Renting an RV is one of the most popular ways to explore Australia’s stunning coastlines, remote national parks, and charming outback towns. With flexibility, comfort, and the thrill of the open road, it’s easy to see why thousands of locals and international visitors opt for campervans and motorhomes every year.
But as demand has grown, so too have the risks—particularly when it comes to RV rental scams. From fake listings and phishing websites to exaggerated damage claims and unlicensed operators, travellers are increasingly being targeted by shady individuals looking to take advantage of long-distance bookings and large upfront payments.
These scams can lead to financial loss, holiday disruption, or worse—being stranded without a vehicle in an unfamiliar location. And unfortunately, many victims only realise something’s wrong when it’s too late.
This article is your complete guide to avoiding common RV rental scams in Australia. Whether you’re a first-time hirer, a grey nomad, or a tourist planning the road trip of a lifetime, we’ll walk you through the types of scams to watch for, how to book safely, what to check before pickup, and what to do if something goes wrong.
Table of Contents
ToggleUnderstanding How RV Rental Scams Work
RV rental scams can take many forms, but they all aim for the same outcome: separating you from your money, identity, or peace of mind. Understanding how these scams operate is the first step toward protecting yourself. Whether you’re booking through a peer-to-peer site, a large rental agency, or a private listing, knowing the tactics used by scammers helps you spot red flags early.
What Defines a Rental Scam?
An RV rental scam is any deceptive or fraudulent activity that misleads a renter, usually involving:
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False advertising: The vehicle shown doesn’t exist or is not as described.
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Phishing or impersonation: Scammers pose as legitimate companies using fake websites or stolen branding.
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Unauthorized charges: Unexpected fees after return, such as inflated damage costs or hidden admin charges.
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Unlicensed operators: Individuals or businesses offering rentals without proper insurance, registration, or legal authority.
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Identity theft: Collection of personal and payment data through fake booking systems or email inquiries.
Some scams are sophisticated, involving fake rental contracts and websites that look almost identical to real ones.
Why RV Rentals Are a Target
RVs are high-value assets, often booked weeks or months in advance with large deposits or full pre-payment. This makes them attractive for scammers because:
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Travellers are often under pressure to lock in bookings quickly—especially during peak holiday periods or long weekends.
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Many transactions happen remotely, without seeing the vehicle in person.
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International tourists may not be familiar with local laws, business checks, or trusted booking platforms.
With thousands of RV listings circulating across classified sites, forums, and social media, it’s easy for fake offers to slip through—and hard for untrained eyes to tell the difference.
Most Common RV Rental Scams in Australia
Scammers are constantly evolving their tactics to trick unsuspecting renters. Whether you’re booking through a private ad, a peer-to-peer platform, or even what seems like a legitimate website, being aware of the most common scams in Australia can save you from a ruined holiday—or worse, financial loss.
Fake Private Listings
One of the most widespread scams involves individuals advertising RVs that don’t actually exist. These fake listings typically appear on:
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Facebook Marketplace
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Gumtree
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Local classifieds and forums
Scammers often use stolen images from real rental listings and offer the RV at an unusually low price. They may request a deposit upfront via bank transfer, then disappear as soon as it’s sent. In some cases, victims arrive at the pickup location only to find there’s no RV—or the address is fake altogether.
Identity Theft via Phishing Emails or Fake Websites
Some scammers go further by impersonating real companies through fake booking websites or email phishing campaigns. These sites look professional, with cloned branding and customer support pages—but direct you to unprotected payment links or forms asking for passport, licence, and credit card details.
Victims often don’t realise they’ve been scammed until their card is charged and no booking confirmation arrives—or they attempt to call a customer service number that doesn’t exist.
Bogus Damage Charges After Return
Another common issue arises after a legitimate rental is returned. Unscrupulous rental providers—sometimes even on popular platforms—may accuse the renter of damage that either existed prior or never happened.
This can include:
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Hairline scratches
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Undercarriage scuffs
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“Excessive cleaning” or smoking fees
With high excess bonds (often $1,000–$7,500), companies can hold or deduct large amounts without fully transparent evidence. Without time-stamped photos, it becomes hard to challenge these claims.
