Renting an RV can be a great way to explore the open road and experience all nature offers. However, when renting an RV, it is important to communicate effectively with the owner to build trust and demonstrate your competence. Here are a few tips for doing just that.
Key Takeaways
Here are some tips for effectively communicating trustworthiness and competence when requesting a reservation from Outdoorsy RV owners:
- Provide complete and accurate information: When requesting a reservation, provide all the necessary information such as your name, contact information, trip details, and any special requirements you may have. Make sure that the information is accurate and up-to-date.
- Be clear and concise: Communicate your requests clearly and concisely. Avoid using jargon or technical terms that may confuse the owner. Use simple language and make sure that your message is easy to understand.
- Demonstrate your experience: If you have experience in renting or owning an RV, mention it in your message. This can help establish your credibility and show the owner that you are knowledgeable about the RV lifestyle.
- Use a professional tone: Use a professional tone in your communication. Be polite and respectful, and avoid using overly casual language. Remember that you are making a business transaction, and you want to present yourself as a trustworthy and competent customer.
- Provide references: If possible, provide references from previous RV owners or renters. This can help establish your trustworthiness and give the owner confidence that you will take good care of their RV.
- Be responsive: When the owner responds to your message, be responsive and prompt in your reply. This can help establish a good rapport and build trust between you and the owner.
- Ask questions: If you have any questions or concerns about the RV or the rental process, don’t hesitate to ask the owner. This can help you better understand what to expect and can also help establish your competence as a renter.
The key to effectively communicating trustworthiness and competence when requesting a reservation from Outdoorsy RV owners is to be clear, transparent, professional, and responsive. By following these tips, you can establish yourself as a reliable and knowledgeable renter, and increase your chances of securing the RV rental you want.
Do RV and Trailer Camper Owners have to rent to me?
You may be under the impression that all rental requests on Outdoorsy are subject to automatic approval, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. If you do not have any experience towing a trailer or driving an RV, you may be surprised when you get denied requesting a rental on Outdoorsy. If you lack experience driving or towing an RV or Trailer, I would opt for Delivery to Campsite and leave the work to those with experience (to reduce your liability). However, if you do have expertise in either driving an RV or pulling a camper, you will want to bring this up at the appropriate time during the rental process. As the information regarding declining potential renters states below, the owner ultimately controls their RV’s pricing, availability, cancellation, and booking policies.
Establish trustworthiness by having a complete profile with a photo, bio, and contact information.
Outdoorsy RV owners want to ensure that they are renting to trustworthy renters that will respect their property, rules, and processes (ie; refraining from flushing anything in the toilet, not using the awning during windy weather, etc.). Therefore, when requesting reservations online with Outdoorsy, it is important to establish trustworthiness by ensuring your profile is complete. This includes uploading a professional or outdoorsy photo showing yourself as the renter and writing a bio to give an introduction and further explain who you are. Additionally, provide contact information for any inquiries about the rental reservation. A complete Outdoorsy profile is the first step in communicating trustworthiness and competence when requesting an RV rental online.
Demonstrate competence by being clear and concise in your communication.
When communicating with Outdoorsy RV owners online, it is important to demonstrate your competence and trustworthiness. Communicate clearly and succinctly by avoiding slang or jargon to establish a more professional tone. For instance, when discussing the purpose of your camping trip, provide a general description while avoiding excessive detail to stay concise. Most owners want to understand who will be sleeping in their RV or Trailer, where/when you will be camping, if you require delivery, and the date range of your trip. Remember that during your initial interaction with any owner, they will assess any risk to their RV or trailer. Locations that add more dirt and grime to the rental can impact the final cost and approval to rent. For instance, Burning Man RV rentals are highly scrutinized, and for RV owners, Burning Man is a money-making opportunity, with prices inflated by 300-500%. Overall, if you remain clear and descriptive while being mindful of transparency and brevity, you will convey trustworthiness and competency. Obviously, any RV owner that believes you are not ready or up to the task of being able to operate, manage or handle the requirements that come with an RV or Trailer rental, will make their concerns known either verbally or by their final decision.
Example of initial inquiry communication:
What not to say: Sup, I was noticing your RV is super banging and available. I would love to reserve it for our party at the lake. I see this RV sleeps 6, but do you think 8 people is okay? We are like a big group of 50 guys heading to ‘Lake No Sleep’ for the week to celebrate my brother’s bachelor party and get lit. Let me know if we can firm this booking up asap.
What to say: Hi (owner’s name), I am interested in renting your RV for my camping trip to Lake Almanor, where we will be swimming, fishing, etc., for the week. I’ve rented RVs before, and I’ll be with other RV owners who know how to help with any issues should they arise. I would like to include delivery and set up with my rental — and can provide the details for the campsite shortly. We have camped at this location and are familiar with the surroundings, too btw. Campers joining me in this RV are my brother-in-law, cousin, and their sons. Please let me know if your RV is in fact available, as we would like to reserve sooner than later. Thanks, (your name here)
Be responsive to messages and inquiries in a timely manner
To build trust and demonstrate competence when requesting an RV rental from Outdoorsy owners, responding quickly to any messages or inquiries is essential. Ensuring that questions are answered promptly and accurately can show the owner that you are serious about renting their vehicle and care enough to provide a reliable response. Being timely in your communication also signals that you will be prompt when it comes time for pick up, return, and payment for the rental. By responding with speed, efficiency, and accuracy throughout the process, you will find success with rental booking requests as well as ensure a great experience on both ends.
Bringing it all together
Developing a rapport with an Outdoorsy RV owner for your rental reservation is about taking proactive steps to demonstrate trustworthiness, competence, and respect. From establishing a complete profile to responding promptly to inquiries, the small details you pay attention to will inevitably impact your success rate. Don’t forget to express your gratitude after the rental has been completed by leaving a review and thanking them for renting to you (providing everything worked out and met expectations). Note that the owner has the ability to review you as a renter (see the example above), so it’s important to be a good renter and follow through on all of your agreements. These little touches may make the difference in renting again from the RV owner and the Outdoorsy.com platform. Search for an RV or Trailer at Outdoorsy and book the rig that can accommodate your group. Take advantage of these tips, and stay safe out there!
[…] Notifying the RV owner of any damage or issues in a timely manner can help the owner schedule repairs and/or purchase supplies to fix upon return and ensure that any necessary repairs can be made before the next rental. It’s also important to notify Outdoorsy.com of any damage or issues so they can assist with the resolution process and ensure that all parties are satisfied. […]