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10 mistakes to avoid when renting a car

Renting a car is a fairly common practice, and while it does seem like one of those mundane things people do, it can go downhill quickly if certain important factors are overlooked. To ensure that one does not end up paying more than they bargained for or having an uncomfortable and stressful driving experience, there are certain things one must avoid doing before renting out a car.

1. Miscalculating space
Imagine planning a long road trip and not having enough space for the travelers or their luggage. The discomfort and inconvenience of having to cram everything into too small a space alone can waylay the best-laid travel plans. Not considering the amount of space required is one of the biggest mistakes one can make when renting a car. It’s true that smaller cars are cheaper, but larger cars do guarantee ample legroom and enough boot space for a comfortable drive. That said, small trips don’t really need massive cars, so consider the need before signing on the dotted line.

2. Not reading the fine print
Speaking of signing on the dotted line, ensure complete understanding of the agreement, fine pint, asterisk, and all! Skimming through terms and conditions in legal jargon could result in extra fees, unnecessary charges, or even restrictions. Check for clauses on mileage limitations or charges for returning the car to a different location. If one does not understand the terms, don’t hesitate to ask questions and be 100 percent sure of the ramifications of said clause.

3. Failing to book in advance
Like with all last-minute bookings, renting a car at the last minute will often result in limited options and higher prices. Planning ahead and booking a rental car in advance not only ensures better rates but also gives one a better option to choose from and guarantees the availability of a specific car on the day it is booked. In peak travel season, cars for rent can be in high demand, and one risks being stuck without conveyance. Booking in advance also ensures getting the right-sized car and an inspection of the terms and conditions.

4. Not inspecting the car
People tend to simply accept the car from the rental agency and drive off. This is a crucial mistake that could bring with it unnecessary charges. Take a walk around the car, inspect it thoroughly, and report all damage to the company before driving off. Neglect this, and damages, like dents and scratches, that were already present will be charted as new, and one can be billed for them.

5. Ignoring insurance options
If one already has a personal car insurance policy, having additional insurance from the car rental company when renting a car is an unnecessary added charge. Some credit cards also have insurance built into their purchases, so it’s good policy to check both personal insurance and credit card insurance to see if primary and secondary coverage are an option. Don’t opt for additional insurance for the rental car before checking and verifying these details.

6. Choosing an unfamiliar car
Navigation systems, Bluetooth connectivity, safety features, emergency tools, and vehicle performance vary from make to model. It’s best practice to choose a car that is closest to what one is accustomed to driving. If one is used to driving a compact or a sedan, then choosing an SUV could be the wrong decision. Being unable to handle the vehicle could result in dings and dents or even an untoward incident.

7. Not budgeting
Additional fees can add up to a lot; if one fails to account for this, it could muck up the budget. Apart from the base rental fee, potential extra charges could be applied to features like toll transponders, charges for younger drivers or senior drivers or even one-way trips, and administrative and processing fees. Reading the fine print and allowing enough movement in the budget to accommodate these fees will help make the car rental experience a smooth one.

8. Falling for cheap offers
Car rental rates aren’t wildly different from location to location. So, if one comes across offers that seem too good to be true, one must exercise caution and check for the validity of the car rental company and, of course, hidden additional costs that could rack up a huge bill.

9. Booking via an online travel agency
Third-party sites may seem like a great choice given the low-cost pricing, but they could be difficult to navigate if plans change and one needs to alter or cancel the reservation and claim a refund. Booking through a car rental agency is the more prudent way to go.

10. Not checking the fuel tank
Some car rental companies have a “full to full” policy. This means that they give the car with a full tank to the renter, and the person has to fuel up before returning it. When hiring a car, individuals also sign up for the fuel policy, so checking that the car indeed has a full tank saves the hassle of paying extra when they return it. It’s also best practice to refill the tank at a gas station rather than letting the company fill it up and then charging for it, to avoid any administrative fees that could be applicable.

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