Rental terms
The rental agreement is made with Joona Taskinen personally — Caravan Helsinki is a trading name, not a limited company. Prices are stated at 0 % VAT.
Introduction
Renting a camper is built on mutual trust. When we hand over the keys, we are giving you a vehicle, together with all the equipment needed for your trip. In return, we trust that our customers will take good care of it and use it responsibly.
Most rentals go smoothly and without any issues. The purpose of this document is simply to make sure that both sides understand how the rental works and what happens in the rare situations where something unexpected occurs.
At the beginning of this document, you will find the “Terms and Conditions in short” section, which highlights the most important practical points of the rental. The rest of the document describes the full rental terms.
Our goal is always to act openly, fairly, and with common sense. If something during your trip is unclear or a problem occurs, please contact us, and we will do our best to help.
Terms and Conditions in short
Booking & payment
Reservation is confirmed with a reservation fee. The remaining rental price must be paid 30 days before the rental period begins. A security deposit pre-authorisation is placed on the renter’s card at pickup. The security deposit can also be paid in cash.
Cancellation
- Free cancellation up to 30 days before the rental start.
- If cancelled 15–29 days before the rental start, 50% of the rental price will be charged.
- If cancelled 14 days or less before the rental start, 100% of the rental price will be charged.
Mileage
The rental includes 250 km per day. Additional distance 0.35 € / km.
Cleaning
Unless final cleaning is purchased, the vehicle must return the camper in the same interior cleanliness condition as received, with trash removed, wastewater tank emptied, and toilet cassette emptied.
Smoking & pets
Smoking inside the vehicle is prohibited (1000 € cleaning fee + cost of damages in full)). Pets are allowed only if agreed in advance with the Lessor and the applicable pet transport fee has been paid.
Damage responsibility
Standard insurance deductible 750 € per damage incident. A reduced deductible may be purchased.
Security deposit
A 750 € security deposit is held on the renter’s card as a pre-authorisation at pickup. The deposit is released within two days after the vehicle is returned, provided no additional charges apply. The deposit can also be paid in cash.
Definitions and Scope
Duty of care
The renter is responsible for taking proper care of the vehicle and its equipment throughout the entire rental period. The vehicle must be used carefully and responsibly and only for its intended purpose.
Normal wear and tear resulting from proper use of the vehicle is not considered damage. Minor marks, small scratches or other signs of normal use may occur during the rental period and are not subject to compensation.
Damage caused by improper use, negligence, accidents, or violation of these rental terms is not considered normal wear and tear and may be charged to the renter according to these terms.
The renter must ensure that the vehicle’s maximum permitted weight is not exceeded and that cargo is properly secured during travel.
Compliance with laws
The renter must comply with all applicable traffic laws and regulations and operate the vehicle with due care and caution.
Permitted use
The vehicle may only be used for normal private travel and camping purposes.
The vehicle may not be used for:
- when number of passengers in the vehicle exceeds the number of seats equipped with seatbelts
- illegal activities
- racing or competitions
- driver training
- towing beyond permitted limits
- driving on ice outside officially designated ice roads
- driving on roads or terrain unsuitable for motorhomes, including off-road terrain, forest tracks or other surfaces that may cause damage to the vehicle
Condition inspection
At the time of handover, the renter and the Lessor will inspect the exterior condition of the vehicle together in order to avoid disputes regarding existing damage.
Rental period
The rental period begins when the renter receives possession of the vehicle and ends when the vehicle is returned to the Lessor, even if this occurs outside the scheduled times stated in the Rental Agreement.
Smoking prohibition
Smoking inside the vehicle is strictly prohibited. If smoking has occurred inside the vehicle, a cleaning fee of 1000 € will be charged.
Pets
Pets are allowed only if agreed in advance with the Lessor and the applicable pet fee has been paid. The renter is responsible for any damages caused by the animal. If pets are transported without prior agreement, the Lessor may charge a 500 € cleaning fee.
