Every year, Americans spend nearly $10 billion on car rentals.
Are you getting ready to rent a car? Is it your first time doing so?
If you’ve never rented a car before, you might be a little nervous about the process and the expenses associated with driving a rental.
Renting a car isn’t exactly difficult. There are some things you should avoid when you’re working with a rental facility, though.
Read on to learn five things not to do when renting a car. These tips will help save money and have a positive rental experience.
1. Not Finding a Place to Refuel
As soon as you pick up your car, you should look for a place to refuel it when you’re ready to return it. Look around for local gas stations and find the one with the lowest prices.
If you locate the best gas station on your way out, you won’t find yourself scrambling to refuel the car before you have to return it. You also will be able to save money since you’ll know where the cheapest gas station is.
2. Not Inspecting the Car
Always inspect the car carefully before you sign any rental contracts.
Take note of any scratches or dents and have the employee who works at the rental facility record them before you sign the contract.
By doing this, you won’t be held responsible and have to pay for damage that you didn’t cause.
3. Not Returning the Car on Time
This might seem like an obvious mistake to avoid, but you’d be surprised at how many people treat return times as mere suggestions.
If you’re looking to save money and avoid the wrath of the rental facility workers, be respectful and make sure you return the car at the time you previously agreed on.
4. Prepaying for Gas
Prepaying for gas often seems like a great idea. In reality, though, you could end up spending more money when you do this.
When you prepay for gas, you’ll have to pay for a full tank no matter what, even if the tank is still half full when you return it. You’ll likely be able to find cheaper gas on your own, too.
5. Not Reviewing Car Insurance
Finally, be sure to review your car insurance agreement before you accept the option the rental agent offers you.
Talk to your insurance agent and make sure it’s a good plan that covers all your potential needs. You don’t want to end up like the people in this article dealing with rear-end collisions with no insurance coverage.
You Know the Things Not to Do When Renting a Car! Now What?
As you can see, there are quite a few things not to do when renting a car.
The whole car rental process is pretty straight forward, though. If you avoid making things mistakes, you’ll have no trouble getting the car you need, and you won’t have to break the bank to do it.
Do you need help finding a car rental facility?
Whether you’re traveling or just need a temporary car for a few days, we can help. Check out our business directory today to find a rental facility near you.
