Renting a vehicle can save you money and time, but it is important to know the fees and options involved. They can add up fast. Here are 12 tips to help you avoid surprises and get the best deal on your next rental car.
Rent-a-car rates vary by location and can also change over time, but it’s a good idea to compare prices on several websites before booking. Compare apples to apples when comparing rental car companies.
When you’re ready to return your vehicle, be sure to check out the car-rental counter to see if any additional charges are pending. These can include road tolls, motoring-related fines, and even missing fuel, which are not always included in the advertised rate. In addition, most Car Rental France companies place a hold — or block — on your credit card for more than the agreed-upon rental cost, which can affect your ability to use your card for other purposes.
While you’re at it, don’t forget to review the insurance policy, and consider adding optional extras like GPS, a roof rack, or a child seat. You may be able to get a better price by purchasing these items directly rather than paying through the rental agency.
Many of the big rental-car companies have locations at major airports, but there are a number of local and regional agencies that charge 20 to 50 percent less. These smaller chains offer lower rates because they use vehicles that are “hand-me downs” from their parent companies. They don’t have to invest as much money in new fleets. However, these smaller firms might not be as well-stocked with cars, and their customer service might not be as polished.
Whether you’re looking to impress a client, need more passenger or cargo space, or want to haul equipment, most rental car companies offer a selection of pickup trucks and vans. These vehicles are typically more expensive to rent than sedans, but they usually get better gas mileage and can carry a lot of people or luggage.
Some rental car companies have a variety of specialty vehicles such as hybrid or exotic models. Some rental car companies may only have a handful of these vehicles, but they are a great way to explore the city.
Renting a car will allow you to explore all that NYC has to offer. Grab some pizza at Lombardi’s in Soho, then drive to the American Museum of Natural History on Central Park West. Dress up in formal wear and head to Lincoln Center to attend an opera or symphony concert. You’ll hopefully be back in your rental car before sunset to enjoy the view of Manhattan’s city skyline. Happy driving!