How to Rent a Car for Travel?
2 Answers
After selecting a car rental company, choose a vehicle and complete the paperwork to sign the contract. Here are some considerations for self-drive car rentals: 1. Test Drive in Advance: To ensure safety and avoid unnecessary issues during vehicle handover, a test drive is an essential step. The rental company can assess the driver's skills, while the renter can familiarize themselves with the car's performance. 2. Handling Violations and Accidents: Many renters recklessly run red lights or park illegally, assuming the rental company will cover their violations. However, this is not the case. According to regulations, any traffic violations during the rental period will be verified and directly recorded on the renter's driving license, along with the corresponding fines. 3. Remember the Rental Company's Service Number: In case of emergencies while driving, renters should first report to the traffic police and then notify the car rental company. 4. Insurance: The basic insurance purchased when renting a car only covers major accidents with high costs. Minor incidents are typically excluded. For more comprehensive coverage, it's advisable to also purchase a zero-deductible insurance policy.
When traveling abroad for self-driving tours, I prefer to make reservations on car rental websites like Zuzuche or Hertz official website two or three days in advance. When choosing a car model, consider the number of people and luggage. For more than four people, an MPV is a must. A translated driver's license is essential, and I recommend getting an International Driving Permit in advance. For insurance, I always opt for the super full coverage, so I don’t have to pay for minor scratches. When picking up the car, take a video to document any scratches and check if the fuel tank is full. Remember to use a credit card for the pre-authorization deposit, as some countries require the main driver’s credit card. Always refuel before returning the car, otherwise, the rental company’s refueling fee is outrageously expensive. When using navigation, pay attention to speed limit rules, as traffic fines can be particularly troublesome.