“Too Good to Be True” Rental Rates
If you find an RV listed at half the normal rate for peak season—or a luxury motorhome for a fraction of the going price—proceed with extreme caution.
Scammers lure budget-conscious travellers with attractive deals that seem urgent and limited-time. Once you send a deposit or payment, communication may suddenly cease or become evasive. Always remember: if the deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
Unlicensed Operators on Classifieds
Some people rent out their personal RVs on platforms like Facebook or Gumtree without proper licensing, insurance, or registration. While not always malicious, this still puts you at legal and financial risk if:
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The vehicle breaks down
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You’re involved in an accident
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You’re pulled over and it’s found to be unroadworthy
Unlike platforms like Camplify or Outdoorsy, these informal rentals often offer no protection to the renter.
Red Flags to Watch for Before Booking
Spotting the warning signs of a scam before you hand over your money or personal details is the most effective way to protect yourself. Whether you’re booking online, through a classified, or even via a peer-to-peer rental site, these red flags should put you on alert immediately.
Signs of Fake Listings
Fraudulent listings often look legitimate at first glance, but a closer look can reveal inconsistencies:
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Only one or two low-resolution images, or photos that seem generic or overly polished
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Vague or copied descriptions—often lifted word-for-word from real sites
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Inconsistent vehicle details, like listing a Mercedes but showing a Ford in the images
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No personalisation or response to specific questions—you’ll get pre-written replies urging quick action
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Emails or messages sent outside of the platform (e.g. WhatsApp, Gmail) rather than through a secure site
Trust your gut. If something feels off, it’s worth double-checking.
No ABN or Business Verification
In Australia, all legitimate rental businesses must have an ABN (Australian Business Number). If you’re dealing with a company or individual claiming to operate as a business, verify their ABN using the official registry:
www.abr.business.gov.au
Red flags include:
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No company name listed
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No ABN visible on their website
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Refusal to share business credentials
No ABN? No trust.
Suspicious Payment Methods
Scammers often insist on payment via:
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Bank transfer to personal accounts
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Cryptocurrency or prepaid gift cards
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Direct PayPal transfers marked as “Friends & Family”
These methods are untraceable and non-refundable. A reputable provider will offer secure payment gateways and accept credit cards or trusted processors (like Stripe or PayPal Business).
Always avoid transactions where you’re pressured to “lock it in quickly” through a risky payment method.
Pressure to Book Quickly
Creating urgency is a common scam tactic. Messages may include:
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“I have another person interested; please confirm today.”
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“It’s only available at this rate for the next 2 hours.”
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“We only accept upfront payment to reserve.”
Legitimate businesses understand that customers need time to review contracts, check details, and verify authenticity. If you’re being rushed, take a step back—it could be a setup.
Tips for Safe RV Rental Bookings
Avoiding RV rental scams in Australia doesn’t mean you have to be suspicious of every listing—just cautious and informed. These simple but effective booking strategies will help you rent with confidence, whether through a major brand or a peer-to-peer platform.
Book Through Trusted Platforms Only
The safest way to hire an RV in Australia is to use a reputable rental platform with established consumer protection, verified vehicles, and insurance options. These include:
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Camplify – www.camplify.com.au
Australia’s leading peer-to-peer RV hire platform with insurance, 24/7 support, and reviews. -
Outdoorsy – www.outdoorsy.com.au
Global peer-to-peer platform now operating in Australia, offering verified listings and secure payments. -
SHAREaCAMPER – www.shareacamper.com.au
Another peer platform with owner verification, bonding, and support systems. -
Apollo Motorhomes – www.apollocamper.com
One of the largest traditional rental companies in Australia, with depots across the country. -
Britz – www.britz.com.au
Well-known and tourist-friendly with roadside assistance and one-way rental options. -
Maui – www.maui-rentals.com.au
High-end rental RVs with premium support and fully equipped vehicles.
Booking through one of these providers dramatically lowers your risk, as they vet listings, offer customer support, and manage dispute resolution.
Use a Credit Card or Protected Payment Gateway
When paying for your rental:
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Always use a credit card. Most offer fraud protection and chargeback options if something goes wrong.
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If booking online, ensure the website has a secure connection (look for “https://” in the URL).
