Message before you book: How this new feature helps owners

Picture this: you get a booking request through, only to receive a follow-up message from the hirer asking whether they can park their car at your premises or if airport collection is possible. Sound familiar? Our new “Message Before You Book” feature is designed to avoid exactly these situations.

What is 'Message Before You Book'?

This new feature allows hirers to message you before they commit to a booking. They can ask about specific details, clarify collection arrangements, or check whether your van suits their needs – all before clicking “request to book”.

When a hirer sends a pre-booking message, you’ll receive it through your usual Camplify messaging system. You won’t see a booking reference at this stage, as nothing has been confirmed yet. The hirer is simply gathering information to help them decide.

Why this benefits owners

The main benefit is fewer cancellations and fewer mismatched expectations, particularly for owners who have chosen Instant Book. When someone books instantly without asking questions first, they may be making assumptions about your van. This feature gives them the chance to check key details upfront.

You may find this especially useful with hirers who are new to campervan travel or unfamiliar with UK setups. They can ask about sleeping arrangements, onboard facilities, or collection logistics before committing.

It also means that when a hirer does go on to book, they’re much more confident in their decision. They’ve had their questions answered and know exactly what to expect.

Common questions hirers ask before booking

You’ll likely receive questions about sleeping arrangements – this is the most common one.

Collection and return logistics are also a frequent topic. Hirers often want to know whether collection from airports or train stations is possible, or how easy it is to reach your location.

You may also get questions about what’s included in the van. Some hirers expect everything to be provided, while others want clarity so they can plan what to bring.

How to handle pre-booking messages effectively

Try to respond promptly and thoroughly to pre-booking messages. Hirers are often comparing multiple options, so a clear and timely reply can make a real difference.

Be specific in your responses rather than general. If they ask about bed size, include measurements. If they ask about collection, outline exactly what you can offer and any timings involved.

This is also a great opportunity to highlight what makes your van stand out. If they ask about facilities, mention any extras or thoughtful touches you provide.

What happens after they message you

Once you’ve responded, it’s up to the hirer. They may request to book straight away, ask a few more questions, or decide your van isn’t quite right for their trip.

If they don’t go ahead with a booking, don’t take it personally. The aim of this feature is to help hirers make informed decisions, even if that means they choose a different option.

When they decide to making a booking request (or booking in the case of Instant book), you’ll receive the usual booking request / confirmation with all the standard details and a booking reference. From there, everything continues as normal.

Ready to make the most of clearer communication with your hirers? Make sure your listing is detailed and up to date, with clear photos and descriptions. That said, it’s always worth being prepared to answer questions and provide helpful, friendly guidance when messages come through.