Renting a car can be a great way to explore new places and enjoy the freedom of the open road. However, it’s important to ask the right questions before signing the rental agreement to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. In this article, we’ll cover the top questions you should ask when renting a car, so you can have peace of mind and enjoy your trip.
Hertz
J.D. Power ranks Hertz as the best car rental company in North America, and for good reason. Their focus on customer satisfaction means you’ll have a great time renting from them – from start to finish.
Enterprise
Enterprise Rent-A-Car has locations all over the world, so they’re bound to have one close by. Plus, they offer a wide selection of cars – from economy to luxury – so you can find the perfect ride for your trip.
Fox Rent-A-Car
Fox Rent-A-Car is the perfect solution for budget-minded travelers. They offer low rates on all of our vehicles, so you can hit the open road without breaking the bank.
* With Expedia member prices, you could save 10% or more right now on thousands of cars.
What to Ask When Renting a Car?
When renting a car, it’s important to ask the right questions to ensure you’re getting the best deal and that you understand the rental agreement. Here are some questions to ask:
What Are the Rental Terms and Conditions?
It’s important to understand the rental terms and conditions before you sign the rental agreement. Make sure to ask about the following:
- Rental period: How long is the rental period? Is there a minimum or maximum rental period?
- Mileage limit: Is there a limit on how many miles you can drive during the rental period? What happens if you exceed the limit?
- Fuel policy: What is the fuel policy? Will you be required to return the car with a full tank of gas or can you return it empty?
- Insurance: What type of insurance is included in the rental agreement? Is there an additional cost for insurance? What is the deductible?
- Additional drivers: Are additional drivers allowed? Is there an additional cost for adding a driver?
- Age restrictions: Are there any age restrictions for renting a car? Will there be an additional cost for drivers under a certain age?
Bottom line: Make sure you understand the rental terms and conditions before you sign the rental agreement. Ask about the rental period, mileage limit, fuel policy, insurance, additional drivers, and age restrictions.
What Type of Car Should I Rent?
Choosing the right type of car is important for your safety and comfort. Consider the following when selecting a rental car:
- Size: What size car do you need? Will you need extra space for passengers or luggage?
- Transmission: Do you prefer a manual or automatic transmission?
- Features: What features are important to you? Do you need GPS, Bluetooth, or a backup camera?
- Fuel efficiency: Is fuel efficiency important to you? Are you willing to pay more for a hybrid or electric car?
Bottom line: Choose the right type of car for your needs based on size, transmission, features, and fuel efficiency.
How Much Will it Cost?
The cost of renting a car can vary greatly depending on the rental company, location, and time of year. Ask about the following costs:
- Base rental rate: What is the base rental rate? Does it include taxes and fees?
- Additional fees: Are there any additional fees, such as airport fees, surcharges, or drop-off fees?
- Upgrades: Are there any upgrade options, such as a larger car or GPS system?
- Discounts: Are there any discounts available, such as for members of a loyalty program or for renting for a certain number of days?
Bottom line: Understand the total cost of renting a car, including the base rental rate, additional fees, upgrades, and discounts.
What Happens if the Car Breaks Down or is Involved in an Accident?
In the event of a breakdown or accident, it’s important to know what to do and who to contact. Ask about the following:
- Roadside assistance: Is roadside assistance included in the rental agreement? What is the process for contacting roadside assistance?
- Accident procedures: What should you do if you’re involved in an accident? Who should you contact?
- Replacement car: Will a replacement car be provided if the rental car is damaged or needs repairs?
Bottom line: Know what to do and who to contact in the event of a breakdown or accident. Ask about roadside assistance, accident procedures, and whether a replacement car will be provided.
What Are the Pick-Up and Drop-Off Procedures?
Make sure you understand the pick-up and drop-off procedures to avoid any confusion or additional fees. Ask about the following:
- Location: Where is the rental car location? Is it at the airport or a different location?
- Hours: What are the hours of operation for the rental car location? Will there be a fee for after-hours pick-up or drop-off?
- Check-in: What is the process for checking in the rental car? Will there be an inspection of the car?
- Drop-off: What is the process for dropping off the rental car? Is there a specific location to park the car?
Bottom line: Understand the pick-up and drop-off procedures to avoid any confusion or additional fees.
Wrapping Up
Renting a car can be a great way to explore new places and enjoy the freedom of the open road. However, it’s important to ask the right questions before signing the rental agreement to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Make sure to ask about the rental terms and conditions, the type of car to rent, the cost, what happens in the event of a breakdown or accident, and the pick-up and drop-off procedures. With these questions answered, you can have peace of mind and enjoy your trip.