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Avoid sending payment via bank transfer, especially to personal accounts.
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If using PayPal, only select “Goods and Services”, not “Friends & Family”.
Secure payment methods give you leverage if you need to challenge a charge or reverse a transaction.
Request a Copy of the Rental Agreement
Before paying anything beyond a refundable deposit, request the full rental contract. Read through it carefully for:
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Vehicle details (make, model, registration)
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Insurance coverage and bond terms
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Cancellation and refund policy
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Cleaning fees, admin fees, kilometre limits
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Roadside assistance and emergency contacts
A legitimate rental operator will provide these upfront. If they refuse, delay, or send vague documents—walk away.
How to Verify a Private RV Rental is Legit
Private RV rentals in Australia—especially through peer-to-peer platforms or social media—can be cost-effective and flexible. But they also carry a higher risk of scams or legal grey areas. Here’s how to confirm whether the RV you’re about to rent is genuine, safe, and compliant.
Check for Vehicle Registration & Insurance
The first step is verifying that the vehicle is legally registered and roadworthy. In most Australian states, you can check this online using the vehicle’s registration number. For example:
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NSW Rego Check: www.service.nsw.gov.au/transaction/check-vehicle-registration
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VIC Rego Check: www.vicroads.vic.gov.au/registration/vehicle-registration/check-registration
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QLD Rego Check: www.qld.gov.au/checkrego
The check will show:
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Registration status (active/expired)
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Make, model, year
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Expiry date
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CTP insurance (Compulsory Third Party)
If the details don’t match what the renter has advertised—or the rego is expired—walk away immediately.
Also, ask for proof of comprehensive insurance, and make sure it allows rentals. Many personal policies don’t cover third-party use.
Look for Reviews and Social Proof
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Search their name, business, or RV plate number online to see if complaints exist.
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Use RV travel Facebook groups or forums like The Grey Nomads or Australia Camping & Caravanning to ask about the operator.
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If they advertise on Camplify, SHAREaCAMPER, or Outdoorsy, check their host ratings and review history.
If the person is truly running a trustworthy rental, they’ll have an online trail of satisfied customers—or at least be willing to share references.
Ask for a Video Call Walkthrough
Requesting a live video call is one of the easiest and most effective ways to verify that:
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The vehicle exists
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The person owns or controls it
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It matches the photos and description in the listing
Ask the owner to show:
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Registration sticker (if applicable)
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Interior layout and condition
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Features like fridge, toilet, or beds
If they hesitate, make excuses, or only send pre-recorded videos—it’s a red flag.
A few quick verification steps upfront can save you from hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars lost to a scam.
What to Do When Picking Up the RV
Even if your booking went smoothly and everything looks legitimate online, the pickup process is a critical moment to protect yourself. This is your chance to confirm that the vehicle is roadworthy, matches the listing, and hasn’t been misrepresented. What you do during pickup can also protect you from post-rental disputes or unexpected charges.
Perform a Full Walkthrough Inspection
Before you sign or drive away, inspect the entire RV thoroughly—outside and inside. Look for:
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Scratches, dents, rust, or damage to the exterior
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Tyre wear, cracks, or low pressure
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Windscreen chips or wiper condition
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Roof-mounted accessories like solar panels, awnings, and vents
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Cleanliness and functionality of interior (lights, stove, fridge, water pump, toilet, etc.)
If anything is damaged, insist it be written down on the condition report before signing.
Also check:
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Fuel and water tank levels
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Odometer reading
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Gas bottles—are they full or part of your responsibility?
If a walkthrough is skipped, you risk being blamed for existing issues later.
Take Time-Stamped Photos & Videos
Use your phone to photograph:
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Every angle of the exterior (front, sides, back, roof if possible)
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Windscreen and tyres
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Any pre-existing scratches, chips, or interior marks
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Dashboard (including fuel and odometer readings)
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The licence plate and VIN
Also record a short video walkthrough if you can. Time-stamped evidence is invaluable if you’re later accused of damage or missing items.
Store these photos safely (in cloud storage or a backup device) until your bond is fully refunded.
