Frequently Asked Questions

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Is smoking allowed in the vans?

Smoking is not allowed in any of the Cabana's.

How do I use the induction stove in the Cabana Flex?

‍In order to use the stove, you will first need to place one of the supplied induction capable pots on either burner, press the power button on the selected burner then click the hand symbol. You can now increase or decrease the temperature using the plus and minus buttons. To turn off the stove press the power button again. The stove is powered by the cabin battery and may not work properly if the voltage is below 13.2 volts.

What are the dimensions of the van?

The Cabana Classic and the Cabana Flex vans are both 20 feet long and 10.5 feet tall.

How much does it cost to book the Eddie Bauer Cabana?

The Eddie Bauer Cabana is $50 more per night than the standard Cabana rental. All of Cabana pricing is dynamic, so please reference the booking page for exact prices for the dates you’re traveling.

Where can I rent Eddie Bauer Cabana?

You can rent the Eddie Bauer Cabana from our Ballard location on our website by clicking Book.

What’s included in the Eddie Bauer x Cabana rental?

The Eddie Bauer Cabana is decked out with Eddie Bauer bedding, amenities, and games, including cozy blankets, a Stanley French Press, adventure mugs, and portable cornhole and ring toss.

What is Cabana's Cancellation Policy?

Free cancellation within 24 hours after booking.

If it has been more than 24 hours since booking the Renter is responsible for some portion of the trip cost as follows.

If canceled more than 30 days before departure:

  • Renter is responsible for 10% of total cost

If canceled between 14 and 30 days before departure:

  • Renter is responsible for 25% of total cost

If canceled less than 14 days before departure:

  • Renter is responsible for 50% of total cost
What is provided during winter months?

All winter rentals come with tire chains and an ice scraper. These additions will be located in the back of the Cabana. In San Francisco and Seattle, the vans are also equipped with snow tires.

You can find out more about our winterization efforts here

Is insurance provided?

Cabana's insurance policy denotes guest insurance as the primary source of coverage. Proof of insurance is needed to complete your profile.

Here are the available insurance options (subject to change based on MVR):

Basic $40/ day -  minimum liability, $100K property damage protection, $1,500 deductible

Essential $57/ day - minimum liability, $150K property damage protection, $1,000 deductible

Peace of Mind $80/ day - full coverage, $250K property damage protection, $500 deductible

Please reach out to support if you need to purchase insurance.

Can I purchase a Cabana Gift Card?

At this time we are not offering gift cards.

How much is the security deposit?

A refundable security deposit of $1,000 is held by Cabana at the time of booking and may be refunded, in part or in full, after the vehicle is returned and inspected by Cabana employees. If a full refund is in order, guests may not see two offsetting charges and instead the initial hold will simply disappear in the guests credit card portal. See the rental agreement for more details.

How do I empty the gray water tank?

Detailed instructions for emptying the gray water will be available in your van and in the Cabana app.

To empty gray water, find a gray water disposal area (located at most RV sites, truck stops, and many campgrounds). Attach the gray water hose (provided) to the outlet underneath the drivers side of the vehicle, and place the other end in the disposal drain. Then, pull the lever next to the van's water drain.

There is no emptying fee associated if the van is returned with full grey/ black water tanks.

What is included in the kitchen?

All vans are equipped with a kitchen, which includes the following: a two-burner stove, one pot, one pan, one cutting board, one spatula, one cooking spoon, one picnic knife, 2 Porter cutlery sets, and 2 Porter bowls with lids.

The Cabana Classic is equipped with a propane stove while the Cabana Flex includes an induction stove

Can I retroactively apply an offer after booking?

Offers cannot be applied after a reservation has been completed.

Can I combine offers?

Multiple offers may not be combined together for the same reservation unless pricing is automatically applied to booking calendar prior to booking.

What time is check-in and check-out?

Cabana operates with standard hotel check-in and check-out times: 3pm check-in and 11am check-out.

Can I take a one way trip?

We occasionally offer one way trips based on business need. We currently do not have any trips posted.

Can I take my dog with me?

Yes! There is a $100 pet fee to cover the additional cleaning required after four-legged passengers travel.

