Renting a car is quickly becoming a common thing in the modern era. Convenient, renting is cheaper than purchasing a car. You can use a rented car to accomplish your daylit activities expediently and cost-effectively. However, simple mistakes can ruin your trip. On those lines, here are the top mistakes you should avoid when renting a car.
Ignoring Rewards Clubs
Reward clubs are designed to give you perks when renting a car. A reward club can sufficiently reduce your budget. Here is where you will find good deals. Customers can get up to 5 percent discounts on car rentals. As a customer, you should leverage these perks to secure better deals.
Syncing to Bluetooth
Bluetooth can lead to the loss of private information. That’s why you should be careful when using the Bluetooth feature. Remember, your sensitive information can be left behind. The next driver may access your GPS information, which can compromise your safety and security. Thus, if you don’t want other people to know your address, don’t sync it to Bluetooth. If you have to, be sure to delete all data from the car before handing it over.
Not Understanding the Mileage Plan
An epic road trip can be exciting. At times, you might forget to stick to the mileage plan. If you don’t, you might be subjected to exorbitant fines. Thus, remember about the maximum distance as agreed. If your trip goes beyond this mileage, be sure to inform the car rental company. Also, you can choose companies that don’t restrict you in terms of mileages. With unlimited mileage, you can go about your trip without any worries. Also, take note of weekend driving terms. Most companies impose different terms when it comes to renting cars during the weekend.
Toll Packages
A good number of companies come with fast passes. From E-Zpass to FasTrak, these options are common with top car renting companies. With this option, you can utilize express lanes via toll booths. Of course, these lines give you the convenience you need to maneuver along with major cities. However, what you will find in the bill will shock you. Even if you don’t use these lanes, you will be subjected to a fee of at least $3 per day. Worse still, if you use these lines without paying at the booth, you will have to pay at each booth plus an additional administration fee of $15. So, avoid these car rentals. Well, if you are too busy, you can choose these cars. However, it’s important to familiarize yourself with toll package fees.
Second Driver Missing in The Reservation
As said before, road trips can be exciting. They bring a lot of thrill. In most cases, you will be tempted it taking a drink on the way. In these cases, you will have to hand the car keys to a sober driver. The same happens when you get tired after a long trip. However, your co-driver should be added to the reservation. Failing to add him/her to this reservation, things can be complex. In particular, if you get into an accident, your insurance company may refuse to pay you because the driver wasn’t added to the reservation. Thus, incorporate the spare driver into the reservation. Anything can happen.
Extra Car Insurance Fee
Of course, there are good rental cars out there. However, some of these car rentals are a scam. They will try persuading you into paying an extra fee for insurance even when you possess auto insurance. Don’t get swayed into paying an extra fee. Your insurance is enough to cover you during the entire trip. Still more, if you have health insurance, you don’t need extra coverage. It’s good protection in case of anything during the trip.
Ignoring Credit Card Benefits
You don’t have car insurance? No problem. Your credit card can be of great help. It can give you sufficient protection in case of anything on the road. Certain credit cards come with auto damage waivers. Here, you are covered against car damage and even theft. These covers include all drivers enlisted in the agreement. Thus, not checking benefits is a huge mistake. Take advantage of these benefits. Use coverage in your credit card to protect yourself when hiring a car.
Using A Wrong Card to Book
If your credit card covers you, use it. However, you must book with that credit card. Using another credit card is a mistake. In case of anything, the insurance in that credit card may not apply. Thus, be careful when booking. Use the right credit card.
Failing To Read the Contract
If you decide to go with the rental company’s insurance, consider reading the fine print. Understand the things covered in that insurance. Read the contract. Know the terms. Understand the rules of that insurance, especially if you are in another country.
Don’t Pay Pre-Paid Gas
Pre-paid gas is a scheme designed to disadvantage you. Thus, don’t fall a victim to this scheme. On the surface, it looks appealing. However, you will pay more for the fuel used. You will be charged based on premium rates. Also, don’t allow the agent to fuel the car. You should do it by yourself. Fuel it before hitting the road.
Not Shopping Around for Better Bills
Don’t just rent the first car you come across. Consider hunting for deals first. There are several car rentals deals out there. Go for coupons. They will help you save a lot of money. Look for discounts from popular car rental sites.
Other Mistakes
Don’t make the following additional mistakes:
- Don’t accept to upgrade to a bigger car
- Don’t fail to track the time used
- Don’t rent from the airport. It will be expensive
- Don’t fail to take photos
The Bottom-Line
Renting a nice car is a good idea. However, simple mistakes can ruin your car renting experience. That’s why you should carry out due diligence before renting a car. In particular, avoid making the above mistakes when renting your next car.
