Renting a Car
If you're traveling by plane in the coming months, chances are you'll be renting a car when you land.
If you're taking a driving trip, it may be more convenient to rent a car so you can have the size and features that make vacations more fun. Or maybe your everyday driver is in the shop.
There are lots of reasons you may want to rent a car.
Do Your Research First.
Rent a car that suits your needs. If you are traveling with a family of four and lots of luggage, a compact car won't have enough room. When you reserve the car, make any special requests.
For example, if you know you will need a child's car seat for your two-year-old, be sure to reserve one early—don't expect one to be available when you arrive to pick up your car.
You'll also want to check with your insurance company to find out how your coverage works for rented cars. Find out if your insurance will cover service calls on rental cars, and ask your agent if you will need to buy any supplemental insurance from the car rental company. You may be able to save money by not purchasing unnecessary and overly expensive insurance through the car rental company. Check with your credit card company to see if it provides supplementary insurance if you use the card to pay for the car rental.
When You Pick Up Your Car
Check the contract to make sure you're getting the rate and the car you were promised when you made the reservation. Ask the agent what to do if the car breaks down. If you're not sure how to get to your destination, request a map and driving directions from the agent. Double-check about returning the car: is there a penalty if the gas tank is empty? Can you drop off the car after hours?
Do a quick check for any existing damage on the car. If you spot anything significant, call it to the attention of the rental company before you take the car off the lot, so you won't be penalized for damage you didn't cause.
Familiarize yourself with the car: be sure you know how to work the headlights, turn signals and interior lights. Check the windshield wipers to make sure they work and that there is washer fluid; you don't want to get caught in rain or snow with bad wipers. Make sure the gas tank is full, since that's generally part of the rental agreement. Adjust the seat and mirrors. Check the seatbelts; is there one for every passenger?
Enjoy the Ride!
Because rental cars are attractive targets for thieves, most rental companies do not place stickers advertising the fact that this is a rental. Still, play it safe. Remove all valuables from the car when it is parked, if possible. If you have to leave your luggage or other property in the car, lock it in the trunk, out of sight.
By planning ahead and taking a few easy precautions, renting a car will be easy. It's also a great way to see if this type of car might be one you'd want to purchase at a later date.
Published 06/22/07