Where do I stay overnight?

For assistance planning and booking campsites, add Cabana Trip Planning at checkout or visit our Trip Planning page to get started. Depending on your needs, a regional trip planner will put together an itinerary curated for you or suggest campsites for your dates and destination.

With Cabana, you can stay in tent or RV campsites that fit a 20’ vehicle. In certain areas like national forests, Bureau of Land Management land, and even some city streets, you are able to pull off the road and spend the night where you would like. With necessities like the shower and toilet included, traditional campground amenities are not needed. View our recommended resources for finding campsites of all kinds here.

What’s included in a Cabana?

For a complete list of what your Cabana Classic comes with and the items you can add, click here.

Here are some of our guests’ favorite inclusions:

  • A shower (with hot water!)
  • A toilet -- No more roadside rest stops needed
  • A queen sized bed -- for extra comfort, anywhere
  • Linens, towels, and toiletries -- Pack light knowing the basics are ready and waiting.
  • An electric kettle
  • Kitchen -- Cooking is much nicer with a view!
  • Camp chairs -- For those moments enjoying a morning coffee in the sun or the starry night sky fireside.
Where can I go with a dog?

The majority of campgrounds allow dogs, even in parks where trails may not. For assistance planning a pet-friendly route, add Trip Planning to your booking.

What cities is Cabana in?

Cabana is currently in Seattle, San Francisco, Austin, Minneapolis, and Los Angeles.

What is Cabana?

Cabana offers a new experience for travelers: luxury comfort and the freedom of mobility. The company has designed and built a fleet of upscale custom-made mobile hotel rooms to give travelers the freedom to travel and sleep where they want and when they want. Cabana’s tech-enabled lodging combined with personalized trip planning provides flexible, convenient travel so that guests can focus on the journey, the people, and the moments that bring them closer to their happy place—and hopefully, serendipity.

How is Cabana different from other campervan rentals?

Cabana's fleet of mobile hotels has a consistent design, unlike a marketplace, so you know exactly what you're getting. Cabana's trip planning service provides personalized itineraries complete with campsite recommendations, route planning, and activity recommendations. Our add-ons and items provided in the van make customizing your stay even easier.

What do I do if I am in a collision or the van is damaged?

The first thing you should do is call 911 to report the accident and follow all local laws for wherever the accident has taken place.  After all medical and legal needs have been met, call the customer support team at (206) 222-2621 if you need help with anything and to report the accident.

What do I do if I run into an issue? What do I do in an emergency?

Please don't hesitate to reach out to our customer support team with any questions during your stay. Call or text us at (206) 222-2621 or email us at customer.service@cabana.life. If you are in an emergency, please call 911.

What is Cabana's customer support contact information? What are the customer support hours?

Cabana's customer support team is available 9am - 8pm PST (Mon-Fri) and 9am - 6pm PST (Sat-Sun). Feel free to call or text us at (206) 222-2621 or email us at customer.service@cabana.life

Where can I safely and legally park overnight?

You can stay overnight in any campsite or RV site that fits a 20' vehicle, and you can pull off the road and stay for free in areas such as national forests. The Cabana is a self-contained vehicle, which means you do not need campground amenities like toilets and showers.

What is provided for privacy and security in the van?

The security of guests is a top priority for the Cabana team. Small details like shades over every window and an out-of-sight safe for personal belongings (provided in the Cabana Classic only), paired with industry-standard car safety measures are part of every Cabana van.

Does Cabana track my location and keep my location private?

Yes, Cabana is location aware of our vehicles to precisely locate Cabana's for booking and security purposes. We are GDPR compliant and take data privacy policy seriously.

Where can I find vehicle documentation?

There is a copy of the vehicle registration and insurance in a black bifold case in the glove compartment. Your rental agreement is available in the app and on the website.

Can I drive a Cabana with an international driver’s license?

Yes! As long as you are 25 or older and pass the motor vehicle report check, you can drive with an international license. Third party insurance will also need to be purchased at an additional cost. Please reach out to Customer Support if you have an international driver’s license to assist in getting setup.

Who can drive a Cabana?

