1. Book early
You should not book a rental car last minute, because if you start your trip in the high season, you usually pay significantly higher prices for a rental car. Therefore, it is worthwhile to book the rental car as early as possible. In addition, with an early booking you still have a wide choice in terms of model and equipment.
2. Consider additional costs
Certain accessories, such as a child seat or a navigation system are usually additional services that cause additional costs. Also, if the driver is under 25 years old, additional costs may apply. Take a close look at the additional costs and compare them with other providers, because the prices can vary greatly.
3. “Full-Empty Offer” – better not.
There are some car rental companies that offer the so-called “full-empty offer”. This means that you take over the car with a full tank and then return it at the end with an empty tank. It doesn’t sound bad at first glance, but it’s actually a waste of money. Because hardly any car renter actually drives the car completely empty. The best option is therefore still the tried and tested “full-full variant”, where you pick up the car with a full tank and return it at the end of your vacation with a full tank.
4. Do not just skim over the rental contract
The rental agreement for your rental car you should read carefully in advance and never just skim and then sign. Especially if your destination is in Southern Europe, it is possible that there are rental contracts with hidden additional costs, which are not even mentioned in the conversation. Therefore, pay attention to the regulations on mileage limits, additional insurance or breakdown service. Important to know: Once the contract is signed, everything stated in the contract is considered accepted. So only sign if you have read the contract thoroughly beforehand.
5. Insurance coverage for the rental car
Insurance coverage for the rental car is one of the most important points. Consumer experts advise against a deductible and recommend comprehensive insurance, which covers all costs in the event of damage. The fully comprehensive insurance is somewhat more expensive, but in the end it is worth it, should a claim actually occur. It is also important that damage to the underbody or stone chips are also insured.
6. Take a closer look at the car when you pick it up
You should take this time in any case, because otherwise it could have unpleasant consequences. Look at the vehicle very carefully, if you find any defects, inform the rental company immediately. To be on the safe side, you should also take pictures of these defects so that you are covered when returning the vehicle and can prove that the defects were not caused by you.
7. Return of the rental car
A rental day corresponds to exactly 24 hours for most car rental companies. So if you pick up the rental car at 12 o’clock and return it the next day at 14 o’clock, for example, you pay a full daily rate for 2 hours. If you want to save money, you should plan the return very carefully.
