Your first hire: Communicate effectively

The Camplify messaging system is your primary communication channel with hirers — before, during, and after every booking.

Best practices

• Respond promptly. Aim for a response within a few hours. Turn on app notifications so you don't miss messages.

• Be warm and professional. Introduce yourself, show genuine interest in the hirer's trip, and be helpful with information and recommendations.

• Keep it on-platform. All communication should go through the Camplify messaging system. This protects both you and the hirer, and creates a record in case of any disputes.

• Use templated replies. For frequently asked questions (availability, what's included, directions, pickup procedures), create templates you can customise and send quickly.

What hirers want to know

Most pre-booking questions fall into a few categories:

• Is the van available for my dates?

• What's included?

• Where do I pick up / can you deliver?

• Can I bring my pet/kids/extra passengers?

• What tow vehicle do I need?

Having ready answers for these — or better yet, addressing them in your listing description — reduces the back-and-forth and speeds up the path to booking.

Good communication is the backbone of a great hiring experience. It builds trust, sets expectations, and prevents misunderstandings.

Before the booking

When you receive a booking request, respond promptly and warmly. Introduce yourself, confirm the details, and ask any questions you need answered — like their travel plans, towing experience (if relevant), or the number of people travelling.

This is also the time to share important information about your van — any quirks, instructions for specific systems, or recommendations for their route.

Confirm the details

A few days before the hire starts, send a message confirming:

• Pickup/drop-off time and location

• What they need to bring (and what's already included)

• How to operate key systems (or point them to your guidebook)

• Your contact details for during the trip

• Emergency contacts and roadside assistance information

During the hire

Let hirers know you're available if they need anything, but don't be overbearing. A quick "Hope you're having a great time — let me know if you need anything!" midway through a longer hire is a nice touch.

If something goes wrong (a system malfunction, a question about the van), respond quickly and helpfully. How you handle problems matters more than the problem itself.

After the hire

Thank the hirer for looking after your van and ask about their trip. This is a great opportunity to request a review and leave one for them in return. A positive review exchange benefits both of you and helps build trust across the Camplify community.