Car rentals are such a common part of people’s travel plans, yet it’s the one thing that leaves most people confused.
Do I need rental car insurance? What about the fuel cost? Should I pay for damage claims?! Do I need to inspect the vehicle before I leave with it? These are just some of the many questions people have when getting a rental car.
If only the process to choose a rental car was simpler! Well, it is! We are here to help you avoid some of the most common mistakes made by travelers while renting a car:
Purchasing Rental Insurance when You Already Have Auto Insurance
While most auto insurance policies and coverages differ considerably, if you have “full coverage,” chances are it includes rental car coverage in your home country. It is a good idea to get in touch with your insurance provider to find out about this in advance.
How this works is that the insurance coverage for your main vehicle gets extended to the rental car as it gets counted as a “replacement vehicle” under your policy. So the comprehensive coverage in your insurance policy also provides coverage for rental cars. However, you should know that an accident claim for your rental car will raise the rates of your policy.
Paying for Gasoline in Advance
While prepaying for gasoline may have its own appeal of a simpler driving experience where you don’t have to be on the lookout for gas stations, you shouldn’t fall for this one. Why? Because the cost of having the rental agency refuel is always higher than how much it would cost you to do it yourself.
Not Inquiring About Potential Upgrades
It is always a good idea to reserve a low-priced car and then inquire about any possible upgrades when you’re at the rental agency. This works in your favor during busy hours when the agency is running low on the cheapest vehicles. You might get a chance to upgrade to a larger car without too much of an additional cost.
Not Checking for Discounts
Membership establishments like Frequent Flyer Programs and AAA offer great deals and offers in collaboration with certain car rental agencies. If you are a paying member, you should try to explore any such discounts and deals.
Not Conducting a Thorough Inspection Before Departure
It is always a good idea to conduct a proper inspection of your rental car, both inside and out, for anything that could be counted as “damages” once you return the car. Check for scratches, loose parts, if the power windows are working, any tear in the upholstery, and more.
