If you’re planning on going on vacation or just need a car temporarily, renting a car can be confusing. There is a lot of conflicting information surrounding car rentals and the costs associated, so you may doubt yourself during the process.
While rental cars can be convenient, they can also be considerably costly if you don’t know the right tips. Here’s a look at some of the most important things you should keep in mind when renting a car anywhere in the world.
Don’t Buy More Insurance Than You Need To:
There isn’t a single rental car company that won’t try to get you to buy additional insurance from them. Since it’s natural to want to avoid having to pay for damages out of pocket if you get into a collision, your first instinct may be to take all of the insurance available to you.
Unfortunately, it isn’t always necessary. That’s not to say that you should opt out entirely, but rather read the coverage carefully to see if it’s worth spending up to 50 dollars more per day. If you already have car insurance or an AAA membership, you most likely don't need to get additional insurance. It’s also important to know that many credit cards offer free rental car insurance when you use the card to pay for your rental.
Be Careful About Hidden Fees:
It’s important to read the contract carefully before you put your keys into the ignition. There are all sorts of ways for car rental companies to cheat you out of a considerable amount of money.
Always make sure to inspect your car for any damage before you pull out of the lot and ensure they are noted. The last thing you want is to be held responsible for damages that you had nothing to do with. Seasoned car renters often take a few photos of the car before they drive it away to protect themselves as much as possible.
If you’ve got a smartphone you probably don’t need the extra GPS or satellite radio, so you can also take that off your contract and save yourself some extra money.
Inquire About Discounts:
One of the first things that you should ask when you walk up to the counter is whether they offer any discounts. They’ll give you a breakdown of their participating partners, and you’ll determine whether you're eligible for a price break or not.
Don’t Rent at The Airport:
If you're flying into your destination and need a car, it may seem logical to get your rental at the airport. However, because of the convenience, you’ll be paying as much thirty
percent more!
If you're on a budget, it may be in your interest to take a cab or public transport into town to one of the car rental agencies which are more affordable.
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