There may come a time when you need to rent a car – a temporary set of wheels for use on vacation or when your car is in the shop. Whatever the situation, it’s important to know the ins and outs of renting a car, which can help you avoid the most common hidden fees that rental agencies charge.
1. Limit additional drivers
Will you be the only driver – or will someone else in your party take the wheel at times during your trip? If you share driving duties, you may have to include additional names on the rental contract, which could increase the cost. Age is also a factor, as drivers between the ages of 21 and 24 are more expensive. Your best bet is to try to keep the number of drivers to a minimum to avoid supplementary fees and stress.
2. Review your car insurance policy
While rental reimbursement insurance covers the actual cost of a rental car, it does not protect the rented vehicle in the event of an accident. Before accepting the insurance option offered to you by the rental agent, check with your agent to see if your personal car insurance policy includes collision and comprehensive coverage. If you already have this coverage on your regular vehicle, there’s a good chance it will transfer to a rental car so be sure to check your policy.
3. Get educated on travel policies
Taking your rental car out of state? Check for restrictions or additional fees. Renting in another country? Know that many insurance policies don’t offer coverage abroad.
4. Fill up before returning
Rental companies often require that the car be returned with a full tank of gas or they’ll charge you a substantial fee to refill the tank. Fill up yourself – at a gas station near the rental outlet.
5. Bring your own accessories
As with gas, rental car companies generally charge a higher rate – often on a daily basis – for extras like navigation systems or baby safety car seats. Bring your own.
6. Driving safety background checks could block you
If your driving record isn’t up to par, you could be rejected from renting a car – yes, even if you have a reservation. Some rental agencies look at your background to check for incidents of reckless driving, accidents or seat belt violations. If your past doesn’t meet company standards, you could be out of luck.
7. Inspection is necessary
Make sure to inspect the car thoroughly before signing the rental contract. You don’t want to be held accountable for existing damage. Also, have an employee sign off on any ding, scratch or dent you spot. Most rental companies require you to sign an inspection form, but many people are in a hurry and rush through the process. Take this step seriously.
8. Avoid costly airport locations
Consider renting your car at a location away from the airport. Being able to rent and return at the terminal can be a more convenient option, but you can expect to pay for that convenience through additional airport fees.
9. Beware of credit card blocks
Are you nearing your credit limit or is your bank account balance low? Ask if the rental company puts a block on credit or debit cards – a practice used to ensure that customers have enough money to pay their bill.
10. Return on time
You may be surprised to learn that you could be charged extra for returning your rental car early. Bringing the vehicle back ahead of time, or later than agreed upon, could result in additional fees. If you anticipate a change in drop-off time, ask the rental agent about the company policy.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. These 10 tips can help you to stay clear of high rates and an overall rental car nightmare.