Liability and Insurance Deductible
Insurance and deductible
The vehicle is insured with comprehensive motor insurance. In the event of damage during the rental period, the renter is responsible for the deductible. The standard deductible is 750 € per damage incident. The renter can purchase an additional service to reduce the deductible. Reducing the deductible must be agreed with the renter before the start of the reservation.
The renter is liable for damage occurring to the vehicle or its fixed equipment during the rental period up to the amount of the insurance deductible, unless otherwise stated in these terms.
Separate damage incidents
The deductible applies separately to each individual damage incident. If several damages occur during the rental period and they are not caused by the same event, the deductible will be charged separately for each incident.
Damage to additional equipment
If damage occurs to additional equipment or accessories, such as camping equipment or other optional items provided with the vehicle, the renter is responsible for the repair or replacement cost.
Situations where full liability applies
The renter is fully liable for all damages without limitation to the deductible if the damage is caused by:
- intentional actions
- negligence or gross negligence
- driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- use of the vehicle for illegal purposes
- violation of these rental terms
- loss of keys or handing over the vehicle to an unauthorised person.
- damages not covered by the vehicle’s insurance
Liability for fines and charges
The renter is responsible for all fines, penalties, toll charges, parking fees, congestion charges and other costs arising from the use of the vehicle during the rental period.
Some charges may be issued by authorities or service providers only after the rental period has ended. The renter remains responsible for such charges even if the security deposit pre-authorisation has already been released.
The Lessor may invoice the renter afterwards for these costs, including any administrative handling fees incurred in processing the charge.
Where permitted by law, the Lessor may also transfer the renter’s contact details to the relevant authority or service provider for the purpose of processing the charge.
Booking, Cancellations, Payment and Security Deposit
A reservation becomes binding once the renter has paid the reservation fee of through the booking system. The reservation fee confirms the booking and reserves the vehicle for the agreed rental period.
Before the start of the rental period, the parties will sign a separate Rental Agreement that confirms the details of the rental, including the vehicle, rental period, security deposit and any additional services.
These Terms and Conditions form an integral part of the Rental Agreement.
Payment of the rental price
The remaining rental amount must be paid no later than 30 days before the start of the rental period. If the reservation is made less than 30 days before the rental period begins, the full rental price must be paid at the time of booking.
In the event of cancellation, the refund of payments will be determined according to the Cancellation Policy.
Cancellation Policy
The renter may cancel the reservation by notifying the Lessor in writing (for example, by email).
The following cancellation terms apply:
- Free cancellation up to 30 days before the rental start.
- If cancelled 15–29 days before the rental start, 50% of the rental price will be charged.
- If cancelled 14 days or less before the rental start, 100% of the rental price will be charged.
The applicable cancellation period is determined based on the date when the cancellation notice is received by the Lessor.
If the reservation was made less than 30 days before the rental start, the cancellation terms apply immediately from the moment the reservation is confirmed.
Use of the security deposit
The security deposit may be used to cover costs related to the rental period, including but not limited to damages to the vehicle, insurance deductible, missing equipment or accessories, additional mileage charges, cleaning fees, fuel or service charges, traffic fines, toll charges or parking fees, and other costs resulting from violation of the rental terms.
The security deposit may also be used to cover post-rental charges described in Post-rental charges, if such costs are identified before the security deposit has been released.
Release of the security deposit
After the vehicle has been returned and inspected, the pre-authorisation will be released within two (2) days, provided that no additional charges apply. The time required for the funds to become available again depends on the renter’s bank or card issuer.
Post-rental invoicing
If additional costs arise during or after the rental period, the renter is responsible for paying these costs according to these rental terms.
Whenever possible, such costs will first be covered using the security deposit pre-authorisation. If the security deposit has already been released or does not fully cover the costs, the renter agrees to pay the remaining amount.
If additional costs are identified at the time of vehicle return, the renter may pay them immediately by card or cash.
If the costs are identified after the rental period or cannot be settled at the time of return, the Lessor may invoice the renter for the remaining amount. The renter agrees to pay such invoices within the payment term specified on the invoice.
