The summer is here and that means travel as well! If you’re not a type of tourist who likes to spend a whole day lying around the hotel swimming pool, you’ll try to find a way to see the local sights. One possibility are the organized trips, the other is public transport… but the third is renting a car. If you’re in a country where you feel comfortable driving on your own, you should think about this option – it’s very handy. But be careful with the rental!
1. deciding to rent
You should know that the size and type of a car influences the price. The bigger the car, the bigger the bill.
2. choose from who to rent
When selecting the service from which you will rent, the price should not be the only factor. You should also consider their network and number, what is included in the price and: general rule.
3. price and extras
Apart from the price of the rental itself, there are some other expenses. Before signing the agreement, ask what is included in the price. Usually you have to pay extra for things like a baby seat, additional driver etc.
4. insurance
Always ask what does the insurance cover and what can be/should be paid extra. It’s suggestible to avoid insurances where there’s a high self-paying part involved. It’s better to go for insurances with no excess. It’s a bit more expensive, but in a case of an accident you’ll have considerably lower costs.
5. pick up the vehicle
You will need a personal document to rent a car, a driver’s licence and a credit card. Within EU it’s enough to have a national driver’s licence, for other countries you should check, because most require an international licence. Take a good look at the car before taking it and make a note of all possible damage on the car (together with their employee). Also check for the fuel level and make a note about the quantity.
6. tickets
Yes, you will have to pay yourself for traffic tickets, for wrong parking or speeding – even if you will be home, the rental company has to give your data to police, so they will find you and fine you.
7. returning the vehicle
Return the vehicle at the appointed time and at the appointed place. There should be about the same amount of fuel as it was when you took the vehicle. And it is always better to return the car to an employee, so they cannot claim any damage you did not do.