Anyone who is at least 25 years old, has a valid driver's license (international driver's licenses too!), and passes the motor vehicle report check required by insurance can drive a Cabana. Personal car insurance or a policy purchased through our third party is required as well.

How do I add another driver?

Your second driver should download the Cabana app and create their own account, entering their driver information. Then, the original driver can reach out to customer support and provide the email address of the second driver.

How do I connect my profile to my booking?

If you create your account with the same email that you used to book your Cabana, your booking information will automatically populate in your profile. If you used a separate email address, reach out to customer support to connect your booking.

Why do I need the Cabana app?

The Cabana app is necessary to get your driver profile set up to ensure you can check into your van. On your pick up and drop off date, you will also need the app to unlock and lock your Cabana. The app also provides video tutorials for how to use different components of the van.

What should I expect after booking my trip?

After completing your booking with Cabana, you will be required to download our mobile app (iOS/Android: Cabana Vans) for a contact-less check-in. Once the app is downloaded, please complete the registration process which includes uploading your driver's license, a selfie for verification, and a copy of your vehicle insurance/credit card. Depending on the state of your driver's license, you may be requested to provide authorization for the Motor Vehicle Report.

How do I hook up propane to the kitchen?

Visual instructions for connecting the propane will be available in your van and in the Cabana app.

How do I connect water to the kitchen sink?

Visual instructions for connecting the sink will be available in your van and in the Cabana app.

What shower amenities are in the van?

We use Ursa Major shampoo, conditioner, and body wash. These amenities are lightly scented.

What kind of toilet paper is in the van?

We use a compostable toilet paper that is more sustainable than other TPs and made specifically for use in vans and RVs.

Can I make use the kettle to heat up water?

With the low-wattage electric kettle, heat up water for tea, oatmeal, etc. without stepping outside.

How do I connect audio from my phone?

Audio can be connected through Bluetooth in both the Cabana Classic and Flex. Just remember to connect to the vehicle in park and then play music wirelessly.

How do I use the TV?

The Cabana Classic's TV is a smart TV. The remote can be found in the basket on the wall next to the headboard of the bed. You can sign in and out of your own streaming accounts, and the TV is connected through a wireless signal to the WiFi hotspot.

The Cabana Flex is not equipped with a TV.

How do I use the table?

In the Cabana Classic, the table is stored securely behind the driver’s seat when not in use. Slide the table out from behind the seat and place the circular opening over the circular pole behind the passenger seat. Adjust according to your preference.

In the Cabana Flex, the table is located above the luggage drawers in the wetroom. To open the table, place finger under the table and pull outward. To close, push the table towards the bed until it’s locked in.

How do I rotate the passenger seat?

To rotate the passenger seat to face the Cabana cabin, make sure the seat back is straight up and the seat is fairly far forward. Pull up on the red latch or out on yellow latch that is below the front of the seat, and turn the seat counter clockwise (toward the driver's seat).

To return the seat to its original placement, turn the seat in the opposite direction (clockwise). Make sure it clicks into place before driving.

How do I operate the clamshell seat?

A pull out seat is available in the Cabana Classic. There is a handle below the sink on the left side of the counter. Unlock the latch holding the seat closed, pull the handle to slide out the seat, then lift up the seat back. Tip: If you are packed on an incline, it may take a little strength to pull.

How long does the battery last in the Cabana? How do I recharge the battery?

There are three ways to charge the Cabana electrical system: through solar panels, by driving the vehicle, and by plugging into a shore power source (adapter provided). Without sunlight or driving, the battery should last up to 18 hours, but is highly dependent on the electrical usage during that time (fridge and heater draw more power than other items). If the cabin battery does need to be charged, the quickest way would be to plug into shore power.

Does the van have AC or a fan?

The Cabana has a multidirectional ceiling fan above the bed which can push out warmer air or pull in cooler air to help keep the cabin cool but does not have a separate AC unit in the cabin.

Does the van have a heater?

Yes! Every Cabana has a cabin heater for comfort on cold nights. Detailed instructions for how to use your van's heater are found in the van and within the Cabana app.

How do I use the hot water?

Detailed instructions for how to use your van's specific heater are found in the van and within the Cabana app. Once the hot water is turned on, allow 10-15 minutes for the water to heat before use.

