Car rental prices, like hotel rates and airfares, fluctuate to the extreme for no apparent reason. If you aren’t careful, you could pay twice as much for the same year, make and model rental car as another person getting the exact same product. In order to avoid this, you need to check car rental agencies and prices. This ensures you will be able to take advantage of a reasonably priced rental and still be protected if something should go wrong.
There are a few things that you need to be aware of before making a commitment to a rental car agency. Let’s take a look at a few tips.
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Do not take advantage of a rental car company’s prepaid gas option. Their price per gallon is highly inflated. If it’s allowed, fill your car’s tank before returning it. Read the fine print to be sure you can do this. Some companies penalize you for returning a rental car with a full tank of gas.
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Never rent a car at an airport car rental kiosk unless it’s absolutely necessary. Save between 20 and 30 percent by renting from a company that’s close to the airport.
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Always buy extra insurance coverage from the car rental company. Your auto policy may not cover you and when you pay with your credit card it usually only offers secondary coverage. It’s worth the extra money to have piece of mind that you are covered with insurance in every situation.
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Read the fine print in your rental car agency’s insurance policy. Luxury cars are usually not covered for collision and credit card companies never cover pickup trucks. Most policies will be null and void if you fail to fasten your seat belt. Always lock your rental car when you leave it for any reason. Rental cars are not covered for theft if your rental car is unlocked when the thief hits.
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Always read your rental car agency’s rental agreement form thoroughly and use a magnifying glass. If there’s a clause you don’t understand, ask. You need to know exactly where you stand.
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Mileage fees are usually cents per mile. Some car rental agencies offer a flat fee for so many miles, but if you go over that amount, you will be penalized. If you know how far you’ll be driving, calculate which option is best for you.
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Check to see if the insurance policy pays your medical expenses if you are in an accident. Some car rental agencies also offer a death benefit for between $2.00 and $4.00 per day.
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Read the fine print so you are aware of additional fees for extras such as bicycle or ski racks or children’s car or booster seats.
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Renter Beware! Keep in mind that when a car rental company gives you a quote, they don’t include airport taxes, license fees, sales tax, rental coverage or miscellaneous surcharges. You don’t want a big surprise when you settle your bill. These charges can increase the total of your rental by as much as 40%.
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If you’re taking the kids along, reserve car and booster seats well in advance. Know the child and booster seat laws of your destination. If you break the law, you could end up paying a huge fine.
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Ask for an extra key for your rental car. Most companies offer this service, but the extra key is only forthcoming if you ask for it.
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Always ask what special services are offered by a rental car agency before making your reservation.
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If you’re booking online, find out the airport code where you will be picking up your rental car. This can get you a better online rate and faster reservation.
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Most car rental companies do not accept debit cards or cash. It’s likely that you will need a major credit card to rent a car from any car rental agency.
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If you plan on renting a car in a different country, your personal auto insurance will not cover you. Be sure to purchase a collision damage waiver from the car rental agency and read the fine print to know exactly where you stand.
If you follow the tips in this article, you will definitely be well set when you pick up your rental car. If you are on a business trip, good luck. If you’re on vacation, have a great time and don’t worry about a thing.
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