Renting a car is one of the most popular ways to see a destination. It allows you freedom to come and go on your own terms, as well as to explore some destinations that are off the beaten path. This article will give you an overview of the entire car rental experience so you can have an easy reference to make sure you have taken care of every aspect of your travel.
When to Rent
The best time to rent a car is at the beginning of the week. Most people rent cars on the weekends for short trips or special occasions like weddings or proms. Cars are returned in Sunday or Monday. If you call the company on Sunday, you stand a better chance at a car being ready for you Monday morning instead of waiting at a location when you need a vehicle.
Avoid Renting at Airports and Other Transport Terminals
Car rental companies have to pay for the space that they use at these locations. in order to make up for the money they spend on rent and overhead, they pass along higher fees to you. Try to arrange for someone to pick you up at the location, then go to a car rental agency so that you don't have to pay the higher fees.
Insurance
Find out if your current insurance policy covers the rental of a car if yours has been in an accident or if it's being repaired. You also need to ask if your insurance company will cover anything that happens with the rental car or if the rental agency provides coverage while you are in possession of the vehicle. Some companies require a deductible before paying for any repairs or the coverage of the car if it's stolen. You might be able to sign a waiver for insurance, but this could cost you in extra fees.
Track Your Miles
When you rent a car, you are usually allotted a certain number of miles that you can drive without being charged additional fees. One way to monitor the number of miles that you drive is to connect a GPS. Make sure that you set it so that it stores the number of miles that you drive in the vehicle, and turn in the mileage when you take the car back. This can also play a part in the amount of gas that you have to put in the car. Some companies don't require that the car has a full tank of gas when it comes back to the lot. However, there are some that want you to put the exact amount of gas, or as close as possible to the exact amount, that was in the car when you took delivery of the vehicle.
Extra Equipment
If you need a car seat or want a DVD player, then make sure you have all of these items with you. There are usually additional fees when you have to use the equipment provided by the company, so anything that you can provide will cut these costs.
