Today, one of the most convenient options for traveling abroad is renting a car. So why do most people choose to rent a car when traveling? The answer is simple! It gives you flexibility in the process of getting from point A to point B, and also provides the opportunity to explore unfamiliar places at your own pace.
However, in order for everything to go smoothly and hassle-free, it is recommended to pay attention to the following 10 rather valuable tips that you should follow during the process of renting a car abroad in order not to get into trouble, but get the maximum benefits and emotions from your trip.
Table of contents
- 1 1. Decide on the car in advance
- 2 2. Research and compare rental companies
- 3 3. Stock up on offline maps
- 4 4. Reserve in advance
- 5 5. Check all the necessary documents
- 6 6. Inspect your rental car
- 7 7. Study the fuel policy before returning the car
- 8 8. Research local rules and laws
- 9 9. Check parking availability
- 10 10. Understand the return procedures
1. Decide on the car in advance
The first most important tip that will be useful to you is to start by choosing a car that will be most suitable for your planned trip. Read the reviews and make sure the car is comfortable.
So, for example, if you are planning a trip to the UAE, to Dubai, then the most interesting option would be, for example, to consider renting a Ferrari from FerrariRent company, so that you can enjoy driving on deserted roads and also feel the speed and the power of this sports car. I advise you to pay attention to the extensive high-quality rental experience, conditions and customer focus in this particular country.
If you are going on a trip along a route that has not been well studied in advance, and even with a group of people, then most likely, renting an SUV will be the ideal option for you.
2. Research and compare rental companies
Based on the first point, the second logically follows – research and compare car rental companies. Yes, there are quite a lot of them, but in this case you should rely more on reviews of companies on the Internet. You can also easily find out the information you need from your acquaintances or friends who have already used the services of any car rental company in the country where you are going to travel.
Check whether there will be any additional fees, clarify the issue with insurance, and also be sure to compare the prices, conditions and rental policies of different agencies – this is what will help you make an informed choice.
3. Stock up on offline maps
Keep in mind that on the road you may need a GPS or an offline map to easily find your way in case there is no Internet.
4. Reserve in advance
The next important tip concerns pre-booking a car. Why in advance? Because, firstly, it will save your money, secondly, it will give you confidence in the right choice, thirdly, it will provide you with a larger number of models to choose from, fourthly, it will save you from haste and negative emotions in case of problems, and they will arise if everything is done carelessly and at the last moment.
5. Check all the necessary documents
Make sure you have all the most important and necessary documents, i.e. driver’s license, passport or possibly an international driver’s license. Next, you’ll sign a rental agreement and receive contact information of the company leasing your car, as well as local emergency numbers. When traveling, always keep them handy and carry them with you.
6. Inspect your rental car
And so, after you arrive in the destination country and then sign a rental agreement with the company, at this stage a very important step will be a real check of the car for any damage. Before you accept your rental car, carefully inspect it for scratches, dents, and anything else that shouldn’t be on the car. If you notice any of the above, immediately notify the company manager, be sure to photograph and write everything down. This is necessary to avoid problems, disputes and financial losses when returning due to the fact that you may have done so.
7. Study the fuel policy before returning the car
Just to avoid additional financial losses when returning the car, it would be a good idea for you to familiarize yourself with the company’s fuel policy. What does it mean? When returning the vehicle, there must be a certain amount of fuel in the vehicle’s fuel tank. Thus, there are several options for the development of events, for example, you need to return the car with a full tank, there is also the possibility of pre-purchase. At this point, you just need to make sure you understand your car rental advisor and what the company’s fuel policy is. If not, ask him questions regarding this point.
8. Research local rules and laws
In order for you to be able to confidently move along the roads in a foreign country, it is important to familiarize yourself in advance with the laws and regulations of the road in the country where you are going to go. Since each country has different unique components of travel etiquette. Driving styles can also vary greatly depending on the country. While driving, you can watch how the locals drive the car and try to adapt in order to avoid accidents and any problems on the road.
Thanks to this knowledge, you will feel confident and protected behind the wheel. After all, as they say, the quieter you drive, the further you will go.
9. Check parking availability
The next tip is to follow the parking rules. It’s quite simple, but no less important! Check in advance for the availability of local parking, both free and paid, or specially designated areas. Find out what restrictions are present – this will greatly save you time, effort and nerves, as well as money if you are suddenly fined for illegal parking or your rental car is towed away.
10. Understand the return procedures
And finally, adhere to the rules for returning a car, each rental company has its own, but to summarize, return the car on time to avoid additional unnecessary expenses.