Frequently Asked Questions

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What do I need to book?

A valid driver’s licence, your preferred dates and a 25% non-refundable booking deposit. Automatic and manual vehicles are available.

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When are the balance and documents due?

Please send your signed agreement and pay the balance and security deposit one week before collection. Cross-border passport and licence copies are needed 14 days beforehand. All payments must clear before vehicle release.

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Is the security deposit refundable?

Yes. The R7,300 security deposit per rental is separate from the non-refundable booking deposit and is payable before release. It may cover excesses, uninsured damage, fines, tolls, missing equipment, cleaning, refuelling and other charges. It is not insurance and does not cap your liability. It is usually refunded within 21 days after return if nothing is outstanding; all or part may be retained up to 45 days where reasonably necessary for fines, claims, assessments, repairs or charges. A higher deposit may be agreed before release for special circumstances.

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Is the vehicle insured?

The vehicle is insured, subject to policy terms and exclusions. The standard excess is R7,300 per separate incident, including authorised cross-border travel. Uninsured damage and other charges remain your responsibility; the security deposit does not limit liability.

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Can I travel across borders?

Namibia and Botswana trips require prior written approval and issued documents. Other countries require specific written consent. We prepare cross-border documents free; border charges and any other agreed costs remain payable by you.

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What roadside support is available?

We coordinate access to the insurer’s available roadside assistance within South Africa. Outside South Africa, you arrange and pay for towing, recovery and repairs, subject to any insurer-approved reimbursement. Contact us promptly; replacement vehicles are not guaranteed.

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What if I get stuck or need recovery?

Client-fault or off-road recovery is charged at R9/km from Cape Town/our base to the incident, plus third-party charges at cost. Obtain our approval before repairs, except emergencies needed for safety.

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What is the cancellation policy?

The 25% booking deposit is non-refundable. More than 30 days before collection: rental paid above that deposit is refunded. At 15–30 days: 50% of rental paid is refundable, subject to the non-refundable booking deposit. At 14 days or fewer, or for a no-show: no rental refund. Rescheduling is discretionary and subject to availability and price changes.

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Can I get a refund for returning early?

Early return does not automatically qualify for a refund. Any exception must be agreed in writing.

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Who may drive?

Drivers must be 23 or older and hold a valid licence for at least two years. Foreign licences must be in English or accompanied by an International Driving Permit. Only listed, authorised drivers may drive; insurer requirements and any advised surcharge apply to drivers aged 23–24.

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What are the return and fuel rules?

Return on time with a full tank and all equipment. After a 60-minute grace period, late return costs R500/hour for up to three hours; longer delays may cost an extra rental day. Refuelling costs the fuel used plus R500.

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Are there cleaning or other charges?

Excessive cleaning: R750, or higher reasonable specialist costs. Smoking/vaping: R1,500 plus applicable specialist cleaning. Missing/damaged equipment: repair/replacement plus R250 administration. Keys: replacement/programming plus R500 administration. Fines/tolls: amount due plus R250 administration per item.

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Where can I drive?

Use suitable public roads, maintained gravel roads and approved moderate 4x4 routes appropriate to your vehicle. No extreme off-roading, beach/seawater driving, unsafe deep-water crossings or unauthorised towing. No smoking/vaping inside the vehicle, canopy or tent.

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What is the van’s minimum rental?

The Vanlife Van has a five-day minimum booking.

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Planning a very remote adventure?

Satellite phones are available as an optional add-on, subject to availability.