Renting or borrowing a car when you’re traveling often makes the most sense. You never have to worry about finding a cab or depending on public transportation.
But you also don’t want to ruin your travels just because you didn’t know what to look out for when renting a car. Because what you don’t know can really cost you much more than your vacation.
So here are 5 things you should never do in a borrowed car.
1. Think All Car Rental Companies Offer the Same Benefits or Rates
To think all car rental companies are the same is to make a huge mistake. When it comes to driving a borrowed car, rental companies offer different rates. They also have different terms and conditions.
Some may offer certain discounts to seniors, and even to young drivers under 25. Always ask what discounts are offered.
To find the best deals, check out sites like rentforless.com.au to ensure you’re not being taken advantage of.
Don’t forget that rates will also be determined by where you’re renting the car. The closer to the airport, the more likely you’ll pay higher rates for the convenience.
The rates will also be impacted by when you’re renting the car. Holidays, events, and even seasons all affect the price of your rental.
2. Pay for Their Insurance Without Knowing if You’re Already Covered
Sometimes you’re already covered by other insurance, so check before you buy. Paying with your credit card often means you’re already covered. The same with travel insurance.
However, if your car breaks down, you need to know who and where to call if you need to have repairs fixed.
3. PrePay for Fuel On A Borrowed Car
While the option to prepay is definitely a convenience, it may not always be great for your budget.
That’s because you simply have no idea what will happen during your trip, or if you’ll even need that amount of fuel.
To save on fuel costs, there are a few things you should know. First, buying fuel at the car rental place will be the most expensive option. Additionally, buying prepaid might make you risk driving on empty. This can mean running out of gas, and potentially missing returning the car on time.
If you choose to fill up your own gas, find a petrol station within 15k of your rental drop-off location. Don’t forget to keep the receipt.
4. Not Know Where You Can Take Your Borrowed Car
Let’s face it: Australia is a large country. This means unless you’re sticking just to the city, you might be putting some miles on your rental car.
If you’re seriously into off-roading or exploring, you might return the car with some unexpected added charges if you’re not careful. Also, check if there are any terms and conditions regarding how many miles you can put on the car.
5. Allow a Car Inspection Without You Being Present
While most car companies are honest, it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t make sure that both you and the car company agree on the condition of your rental car.
Not just the condition of the car when you pick up the rental, but especially when you return the car. It’s a smart idea to take photos to document everything. Don’t forget to photograph underneath the car.
Before you book a car, carefully read the terms and conditions. And if something happens during your trip, visit our site to quickly diagnose and troubleshoot problems.
