The world has really gone cyber one can fly, find a date, buy a house, make arrangements to move and rent car online, great conveniences at the click of a button. As a consumer you must find out all the pros and cons of renting a car and carry out “comparison" shopping.
1. Visit company websites to determine what is on offer. Look for competitive rates and great facilities.
2. Try and locate a rental company close to where you intend to use the car it will save you money.
3. Before you proceed list your needs: what kind of car, how many people will travel, how many days you need the car and so on.
4. Use a reputed agency and call on their toll free number. Be sure to read all the terms and conditions carefully. Make sure you use a safe payment gateway and that you receive a confirmation e-mail. Some well known companies are Hertz (https://www.hertz.com), Dollar, Alamo, and Avis (http://www.avis.com). Or, try travel sites many have great offers for clients who book hotels, air tickets, as well as cars.
5. Ask for packages and find out when rates are cheaper.
6. Be sure to ask for an agreement.
7. Ask about the age of the car, its condition, and how many miles it has been driven. If you expect to drive in bad weather be sure to check about tires, snow chains, and other equipment.
8. To rent a car online keep handy your driver’s license, passport, photo-ID, and proof of address. Ask about travel insurance and whether the car has a current insurance.
9. Check the charges carefully and whether any additional payment will be charged for drop off and pick up.
10. Check whether your driver’s licence is valid for the state/ country you wish to drive in or whether you need to obtain a new license.
It is a competitive world and online there are company’s like Fox Rent a Car http://www.foxrentacar.com that offer discounts, reward points, coupons, hotel discounts and more. Check as many sites as you can to get a great deal. Popular companies are: Yahoo travels, priceline.com, and Travelocity. Be a discerning consumer and hire a great car at a great price. Many car rental companies offer special rates if you are a member of one of their affiliate clubs or professional organizations.
Before you drive away in the rental car find out as much as possible about traffic rules, laws where you intend to drive, and safety norms. If your family is with you then choose a safe and comfortable car that will accommodate luggage, boisterous kids, and pets. If you intend to drive alone then you could opt for a compact car. Gauge your needs before you make a choice and carry your driver’s license and insurance papers with you at all times. As a precaution inform a friend, family member, or the office of your travel plans. Cary a mobile phone for emergencies or arrange to call in at specific times. Enjoy your rent-a-car experience.
Andrew Bermam is a freelance writer for http://www.1866Cars.com, the premier website to find help on Cars including topics on car rental, national car rental, thrifty car rental, online car rental, pickup trucks rental, cargo van rental and more. He also freelances for the premier Car Insurance Quotes site http://www.1888Carinsurance.com
