Renting cars can be stressful and tedious; for this reason, we decided to share the best tips for renting a car. We at Fisher Luxury Exotics believe you’ll have a smooth and great car renting experience if you follow these tips.

Embrace the positive vibes and keep reading for some helpful tips, as there’s no need to let stress get in the way!

Tips on Planning Your Rental

Determine your budget

For rental best practices on planning your next rental experience, it is best to start with determining your budget. Knowing how much you can spend on a rental will help you determine what car you can get for the period you need. 

Having a predefined budget may help you in negotiating the price. Also, if you have a tight budget, you are more likely to look for the best deals and discounts.

Rental restrictions

Before renting, always make sure to check rental restrictions. Different rental agencies may have different restrictions. 

Some restrictions to keep in mind are age, mileage, fuel, off-road use, smoking, geographical restrictions, and many more. Do your research to learn about what rental agency you want to choose and what restrictions it may have.

Research and compare the rental options of the company

Among the tips you should consider is comparing the rental options of our company before deciding on which one. You can do that by visiting the website and looking for offers, discounts, and other perks.

These are some suggestions on what to compare when searching for a rental car:

• Car type (model, production year, fuel efficiency)
• Rental price
• Pickup location and return procedure
• Fees, surcharges, and penalties
• Additional accessories price
• Insurance coverage 
• Damage and liability waivers
• Terms and conditions
• Fuel policy

Through this research, you will find which rental car terms and services will fit your needs best.

Tips on Reserving Your Car

Book in advance

Running into a rental agency and renting a car usually means paying the top price. 

On the other hand, booking online is easier and gives you peace of mind, knowing that the car you choose is ready. If you book online, you get to know the price of the rental car in advance, so you’ll prepare your budget properly. Most times, renting a car through online services will get you a discount as well.

Avoid busy rental companies

Although we often rent cars from less crowded locations, there are times when we impulsively choose a more attractive but costly rental spot. Ideally, it would be best if you avoid places that have a high demand for rental cars.

For example, getting off a plane and immediately finding a rental in the airport will result in a very expensive renting experience. Besides the airport, it’s advisable to avoid renting a car from city centers, attractive tourist destinations, and hotels.

Research beforehand to ensure which location nearby is best for a more affordable rental car. High-demand locations will result in high prices, while lower demand usually means lower prices. Finding a rental company with a lower daily rental price can, in the end, account for hundreds of dollars saved.

If you aren’t worried about the price and haven’t booked in advance, we recommend finding a less busy rental location. Sometimes, busy rental agencies will have fewer cars available, as well as longer waiting times for renting.

Read the rental agreement

Rental agreements, like any document, can be tedious to read. But if you are looking to save money on fees, read the rental agreement carefully. There, you will find out how you can avoid certain fees precisely and what you should do and what you shouldn’t do.

Tips on Picking Up Your Car

Bring required documents

To avoid any inconvenience during your renting experience, make sure to bring with you the required documents. Usually, these documents can be found on the rental agency’s website, or you can get them from their customer service.

These documents may include a valid driver’s license, a credit card, an identification card, proof of insurance, the booking number, and additional information. Of course, every agency may require different permits and documents.

Inspect the car

You should always inspect the car before or during the rental process. Take pictures yourself or ensure the rental agent takes notes of any existing car problems, dents, or damage.

Things to look out for are exterior and interior damage, scratches, chipped paint, etc. Check the tires for wear and inflation. Test lights, turn signals, and sensors. It is crucial to check fluid levels, engine oil, coolant, and whatever else you can think of. 

Inspection of the car is important for your safety on the road and to ensure that you won’t have to pay for damage or any problems before you get to drive the vehicle.

Understand the rental agreement

Most negative reviews you will encounter about a rental agency are from people who have misunderstood the rental agreement. Usually, not knowing what you have agreed to means that you might have to pay penalties, fees, and surcharges. 

Thus, to have a smooth and predictably cheap renting experience, make sure you understand the rental agreement terms.

Ask questions

Before renting the car, you can freely ask any questions you want. You can either contact customer support if it is available, or you can talk to the rental agent in charge of your rental experience. They are there to help you and will be happy to do so. So ask away!

Tips on Driving Your Rental Car

Follow traffic laws

Besides that, it’s important to follow traffic laws, but it is also important to know that rental agencies may apply monetary penalties for tickets. An agency may charge you an administrative fee on top of the ticket.

Another thing to consider is your reputation at that rental agency. If you are looking to rent in the future from the same rental agency, it is important to have a good standing with them. Multiple violations with a rental car from an agency may get you banned from renting from them ever again.

Get familiar with the car

Familiarize yourself with the car; even if you have driven the same car type before, every car differs. Most rental cars are automatic, so you won’t have to familiarize yourself with the clutch or gears. However, adjusting your seating position, steering wheel, and mirrors is crucial for safety and comfort. 

Check the controls and features of the car to ensure they work properly. Test the brakes and acceleration, as well as the GPS and other equipment in the car.

Avoid unsafe areas

Most times, when we look to rent a car, we are in a new and unknown location. This means we should be aware of unsafe areas, where they are, and how to avoid driving there or wrecking the car. You can read online or ask the rental agent; this will likely be enough to know where not to go. 

Other things to remember are to secure your valuables, avoid driving at night, park in well-lit and safe locations, and use a GPS that may keep you informed on such areas.

What to Consider When Returning Your Rental Car

Be mindful of fuel levels

Fuel levels are agreed upon before or during the rental process. When you return the car, the gas tank has to be filled to the agreed amount. If it isn’t filled to the same level, additional charges may apply. 

In rental agencies, the price rates for gas per gallon might be higher than in the gas filling stations.

Clean the car

Giving the car back to the rental agency as clean or cleaner than you took it is a good gesture which may save you money. If you had a good experience with the rental agency, out of respect, you can hand back the car in a clean state. 

Some rental agencies may apply an additional cleaning fee if the car is excessively dirty.

Return the car on time

It’s on you to agree on the return deadline before or during your car rental process. Rental agencies will give you a penalty if you don’t return the car on time. 

You can call them to extend your rental period, but still, most rental agencies will give you a penalty on top of the price of the rental car.

Conclusion

Renting a car becomes a seamless and positive experience with our expert tips. Start by establishing your budget, research rental restrictions, and compare options. Booking in advance and choosing less busy locations can save you money. Thoroughly read the rental agreement, bring the necessary documents, and inspect the car.

While driving, adhere to traffic laws, familiarize yourself with the vehicle, and avoid unsafe areas. Returning the car on time, with a full tank and in a clean state, ensures a smooth end to your rental. Guarantee yourself a stress-free and enjoyable jour