Read the Fine Print Before Signing
Before you sign the pickup form or rental agreement, make sure you understand:
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The insurance excess amount and what it covers
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Any limitations on road types (e.g., gravel, off-road)
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Cleaning expectations upon return
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Fuel and mileage policies
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Fees for late returns or extended hire
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24/7 support or roadside assistance details
If anything feels vague or missing, ask for clarification in writing. Don’t feel pressured to sign until you’re satisfied—this is your legal protection if a dispute arises.
Insurance & Bond Traps to Avoid
Insurance is one of the most confusing—and commonly exploited—aspects of RV rental in Australia. Scammers and even some legitimate providers may use vague policies or fine-print clauses to extract unexpected charges from you. Understanding the bond, excess, and insurance options can save you hundreds (or thousands) in post-rental disputes.
Understanding the Excess (Deductible)
Most RV rentals include basic insurance, but with a very high excess—often between $1,000 and $7,500. This is the amount you agree to pay out-of-pocket in case of any damage, regardless of who’s at fault.
Here’s what you need to ask:
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What is the standard excess amount?
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What types of damage are excluded (e.g., roof, undercarriage, tyres)?
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Is the excess held or pre-authorised on your card, or only charged after an incident?
If damage occurs—even minor—some operators immediately deduct the full excess and only partially refund it after assessment. Always get clarity in writing.
Excess Reduction Options or Third-Party Cover
Most rental companies will offer an excess reduction package that lowers your liability to $0–$500. While this adds to the daily rate, it can offer peace of mind.
Alternatively, you can purchase third-party travel insurance that covers rental vehicle excess. These policies are often cheaper and broader in scope but require you to pay the full excess upfront and claim it back later.
Compare options carefully. Make sure:
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The policy covers campervans/motorhomes
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It includes multi-day rentals
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You understand the claim process
Avoid businesses that force you into high-cost insurance with no opt-out.
Beware of Cleaning & Admin Charges
Some scammy or careless operators hit renters with:
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Excessive cleaning fees (for sand, dust, or minor interior mess)
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Admin or processing fees for tolls, fines, or fuel discrepancies
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Fees for not emptying toilet cassettes or grey water tanks
These charges often aren’t mentioned until after return—buried in fine print or vaguely worded clauses. To protect yourself:
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Ask for a cleaning checklist in advance
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Take photos of the interior condition at drop-off
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Get a signed return receipt confirming the vehicle was returned in acceptable condition
Transparency is key. If terms aren’t clear, or fees feel excessive, challenge them before signing the agreement.
Dealing With a Suspected Scam or Dispute
Even if you take every precaution, issues can still arise—whether it’s unfair damage claims, unreturned bonds, or discovering you’ve been misled. The key to handling a suspected scam or rental dispute is to act quickly, gather evidence, and follow the correct reporting channels.
Contact the Platform or Company Immediately
If you booked through a rental platform (like Camplify, Outdoorsy, or Apollo), report the issue directly to their customer service team:
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Provide written documentation: screenshots, booking receipts, emails or messages, and a copy of the contract.
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Include photo or video evidence of the vehicle condition before and after.
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Stay polite but assertive—most platforms have a formal complaints process or mediation pathway.
If you booked privately (via Facebook or Gumtree) and suspect fraud, time is critical.
File a Complaint with ACCC or State Consumer Affairs
Australia’s consumer protection bodies take scams and unfair business practices seriously. You can lodge a complaint with:
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ACCC (Australian Competition & Consumer Commission):
Website: www.accc.gov.au
Use their Scamwatch portal to report fraud or misleading conduct. -
State-based consumer agencies, including:
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NSW Fair Trading: www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au
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Consumer Affairs Victoria: www.consumer.vic.gov.au
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Queensland OFT: www.qld.gov.au/fairtrading
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WA Consumer Protection: www.commerce.wa.gov.au/consumer-protection
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These bodies can investigate the business, issue warnings or penalties, and assist with dispute resolution.
Contact Your Bank or Credit Card Provider
If you’ve been overcharged or scammed:
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Call your bank or credit card provider as soon as possible.
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Request a chargeback if you paid for a service that was never delivered, or if charges were unfair or unauthorised.
You may need to provide documentation (screenshots, invoices, emails) to support your case.
