Car Rental: The Pitfalls to Avoid

Insurance, deductible, unforeseen costs, mileage… If car rental is particularly practical when going on a trip, it is still better to learn about the pitfalls before the big departure. We give you some tips on car rental and the pitfalls to avoid!

The Choice of the Type of Car

Most car rental companies offer 6 different vehicle categories:

Car rental companies offer up to 11 different vehicle categories:

• Mini: city cars that are mainly used in town and have a small displacement.

• Economical: compact cars that allow you to drive and park easily.

• Intermediate: road cars that offer good power and handling for long journeys.

• Station wagon: family cars, ideal for long journeys with others.

• SUV / Crossover: high-performance and all-terrain vehicles adapted to rugged terrain (mountain, bush, etc.).

• Minivan: particularly suitable for large families, a minivan can have between 5 and 9 seats.

• Convertible: convertible cars to have fun.

• Minibus / Van: to go on an adventure with family or friends.

• Leisure vehicles: for special occasions.

• Premium: the best high-end and luxury vehicles, if for you, rental means exceptional driving.

• Commercial vehicles: for your temporary needs, removals, works...

Before you jump headlong into the cheapest rental car, study your needs.

• How many will you be in the vehicle?

• How many kilometers do you plan to do?

• How will the roads be?

• What level of comfort do you need?

These questions will help you select the ideal car to accompany you on your trip. They will also allow you to determine which car rental company to choose according to your needs and the car you need.

The Mileage Package

When comparing rental cars, some show bargain prices. It is therefore advisable to pay close attention to the additional costs. Do I need to add a mileage package? What is the price of the additional kilometer? Should I take full protection when renting?

In the end, the low-cost price displayed quickly becomes an excessive price.

To get an idea of your rental car's real price, be sure to compare the mileage. The classic package includes 100 to 300 km for a day and 600 to 800 km for a weekend. Additional kilometers are usually displayed for $ 0.40 per kilometer, a heavy burden on the invoice in case of exceeding.

Today, most conventional rental companies offer unlimited mileage.

The Rental Car Contract

Before rent a car in Islamabad or any part of world be sure to read the rental car contract offered by the rental company. Make sure you capture all of the content and pay special attention to exclusions and fine print. A trick quickly arrived if we do not take the time to read the contract correctly!

Most of the packages offered only include the basic package. It is, therefore, necessary to check what is included and what is not.

Remember to inform the rental company about crossing the border and driving in a different country. This mention must also appear in the contract.

Complimentary Insurance

The majority of rental companies include third party insurance, theft insurance, and comprehensive insurance in the package. The catch? In general, the deductible is outrageous. It varies from $ 200 to $ 1,000 depending on the country and can be reduced with additional insurance.

Before accepting insurance with your eyes closed, weigh the pros and cons, and do your calculations. Most rental agents are partially paid with commissions, so they will do anything to sell you the supplemental insurance.

By rejecting the latter, you will have to pay a deposit, which will be returned to you when the vehicle is returned if there is no incident. Remember to check your bank accounts a few days after your trip ends.

Car Inspection

That's it; you've arrived at your destination and need to pick up your rental car. When the vehicle is handed over, an "inventory" of the vehicle is carried out in the presence of the lessor and the tenant.

Don't hesitate to take your time to inspect the car in detail, even if it means ignoring the agent who checks his watch every 20 seconds. Check the condition of the body, tires, and interior, noting any defects in the vehicle. You can also take photos or videos of the car to avoid possible disputes on return.

The rental vehicle inspection is a step not to be overlooked, probably the biggest pitfall to avoid in a rental car.

Rent a Car via a Price Comparison

The price comparison is your ally for the first step of your research. It will allow you to direct you to the rental companies that offer the best price according to your criteria.

Don't go for an exceptionally attractive price before checking the fuel policy and mileage, any young driver fees or airport taxes are included in the price displayed.

If the merchant site seems unfamiliar to you, go to the forums to see customer car rental reviews. You will then collect your vehicle from Sixt, Avis, etc. Pay attention that the product you are given is what you paid for.

Once in the agency, read each document before signing it to avoid being handed you a $ 130 GPS that you had not ordered, for example.

Another trap to avoid: when making your reservation on the intermediary's website, the intermediary does not warn you of border crossings restrictions. You could have unpleasant surprises once at the agency...

No need to be afraid though, the vast majority of car rentals are done without a hitch. By comparing rental cars and following these tips, all you have to do is chart the road to an unforgettable trip!