Payments are handled through our integrated partner, Stripe, which is a secure payment processing platform. Here’s the flow:
- A Traveller enters their payment details (credit/debit card or mobile wallet) when making a booking request. Stripe securely stores and processes this information (VanLife Connect itself does not store your full card number; it’s handled by Stripe).
- When the booking is confirmed (accepted by the Provider), the Traveller’s card is charged for the full amount. You’ll see this as a charge from VanLife Connect (or Stripe) on your statement.
- The payment is securely held through our payment partner Stripe until the booking is completed. Neither the Provider nor the Traveller can access the funds during this time unless a cancellation triggers a refund.
- After the service is completed and both parties tap “Complete” (or the completion window passes with no dispute), the held funds are split and distributed automatically: the Provider’s payout (minus fees) is sent to the Provider’s linked bank account, and the platform’s 10% commission is allocated to us.
- If a dispute arises, the funds remain on hold until it’s resolved.
- Stripe then initiates the transfer to the Provider. Providers will typically see the deposit in their bank in 1-2 business days (depending on the bank’s processing times) after release. Providers get an email notification of payout as well.
- Travellers receive an email receipt for each payment. Providers can see a record of all transactions in the app, which serves as a ledger of earnings and fees.
All payments for bookings on VanLife Connect must be made through the platform’s payment system. This helps keep transactions traceable, maintain accurate records, and apply the platform’s booking and dispute policies. Payments made outside the platform (such as cash or direct transfers) are against our policies and may limit the platform’s ability to assist if issues arise.