vehicles), which corresponds to a maximum payable of $1,450 (Hi Top) and $2,250 (other vehicles) for 50 days rental. There is also another option, the Maximum Cover Package at $55 per day, which now includes optional extras such as camping table and chairs, GPS, LPG, and toddler/child seat if needed. For this reduction option, the maximum amount payable is $2,750 (50 days rental).
Reputations
Reviews for GoCheap Motorhomes and/or Cruisin’ Tasmania are a mixed bunch. Overall, I would say that the biggest complaint is about the unhelpfulness of the staff. Being up to 7 years old, you can expect some wear and tear on the interior, and the same could be said for all the GoCheap motorhomes―they are cheaper for a reason. I guess the main thing to point out is that pillows, sheets, and doonas are included in the price, whereas some companies only provide sleeping bags or you have to pay extra for sleeping stuff. On the bright side, GoCheap Motorhomes is aiming at the quality and comfort-conscious rather than budget. This is good positioning as there are only a couple of companies in this market in Tasmania―Tasmania Campers would be the main competitor along with Autorent Hertz, Bargain Car Rentals, and Devil Campers. However, just like any other budget-based companies, you need to keep an open mind when renting from them. Breakdowns are highly possible due to age of the vehicle.
Offering a nice alternative for couples and family campers, GoCheap Motorhomes gives other companies a run for their money in the 2-6 berth market. So, if you are looking for comfort vehicle at a cheaper rate, you can take a look at what GoCheap Motorhomes has on offer.
Pros & Cons
✓ Pros
- Competitive rates
- Multiple depots
- Well-serviced vehicles
✗ Cons
- Fine print, bonds, and fees
- Older models at 4-7 years old
- Possible wear and tear issues