Get the Facts Before You Rent a Car
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Renting a car is something most of us have to do occasionally, whether for vacation or business, or while our own cars are being repaired. It's easy to end up paying more than you expected if you don't understand the industry jargon and how rental companies calculate fees. That's why the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has put together information you need to know before you call and reserve a car.
Here are some points to consider
Decide in advance what size car you really need and how much you can spend so you are not making a rush decision because you feel pressured when talking to an agent. When you request a size of car, compact, mid-size, or luxury, ask the company to define that for you. Different companies may use different classifications so you want to know what you are getting, so ask for some examples of the size you ask for. Is a "compact" car more likely to be a Geo Metro or a Chevy Cavalier?
Shop around for rates, or use a travel agent. And. ask questions:
Always ask about available discounts and the restrictions that apply.
Find out when the car must be returned in order to avoid extra charges.
With short-term rentals, you may have to pay for two full days even if you rent the car one afternoon and return it the next morning.
Are there special rates for a weekly rental, or a weekend deal? It may actually be cheaper to rent for a week than for two or three days.
If you have some flexibility, ask when the best price breaks are. If you are counting on an advertised special, ask about blackout dates that would make the special price unavailable, be sure to get the details, including restrictions. You may think you're doing well if you return a car early, only to find out that doing so voids the deal.
Figure out your mileage needs ahead of time and then ask if the deal includes unlimited mileage or capped mileage. Knowing approximately how much you will drive will help you decide which works for you.
Ask if there are fees that could pump up the price from the advertised rate. These may include deposits, fuel charges, airport surcharges and drop-off fees, additional driver fees, underage driver fees, taxes, equipment charges (such as for car seats or luggage racks).
How's your driving record?
If it's flawed, you may find it hard to get a rental at all. Some companies check your driving record but may not do so until after you've made the reservation. So you show up at the airport and find yourself without a car. Violations within the last few years may disqualify you. If that sounds like you, ask before you make the reservation if your driving record will be checked.
Rental Agreement
If there is any term in the rental agreement you don't understand, ask (such as, collision damage waiver (CDW), personal accident insurance (PAI), and personal effects coverage (PEC). Here's a list from the FTC of terms to know so you don't get blindsided by jargon:
Know the Terms and Charges
Rental car insurance can be puzzling. You can buy insurance from the company, but you may already have such coverage on your auto and homeowner policies. If you have medical insurance, it likely covers any medical attention you will need, but if you aren't certain, ask your insurer.
If you're traveling on business, find out if your employer already has you covered before you pay for coverage you don't need.
If you're a member of a motor club, depending on which credit card you use to pay for the rental car, you may have free protection through them.
Finally, before you drive away, have a rental agent employee go with you to look over the car for existing scratches and dents.
And upon return, plan to fill the tank yourself. Letting them do it is convenient, but expensive.
Marc Dean is a freelance writer who writes for Preferred Consumer. He has done significant research online on travel, and on vacations and cruises.
Category Article Before, Facts
