Terms & Conditions
Otto Campers Rental Agreement. Chile & Patagonia
This Rental Agreement ("Agreement") is entered between Otto Campers ("Otto") and the Tenant and outlines the rights and obligations of both parties relating to the rental of a camper vehicle. "Vehicle" means the vehicle hired by the Tenant including any mounted camper module, rooftop tent, tyres, tools, accessories, camping equipment, and all related items.
1. Rental Term, Extensions & Cancellations
1.1 The rental term runs from the pick-up date until the Vehicle is returned to Otto, regardless of pick-up or drop-off time. Rental days are calculated on a calendar-day basis. The day of pick-up counts as day one.
1.2 The minimum rental period is 5 days when pick-up and drop-off are at the same location.
1.3 Unlimited kilometres are included with every rental. There are no mileage caps or extra-km charges.
1.4 No additional driver fees. Extra drivers are included at no extra cost, provided they meet the licence and age requirements outlined in this Agreement.
1.5 One-way rentals are available between all Otto hub locations (Santiago, San Pedro de Atacama, Puerto Varas, Punta Arenas). Location fees apply as listed at the time of booking.
Cancellation fees
| Notice period | Fee |
|---|---|
| 30+ days before pick-up | 20% of total rental |
| 29–19 days before pick-up | 30% of total rental |
| 18–7 days before pick-up | 50% of total rental |
| 6 days or less / no-show | 100% of total rental |
| Early return | No refund |
1.6 In cases of Force Majeure (natural disasters, pandemics, political unrest), Otto may issue a voucher for the amount paid, valid for two (2) years from the original booking date, redeemable at the rate applicable at the time of rebooking.
2. Pick-up & Drop-off
2.1 The Tenant must inspect the Vehicle upon pick-up and note any existing damage on the condition report. By taking possession, the Tenant acknowledges receiving the Vehicle in good working order.
2.2 The Vehicle must be returned on the agreed date, during office hours, at the agreed location, clean and with the same fuel level as at pick-up.
2.3 If the Vehicle is returned dirty or with less fuel, a cleaning and/or refuelling fee will apply.
2.4 Late returns without prior approval incur the daily rental rate plus a penalty fee per day.
2.5 One-way rentals are available between all Otto hubs: Santiago, San Pedro de Atacama, Puerto Varas, and Punta Arenas.
3. Office Hours
| Day | Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday – Friday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Saturday | 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM |
| Sunday & Public Holidays | Closed |
3.1 Pick-ups or drop-offs outside operating hours must be arranged and approved in advance. Unauthorised out-of-hours returns will incur additional fees.
4. Rental Extensions
4.1 Extensions must be requested and approved by Otto before the current rental term expires. Extensions are subject to availability and will be charged at the current daily rate.
4.2 Unauthorised extensions are subject to the daily rate plus a penalty fee per day.
4.3 For cross-border rentals, the Tenant must ensure that border-crossing documents remain valid. If they expire, new documents must be issued by Otto before re-entry into Argentina.
5. Travelling to Argentina
5.1 Cross-border travel to Argentina is permitted. The Tenant must pick up and return the Vehicle at an Otto hub location in Chile.
5.2 An Argentina Permit & Insurance is mandatory for all cross-border trips. This must be requested at booking time and requires at least 2 business days for processing.
5.3 The permit is valid for multiple entries and must cover the entire rental period.
5.4 In case of breakdown in Argentina, the Tenant must return the Vehicle to Chile. If Otto is responsible for the failure, repair costs will be refunded at the official exchange rate.
6. Driver Requirements
6.1 All drivers must present a valid, full (non-probationary) driver's licence at pick-up and must have held it for at least 2 years.
6.2 Foreign licences are accepted if written in English or Spanish. Otherwise, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required alongside the national licence.
6.3 Drivers must be at least 21 years old. All drivers must be registered in the Rental Agreement.
7. Use of the Vehicle
7.1 The Tenant must use the Vehicle with care and only on authorised roads. Misuse, reckless driving, or negligence voids all damage cover.
7.2 The Vehicle must not be used:
- Under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or impairing medication
- On beaches, rivers, salt flats, or flooded terrain
- For racing, towing, or carrying passengers for hire
- For transporting flammable, toxic, or illegal materials
- In underground parking if the Vehicle exceeds 2 metres in height
7.3 The Tenant must perform basic daily checks (oil, coolant, tyre pressure, battery) and immediately report warning lights or mechanical issues to Otto.
7.4 Otto may restrict travel in specific areas due to road or weather conditions.
8. Maintenance & Repairs on the Road
8.1 The Tenant must inform Otto and obtain approval before any repairs. Unauthorised repairs are at the Tenant's risk and cost.
8.2 Reimbursements apply only if the repair was approved by Otto, the Tenant is not responsible for the issue, and original invoices are submitted within 48 hours of Vehicle return.
8.3 Malfunctions of accessories (radio, interior lights, water pump) are not considered mechanical breakdowns and do not qualify for compensation.
8.4 If the camper structure becomes uninhabitable but the Vehicle remains drivable, the Tenant is entitled to a refund equal to 30% of the daily rental rate for each affected day.
8.5 Destroyed tyres must be replaced with new ones of the same size. Otherwise, Otto will charge the replacement cost at drop-off.
9. Roadside Assistance
9.1 Otto provides 24/7 remote roadside assistance via phone, WhatsApp, or email to help resolve issues or coordinate third-party help.
9.2 The service includes remote technical guidance, coordination of local mechanics or towing services, and navigation or travel advice.
