How to choose and rent a car on vacation?
Car rentalHolidays are a great time to break the daily monotony and start off on the right foot. Renting a car to discover an idyllic destination often represents a saving compared to other means of transport, but above all gives you the freedom to move at your own pace and according to your desires. However, it is advisable to take some precautions and to take care of certain points in order to prevent the trip from turning into a nightmare or a financial abyss.
A car model for every getaway
To choose the most appropriate rental car for your vacation, it is important to define beforehand the desired use. So, if you have to make many short trips, a small model will allow you to save money on both the rental price and the fuel price.
Families can opt for sedans that offer optimal comfort or set their sights on minivans, especially if the luggage is bulky. Off-roaders, on the other hand, are the ideal mode of transport for those who want to attack destinations where roads and tracks are in poor condition or who plan to explore sites away from paved roads. .
It is also useful to assess the number of kilometers to be covered in order to choose the offer that will best suit your budget. Where possible, opt for the 'unlimited mileage' package, although this is rarely offered in Europe during holidays.
How to find the best deals?
As soon as you have defined the car model that suits you, it is a good idea to compare the offers of the different rental agencies. Online services save you time and allow you to rate rental companies with just a few clicks. It should also be noted that rental rates when booking online are often lower than those offered on site.
In addition to the price, you must take into account certain criteria such as insurance, the options offered or the time required to return the vehicle. You can also see if the company takes care of refueling when you return. If this is the case, you must plan for additional expenses for the purchase of fuel, which will be billed to you by the latter.
When to book the car?
Booking a rental car for your vacation has undeniable advantages. The ideal would be to do it a month before your departure. Indeed, rental prices increase as the handover of the vehicle keys approaches. In addition, this option gives you the opportunity to take advantage of substantial discounts offered by some online rental companies and to devote the last weeks before departure to other aspects of the trip such as administrative formalities or accommodation.
What about supplementary insurance?
Depending on your needs, it is recommended to find out, before departure, the basic insurance and the additional insurance required. As a rule, basic insurance is included in the car rental price. This mainly concerns bodily injury and material damage suffered by a third party and his vehicle. Depending on the risks specific to your destination, you can ask to take out additional insurance to better cover you.
It is also advisable to inquire about the amount of the deductible as well as the exclusions of guarantee. Some rental agencies offer a reduction in the deductible, or even its coverage. Thus, an additional guarantee can cover the driver and his passengers in the event of an accident, up to a predefined ceiling.
The security deposit in the car rental
Necessary condition for car rental, the security deposit is used to cover any damages occurring during the rental as well as possible expenses billed to the customer. It is advisable to find out the amount in advance. Generally, this amount decreases significantly if you have taken out all-risk insurance.
Important points to consider when renting a car
Read the contract carefully and do not hesitate to ask questions if certain points seem unclear to you. This must clearly indicate the conditions of use of the car, the duration of the rental and the rates applied.
Consult the conditions concerning the return of the vehicle, in particular the opening hours of the agency or the possibility of returning to another city.
In the presence of an agent from the rental company, inspect the condition of the car. Report any cracks, scratches or dents to prevent them from being charged to you when you return the vehicle. Don't forget to also review the condition of the vehicle's interior.
Do not hesitate to compare the mileage of the car with that indicated on your rental contract. This precaution protects you from unpleasant surprises, especially if you opt for a limited mileage formula. Keep a copy of the contract and the vehicle verification sheet with you to avoid any subsequent disputes.
Note the telephone number of the rental agency and that of its permanence to contact it quickly if necessary.
It is best to prepare your route well and rent a GPS if necessary.
Do not forget to find out about the speed limit and the Highway Code in force in your country of destination.
To enjoy a peaceful holiday, it is better to choose your rental car wisely. From the precise identification of your needs to the selection of the best service provider, nothing should be left to chance. Taking out good insurance also allows you to remain calm, even in the event of an accident.
Good road !
And you ? What are your tips? Feel free to comment on this article and have a good trip!
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