Where is the fuel tank?

Your Cabana’s fuel door is conveniently located inside the drivers door for quick and easy fill-ups. To open the fuel filler door, the driver door must be open. Place your finger under the filler door tab, pull to open, and fill up with regular Unleaded gasoline for the Classic and diesel for the Flex. Now you’re ready to drive!

Do I need to return the van with a full tank of gas?

Yes. Your Cabana should have a full tank when you pick it up. You pay for your own fuel as you travel and should return your Cabana with the same fuel level as your trip start. If your tank is not refilled, you will be charged a $30 admin fee and the cost to refuel back to a full tank (per gallon cost varies by location).


What type of fuel should I use?

The Cabana Classic should be filled with regular unleaded gasoline and the Cabana Flex with diesel.


Will I need to empty and refill tanks during my trip?

On a weekend trip, you will most likely not need to empty or refill water tanks. Our tanks last 3-5 days with regular use. A longer stay will require some maintenance, but everything you need for this process (from instructions with photos to labeled hoses) is included in your Cabana.

How do I refill the fresh water?

Detailed instructions on filling fresh water will be available in your van and in the Cabana app.

A fresh water hose is provided with every van that can be used to fill your Cabana from any water source. Please note that water stored in the fresh water tanks is non-potable.

How do I empty the black water (toilet)?

Detailed instructions for emptying the black water for your specific van model will be available in your van and in the Cabana app.

The Cabana's black water tanks should last 3-4 days with normal use before needing to be emptied.  Depending on your van model, you will either remove the tank or connect a hose to empty the black water. Everything you need for the tank emptying process is provided.

There is no emptying fee associated if the van is returned with full gray/ black water tanks.

What is gray water and black water?

Gray water is domestic wastewater without fecal contamination. In the van, this waste includes the shower and sinks.

Black water is the waste from the toilet.

Both gray and black water should be emptied at the proper facilities (RV dump stations), not dumped on the ground.

What are the dimensions of the refrigerator?

The refrigerator in the Cabana Classic is a 30 liter drawer fridge (dimensions roughly 13"W x 18"D x 5"H), typically seen in yachts or watercrafts.

The Cabana Flex is 3.5 cubic feet (dimensions roughly 10.5”D x 16”W x 24”H).

How many pillows are included?

Every Cabana comes with two firm pillows and two soft pillows.

What size mattress is in the van?

The Cabana Classic has a memory foam mattress that is roughly the length of a queen and width of a full.

The Cabana Flex is the length of a queen but slightly less wide than a full (48” wide).

How many people fit in a Cabana?

The Cabana seats while driving and sleeps two. It has two seats with seat belts (the driver's seat and one passenger). When parked, four people can fit in the van comfortably but cozy. Only two people are permitted when driving the vehicle.

What time is pick up and drop off?

Pick up time is 3PM, and drop off time is 11AM.

What happens if I arrive after my drop off time?

Standard drop off time is 11AM. This allows our cleaning and maintenance staff time to prepare the van for the next departure. If the van is returned after the drop off time, there is a $100 late fee per hour. If you anticipate a late arrival, please notify our customer support team so we can plan accordingly. Contact customer support through the Cabana app or at (206) 222-2621.

How do I lock and unlock the van?

To start your trip, unlock the van with the Cabana app. During your Cabana stay, use the traditional key to lock and unlock the van. To end your trip, lock the van in-app through the checkout process.

What is the check out process?

Before returning to your drop off location, fill the gas tank as you would a rental car (regular gasoline for the Classic and diesel for the Flex).

Before ending your trip, look through the cabinets and drawers one last time to ensure you’ve gathered all of your belongings.

Once you’re ready to end the trip, return the key to its position into the fob and close all the doors. This is required for the check out process to be completed in the app.

Begin the check out process in the app by completing the damage report.

Do not lock the doors with the key or door. Instead, swipe in the app to lock the van. You’re all set!

If you have any issues during check out, please reach out to the Customer Support team.

What is the check in process?

Prior to check in, make sure your profile is completed in the Cabana app.

Our contactless check in process is done through the Cabana app.

