8 Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Vehicle Rental Experience
One convenient thing that allows many people to have a vehicle whenever and wherever they need it is renting. Rentals make it possible to have a means of transportation if you’re currently not able to afford a car or you’re simply passing through a certain area and are looking to get around more easily. Now, renting is not rocket science and it’s simple enough for everyone to do it but there are things you can do to make your rental experience more pleasant and get the most out of it. In the text below, we’ll discuss that and more. Read on!
Book in Advance
One of the best ways to secure proper vehicles is to book in advance. Usually, booking in advance will secure you the best deals and offers ahead of time. Well, it’s safe to say that waiting until the very last moment to book a vehicle puts you at a disadvantage and you’ll be left only with a few options that might not suit your needs. So, the first thing to make the most of the rental experience is to take your time and make sure to look carefully for the best deals at least 3 weeks ahead. Or else you’ll be left with a car that doesn’t suit your needs, is expensive, and exceeds your budget. Also, make sure to ask around for a good company, which brings us to the next point.
Compare Rental Companies
Understandably, it’s a competitive market, so some companies simply might have better offers than others. Depending on the type of vehicle, the prices can change and vary. For example, if you’re looking to rent a nice scooter to get around town easily and fast, especially if the infrastructure of a small town isn’t car-friendly, we advise looking for something local. You can always search for Brisbane scooter hire or any other city and you’ll get the best deals and prices in the area. The same applies to cars and other vehicles. Use online comparison tools and visit rental company websites directly to find promotions, discounts, and special offers. Take your time and choose carefully.
Understand the Insurance Options
With rentals, having the proper insurance to cover some major expenses is a must. You never know what can happen, and making sure you’re covered in the case of an accident will give you the needed piece of mind. Imagine being on vacation and something horrible happens to the scooter, bicycle, or car. So, talk to your insurance company and make sure they’ll cover rentals or maybe they won’t. If that’s the case, ask around and see whether the company hiring the vehicles can offer you some special package deals as well. There are also insurance companies that offer travel deals if you happen to be on vacation. Explore your options and be safe!
Inspect the Vehicle Thoroughly
Now, imagine this; you’re driving your car or scooter, and all of a sudden you’re hearing a cracking voice and the vehicle just stops. The engine is shut, you can’t move and you’ll only have it for a few hours. Nevertheless, you were the one driving it and there is a good chance you’ll have to pay up now! It sounds unsettling, and that’s because it is. So, before jumping in or on the vehicle, make sure to thoroughly inspect it. You never know who drove it before and how they drove it. And if the company allows it and you’re planning to keep the vehicle for more than a few days, you might ask if it’s fine to take it to a mechanic or maybe they can show you when the last check-up was on the car.
Understand the Fuel Policy
If you never rented vehicles, then probably you have never heard of a “fuel policy”. The idea is simple, most companies give you a full tank and expect you to return the full tank once you take it back. Some companies give you a half-full tank and expect a full tank to be returned. Sometimes they don’t specify the fuel amount and simply refund you the money you paid if all the fuel bills are in order. So, make sure you understand the policy well to avoid any confusion.
Familiarize Yourself with the Vehicle
You might be an experienced driver, but not every car is the same. Take a few minutes to familiarize yourself with the rental car before hitting the road. Adjust the seat and mirrors, learn the location and operation of essential controls (lights, windshield wipers, etc.), and test the GPS or entertainment system if available. It simply helps you to drive better and more confidently. Sometimes even the company will give you the chance to take the vehicle for a drive around the block.
Avoid Extra Fees
The fee you’re given at the beginning is just your regular fee for renting the car. There is also an additional fee for being late, adding additional drivers, renting GPS, additional units and child seats, and more. So, making sure you know all the extras might save you money later on and you’ll be less surprised once you see the bill. Stick to the rental agreement terms to avoid late return fees and inquire about any charges associated with added services or accessories.
Join Loyalty Programs
Loyalty memberships are a great way to get around some additional charges and great discounts. Usually, loyalty is completely free and you’ll have to subscribe to their newsletter. Why not get the discount and extra benefits? If some of the loyalties require you to pay a fee annually or monthly, just take into account how often you might be renting and how often you’ll need it; sometimes it pays off itself. Given all the benefits, why not?
All in all, it’s simple and easy. Make sure to take all the steps to avoid any unnecessary unpleasant situations and that will cover it. Have all the steps in mind, from thinking about your rental options to making sure your insurance might cover any accident. Inspect the vehicle beforehand; as we said, you never know who drove and how, and of course, if you can get anything for free, it’s a yes from us. Enjoy!
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