Post-rental charges
By signing the Rental Agreement, the renter accepts that additional charges may be invoiced after the rental period if necessary to cover costs specified in this agreement.
Post-rental charges may include, but are not limited to:
- additional mileage exceeding the included 250 km per rental day (0.35 € / km)
- missing fuel or refuelling service
- cleaning fees if the vehicle is returned excessively dirty
- The toilet cassette not emptied
- damages to the vehicle or its equipment (up to the insurance deductible or full cost if applicable)
- missing or damaged equipment or accessories
- traffic fines, parking tickets, toll charges, or similar fees incurred during the rental period
- late return of the vehicle
- smoking inside the vehicle (minimum cleaning fee 1000 € + cost of damages in full)
- unauthorised pets inside the vehicle (cleaning fee 500 €)
- the camper returned without at least one gas bottle unused (fee of 30€)
Rental Fees, Additional Services and Equipment
Rental price
The rental price of the vehicle is defined in the booking confirmation and Rental Agreement.
Additional services
The renter may purchase additional services for the rental period. The available services and their prices are listed on our website: https://caravanhelsinki.com/#services.
Additional services may be purchased during booking or during the rental period. If the renter wishes to purchase additional services during the rental, the renter must inform the Lessor in advance.
Services and equipment included in the rental
The rental price includes the use of the vehicle and its standard equipment, as well as the following services and equipment provided for the renter’s use during the rental period:
- Basic orientation to the vehicle and its systems at the start of the rental
- Phone and WhatsApp support during the rental period
- Comprehensive insurance coverage (traffic insurance and full casco insurance)
- Two gas bottles for the vehicle’s gas system. At least one bottle will be unused at the start of the rental period. If the renter replaces an empty gas bottle during the rental period, the cost will be reimbursed against a valid receipt.
- The rental also includes general camping equipment provided with the vehicle, such as:
- Basic tableware, cutlery, cups, etc.
- Dishwashing kit
- Cooking equipment and a coffee maker
- Pillows and blankets
- Cleaning equipment and vacuum
- Hair dryer
- Toilet chemicals and toilet paper for the chemical toilet
- Outdoor camping equipment, including camping chairs, a camping table, and a ground mat (approximately 2.5 × 3 m)
- Electricity hookup cables, levelling blocks, basic tool kit, water filling hose
If equipment or items that are listed as included in the rental are missing at the start of the rental period, the renter should notify the Lessor as soon as possible. If the renter must purchase a replacement item that is reasonably necessary for the rental and the Lessor has approved the purchase in advance, the cost may be reimbursed against a valid receipt. The reimbursement is limited to reasonable costs for equivalent replacement items.
Equipment responsibility
The renter is responsible for all equipment and accessories provided with the vehicle during the rental period. All equipment must be returned with the vehicle in the same condition as at the start of the rental period, excluding normal wear and tear. If equipment or accessories are lost, missing or damaged during the rental period, the renter is responsible for the repair or replacement cost.
Services not included in the rental
The rental price does not include services such as fuel, final cleaning, toilet emptying, or other optional services unless separately purchased.
Vehicle Maintenance & Care
Vehicle security and keys
Whenever the vehicle is parked or left unattended, it must always be properly locked. The renter is responsible for the vehicle keys during the rental period. The keys must not be left inside the vehicle or in an unsecured location.
If the keys are lost, stolen or damaged during the rental period, the renter is responsible for the cost of replacement keys, locks or reprogramming of the vehicle’s security system if required.
Electrical systems and battery use
The vehicle is equipped with two separate battery systems: the starter battery, which is used to start the engine and power vehicle systems, and the leisure batteries, which supply electricity to the living area.
Both the starter battery and the leisure batteries are charged while driving the vehicle. The leisure batteries are also charged when the vehicle is connected to external mains power (for example at a campsite) and, in some vehicles, by solar panels when sunlight is available.