At your check in time, standard is 3:00 PM, your van will become available. The van number located on the drivers side front panel will be visible on your app screen.

Click "Check in" in the app to begin the process. Swipe in the app to unlock your van. Complete the damage report, photographing any instances of damage to your van.

After reading the Cabana pre-trip tips, you're all set! Click "Start Trip" and you're ready to hit the road!

Is there parking available at the pick up location for my car?

There are parking spots available at some of our our pick up locations but we do only have a limited number of spots available. The daily rate is $15/ day on a first-come, first-serve basis. Parking is located where the vans are picked up.

How many miles are included in my reservation?

Every Cabana comes with 175 miles per day for free. After that it is $0.35 per mile.

We also have an unlimited mileage you can add on instead for $30 per night.

Do guests have to pay for gas? Do I need to return with a full tank?

You pay for your own fuel as you travel and should return your Cabana with the same fuel level as your trip start. If your tank is not refilled, you will be charged a $30 admin fee and the cost to refuel back to a full tank (per gallon cost varies by location).

What time is pick up and drop off?

Pick up time is 3PM, and drop off time is 11AM.

How do I lock and unlock the van?

To start your trip, unlock the van with the Cabana app. During your Cabana stay, use the traditional key to lock and unlock the van. To end your trip, lock the van in-app through the checkout process.

What is the check out process?

Before returning to your drop off location, fill the gas tank as you would a rental car (regular gasoline for the Classic and diesel for the Flex).

Before ending your trip, look through the cabinets and drawers one last time to ensure you’ve gathered all of your belongings.

Once you’re ready to end the trip, return the key to its position into the fob and close all the doors. This is required for the check out process to be completed in the app.

Begin the check out process in the app by completing the damage report.

Do not lock the doors with the key or door. Instead, swipe in the app to lock the van. You’re all set!

If you have any issues during check out, please reach out to the Customer Support team.

What is the check in process?

Prior to check in, make sure your profile is completed in the Cabana app.

Our contactless check in process is done through the Cabana app.

At your check in time, standard is 3:00 PM, your van will become available. The van number located on the drivers side front panel will be visible on your app screen.

Click "Check in" in the app to begin the process. Swipe in the app to unlock your van. Complete the damage report, photographing any instances of damage to your van.

After reading the Cabana pre-trip tips, you're all set! Click "Start Trip" and you're ready to hit the road!

Is there parking available at the pick up location for my car?

There are parking spots available at some of our our pick up locations but we do only have a limited number of spots available. The daily rate is $15/ day on a first-come, first-serve basis. Parking is located where the vans are picked up.

Is smoking allowed in the vans?

Smoking is not allowed in any of the Cabana's.

What is Cabana's Cancellation Policy?

Free cancellation within 24 hours after booking.

If it has been more than 24 hours since booking the Renter is responsible for some portion of the trip cost as follows.

If canceled more than 30 days before departure:

  • Renter is responsible for 10% of total cost

If canceled between 14 and 30 days before departure:

  • Renter is responsible for 25% of total cost

If canceled less than 14 days before departure:

  • Renter is responsible for 50% of total cost
Is insurance provided?

Cabana's insurance policy denotes guest insurance as the primary source of coverage. Proof of insurance is needed to complete your profile.

Here are the available insurance options (subject to change based on MVR):

Basic $40/ day -  minimum liability, $100K property damage protection, $1,500 deductible

Essential $57/ day - minimum liability, $150K property damage protection, $1,000 deductible

Peace of Mind $80/ day - full coverage, $250K property damage protection, $500 deductible

Please reach out to support if you need to purchase insurance.

Can I purchase a Cabana Gift Card?

At this time we are not offering gift cards.

How much is the security deposit?

A refundable security deposit of $1,000 is held by Cabana at the time of booking and may be refunded, in part or in full, after the vehicle is returned and inspected by Cabana employees. If a full refund is in order, guests may not see two offsetting charges and instead the initial hold will simply disappear in the guests credit card portal. See the rental agreement for more details.

What’s included in a Cabana?

For a complete list of what your Cabana Classic comes with and the items you can add, click here.

