Member stories
Meet Phil: Camplify owner turning hirers into friends
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Discover how Phil turned his love for motorhome travel into a thriving rental business that earns over $20,000 during peak season while working just six days. From unexpected friendships spanning continents to his iconic Rolling Stones shirt, Phil's story embodies the heart of the Camplify community in Kaiaua, New Zealand. Phil's journey into the world of motorhome rentals is as unique and heartwarming as the connections he's made along the way. Based in Kaiaua** in the **Waikato region, Phil is a sociable and community-oriented person whose story begins with an extended adventure in the UK , where he and his wife traveled for several months in a motorhome they purchased. At the end of their trip, they decided to ship the vehicle back to New Zealand , and that's when their motorhome rental journey began. Initially, they listed their vehicle on Mighway , the platform that was later acquired by Camplify , marking the start of an exciting new chapter.
For Phil, renting out his 2018 luxury motorhome is not just about covering costs—it's about the experiences and relationships he builds. His efficient system allows him to work "just six days during the peak season", referring to pickup and drop-off days, yet still make over $20,000. This approach allows him to focus on what he values most: spending quality time with his family and enjoying the little things in life.
A Story of Friendship and Adventure
One of Phil's most memorable experiences with hirers comes from a booking with a couple from Canada. Originally scheduled to take place earlier, the booking had to be postponed due to a cyclone. Phil showed his flexibility and understanding by allowing them to move the booking to a later date without penalty. When the couple finally arrived, they instantly bonded over their shared love for motorhoming.
What followed was an unexpected adventure that epitomises the spirit of the Camplify community. The Canadian couple, who also owned a motorhome, extended an invitation to Phil and his wife to visit them in Canada. When Phil discovered that his favorite band, the Rolling Stones , was performing in Vancouver , he reached out to the couple. They not only helped him secure tickets for the concert but also loaned him their motorhome for a four-week road trip across Canada. This incredible experience showcased how Camplify is not just a platform for rentals but a gateway to lifelong friendships and unforgettable journeys.
Phil's Signature Look: The Iconic Rolling Stones Shirt
If you've ever rented Phil's motorhome, you've probably noticed his signature look—his yellow Rolling Stones shirt , which has become a symbol of his friendly and approachable nature. He always wears it in his profile picture , making it easier for hirers to recognise him when he picks them up at the airport.
Going the Extra Mile for Hirers
Phil takes pride in providing exceptional service and ensuring his hirers have a stress-free and enjoyable experience. He describes himself as "almost like their travel agent ," offering local knowledge, personalised recommendations , and plenty of helpful tips. Communication , he emphasises, is the key to success. Before each hire, he engages in extensive conversations with his guests, sharing advice on local attractions, grocery stores, and even the best places to buy a SIM card.
List your campervan, motorhome or caravan on Camplify
One of Phil's favorite recommendations for hirers is to spend their first or last night in the Coromandel Peninsula, just a short drive from his location. This allows him to be close by in case they need any assistance on their first night and makes the return process easier and stress-free. He even goes the extra mile by equipping his motorhome with thoughtful touches, such as shovels for digging holes at Hot Water Beach , ensuring his guests have the best possible experience.
The Impact of Camplify on Phil's Life
Since listing his motorhome on Camplify, Phil has found a perfect work-life balance. Now a full-time granddad , he enjoys spending quality time with his loved ones while still running a successful rental business. His outgoing and friendly personality has made him a natural fit for the peer-to-peer concept, and he genuinely enjoys the meaningful connections he makes with his hirers.
Phil credits Camplify's support team for making his experience seamless. Despite not being particularly tech-savvy, he appreciates that help is always just a phone call away, whether it's assistance with the online pre- and post-hire checklists or general inquiries about the platform. He highly recommends Camplify to anyone considering renting out their motorhome, saying it's a fantastic way to earn extra income while meeting amazing people from all over the world.
Advice for New Camplify Owners
Phil's top piece of advice for other motorhome owners looking to grow on Camplify? Communication is everything. From the initial inquiry to post-trip feedback, staying in touch with hirers and offering valuable insights can make all the difference in creating a great experience. He also emphasises the importance of providing those small, thoughtful touches that make a motorhome stand out and leave a lasting impression on guests.
Phil's success story shows how sharing your motorhome can create both incredible experiences and a valuable income stream. If you own a motorhome, caravan, or campervan, join Phil and thousands of other successful owners making the most of their vehicles. It takes just minutes to create your listing, and our friendly team is ready to help you every step of the way.