THERE’S ALWAYS A FIRST TIME: 6 Questions to Ask if Renting A Car for the First Time
Planning a long drive this weekend? Sounds like fun! Maybe you can go to a hill-station for some scenic views. Or hit the coast & ride the waves! If not, there’s always so much history to explore.
But here’s the thing. You’re going to need more than just your travel companion. You need a friend through thick & thin — a car that drives you & drives with you. So rent a car & drive away!
What’s that? Are you renting for the first time? No need to worry.
Here is a comprehensive list of questions that you need to ask while renting a vehicle for your vacation. The beauty is, these questions don’t just come in handy the first time.
With every rental, your knowledge of what you need only becomes better. So here goes.
- What is my mileage limit? Will I be charged if I exceed it?
Always check if there is an ‘allotted mileage’ to the car you are renting. Most rental companies give you unlimited miles on the car, but some may set a daily mileage limit for it. If you exceed it, there’s a chance you will be charged for the same. So make sure to ask the company about the mileage plan. If you go above, will you be charged for every extra mile or a set of miles? Do ask.
2. If I return the car slightly late, will I be charged for it?
The return time for your car is decided before you start the journey. It is set in your rental contract. Therefore, it’s best if you return it on time. But, if there was an emergency that you could not avoid, you can try convincing the company to waive off the late fee. Additionally, it’s always best to get details on the late fee, in case you think there might be a delay.
3. What are my Insurance options?
Make sure the company gives you a CDW Insurance — Collision Damage Waiver. That waives you off of all responsibilities related to the damage to the car. Furthermore, if you own your own car & have an auto insurance plan, that can also cover the damages on your rental car. Always ensure to check with the company about the terms & conditions of the plan, so you don’t end up paying for something you purchased insurance for.
4. Will there be other inclusions to the daily quoted rate?
Check for all taxes applicable to your rental. The rental company’s final price quote must include all extra charges, so you can raise your queries based on that price. Otherwise, they will give you a price sans the tax/additional charges & you will plan a trip around it. When you get back, you’re paying additional thousands that you did not prepare for. This is especially not ideal for students who plan their vacations on a shoestring budget.
5. What if there’s a problem on the way?
This is a very important question to ask. Does your rental company have a quick response time to a vehicle break down on the way? Will they give you a new car in place of the same, in addition to a free tow of the car in repair? Make sure to verify.
6. How much petrol/diesel must remain when I return it?
This depends on your rental company. Some might require you to return it with a full tank & they will be upfront about the same in your rental contract. Some companies might ask for as much fuel as there was when you took it out. Some even don’t mind if you return it empty. So ask them about their policy & if you were to return the car late owing to the same, will they give you a waiver? Check on it.
These are fundamental questions that you need to put forth when you rent a car for the first time. You’ll be surprised how much gets lost in the fine print.
Rent a car with Drivezy! We’ll help you understand the rental business better than anybody!
Originally published at http://hornvacayplease.com.