Here are some of our guests’ favorite inclusions:

  • A shower (with hot water!)
  • A toilet -- No more roadside rest stops needed
  • A queen sized bed -- for extra comfort, anywhere
  • Linens, towels, and toiletries -- Pack light knowing the basics are ready and waiting.
  • An electric kettle
  • Kitchen -- Cooking is much nicer with a view!
  • Camp chairs -- For those moments enjoying a morning coffee in the sun or the starry night sky fireside.
What cities is Cabana in?

Cabana is currently in Seattle, San Francisco, Austin, Minneapolis, and Los Angeles.

What is Cabana?

Cabana offers a new experience for travelers: luxury comfort and the freedom of mobility. The company has designed and built a fleet of upscale custom-made mobile hotel rooms to give travelers the freedom to travel and sleep where they want and when they want. Cabana’s tech-enabled lodging combined with personalized trip planning provides flexible, convenient travel so that guests can focus on the journey, the people, and the moments that bring them closer to their happy place—and hopefully, serendipity.

How is Cabana different from other campervan rentals?

Cabana's fleet of mobile hotels has a consistent design, unlike a marketplace, so you know exactly what you're getting. Cabana's trip planning service provides personalized itineraries complete with campsite recommendations, route planning, and activity recommendations. Our add-ons and items provided in the van make customizing your stay even easier.

How do I use the induction stove in the Cabana Flex?

‍In order to use the stove, you will first need to place one of the supplied induction capable pots on either burner, press the power button on the selected burner then click the hand symbol. You can now increase or decrease the temperature using the plus and minus buttons. To turn off the stove press the power button again. The stove is powered by the cabin battery and may not work properly if the voltage is below 13.2 volts.

Kitchen
What are the dimensions of the van?

The Cabana Classic and the Cabana Flex vans are both 20 feet long and 10.5 feet tall.

Dimensions & Capacity
How do I empty the gray water tank?

Detailed instructions for emptying the gray water will be available in your van and in the Cabana app.

To empty gray water, find a gray water disposal area (located at most RV sites, truck stops, and many campgrounds). Attach the gray water hose (provided) to the outlet underneath the drivers side of the vehicle, and place the other end in the disposal drain. Then, pull the lever next to the van's water drain.

There is no emptying fee associated if the van is returned with full grey/ black water tanks.

Plumbing and refilling water
How do I connect audio from my phone?

Audio can be connected through Bluetooth in both the Cabana Classic and Flex. Just remember to connect to the vehicle in park and then play music wirelessly.

Recreational van operations
How do I use the TV?

The Cabana Classic's TV is a smart TV. The remote can be found in the basket on the wall next to the headboard of the bed. You can sign in and out of your own streaming accounts, and the TV is connected through a wireless signal to the WiFi hotspot.

The Cabana Flex is not equipped with a TV.

Recreational van operations
How do I use the table?

In the Cabana Classic, the table is stored securely behind the driver’s seat when not in use. Slide the table out from behind the seat and place the circular opening over the circular pole behind the passenger seat. Adjust according to your preference.

In the Cabana Flex, the table is located above the luggage drawers in the wetroom. To open the table, place finger under the table and pull outward. To close, push the table towards the bed until it’s locked in.

Recreational van operations
How do I rotate the passenger seat?

To rotate the passenger seat to face the Cabana cabin, make sure the seat back is straight up and the seat is fairly far forward. Pull up on the red latch or out on yellow latch that is below the front of the seat, and turn the seat counter clockwise (toward the driver's seat).

To return the seat to its original placement, turn the seat in the opposite direction (clockwise). Make sure it clicks into place before driving.

Recreational van operations
How do I operate the clamshell seat?

A pull out seat is available in the Cabana Classic. There is a handle below the sink on the left side of the counter. Unlock the latch holding the seat closed, pull the handle to slide out the seat, then lift up the seat back. Tip: If you are packed on an incline, it may take a little strength to pull.

Recreational van operations
How long does the battery last in the Cabana? How do I recharge the battery?

