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Renting a car can enhance the flexibility of any trip - be it business or leisure. This information explains the process of renting a car and provides some car rental tips and car rental advice. FINDING THE RIGHT CAR RENTAL COMPANY Ask your ASTA travel agent to help you find the right car rental firm for each trip. Different firms serve different cities throughout the world. A travel agent can save you the time and effort of calling several different companies to find the best rate and car for you. Also, a travel agent may be aware of promotional rates and special programs that may not be advertised to the general public. THE COST OF RENTING A CAR Car rental companies generally charge four types of basic rates: a daily rate with a mileage charge; a daily rate with a limited number of free miles per day; a daily rate with unlimited mileage; and a rate that has free mileage over an extended period. Rates vary according to the size and style of vehicle but most firms rent economy, compact, intermediate and deluxe cars. Special promotional rates are often available, especially over weekends, but these should be specifically requested in advance. Other charges may also be added to the rental price, including: Car Rental Taxes CAR RENTAL INSURANCE OPTIONS CDW/LDW is usually an optional feature, however, a few companies require renters to purchase this waiver. Determine whether or not you need CDW/LDW before you arrive at the rental counter (check your own automobile insurance policy) and consider how much this CDW/LDW may increase the daily rental rate (CDW/LDW costs range from $8 - $12 per day). In some cases, you may find a special rate for a larger car which already includes CDW/LDW. In the long run, the larger car may be less expensive than the economy car with additional CDW/LDW costs. Also, some credit card companies offer CDW/LDW insurance as a card holder benefit. Be sure to read the fine print on these agreements (as well as on car rental agreements!) Usually the protection afforded by credit card companies could be supplemental to your own insurance. Therefore, if you get in an accident, your own insurance will cover the repair costs up to its maximum and then the credit card company will cover the difference. As a result, your own car insurance rates may be affected. Personal Accident Insurance (PAI) Personal Effects Coverage (PEC) Additional Liability Insurance (ALI) CAR RENTAL DOCUMENTS AND REQUIREMENTS In addition, many car rental companies require a major credit card to guarantee payment even if there is a prepaid voucher or direct billing to the client or corporation. If a credit card is being used for payment, be aware of your credit card limit; many car rental companies require immediate credit approval before renting the car which can substantially reduce your remaining balance of credit. Alternatives to Credit Card Payment Most companies will require a large cash deposit or a cash advance that can even exceed the estimated charges of the rental if a credit card is not presented for payment. They may also require the renter to be over a certain age. The final acceptance of a non-credit card rental, however, is the decision of each individual rental location. Driver's Age Similarly, senior citizens over a certain age may not be allowed to rent cars in some cities. Verify the age restrictions when making your reservation. Number of Drivers CAR RENTAL CONFIRMATIONS Confirmations also often help the car rental firms locate customers who have not picked up their reserved car. As a result of industry automation, the car rental firm can sometimes inquire to see if a renter's flight is delayed. Usually, a car rental firm will hold a reserved car for several hours before cancelling. If you are considering two different flights, be sure to advise the car rental firm. Also, the company should be notified of any cancellations so that they can rent that car to another customer. PICKING UP YOUR RENTAL CAR Before leaving the rental lot, inspect the car for the correct mileage information and any visible damage to the car. If damaged, a notation should be made on the contract before leaving. Take a few minutes to become familiar with the car. Adjust your seat and mirrors. Locate the controls for the turn signals, windshield wipers, lights (high and low beams) and cruise control (if applicable). Notice the placement of the horn and control panel for defroster, air conditioning, etc. RETURNING THE RENTAL CAR Some rates, like weekend specials, are only available during certain time periods. Keeping the car beyond that time may change the rate you pay for the entire transaction. INTERNATIONAL CAR RENTALS OTHER USEFUL CAR RENTAL INFORMATION Most contracts and insurance policies are void if you have an accident while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Be sure to lock the car and trunk and do not leave valuables in the car. Seat belts should be worn at all times - it's the law in most states. Most states require car seats for children under four years old. Advance notice is usually required to reserve a car seat and a small fee may be charged for the rental of these seats. Many car rental firms have cars or vans that are accessible for customers with physical disabilities. Be sure to make arrangements in advance to ensure that an accessible vehicle is available. Most major car rental companies offer free local maps. Plan your route before leaving the car rental lot to minimize the need to ask for directions.
(Source: travelsense) |
"...I want to thank you very much for providing me with all I needed for a very enjoyable stay in Vietnam. All the hotels were very nice and the car service was excellent. Your country is very beautiful and I hope I can visit again sometime..." Gordy from USA |