When the vehicle is connected to external power, the electrical systems operate similarly to normal household electricity and the batteries will not discharge.
The leisure batteries have limited capacity and may discharge more quickly in cold weather or winter conditions. To ensure reliable operation of the living area systems, it is recommended that the vehicle is connected to external power every few days whenever possible.
Running out of leisure battery power during the rental period does not constitute a fault of the vehicle and does not entitle the renter to compensation or refund.
If the starter battery becomes empty, the vehicle must not be jump-started using jumper cables without instructions from the Lessor, as this may damage the vehicle’s electrical systems. If assistance is needed, the renter should contact the Lessor or roadside assistance provided through the vehicle’s insurance.
Awning use
Special care must be taken when using the awning, particularly in windy or rainy conditions. The awning must always be properly secured using the provided anchoring equipment. The renter is responsible for any damages caused to the awning during the rental period.
Fresh water system
Only clean potable tap water may be filled into the freshwater tank. If diesel fuel or any other unsuitable substance is added to the fresh water system, the renter is liable for a 1000 € penalty in addition to the full cost of replacing the water tank and related components.
Use of the water and toilet systems
The water and toilet systems must be used only for their intended purpose. Only appropriate toilet chemicals and normal toilet paper may be used in the toilet system.
The renter must ensure that the toilet cassette and wastewater tank are emptied before returning the vehicle unless the emptying service has been purchased.
If the systems become blocked or damaged due to improper use, the renter is responsible for the resulting cleaning or repair costs.
Fuel
The renter is responsible for the fuel used during the rental period. The vehicle must be returned with a full fuel tank unless otherwise agreed. Refueling must be carried out no more than approximately 5 km from the return location. The renter must provide a receipt for the refilling if requested. The vehicle must be refuelled only with the correct fuel type specified for the vehicle. The renter is fully responsible for any damage caused by using incorrect fuel.
Routine checks during rental and Neglect of maintenance
During the rental period, the renter is responsible for performing normal vehicle checks, such as checking engine oil level, coolant level, battery fluids, and tire pressure. The renter is responsible for any damages resulting from failure to perform normal vehicle checks or from neglect of proper vehicle care.
Minor maintenance purchases
If the renter must purchase minor maintenance items necessary for the continued safe operation of the vehicle, such as engine oil, the cost will be reimbursed by the Lessor against a valid receipt.
Emergency repairs
If a repair is necessary to continue the journey and contacting the Lessor is not possible, the renter may arrange a repair costing up to 150 €. The renter must obtain a receipt and documentation of the repair in order to receive reimbursement.
Technical issues and warning lights
If the renter notices a technical problem with the vehicle during the rental period, the renter must contact the Lessor as soon as possible for instructions before continuing the journey. If a yellow warning light appears on the vehicle dashboard, the renter must contact the Lessor immediately. If a red warning light appears, the vehicle must not be driven before further instructions are received.
Vehicle dimensions and clearance
The renter is responsible for ensuring that the vehicle can safely pass under bridges, tunnels, parking structures, tree branches and other obstacles. The renter must take into account the height, width and length of the vehicle when driving and parking.
Driving the vehicle into locations with insufficient clearance, including parking garages, low bridges, covered structures or other restricted areas, may cause significant damage to the vehicle.
Damage caused by insufficient clearance or by driving the vehicle into areas unsuitable for vehicles of this size is the responsibility of the renter and is not considered normal use of the vehicle.
Winter Use Instructions
When the vehicle is used during cold weather conditions, the renter must take special care to prevent damage caused by freezing temperatures.
If the vehicle is equipped with a block heater and the outside temperature is below approximately –5 °C, the renter should use the engine block heater for at least one hour before starting the vehicle. If the temperature is below –10 °C, the block heater should be used for at least two hours before starting.
The renter is responsible for ensuring that the fresh water system, grey water tank and toilet cassette do not freeze during the rental period. If freezing conditions are expected, the water system should be used with caution or left empty.
