Hidden Car Rental Fees To Avoid By The Traveler

Cel Oriel
Cel Oriel
Sep 7, 2018 · 3 min read
Image source: https://www.aerodrivecarrental.com/vehicles/sports-compact-hatch2/

New Zealand is undoubtedly best toured via a land vehicle. This adventure haven will get you psyched all throughout the trip. Car rental services are a great travel partner especially if you are planning to explore towns such as Queenstown or cities like Wellington and Auckland. But investing in a car hire service is critical. It is convenient, but it has a lot of things to consider. There have been several car rental agencies near Queenstown Airport that you can approach and inquire at. But be cautious of the sum you’ll be paying. Here’s what to look out for and how to avoid unexpected hidden charges:

Administrative Fees

Car rental companies are charging for administrative or processing fees for handling damages in the events such as traffic or speeding charges and other driving-related fines. The fee varies in price depending on which car hire agency you are in contact with. If you think you have been charged unjustly, immediately contact the contact person you booked a car with and give a reasonable explanation. You should be able to get a refund once it has been proven to be unfair.

Rebooking Fees

The change of date and time of car rental is surely inevitable. Cases like family emergencies and the like will mostly cut the original duration of the rent, or extend it to a couple more days. Don’t be surprised if the agency asks for a higher rate, especially if you’re making any changes in the last minute. To avoid this, try and make the needed adjustments as early as possible, preferably before you pick the car.

Fuel charges

Renting a vehicle will demand you to sign up to its fuel policy. Usually, the tank is full when you opt for a car hire and you should be able to return it in the same condition. Car rental companies charge way higher than a petrol station so to avoid this, study the policy carefully and make sure to return the borrowed car in full tank.

Expensive upgrades

Smaller cars are typically easier to maneuver, use less gas, and if something uninsured does happen, cost less to replace. Agencies will offer you for an upgrade to a bigger and fancy car. But before accepting it, make sure to clarify and confirm whether it is really free because if it’s not, go for the smaller vehicles.

One-way pricing

Depending on your itinerary, you might need to end your adventure in a different city, but try to avoid it if you can. One-way pricing is one of the fees a car rental companies will require you to pay if you won’t be able to bring the car back to the official drop-off location. Skip the hassle of this payment by planning your itinerary well and aligning it with the duration of the rent.

Other offers include extra GPS and pocket wifi device. If a navigation app is available on your smart phone, choose to stick to it. There are more fees you may encounter upon availing of car rental so try to ask questions for clarifications regarding the policies.

Now that you know about all of this, it’s time for you to rethink or reorganize your travel itinerary. Don’t let these stop you from having a smooth trip anywhere in the New Zealand. Go for a car rental services, but be wise about it.

Cel Oriel

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SEO & SEM Specialist | Working mom

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