Renting a car can be a simple and convenient way to enjoy a trip, but if you are not careful, you can easily fall into traps that can cost you money and stress. To avoid stress and additional expenses, we have prepared a list of the most common mistakes people make when renting a car and how to avoid them.
1. Not checking all the rental terms
One of the most common mistakes is ignoring the fine print in the contract.
What to do:
Before signing the contract, carefully read the rental terms. Pay attention to mileage restrictions, fuel policy, additional fees and rules regarding late return of the car.
2. Not checking the car before picking it up
Many people do not inspect their car before driving and can later be held liable for damage caused through no fault of their own.
What to do:
Carefully inspect the car inside and out. Report any damage, scratches or dents immediately and document them in the contract.
Take some photos or video of the vehicle as additional evidence.
3. Ignoring the fuel policy
Misunderstanding the fuel policy can lead to unnecessary expenses.
What to do:
Check whether the policy is full-full or full-empty. The best option is usually full-full - you pick up the car with a full tank and return it full.
If you do not return the car with fuel, the agency may charge significantly more for refuelling.
4. Not taking out adequate insurance
Without insurance, you risk incurring high costs in the event of damage or an accident.
What to do:
Check what the basic insurance covers and whether additional protection is required, such as CDW (collateral damage insurance) or TP (theft insurance).
Get insurance that suits your needs and budget. It’s better to invest in insurance early on than to pay high fees later.
5. You don’t return the car on time.
Delays can lead to additional costs that often can’t be ignored.
What to do:
Ask the exact time you need to return the car and plan ahead.
If you know you’ll be late, let the agency know – you may be able to negotiate compensation or an extension of the rental period.
6. You chose the wrong size car
A car that’s too big or too small can create problems during your trip.
What to do:
Before booking a car, consider the number of passengers and luggage space.
If you plan to drive around town, smaller cars are ideal. For longer trips or family outings, choose more spacious cars.
7. You ignore additional costs
Costs for GPS, child seats or additional fees for the driver’s services can surprise many.
What to do:
Check what extras are being charged and whether you really need them. For example, you can use your phone’s GPS instead of paying extra.
8. You book a car at the last minute
Late bookings usually mean higher prices and fewer cars to choose from.
What to do:
Book a car as early as possible to get the best price and the model you want. This is especially important during the holiday season and peak tourist periods.
Conclusion
Car rental can be a real pleasure if you do the right preparation. Pay attention to the fine print, inspect the car, and choose the options that suit your needs. Our car rental agency cares about transparency and customer satisfaction, so with us you will avoid all unforeseen situations and travel without worries.
