Equipment Protection & Security Hold Policy
Last Updated : June 2026
Introduction
At ReadyCamp, we take great pride in providing clean, well-maintained, premium camping equipment to every customer.
Camping equipment is designed to be enjoyed outdoors and we fully understand that normal use will result in signs of wear over time. Our goal is to operate a fair, transparent and reasonable equipment protection policy that protects both our customers and our business.
This policy explains:
• How our card pre-authorisation works.
• What is considered normal wear and tear.
• What happens if equipment is damaged, lost or stolen.
• How equipment inspections are carried out.
• When charges may apply.
Our Approach
ReadyCamp is a family-run business built by campers, for campers.
We understand that accidents can happen and we recognise that camping equipment is intended to be used in real outdoor environments.
Our objective is not to penalise customers for reasonable use. Instead, this policy exists to protect valuable equipment and ensure it remains available for future customers.
We are committed to applying this policy fairly, consistently and transparently.
Card Pre-Authorisation
What Is a Card Pre-Authorisation?
Before equipment is collected or delivered, ReadyCamp will place a temporary pre-authorisation on the payment card associated with the booking.
A pre-authorisation is not a charge.
The funds remain in your account and are not transferred to ReadyCamp. Instead, the amount is temporarily reserved by your card provider as security during the rental period.
Why Do We Require a Pre-Authorisation?
Camping bundles contain valuable equipment including tents, furniture, cooking equipment and accessories.
The pre-authorisation allows us to:
• Protect equipment from loss or significant damage.
• Avoid requiring customers to pay a large cash deposit.
• Keep rental prices affordable.
• Reduce administration for both customers and ReadyCamp.
When Is the Pre-Authorisation Released?
After the equipment has been returned and inspected, the pre-authorisation will be released provided:
• All equipment has been returned.
• No significant damage is identified.
• No components are missing.
• No additional charges are outstanding.
The exact timeframe for release depends on your bank or card issuer and may take several business days to update on your account.
Equipment Inspection Process
Before Rental
All equipment is inspected before each rental period.
Equipment condition is checked and any existing wear or damage is recorded.
After Rental
Upon return, equipment is inspected again to assess:
• General condition.
• Missing items.
• Damage beyond normal wear and tear.
• Cleaning requirements.
• Functionality.
Where possible, inspections are completed promptly following return.
Normal Wear and Tear
ReadyCamp recognises that camping equipment naturally experiences wear through normal use.
Customers will not be charged for ordinary wear and tear resulting from responsible use.
Examples include:
• Minor grass stains.
• Light dirt or dust.
• Small scuffs and scratches.
• Minor fading from normal use.
• General deterioration consistent with age and use.
These are considered part of the normal lifecycle of camping equipment.
Damage That May Result in Charges
Charges may apply where damage results from negligence, misuse, carelessness or failure to follow reasonable usage instructions.
Examples include:
• Torn tent fabric.
• Broken tent poles.
• Burn marks from stoves, fires or cigarettes.
• Broken furniture.
• Damage caused by pets.
• Damage caused by improper packing or transport.
• Water damage caused by misuse.
• Deliberate or reckless damage.
Any charge will be limited to the reasonable cost of repair or replacement, taking account of the age and condition of the equipment.
Missing Equipment
Customers are responsible for all equipment supplied as part of their rental.
Charges may apply where equipment is:
• Lost.
• Not returned.
• Returned incomplete.
• Returned with missing accessories or components.
Examples include:
• Missing pegs.
• Missing guy ropes.
• Missing chairs.
• Missing cookware.
• Missing storage bags.
• Missing lanterns or accessories.
Where practical, replacement costs will reflect the value of the missing item rather than the cost of an entirely new bundle.
Theft
Customers must take reasonable steps to safeguard equipment during the rental period.
In the event of theft:
1. The customer should notify ReadyCamp as soon as possible.
2. The theft should be reported to An Garda Síochána where appropriate.
3. Customers may be asked to provide a copy of any Garda report or incident reference.
ReadyCamp reserves the right to recover reasonable replacement costs where equipment is stolen while under the customer’s responsibility.
Cleaning Requirements
We do not expect equipment to be returned in showroom condition.
However, customers should:
• Remove rubbish.
• Empty coolers and containers.
• Pack equipment correctly.
• Return equipment in a reasonably clean condition.
Additional cleaning charges may apply only where equipment is returned excessively dirty or requires unusual cleaning effort.
Examples may include:
• Significant mud contamination.
• Food waste left in equipment.
• Unusual odours.
• Excessive staining.
Fair Assessment Principles
When assessing damage or loss, ReadyCamp will consider:
• The age of the equipment.
• The expected lifespan of the item.
• Existing wear and tear.
• Whether repair is possible.
• Whether replacement is necessary.
• The circumstances involved.
We will always seek a fair and proportionate outcome.
Notification of Charges
If ReadyCamp believes a charge is necessary, we will normally:
1. Notify the customer.
2. Explain the reason for the charge.
3. Provide supporting information where appropriate.
4. Outline the proposed cost.
Customers may contact us to discuss any concerns regarding the assessment.
Limitation of Liability
Nothing in this policy limits any rights available to consumers under Irish consumer protection legislation.
ReadyCamp’s objective is to recover only reasonable costs arising from loss, damage or misuse of equipment.
Questions
If equipment becomes damaged during your trip, please contact us as soon as possible.
Prompt communication often helps prevent further damage and allows practical solutions to be identified quickly.
For questions regarding this policy, please contact:
Email: admin@readycampireland.ie
Website: http://www.readycampireland.ie
Thank you for helping us keep ReadyCamp equipment in great condition for future adventurers.