Where to Find the Best Car Hire Tips

There are many tips to consider when you arrange your car hire. Whether you are arranging car hire in your own country or abroad many of these car hire tips are still relevant.

Car Hire Tip 1) It is very important to shop around for the best car hire deal and the internet offers the perfect opportunity to research the best car hire deal at your finger tips.

Car Hire Tip 2) Many car hire companies will offer very attractive rates to upgrade your car hire locally at the pick up point. Some companies' will even a complimentary upgrade if the model you have selected is in strong demand. It is always worth asking at the rental counter if there is any possibility of an upgrade at the collection point.

Car Hire Tip 3) It is always prudent to pay for your car hire online including all extras. Some car hire companies ask for a deposit with balance payable upon collection of the car at your destination. However you will probably have to pay the balance on a credit card in the local currency, which is then subject to the penal currency conversions rates charged by the credit card company which can have a real impact on the amount you actually end up paying for your car hire. The tip here is to try to pay in full at the time of the car hire reservation and in the currency of your credit card.

Car Hire Tip 4) You should always check the terms and conditions of your rental contract prior to confirming the reservation, especially the amount of the insurance excess. As it may appear that you have got the best car hire quote but the insurance policy may be subject to a prohibitly high insurance excess which could prove to be very costly in the event of an accident even a minor prang.

Many car hire companies also offer an option to purchase additional insurance to reduce the amount of excess you are responsible for. Some companies will even provide a Nil insurance excess for a small additional insurance premium.

Please also check the position regarding breakdown cover and what you are liable.

Car Hire Tip 5) Always book your car hire as early as you are able, as it is very unusual to find late availability reservation offers. Book your car hire early, especially if you have a specific vehicle or type of car hire in mind. For example minibuses, people carriers, 4x4, automatic vehicles and the like are in much demand. Car Hire Tip 6) Automatic car hire or manual transmission? If you have a preference please ensure that you make this request when you make your car hire reservation. This tip is crucial if you only drive automatic transmission cars.

Car Hire Tip 7) Many car hire companies request for the rental car to be returned at the end of the rental period with a full tank of petrol. It is a good idea to fill the car with petrol or diesel close to the return location, as if the car hire company has to fill the car when you return the vehicle, they usually charge a much higher rate per litre than you would be charged at a petrol station.

Some car hire companies ask you to return the car empty and charge you for a full tank of petrol. This can work out to be an expensive option, unless you are going to be completing a lot of miles and are in a position to return the car with a fairly empty petrol tank. Which can in itself be dangerous as you would not wish to run out of petrol whilst driving.

Car Hire Tip 8) Please always remember to take your passport, driving licence and credit card with you when you collect the rental car. You will need to have the driving licences of all named drivers and these drivers will need to be included on the rental contract.

Car Hire Tip 9) Always plan you route and journey from your pick up point. The car hire company will be able to provide maps and directions to your destination when you collect the vehicle. However it would be prudent to work out your route in advance. Please bear in mind that if your route involves motorways or toll roads, you will need to have sufficient local currency to cover these toll charges.

You could also consider a hiring or taking a Satellite Navigation system. You will then need to have the full postal address or Post or Zip code of your final destination.

Car Hire Tip 10) Please remember to pre book any extras when you make your reservation, especially childrens equipment such as baby seats and booster seats. Baby seats are in great demand during school holiday periods and remember to be specific should you require a forward facing or rear facing baby seat.