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If
you're planning on renting a car soon, either you don't have one,
crashed one or yours doesn't suit your needs. Whatever the reason,
renting a car can be hassle-free when you know the tricks of the
trade.
by
Caylin Sanders
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reservations
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Avis,
Thrifty, Enterprise, Hertz, National, or Alamo? Some are cheaper
than others; some have better customer service or quality cars.
It all depends on what is more important to you. Find one and
stick with it as most reward for customer-loyalty.
Walk-in?
Phone-in? Reserve online? I highly recommend the online route,
as I have never had a problem with them losing my reservation.
Plus, more than likely you'll get a better deal online. You'll
always have the option of upgrading when you pick-up.
When
making an online reservation, be flexible if you can about your
rental dates and times weekday rates are always cheaper. Call
the branch directly if you have special needs or questions. Be
sure to ask for a pick-up or drop off if they provide that service.
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payment
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Depending
on the branch location in the tri-state area, size and model,
rental car rates typically range from $19.99 to $69.99 per day.
Never spend anymore than $75 per day renting a car. Go somewhere
else if they want to charge you more! Companies will require a
credit card (with the name of the driver) and they will put a
hold on the account until you return the car. You'll usually have
to sign an agreement saying you are the only driver and you are
driving only within certain states. Most rental companies will
charge you for a second driver and require them to present their
driver's license and credit card as well.
If
you are credit card-less, make sure to call ahead and ask about
their payment policy. Some let you use your debit card, but they
actually debit the account until you return the car, usually about
$500 -- so make sure you have the cash on hand. They also require
you to bring in a utility bill and a phone bill if you are paying
by debit card.
The
primary driver must be age 25 to get standard rates. They will
rent to you if you are under 25 - but for an extra fee. (Those
under age 25 will always get charged more than those over age
25. Why? Because you are a higher risk for insurance companies.)
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mileage
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approximately how many miles you expect to drive. I usually go to
MapQuest.com and use their "driving directions" feature. I put in
my cities of departure and arrival and get an approximate mileage.
Then I'll print the directions out while I'm at it. In most cases,
rental companies will upgrade your allotted mileage or permitted
driving area. All you need to do is ask. |
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size
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matters. What is this trip for and who is it for? DonΌt rent a compact
car without power steering if you are taking Big Uncle Lou skiing
in the mountains. Comfort is everything so pay the extra! On the
very rare occasion they'll upgrade your vehicle at no charge. |
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insurance
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If
you do''t have auto insurance, you must purchase theirs. Figure
this in to the price of the total rental. Usually it will run
under $30.00. If you have your own auto insurance, there's no
need to purchase theirs, just be sure to provide them proof of
your policy. Usually they'll try and sell it to you anyway because
the deductible is lower if you get into an accident. If you consider
yourself a good driver, go ahead and pass.
Also,
when they take you around the car to inspect it, make sure you
report EVERY scrape and scratch just in case so you are not
liable. If your own car is in the shop, ask your insurance agent
if your policy covers a rental car. Beware though, most insurance
policies cover only so much per day you might be hit for the
extra. Find out exactly what model you can afford and what will
be covered. It's a good idea to bring a copy of your insurance
on any trip you take in case you get the impulse to rent a car
and explore.
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returns
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| Thinking
of picking up in one location, and returning at another? Think again!
"One-ways" always cost more! Although in the New York tri-state,
some branches have reciprocal rights like the airports. Ask about
your area. Many car rental branches only provide a local map to
their location. Be sure to bring along road maps of where you'll
be travelling. This may sound simple, but the last thing you want
to be is lost when you are racing to return your car before they
close. Cell phones are recommended to advise them you're on your
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gas
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Take note before you get in the car! I can't tell you how many
times I've had to pull into a gas station and get out of the car
to find out on which side my gas tank is located.
Always
opt for gas stations with "Pay-at-the-Pump" machines for a quick
transaction. Late night travelers should opt for "Full serve"
stations -- they are a lot safer.
Most rental car companies will have you return the car with the
same amount of gas as you left with. I think that's stupid. When
I rent a car I want to go, and go now! I don't want to stop for
gas on the way out of town. I wish rental car companies would
make it mandatory to return a car with a full tank, so the next
gal isn't inconvenienced.
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travel
tips
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| Safety
- A few years ago, rental car companies advertised on their license
plates and bumper stickers. Then they found it made it easier for
a thief to identify a tourist (victim), so all identifying marks
were scrapped except the keys. Most companies still give you a
key on a keychain displaying their name and your license number.
Be cautious about placing your keys on counters when checking in
to hotels and the like. Also, always bring a cell phone with a car-recharger,
especially you single travelers! |
| Emergencies
- All companies have their own FREE roadside assistance with toll-free
numbers -- even better reason to bring a cell phone! |
| Tolls
- Be sure to bring along small bills, quarters and dimes for tolls.
Factor these into your rental cost and be sure to get receipts if
you are travelling on business. |
| Headlights
- It is common for rental cars to be programmed to turn on your
headlights automatically when the car is in operation. Find out
if you have one of these models. |
| Tidbit
- Just because they have removed THEIR name doesn't mean you can't
advertise YOUR product when you rent a car for business. Everytime
I rent a car I place a small sign with the name of my company on
it in the rear-window. It's like having a temporary bumper sticker!
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| Music
- Make sure you find out what kind of stereo system your model has
before hand -- tape player, CD player, or plain old radio and plan
accordingly. Once I got a car with only an a.m. radio! That was
a long trip! |
| •Caylin
Sanders is the founder and owner of EscapeMaker.com: a guide to
local weekend getaways from NYC - with or without a car. Enter to
win a FREE local getaway every month.
For discount coupons and more information on last minute specials,
local special events and destinations visit EscapeMaker.com. |
