10 car rental tips and tricks

Why would anybody need car rental? Simply, there are occasions in which you cannot take your car. Rental is then the best solution, which gives you the freedom and comfort you are used to. Going on vacation does not necessarily mean you have to travel with your own car, especially if you target far away places. For such situations, plane travel combined with car rental on arrival make the best solution. Still, there are some tips you need to check when you go for car rental:

1. If you are a member of frequent flyer program, ask them if they have any discounts on car rental (some of them do).
2. Take a look on Internet, as there are car rental companies which offer their best discounts to online shoppers.
3. Make sure you get aware of the contract you are going to sign:

- What events does the car insurance cover?

- Is the car insured for more than one driver (supposing that you want other members of the family to drive, too)
- Check the liability clauses. Most car rental companies will hold you totally responsible for your rental vehicle if damaged or stolen. After all, you don’t want to pay for other people’s mistakes or misbehaviors.

4. Always ask for a confirmation number and have it with you when you pick up your car. For airport rentals, be sure to give the customer service representative your flight number and scheduled arrival time. If the flight is delayed, your car rental reservation will be preserved.
5. Be Careful of Upgrades — Car rental companies sometimes offer free upgrades to larger vehicles in order to save the more fuel-efficient vehicles for specific requests from those aiming to save money on gas. Larger vehicles will cost you more in fuel costs. If you want to save that money, decline the upgrade.
6. If you took the car with a full tank of gas, make sure that you return it the same way, otherwise you might find out that you have to pay more for it, as many companies would charge you for the refueling service. And you can make sure it will be more expensive than you’d pay at the gas station.
7. Before leaving the rental lot, inspect the car for the correct mileage information and any visible damage. If damaged, ask the car rental agent to mention this in the contract.
8. Make sure you don’t drink and drive. Most car rental contracts and insurance policies are void if you have an accident while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
9. Ask what time a car is expected for drop-off. Many car rental agencies begin charging for each 24 hours from the time of rental, and will bill a full day for cars returned after another 24-hour period begins.
10. Don’t forget to buy a map of the area you are visiting: it may prove useful for you to take the most out of your vacation and of your car rental.