When one travels abroad, you’re often required to have your own transport for various reasons. Seeing that it’s not possible to take your car with you everywhere you go, you’re left with little choice other than car rental. Unfortunately, this isn’t always as straightforward as it may seem.
According to the friendly staff at Globe Car & Truck Rental, many rental companies have hidden and unexpected fees that you should be careful of. It’s also crucial to take into consideration that your needs aren’t always the same. Thus, you should only rent a vehicle that suits your requirements, nothing more and nothing less.
Here are some tips that may help you find the right vehicle.
Consider Your Needs
Taking your personal needs into consideration should always be your priority when renting a vehicle. Most car rental agencies offer various options, which typically include everything from compact cars to high-end luxury vehicles.
This is where you need to prioritize. Renting a luxury 4×4 may sound like the perfect option, but if you’re sticking to the main roads, it may be a waste of money. Similarly, a convertible or sports car may be tempting, but if the weather is unfavorable or if you have a lot of luggage, it’s not a practical choice.
Only you know your needs, and keeping them in mind when you select a rental will point you in the right direction.
Size Plays an Important Role
There’s a considerable difference between what’s considered a compact car in America and Europe’s definition. European vehicles, overall, tend to be significantly smaller. Taking into consideration how many passengers plus luggage the rental has to occupy is essential.
Deciding on the right size vehicle is a balancing act. Although larger vehicles have more space, they’re also heavier on fuel. If you’re traveling in Europe, navigating the narrow roads may also be more difficult with a bigger car.
Ensure That You’re Covered
Unforeseen circumstances happen every day, and you don’t want to get caught in a foreign country without the necessary protection. Most car rental agencies will offer you insurance when you rent a vehicle. It’s always a wise decision to pay the extra expense and ensure that you’re covered should something go wrong.
Choose a Type of Vehicle That You’re Familiar With
Choosing a type of vehicle other than that you’re used to typically involves a learning curve to familiarize yourself with its maneuverability. Failure to do this often leads to dangerous driving. When driving abroad, it’s crucial to be in full control over the vehicle. So, stick to a car that has a similar style, size, and transmission system to your own.
Research the Rental Agency
Researching the terms and conditions of the car rental agency you plan on using is crucial. You don’t want to get caught by surprise with unexpected fees or penalties. Thus, enquiring about the following is essential:
- Which services are included with the rental (Roadside assist, free GPS, etc.)?
- Is the rental subject to any penalties or late fees?
- Do any travel restrictions apply?
- Potential liabilities that you should be aware of
To Wrap Up
When choosing a rental car, there are many things that one needs to consider. By defining your needs and selecting the right size and type of vehicle for your travels, you’re good to go. However, unforeseen circumstances may cause unnecessary stress, so it’s vital to opt for insurance for peace of mind. Ultimately though, have fun and be safe!