There are three ways to charge the Cabana electrical system: through solar panels, by driving the vehicle, and by plugging into a shore power source (adapter provided). Without sunlight or driving, the battery should last up to 18 hours, but is highly dependent on the electrical usage during that time (fridge and heater draw more power than other items). If the cabin battery does need to be charged, the quickest way would be to plug into shore power.

Power and electricity
Does the van have AC or a fan?

The Cabana has a multidirectional ceiling fan above the bed which can push out warmer air or pull in cooler air to help keep the cabin cool but does not have a separate AC unit in the cabin.

Heating/cooling
Does the van have a heater?

Yes! Every Cabana has a cabin heater for comfort on cold nights. Detailed instructions for how to use your van's heater are found in the van and within the Cabana app.

Heating/cooling
How do I use the hot water?

Detailed instructions for how to use your van's specific heater are found in the van and within the Cabana app. Once the hot water is turned on, allow 10-15 minutes for the water to heat before use.

Heating/cooling
Where is the fuel tank?

Your Cabana’s fuel door is conveniently located inside the drivers door for quick and easy fill-ups. To open the fuel filler door, the driver door must be open. Place your finger under the filler door tab, pull to open, and fill up with regular Unleaded gasoline for the Classic and diesel for the Flex. Now you’re ready to drive!

Driving and refueling
Do I need to return the van with a full tank of gas?

Yes. Your Cabana should have a full tank when you pick it up. You pay for your own fuel as you travel and should return your Cabana with the same fuel level as your trip start. If your tank is not refilled, you will be charged a $30 admin fee and the cost to refuel back to a full tank (per gallon cost varies by location).


Driving and refueling
What type of fuel should I use?

The Cabana Classic should be filled with regular unleaded gasoline and the Cabana Flex with diesel.


Driving and refueling
How do I refill the fresh water?

Detailed instructions on filling fresh water will be available in your van and in the Cabana app.

A fresh water hose is provided with every van that can be used to fill your Cabana from any water source. Please note that water stored in the fresh water tanks is non-potable.

Plumbing and refilling water
How do I empty the black water (toilet)?

Detailed instructions for emptying the black water for your specific van model will be available in your van and in the Cabana app.

The Cabana's black water tanks should last 3-4 days with normal use before needing to be emptied.  Depending on your van model, you will either remove the tank or connect a hose to empty the black water. Everything you need for the tank emptying process is provided.

There is no emptying fee associated if the van is returned with full gray/ black water tanks.

Plumbing and refilling water
What is gray water and black water?

Gray water is domestic wastewater without fecal contamination. In the van, this waste includes the shower and sinks.

Black water is the waste from the toilet.

Both gray and black water should be emptied at the proper facilities (RV dump stations), not dumped on the ground.

Plumbing and refilling water
What are the dimensions of the refrigerator?

The refrigerator in the Cabana Classic is a 30 liter drawer fridge (dimensions roughly 13"W x 18"D x 5"H), typically seen in yachts or watercrafts.

The Cabana Flex is 3.5 cubic feet (dimensions roughly 10.5”D x 16”W x 24”H).

Dimensions & Capacity
How many pillows are included?

Every Cabana comes with two firm pillows and two soft pillows.

Dimensions & Capacity
What size mattress is in the van?

The Cabana Classic has a memory foam mattress that is roughly the length of a queen and width of a full.

The Cabana Flex is the length of a queen but slightly less wide than a full (48” wide).

Dimensions & Capacity
How many people fit in a Cabana?

The Cabana seats while driving and sleeps two. It has two seats with seat belts (the driver's seat and one passenger). When parked, four people can fit in the van comfortably but cozy. Only two people are permitted when driving the vehicle.

Dimensions & Capacity
What is provided during winter months?

All winter rentals come with tire chains and an ice scraper. These additions will be located in the back of the Cabana. In San Francisco and Seattle, the vans are also equipped with snow tires.

You can find out more about our winterization efforts here

Amenities
What is included in the kitchen?

All vans are equipped with a kitchen, which includes the following: a two-burner stove, one pot, one pan, one cutting board, one spatula, one cooking spoon, one picnic knife, 2 Porter cutlery sets, and 2 Porter bowls with lids.

The Cabana Classic is equipped with a propane stove while the Cabana Flex includes an induction stove

Kitchen
Can I take a one way trip?

