Whether you’re looking to get around town or hit the open road, renting a car can be a great way to explore a ton of new places and see the sights. But it’s important to make sure you understand the ins and outs of renting before you head out on your adventure. With this in mind, we’ve put together a guide to help you navigate the process of renting a car.
Find a Rental Location Near You
If you’re planning on traveling by a rental car, it’s important to find a location that’s close by. While some companies offer pick-up locations throughout the country, others may only have one or two options near major airports. If you’re heading out of town, it’s best to check beforehand if there are any nearby locations where you can pick up and drop off your vehicle.
Choose Your Rental Company
There are hundreds of rental companies out there with varying options, offers, and prices, so it might take some time for you to find a company that fits your needs exactly right. It’s best not to rush this process as there are many factors at play here, including insurance coverage, mileage limits, and age restrictions, among others, that could affect how much money you spend on your rental car.
Check if You Have Insurance Coverage
There are various types of insurance policies and add-ons available when renting a car, but not all of them are required. It’s important that you read over your rental agreement carefully and understand what type of insurance is included by the rental car company in the price they charge you. Keep in mind that many credit card companies also offer complimentary rental car insurance. If you already have coverage, you don’t need to opt for what the rental car company offers you.
Don’t Wait Until The Last Minute to Book Your Reservation
This is especially if you’re traveling during peak season or around holidays like Thanksgiving or Christmas when most people are traveling anyway. If possible, try booking at least two weeks ahead of time so that you can ensure that there will be vehicles available.