Feb
4th
Author: admin |
Files under Travel Advice, Travel Learning
Need to rent some wheels? Whether you're going on a weeklong road trip across America or chauffeuring the gang to the beach for the weekend, our eight tips for renting a car in the US will help you save money, stay safe, and hit the road with less stress.
Booking the Rental Car You Want
Holidays and other high-traffic travel times mean that rental cars go fast -- so look to book as soon as you know your plans. Start by deciding what type of car and extras you want or need, so that you can compare prices accurately. Are you looking for a convertible, SUV, minivan, or standard sedan? Do you need a cell phone, ski rack, or child safety seat? Likewise, cut the fat:
Booking the Rental Car You Want
Holidays and other high-traffic travel times mean that rental cars go fast -- so look to book as soon as you know your plans. Start by deciding what type of car and extras you want or need, so that you can compare prices accurately. Are you looking for a convertible, SUV, minivan, or standard sedan? Do you need a cell phone, ski rack, or child safety seat? Likewise, cut the fat:
Decide what amenities you don't need. For example, if you're not in a rush, you can save big bucks by picking up your rental car at an off-terminal location.
Shopping Around
Rental car rates vary wildly, even for similar vehicles in the same city. Always compare prices, and remember that base rates are just the beginning of what will likely be a much higher final bill. Additional charges may include insurance; second-driver fees; surcharges based on season, location, and driver's age (expect to pay more if you're under 25 years old); mileage fees; drop-off charges; airport access fees; and refueling charges. Ask about all additional fees, taxes, and surcharges before you book.
Digging for Deals
There are definitely deals to be found, especially online. Visit Trip.com and find fantastic rates at rental car companies throughout the US. Other great ways to save: Find out if any organizations you belong to offer rental car discounts or upgrades, or consider "paying" for your car with frequent flyer miles or hotel loyalty points (both are often partnered with rental car companies). Again, be sure that the quoted price includes ALL applicable fees, taxes, and surcharges.
Insuring Your Rental Car
Before you book online or arrive at the rental car counter, know the scope of rental car coverage offered by your own auto, medical, travel, homeowner's, and credit card insurance, so that you can avoid paying twice for the same protection. The four most common types of insurance cover: vandalism, theft, or damage to your car, (collision damage waiver/loss damage waiver, aka CDW/LDW); liability if you injure someone else or damage another's property (supplemental liability); injury to you or a passenger (personal accident); and theft or vandalism to property inside your car (personal effects coverage, aka PEC).
Avoiding Fine Print Penalties
Ask lots of questions. For example, a company may waive the second-driver fee for your spouse if you provide "proof" of marriage, but "proof" of marriage varies. You may be required to share the same last name, have the same address on your driver's license, and/or show your marriage license. Also, double-check drop-off policies: Some companies charge extra for early returns! Confirm the standard one-hour grace period if you're running late, and make sure that it applies to weekend and/or weekly rates and extras such as ski racks and child safety seats. Finally, ask how you'll be charged if you're more than one hour late. (No use in rushing if you'll be charged for another full day anyway.)
Inspecting Your Car for Safety & Scratches
Before you leave the lot, make sure that the spare tire is ready for action; that there's a jack in the trunk and an owner's manual in the glove compartment; and that there is a phone number you can call for roadside assistance. Test the windshield wipers, seat belts, and lights, and check the gas level. Walk around the car and make sure any damage is noted on your contract. If it's not, it'll be hard to prove that you didn't do it if they decide to charge you for it when you drop off the car. Fill 'Er Up Yourself Always opt to return a rental car with a full tank of gas. Sure, it's a hassle and eats up time when you may be rushing to catch your flight, but it's a surefire way to save money. Leaving it to the rental car company means that you'll be charged a premium (read: ridiculously inflated) price per gallon, plus this charge is subject to sales tax and airport concession fees.
Be Prepared for Anything
Find out what happens to your rental car reservation if your plane is delayed and you miss your pick-up time. Know what time a drop-off location closes and what to do if you don't make it in time. Also, don't be shocked if a company overbooks (to compensate for no-shows) and runs out of cars in your category. Pleasantly insist on an equal or better car, or a comparable reservation elsewhere. Finally, bad drivers beware: If your record is rife with recent run-ins and you reserve in a state that screens driving records, you may be refused a car. Bottom line: Ask about a company's policy before you book your car.
Shopping Around
Rental car rates vary wildly, even for similar vehicles in the same city. Always compare prices, and remember that base rates are just the beginning of what will likely be a much higher final bill. Additional charges may include insurance; second-driver fees; surcharges based on season, location, and driver's age (expect to pay more if you're under 25 years old); mileage fees; drop-off charges; airport access fees; and refueling charges. Ask about all additional fees, taxes, and surcharges before you book.
Digging for Deals
There are definitely deals to be found, especially online. Visit Trip.com and find fantastic rates at rental car companies throughout the US. Other great ways to save: Find out if any organizations you belong to offer rental car discounts or upgrades, or consider "paying" for your car with frequent flyer miles or hotel loyalty points (both are often partnered with rental car companies). Again, be sure that the quoted price includes ALL applicable fees, taxes, and surcharges.
Insuring Your Rental Car
Before you book online or arrive at the rental car counter, know the scope of rental car coverage offered by your own auto, medical, travel, homeowner's, and credit card insurance, so that you can avoid paying twice for the same protection. The four most common types of insurance cover: vandalism, theft, or damage to your car, (collision damage waiver/loss damage waiver, aka CDW/LDW); liability if you injure someone else or damage another's property (supplemental liability); injury to you or a passenger (personal accident); and theft or vandalism to property inside your car (personal effects coverage, aka PEC).
Avoiding Fine Print Penalties
Ask lots of questions. For example, a company may waive the second-driver fee for your spouse if you provide "proof" of marriage, but "proof" of marriage varies. You may be required to share the same last name, have the same address on your driver's license, and/or show your marriage license. Also, double-check drop-off policies: Some companies charge extra for early returns! Confirm the standard one-hour grace period if you're running late, and make sure that it applies to weekend and/or weekly rates and extras such as ski racks and child safety seats. Finally, ask how you'll be charged if you're more than one hour late. (No use in rushing if you'll be charged for another full day anyway.)
Inspecting Your Car for Safety & Scratches
Before you leave the lot, make sure that the spare tire is ready for action; that there's a jack in the trunk and an owner's manual in the glove compartment; and that there is a phone number you can call for roadside assistance. Test the windshield wipers, seat belts, and lights, and check the gas level. Walk around the car and make sure any damage is noted on your contract. If it's not, it'll be hard to prove that you didn't do it if they decide to charge you for it when you drop off the car. Fill 'Er Up Yourself Always opt to return a rental car with a full tank of gas. Sure, it's a hassle and eats up time when you may be rushing to catch your flight, but it's a surefire way to save money. Leaving it to the rental car company means that you'll be charged a premium (read: ridiculously inflated) price per gallon, plus this charge is subject to sales tax and airport concession fees.
Be Prepared for Anything
Find out what happens to your rental car reservation if your plane is delayed and you miss your pick-up time. Know what time a drop-off location closes and what to do if you don't make it in time. Also, don't be shocked if a company overbooks (to compensate for no-shows) and runs out of cars in your category. Pleasantly insist on an equal or better car, or a comparable reservation elsewhere. Finally, bad drivers beware: If your record is rife with recent run-ins and you reserve in a state that screens driving records, you may be refused a car. Bottom line: Ask about a company's policy before you book your car.