We occasionally offer one way trips based on business need. We currently do not have any trips posted.

One way trips
How do I hook up propane to the kitchen?

Visual instructions for connecting the propane will be available in your van and in the Cabana app.

Kitchen
How do I connect water to the kitchen sink?

Visual instructions for connecting the sink will be available in your van and in the Cabana app.

Kitchen
What shower amenities are in the van?

We use Ursa Major shampoo, conditioner, and body wash. These amenities are lightly scented.

Amenities
What kind of toilet paper is in the van?

We use a compostable toilet paper that is more sustainable than other TPs and made specifically for use in vans and RVs.

Amenities
Can I make use the kettle to heat up water?

With the low-wattage electric kettle, heat up water for tea, oatmeal, etc. without stepping outside.

Amenities
Can I drive a Cabana with an international driver’s license?

Yes! As long as you are 25 or older and pass the motor vehicle report check, you can drive with an international license. Third party insurance will also need to be purchased at an additional cost. Please reach out to Customer Support if you have an international driver’s license to assist in getting setup.

Driver profile
Who can drive a Cabana?

Anyone who is at least 25 years old, has a valid driver's license (international driver's licenses too!), and passes the motor vehicle report check required by insurance can drive a Cabana. Personal car insurance or a policy purchased through our third party is required as well.

Driver profile
How do I add another driver?

Your second driver should download the Cabana app and create their own account, entering their driver information. Then, the original driver can reach out to customer support and provide the email address of the second driver.

Driver profile
How do I connect my profile to my booking?

If you create your account with the same email that you used to book your Cabana, your booking information will automatically populate in your profile. If you used a separate email address, reach out to customer support to connect your booking.

Driver profile
Why do I need the Cabana app?

The Cabana app is necessary to get your driver profile set up to ensure you can check into your van. On your pick up and drop off date, you will also need the app to unlock and lock your Cabana. The app also provides video tutorials for how to use different components of the van.

App
What should I expect after booking my trip?

After completing your booking with Cabana, you will be required to download our mobile app (iOS/Android: Cabana Vans) for a contact-less check-in. Once the app is downloaded, please complete the registration process which includes uploading your driver's license, a selfie for verification, and a copy of your vehicle insurance/credit card. Depending on the state of your driver's license, you may be requested to provide authorization for the Motor Vehicle Report.

Booking
What do I do if I am in a collision or the van is damaged?

The first thing you should do is call 911 to report the accident and follow all local laws for wherever the accident has taken place.  After all medical and legal needs have been met, call the customer support team at (206) 222-2621 if you need help with anything and to report the accident.

In-Trip Safety
What do I do if I run into an issue? What do I do in an emergency?

Please don't hesitate to reach out to our customer support team with any questions during your stay. Call or text us at (206) 222-2621 or email us at customer.service@cabana.life. If you are in an emergency, please call 911.

In-Trip Safety
What is Cabana's customer support contact information? What are the customer support hours?

Cabana's customer support team is available 9am - 8pm PST (Mon-Fri) and 9am - 6pm PST (Sat-Sun). Feel free to call or text us at (206) 222-2621 or email us at customer.service@cabana.life

In-Trip Support
Where can I safely and legally park overnight?

You can stay overnight in any campsite or RV site that fits a 20' vehicle, and you can pull off the road and stay for free in areas such as national forests. The Cabana is a self-contained vehicle, which means you do not need campground amenities like toilets and showers.

In-Trip Safety
What is provided for privacy and security in the van?

The security of guests is a top priority for the Cabana team. Small details like shades over every window and an out-of-sight safe for personal belongings (provided in the Cabana Classic only), paired with industry-standard car safety measures are part of every Cabana van.

In-Trip Safety
Does Cabana track my location and keep my location private?

Yes, Cabana is location aware of our vehicles to precisely locate Cabana's for booking and security purposes. We are GDPR compliant and take data privacy policy seriously.

In-Trip Safety
Where can I find vehicle documentation?

There is a copy of the vehicle registration and insurance in a black bifold case in the glove compartment. Your rental agreement is available in the app and on the website.

Insurance and Documentation