When renting a car, a credit card is usually required to book and guarantee the rental. Rates vary by day, weekend, and week, with different levels of fees and mileage rates. Consider the size of the car needed and insurance options, and inspect the car before taking it. Rates range from $20-$28 for an economy-class car in the US.
If someone is going on vacation, getting a car fixed, or just needs an extra vehicle for a couple of days, renting a car can be a good option. The first thing a person needs when thinking about a car rental is a credit card. Most agencies require a credit card, not a debit card, to rent a car. The card is generally used to book the rental and to guarantee the agency against loss or damage to the car.
With credit card in hand, the driver can begin looking into rental options. Most major car rental agencies have websites, and comparisons are also available from travel search engines like Orbitz or Expedia. However, the driver may also want to visit the rental company’s website, just to see if they offer internet-only specials.
Car rental agencies rent by the day, weekend or week. They usually have three different rate levels for their rentals. Weekend rates can be much cheaper or more expensive, depending on the location of the agency. One fee a driver will always want to check is the mileage rate. Some companies offer unlimited miles, while others have a mileage allowance and charge for each mile over the allowance.
A driver should also consider what size the car needs. Car rental agencies usually have economy and midsize cars available at any time, but advance notice may be required for a special vehicle such as a van or SUV. A single driver or couple without children will likely be able to rent an economy size car and be comfortable. Couples with children will want something bigger, of course.
Most car rental agencies will provide free roadside assistance as part of the contract and will replace the car for free if it becomes unusable. However, the driver should always inquire beforehand. Some agencies also charge to allow additional drivers, while some rental car companies allow additional drivers for free if the person is the primary renter’s spouse or is over the age of 25. However, many agencies do not rent to anyone under 25.
Casualty insurance is another consideration. If the driver pays a daily rate, he can get insurance that will cover any damage to the rental car. It’s a nice feature, but can add up to US$20 per day per rental.
A driver who rents the car with a credit card can call customer service and check if the card provides insurance. Many credit card companies provide such coverage, and if so, the driver may opt out of the rental car company’s insurance. The same is true if your regular car insurance covers damage to a rental. The insurance offered by the car rental company is best for those who have no other form of coverage.
When making a rental, the driver must ensure that the rental agreement and all documents are present in the car at all times. He should also inspect the car with an agent before taking the car, to ensure that any damage to the car is recorded and will not be billed to the driver’s insurance.
Car rental rates vary widely, depending on the day of the week, length of rental, location of the rental office, and a number of other factors. On average, in the United States, a person can expect to pay between $20 and $28 for an economy-class car, and rates rise from there.
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