In the article “Rental Cars: Know the Pitfalls,” Elaine Glusac provides valuable insight into the complexities and potential pitfalls of renting a car. From comparing prices and convenience of airport versus non-airport locations to maximizing memberships for discounts, Glusac covers a range of best practices to follow when renting a car. She also highlights the importance of understanding upgrade policies and insurance coverage, as well as documenting the vehicle’s condition before and after use. With comprehensive advice and tips, this article serves as a helpful guide for anyone looking to navigate the world of rental cars.

Rental Cars: Know the Pitfalls

From getting a good deal to figuring out insurance requirements, renting a car can be a complicated, pitfall-prone experience. Here are some best practices to follow, from reservations through returns.

Compare prices and convenience of airport vs. nonairport locations

Prices vary widely based on the vehicle model and the location of the agency. Airport rentals, subject to extra taxes and fees, are generally more expensive. Some cities are now charging similar fees if an agency is within 20 miles of the airport. It is important to check both airport and nonairport rental locations to compare prices and choose the most convenient option. Nonairport locations may have more limited hours, so it’s crucial to consider the availability of transportation to and from the agency.

Don’t prepay

While many agencies offer discounts for prepayment, it’s important to be cautious. Prepaid contracts often incur fees if you cancel. It is advisable to make unpaid reservations that allow for flexibility and price checking. By reserving early and monitoring prices leading up to your trip, you can take advantage of any rate drops. Some agencies also offer best rate guarantees, which means they will rent you the car at 10 percent below a better rate found elsewhere. Tracking services like AutoSlash can help you monitor your reservation and notify you of any price drops.

Maximize your memberships

Utilizing memberships at retailers like Costco or organizations like AAA or AARP can help you access discounts when renting a car. Costco, AAA, and AARP offer specific discounts with certain rental companies. However, it’s important to consider the cost of the membership and whether you will rent cars frequently enough to recoup the membership fees. Joining loyalty programs with major rental companies such as Avis and Hertz can also provide benefits like express pickups, allowing you to skip the line at the counter and go directly to your vehicle.

Consider alternative companies

In addition to traditional rental agencies, there are alternative options to consider. Companies like Turo and Getaround act as Airbnb-like platforms for rental cars, where owners list their vehicles for rent. These options can often provide more unique and affordable vehicle options. Additionally, there are app-based rental companies like Kyte and UFO Drive that offer competitive prices and convenience. It is important to compare prices and services offered by different companies to find the best fit for your needs.

At the counter, understand upgrade policies

When you arrive at the rental agency and the car you reserved is not available, it is common practice for agencies to offer the next-best available car at no extra charge. However, this may not always be made clear and the agency might try to upsell an upgrade for a fee. In such cases, it is advisable to request your original class of car first. If it is not available, you are entitled to a free upgrade. It’s also important to be aware of “manager’s specials,” which are often bargain leftovers. As agencies transition to electric cars, there have been instances where renters ended up with surprise electric vehicles that they didn’t necessarily want.

Know your insurance coverage

Before renting a car, it’s important to understand your insurance coverage. In most cases, personal auto insurance will extend to rental cars. Some credit cards also provide coverage against theft and damage as long as you use the card for payment. It’s essential to check both your auto insurance policy and credit card coverage before buying additional coverage at the rental agency. It’s worth noting that credit card insurance typically only covers collision and not liability. If you do not have insurance, it is advisable to consider purchasing liability insurance to protect yourself financially.

Document the vehicle’s condition

Before driving off in the rental car, it is crucial to thoroughly inspect the vehicle for any existing damage. Note any dings, scrapes, or upholstery tears, and document them with photos or a video. It is also important to ask the rental company to document any pre-existing damage in your paperwork. When returning the vehicle, repeat the inspection and take photos again. Even if an employee reviews the car and provides a receipt, having a record of the vehicle’s condition can be useful if any additional damage is found during a deeper review.

Before returning the car, buy gas

When it comes to returning the rental car, you have the option of returning it with a full tank of gas or letting the rental company refill it for you. It is important to weigh the costs and convenience of each option. If you choose the latter, keep in mind that you will be charged for a full tank, even if you have only used a portion of it. To avoid extra gas charges, it’s advisable to return the car with a full tank. Take a picture of the gas gauge as proof in case any disputes arise regarding the fuel level.

Return the car on time

Understanding the rental car day policy is crucial to avoid additional charges. Typically, a rental car day is 24 hours from the time you leave the lot. If you return the car later than the agreed-upon time, you may be charged for an additional full day. Even if you reserved the car from a specific time to the same time the next day, arriving early to pick up the car might still require you to return it by the original pickup time. It is important to be aware of the specific return time window to avoid any unexpected charges.

By following these best practices and being aware of the potential pitfalls, you can navigate the car rental process more effectively. Whether it’s comparing prices, understanding upgrade policies, or documenting the vehicle’s condition, being prepared and informed will help ensure a smooth and hassle-free rental experience.