Any damages caused by freezing of the water system or tanks during the rental period are the responsibility of the renter.
Accidents, Damage and Theft
Incidents, theft and accidents
The renter must inform the Lessor immediately if the vehicle experiences a malfunction, damage, vandalism, theft or is involved in a traffic accident during the rental period.
In the event of theft, vandalism or a traffic accident, the renter must also notify the police without delay and follow the instructions provided by the Lessor. The renter may be required to submit a written damage report.
Failure to follow these procedures may result in the renter being liable for additional costs arising from the incident.
Technical failure during rental
If a technical fault prevents the normal use of the vehicle, the renter may request a rental price reduction corresponding to the period during which the vehicle could not be used. The Lessor is not responsible for indirect costs incurred by the renter due to technical faults or repairs, such as accommodation costs or campsite fees.
Extended repairs, technical failures and recovery
If a technical defect, malfunction or damage occurs during the rental period, the renter must inform the Lessor without delay and follow the instructions provided.
The renter must take reasonable measures to safeguard the vehicle and its equipment and must not abandon the vehicle without the Lessor’s instructions. The renter must remain available and cooperate with the Lessor and roadside assistance services in arranging repair, recovery or transport of the vehicle.
If the defect prevents the vehicle from being safely driven, the Lessor will make reasonable efforts to repair the vehicle or arrange a replacement vehicle if available. If the vehicle cannot be repaired within a reasonable time and no replacement vehicle is available, the rental agreement may be terminated. In such cases, the renter is entitled to a refund corresponding to the unused rental period.
Defects affecting only the living area equipment (such as the water system, heating, appliances or other interior equipment) that do not prevent safe driving of the vehicle do not automatically entitle the renter to termination of the rental. In such cases, the Lessor offers reasonable compensation depending on the nature of the defect.
If the vehicle must be transported due to an accident, breakdown or other damage, recovery will primarily be arranged through the vehicle’s insurance or roadside assistance services whenever possible.
If the damage or incident is caused by the renter’s negligence, misuse, violation of these rental terms or other circumstances for which the renter is responsible, the renter is liable for the resulting transport and recovery costs to the extent not covered by insurance.
If the rental must be terminated due to a technical defect of the vehicle, the Lessor’s liability is limited to the refund of the unused rental period. The Lessor is not responsible for alternative travel arrangements, accommodation costs or other indirect expenses incurred by the renter.
Vehicle Return and End of Rental
Return of the vehicle
The vehicle must be returned to the agreed location at the agreed time at the end of the rental period. The rental period ends when the vehicle has been returned to the Lessor or when the Lessor has received notification that the vehicle has been returned to a location approved by the Lessor.
Interior cleanliness
The renter must take reasonable care to prevent stains or damage to upholstery, mattresses, curtains, and other interior materials. Unless a final cleaning service has been purchased, the renter must return the camper in the same interior cleanliness condition as received
If permanent stains, strong odours, burns, or other damage occur to interior materials during the rental period, the renter may be charged for professional cleaning, repair, or replacement costs. The additional cleaning cost is 60 € per hour.
Failure to return the vehicle
The renter must return the vehicle at the agreed time and location stated in the Rental Agreement, unless an extension of the rental period has been approved by the Lessor. If the vehicle is not returned as agreed and the renter fails to contact the Lessor or obtain approval for an extension, the vehicle may be considered unlawfully retained. In such circumstances, the Lessor may take all necessary measures to recover the vehicle, including reporting the matter to the police and relevant authorities.
The renter remains responsible for all costs arising from the failure to return the vehicle, including additional rental charges, recovery costs and any damages resulting from the delay.
Liability for late return
If the renter fails to return the vehicle as agreed, the Lessor has the right to charge reasonable compensation for financial losses caused by the delay, including loss of subsequent bookings.
Unused rental time
If the renter returns the vehicle before the end of the agreed rental period, the unused rental time will not be refunded.