For payments made via PayPal (Goods and Services) or Stripe, you can also open a payment dispute directly through those platforms.
The faster you respond, the better your chances of recovering funds and holding bad actors accountable.
Real Examples of RV Rental Scams in Australia
To better understand how RV rental scams play out in the real world, let’s look at a few anonymised case studies from travellers who were affected. These true scenarios reveal the tactics scammers use—and the lessons you can apply to protect yourself.
Case 1: Fake Gumtree Listing Costs Couple $3,000
A backpacking couple from the UK found a “too good to be true” campervan on Gumtree—a modern, fully fitted van listed at $85/day during peak season. The seller claimed they were moving overseas and needed a quick rental. After some back-and-forth, they requested a $3,000 bond via bank transfer to secure the booking.
When the couple arrived in Melbourne to collect the van, the address provided was a vacant lot—and the seller’s number was disconnected. They later discovered the listing photos were stolen from a real campervan owner’s blog.
Lesson: Always verify listings, never pay via direct bank transfer for private rentals, and avoid deals that sound suspiciously cheap.
Case 2: $550 Charged for “Pre-Existing Scratch”
An Aussie family rented a motorhome from a mid-sized operator outside Brisbane. They skipped the detailed photo inspection at pickup, relying on the condition report provided by the staff.
Upon return, they were told a scratch on the rear bumper would require repainting—and were billed $550. They argued it was old damage, but had no timestamped photos to prove it. The company refused to release part of their bond.
Lesson: Take your own photos and videos at pickup and drop-off, even if the staff complete an inspection. It’s your word vs theirs without evidence.
Case 3: Phishing Website Mimics a Major Rental Brand
A solo traveller in Perth searched online for last-minute campervan deals and landed on a professional-looking site that mimicked a well-known rental brand. She made a booking for $1,200 and paid via the site’s “secure” form.
The confirmation email never arrived. When she contacted the actual rental company, they confirmed they had no record of her booking—and the site was fake.
Lesson: Always check the URL, verify business credentials (ABN, contact number), and confirm bookings through trusted platforms. Watch out for phishing domains with similar names like “ap0llocamper.com” instead of “apollo.com.au”.
These stories are not rare. Scams can hit anyone—local or international, first-timer or experienced traveller. The good news? By learning from these cases and using this guide, you’ll be well equipped to spot the warning signs before it’s too late.
Final Checklist for Scam-Free RV Hire
Before you hit the road, run through this practical, no-nonsense checklist to ensure your RV rental is secure, legitimate, and fully protected. Whether you’re renting through a platform or privately, these steps reduce your risk of falling victim to scams or disputes.
Before You Book
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Research the rental platform or individual thoroughly
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Verify the ABN (Australian Business Number) for any business entity
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Use only trusted booking websites (e.g. Camplify, Outdoorsy, Apollo)
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Avoid suspicious payment methods like bank transfers or crypto
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Compare pricing to check for “too good to be true” offers
Booking & Payment
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Use a credit card or protected payment gateway
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Read the full rental agreement (not just a summary)
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Understand the excess, bond amount, and what’s covered
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Clarify all additional costs (cleaning fees, km limits, late return penalties)
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Request a written confirmation with full vehicle details
At Pickup
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Conduct a full walkaround inspection—exterior and interior
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Take timestamped photos and videos of any existing damage
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Confirm odometer, fuel level, and tank status
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Check tyre condition, registration, and safety gear
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Get a signed condition report from the owner or staff
During the Hire
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Stick to approved road types (sealed/unsealed as per agreement)
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Keep receipts for fuel, tolls, or services
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Report any incidents immediately with supporting evidence
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Contact support if unsure about vehicle performance or damage
At Return
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Clean the vehicle as per the company’s checklist
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Refill fuel and water as required
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Take photos of interior and exterior before drop-off
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Get a signed return receipt confirming no new damage
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Follow up for bond release timeline in writing
One missed step can lead to hundreds of dollars lost—or more. Treat every rental transaction as a formal agreement, not a handshake deal. Trustworthy providers will support your diligence.
When in doubt, walk away. There are plenty of reputable RV rental options in Australia, and no deal is worth risking your holiday or your wallet.