9.3 The following situations are not covered and must be paid by the Tenant:
- Running out of fuel
- Lost or locked keys
- Flat batteries from leaving lights or devices on
- Getting stuck in sand, water, or mud
- Flat or damaged tyres caused by misuse
- Towing or recovery due to off-road or negligent driving
9.4 In case of breakdown in Argentina, the Tenant must return the Vehicle to Chile for inspection. If Otto is responsible, repair costs will be refunded at the official exchange rate.
10. Liability & Security Deposit
10.1 The Tenant is responsible for all damage (direct or indirect) to the Vehicle, third-party property, or infrastructure while the Vehicle is under their control.
10.2 A security deposit (bond) will be held on the Tenant's credit card at pick-up. Cash payments are not accepted. The deposit is released within 5 business days after return if no issues are found.
10.3 The Tenant's liability may be reduced by selecting a Damage Cover option at pick-up.
10.4 For rentals exceeding 30 days, Otto may re-authorise or renew the bond automatically.
Exclusions (not covered by any plan)
- Single-vehicle accidents (rollover, tipping)
- Damage to roof, underbody, interior, or tyres (unless in a multi-vehicle accident)
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Water submersion, beach or river driving
- Wrong fuel use
- Gearbox or clutch damage from misuse
- Theft if keys were left inside
- Failure to report incidents to Otto and police within 24 hours
- Damage caused by unregistered drivers
- Improper use of snow chains or 4WD system
- Collision with a fixed object or accident while reversing
- Damage caused by carrying animals
- Incorrect use of the vehicle jack
10.5 If the Vehicle is deemed undrivable due to an accident, the Tenant forfeits any remaining rental days and no refund will be provided. The Tenant is not automatically entitled to a replacement vehicle.
11. Accident Procedures
11.1 In the event of an accident, the Tenant must:
- Stop immediately and ensure everyone's safety
- Obtain names, addresses, and contacts of all parties and witnesses
- Report the accident to the police immediately
- Take photos of all damage, the location, and vehicle plates
- Contact Otto within 24 hours with the details and supporting photos
11.2 Do not admit fault or make private agreements at the scene.
11.3 The Tenant must present the police report, driver's licence, and all documentation at drop-off.
11.4 The applicable bond amount will be charged at the time the accident report is completed. If Otto recovers damages from a third party, the amount will be refunded.
12. Traffic Offences & Tolls
12.1 The Tenant is responsible for all parking, toll, and traffic violations during the rental period.
12.2 Otto will charge any fines received, plus an administration fee per incident, to the Tenant's card. This may occur up to 15 months after the offence date.
12.3 The Tenant authorises Otto to disclose personal details to authorities for the purpose of resolving traffic violations.
13. Payments
13.1 All prices are quoted and payable in Chilean Pesos (CLP).
13.2 Payment is due as specified at the time of booking.
13.3 Accepted payment methods: Visa, MasterCard, American Express. Cash and cheques are not accepted.
13.4 The Tenant authorises Otto to charge their card for any outstanding amounts including damages, fines, tolls, or administrative fees.
13.5 Small variations may occur due to bank fees or exchange fluctuations. Otto accepts no liability for such variations.
14. Limitation of Liability
14.1 Otto shall not be liable for indirect or consequential damages, including but not limited to:
- Missed flights, hotels, or tours
- Loss of enjoyment or delays
- Theft or loss of personal belongings
14.2 If a mechanical failure under Otto's responsibility prevents Vehicle use, the Tenant is entitled to a refund limited to the daily rental rate for each affected day.
14.3 Otto is not responsible for personal items left in the Vehicle after return.
14.4 Tenants are strongly encouraged to obtain personal travel insurance covering trip interruption, accidents, and personal property.
15. Termination
15.1 Otto may terminate this Agreement and repossess the Vehicle at any time if the Tenant breaches any provision, provides false information, operates the Vehicle recklessly or illegally, or fails to make due payments.
15.2 Upon termination, Otto may repossess the Vehicle without prior notice and at the Tenant's expense. No refund applies for unused rental days.
15.3 The Tenant remains responsible for towing, transport, or relocation costs back to the nearest Otto hub.
16. Governing Law
16.1 This Agreement is governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of Chile.
16.2 Any dispute arising from this Agreement shall be submitted to the courts of Santiago, Chile, which have exclusive jurisdiction.
16.3 If any clause of this Agreement is found invalid, the remaining clauses shall remain in effect.
Tenant Responsibilities
Go slowly on gravel, especially on Ruta 40 (Argentina) and Carretera Austral (Chile).
Never let it go above halfway. If it rises, stop driving and call roadside assistance.
Every morning and at every fuel stop. Immediately report any issues.
Visually every morning. Use a gauge at petrol stations. Pressure info is on the driver-side door frame.
Ask for "93" in Chile and "super" in Argentina for petrol engines. "Diesel" for diesel engines.
All fines (even a year later) will be charged to your card.
Avoid sand, water, and flooded terrain. Getting stuck is at your own cost.
Unless your vehicle fits. Do not trust maximum height signs.
Inside and outside. Cleaning fees apply otherwise.
Late returns incur daily penalties. Contact us in advance for extensions.
In case of breakdown
- Turn on hazard lights and use warning triangles
- Call Otto Roadside Assistance. We will help you
In case of accident
- Turn on hazard lights and use warning triangles
- Call Otto Roadside Assistance with details and photos
- Note other drivers: name, ID, plate number, insurance
- File a police report at the nearest station
Safety tips
- Always lock the vehicle and avoid leaving valuables in plain sight
- You can wild camp in Chile and Argentina. Both countries are safe for overnight stops in rest areas, national parks, and remote spots
- Download offline maps (maps.me) and check iOverlander for camping spots
- If crossing to Argentina, double-check your border documents at pick-up
- Chilean and Argentine police are strict but fair. Always cooperate politely
By signing the Rental Agreement at pick-up, you confirm that you have read, understood, and agree to these Terms & Conditions.