Rental extension
Any extension of the rental period must be agreed with the Lessor in advance. If the Lessor cannot approve the extension, the vehicle must be returned according to the original agreement. Rental extensions are calculated based on the applicable rental price divided into daily rates. Extensions are always charged in full rental days.
Termination of the Rental Agreement
Termination due to breach of contract
The Lessor has the right to terminate the Rental Agreement during the rental period if the renter materially violates the terms of this agreement or if the renter is unable, in the Lessor’s reasonable opinion, to operate the vehicle safely and properly.
Return of the vehicle after termination
If the Rental Agreement is terminated due to the renter’s breach of the agreement, negligence, misuse of the vehicle or other circumstances for which the renter is responsible, the renter must return the vehicle to the Lessor without delay and in accordance with the Lessor’s instructions.
If the rental agreement is terminated due to a technical defect or other circumstances not caused by the renter, the return or recovery of the vehicle will be arranged according to the procedures described in the section concerning technical failures and repairs.
Taking the Vehicle Abroad
Permission to travel abroad
The vehicle may not be taken outside Finland without the prior permission of the Lessor. Permission to travel abroad must be agreed in advance and the renter must inform the Lessor of the countries to which the vehicle will be taken.
Travel is generally permitted within the European Union and European Economic Area, unless otherwise agreed.
Travel to certain countries may be restricted due to insurance limitations. The vehicle may not be taken to countries where the vehicle’s insurance coverage is not valid or where the Lessor’s insurance provider restricts travel. These may include, for example, Russia, Belarus, Ukraine or other countries where insurance coverage cannot be guaranteed.
The Lessor reserves the right to restrict travel to certain countries or regions at its discretion. If permission to travel abroad is granted, the Lessor will provide the renter with any required documentation for taking the vehicle outside Finland.
Dispute Resolution
Negotiation between the parties
Any disputes arising from this Rental Agreement should primarily be resolved through negotiations between the renter and the Lessor.
Consumer dispute resolution
If the dispute cannot be resolved through negotiations, the renter may submit the matter to the Consumer Disputes Board for resolution.
Court jurisdiction
If the dispute is brought before a court of law, it shall be handled in the District Court of Helsinki unless otherwise required by mandatory legislation.
Force Majeure
Force majeure events
Neither the Lessor nor the renter shall be held liable for failure to fulfill their obligations under this Rental Agreement if such failure is caused by a force majeure event beyond their reasonable control. Force majeure events may include, but are not limited to, war, natural disasters, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, severe storms, civil unrest, or restrictions imposed by authorities.
Travel restrictions
Travel restrictions imposed by authorities, including those related to public health situations, are not automatically considered force majeure events. The renter is responsible for ensuring that travel plans comply with any applicable travel restrictions.
Data Protection and Privacy
Processing of personal data
The Lessor processes personal data necessary for managing reservations, rental agreements, customer communication, and payment processing. Personal data is processed in accordance with applicable data protection legislation.
Storage of personal data
Personal data will only be stored for as long as necessary for the purposes of the rental agreement, legal obligations, and legitimate business operations.
Vehicle location data
The vehicle and its keys may be equipped with GPS tracking devices used for security, theft prevention and fleet management purposes. The renter accepts that vehicle location data may be collected and used for these purposes.
Disclosure of information
Personal data or vehicle location information may be disclosed to authorities when required by law or when necessary in cases such as vehicle theft or failure to return the vehicle.
Entire Agreement and Amendments
Entire agreement
Rental Agreement, together with these rental terms and booking confirmation, constitutes the entire agreement between the renter and the Lessor regarding the rental of the vehicle.
Order of precedence
In the event of any conflict between the Rental Agreement, booking confirmation, and these rental terms, the Rental Agreement shall take precedence unless otherwise required by mandatory law.
Validity of the Rental Terms
Version of the terms
The version of the rental terms valid at the time of booking shall apply to the rental.
Updates to the terms
The Lessor reserves the right to update these rental terms when necessary. Updated terms will apply only to future bookings unless otherwise agreed.