Before you rent a car

The ubiquity of the internet today means that you can do most
things without leaving your desk – it also means that when
making a trip, you can organise your car rental in advance in
almost any location in the world, so that when you arrive, you
can simply pick up your pre-booked car and go. To ensure that
you car rental experience goes completely smoothly, there are a
few things you should bear in mind before you even log on to
that car rental website. 

Decide before you book a car who exactly will be driving during
your trip – a car rental does not usually allow you switch
drivers without a previous arrangement, so decide in advance
whether one person will do all the driving or if you and a
partner might take turns at the wheel. Having the wrong person
in the driving seat might have implications on your insurance. 

And always make sure that you have insurance. This can be
arranged through your existing insurance company – ask whether
your existing insurance will cover your rental car. Regardless
of the type of car you decide to hire, don’t skimp on insurance
– it simply isn’t worth the risk. 

Depending on the nature of your trip, you will probably have
particular requirements in your car rental – so decide before
booking what features you will need in a car. How many
passengers will there be, will you be carrying a lot of luggage?
While a fast and exotic car might be great for impressing
clients on a one man or woman business trip, it isn’t quite so
appropriate for long haul driving with the kids! Ensure that you
car you select has plenty of room for both passengers and
luggage, and meets any other special requirements you might
have. 

Don’t forget when hiring a rental car to bring all the
appropriate documentation with you – this is not the time to
forget your driver’s licence! It is also a good idea to bring a
copy of the rental agreement in the car with you, just in case
the police at any point stop you. And perhaps most importantly
when renting a car in an unfamiliar location – don’t forget the
map!