What are the most important things to look for/ask about when renting a car?

When renting a car, there are several important things to look for and questions to ask to ensure a smooth and satisfactory rental experience. Here's a checklist of key considerations:

1. Rental Rates and Fees

   What is the daily or weekly rental rate? Are there any additional fees, such as airport surcharges, drop-off fees, or taxes? Is there a mileage limit, and what are the excess mileage charges?

2. Rental Duration

   Determine the rental period, including pick-up and drop-off times. Check if there are any penalties for returning the car early or late.

3. Car Type and Size

   Select the right car size and type to suit your needs, considering passenger capacity and luggage space.

4. Insurance Coverage

   Inquire about insurance options, including collision damage waiver (CDW), liability insurance, and personal accident insurance. Check if your existing car insurance or credit card provides coverage for rental cars.

5. Fuel Policy

   Understand the fuel policy (e.g., full-to-full, full-to-empty) and make sure you return the car with the same fuel level to avoid additional charges.

6. Age Requirements and Restrictions

   Ask about the minimum and maximum age for renting a car. Check if there are any restrictions based on your age or driving history.

7. Additional Drivers

   Find out if there are extra charges for adding additional drivers to the rental agreement. Ensure that all drivers are listed on the rental contract to be covered by insurance.

8. Rental Agreement Terms and Conditions

   Carefully review the rental agreement for terms, conditions, and any potential penalties or restrictions.

9. Pick-up and Drop-off Locations

   Confirm the rental car pick-up and drop-off locations. Check if there are any fees associated with returning the car to a different location.

10. Reservation and Cancellation Policies

    Understand the reservation process and any deposit requirements. Ask about the cancellation policy and whether there are cancellation fees.

11. Vehicle Inspection

    Conduct a thorough inspection of the rental car before accepting it, noting any existing damage and ensuring it is in good condition. Ensure that any pre-existing damage is documented in the rental agreement to avoid being held responsible.

12. Emergency Contact Information

    Obtain emergency contact information from the rental company in case you encounter issues during the rental period.

13. Additional Equipment

    Inquire about the availability and cost of extras like GPS navigation, child seats, or ski racks.

14. Roadside Assistance

    Find out if the rental company offers roadside assistance in case of breakdowns or accidents.

15. Payment Methods

    Confirm the accepted payment methods (credit cards, debit cards, cash) and inquire about any security deposits or holds on your card.

16. Return Procedures

    Understand the return procedures, including where to drop off the keys and how to handle the final inspection.

17. Contact Information

    Get the contact information of the rental company's customer service in case you need assistance during the rental period.

18. Local Traffic and Parking Rules

    Familiarize yourself with local traffic laws, parking regulations, and any specific rules in the area where you'll be driving.

By thoroughly addressing these factors and asking relevant questions, you can make an informed decision when renting a car and avoid unexpected surprises or costs during your rental period.

If you have any more questions feel free to check out our FAQ Page and be sure to ask us any question we may have missed!