Avoid A Car Rental Nightmare

It won’t take much effort to find car rental disaster stories. Just a few online searches and you will see them. In fact, research will show that some rental companies have a worse reputation than others. Online searches will bring up stories of people charged for insurance they didn’t want or charged for damage they didn’t cause, of cars not be serviced when they are due and even a bumper falling a car as it was being driven down the road.

While it is impossible to avoid a bad experience completely, taking a few precautions will keep the chance of having your very own car rental horror story to a minimum.

First Objective: Successfully book your car hire This should be easy, but instead for many it is a confusing search of prices, car types and fine print. These steps should help ease the confusion.

Book well in advance Make sure to book well in advance, car rental prices tend to go up the closer you get to the pick up date, not down. Prices work on a simple supply and demand system; they go up as availability goes down. If you are travelling to Europe and require an automatic car you will need to book months in advance in order to secure one, especially in Italy where they are particularly rare. If you are travelling during the holidays, Christmas and Easter in particular, making a reservation around three months ahead is ideal. This way you will have the best chance of getting a car at a normal price. After this point the prices just start to go up. Most car rental companies sell out for the holidays, resulting in many travellers panicking in the last couple of weeks before a major holiday as they struggle to secure a car. Those that are lucky enough to find a car will be forced to pay very high prices, three or four times a normal rate. Don’t be one of these people. The summer is also another peak period to prepare for. Many locations have low or no availability during the summer so if you are booking last minute you may have trouble finding a good price and the car type you want.

Make a car rental reservation To get started make a list of the basics: where and when you want to pick up the car and where and when you want to bring it back, what size car you need and do you want an automatic or manual gear box. These details are especially important if you are contacting various rental companies by email to get quotes. Make sure you provide them to avoid unnecessary emailing. Also do a little research on the various rental companies and avoid the worst offenders even if they are offering the cheapest price. No rental company is perfect so you will just have to narrow down your options.

Next you will want to research prices. When you do this make sure you are taking the full offer into account. Do the rates offered include taxes, location fees, mandatory insurances, break down cover and unlimited mileage? You will discover that most of the rates offered for car rentals in Europe are inclusive of all mandatory charges. But make sure you know this for certain, because if they are not included in the rate offered and they will be added when you pick up your car, making for an unpleasant surprise. If you are unsure about anything email the rental company, sometimes this is better than the telephone as you will get a response in writing. Which might solve any problems that may occur down the line. The rental company will have a hard time arguing written correspondence but they could deny any thing they said on the phone.

Once you are satisfied with a price make your reservation. If you book online you should get a confirmation voucher within a certain time period, this can range from instantly to a couple of days. If you do not receive your confirmation voucher within a couple of days don’t hesitate to email the rental company. Maybe there is some kind of problem confirming your reservation or your voucher was sent but it was blocked by your email spam guard and it is necessary to find another way of getting your booking information to you.

Second Objective: Pick up your car without a hitch It is important to have your wits about you on arrival at the rental desk, you may be tired and have the urge to breeze through the paper work, grab your keys and go. But it is best to resist this urge at all costs, you won’t regret it. When you speak to the rental desk clerk you will be asked if you want any optional insurances, such as a Super Damage Waiver. The SDW reduces your liability to zero or an amount much less than you would be charged in the event of damage to the car. To take this extra insurance is a personal choice, however it is not usually mandatory and it is one of the major ways car rental companies make money. If you are only renting for a couple of days then the expense of this insurance may make it worth getting for your own peace of mind, but for longer rentals think carefully. The cost of the SDW may end up being close to the excess liability amount so do really get much benefit from it.

Read your contract carefully The most important thing you need to do at the rental desk is to read your rental contract and receipt very carefully, this is where many people get stung. What happens is that extra insurances get charged to your credit card even if you specifically say you do not want them. This seems to be a common “mistake” made by rental clerks. Make sure you are also clear about the fuel policy, most rental companies require you to bring the car back with a full tank or else they charge you an inflated rate for fuel. Before you sign anything ensure that every charge and policy you are unsure of is explained to you. Don’t be afraid to ask about everything, it is your wallet that ends up worse off if there are errors. Once the rental company has your signature there is little you can do to get refunded for any charges you were unaware of.

Third Objective: Drive away and enjoy your trip Once you find your car in the parking lot it is very important to give it a good going over. If you see any dents, dirt or scratches make sure that the rental company takes note of them before you drive away. Otherwise you could be blamed and end up being charged the full excess amount, which is usually in the hundreds of dollars. If you want to be really cautious check the oil and make sure that it is not due to be changed.

Fourth Objective: Return the Car In most cases you will need to return you car rental with a full tank of fuel. There is usually a gas(petrol) station near to the car rental drop off location. It is best to use the closest possible option and to fill the car as much as possible so it cannot be claimed that the tank isn’t quite a full. Return the car keys and agree any extra charges with the rental company.

Quick Summary
- Plan what you need
- Do some research
- Make sure you understand the rate and terms
- Book well in advance
- Check your contract and receipt carefully before you sign
- Check you car carefully for any damage before you drive away
- Return the car with a full tank (make sure you are clear on this policy at the rental desk)
For more great travel tips, reviews and hotels head to this Hotels and Travel Guides

The Benefits of a Florence Car Rental

Not all car rentals are alike nor are all car rental companies. The big rental giants found in the United States often handle the car rental services in Europe as well. However, a regional rental agency found online may have some insight and deals you just won’t get any place else. The first step in determining what kind of vehicle you need is to first determine if you need one at all.

Do You Need a Florence Car Rental?

Think long and hard about what your plans will be for your trip to Florence before deciding to automatically rent a car. If you plan to do all of your sight seeing within the city limits a car may be more of a nuisance than a convenience. Parking is limited and streets can be narrow and difficult to navigate. If you have ever even ridden in a taxi in Italy, you will notice that the logo over the horn is worn right off because Italian drivers tend to signal with their horns and voices over any factory installed directional signal! Driving in Italy is not for the timid!

If you think you have what it takes to drive with the big boys, and you know you want to travel freely from city to city and into the countryside then renting a car is a good choice.

What Kind of Car to Rent

Car rentals in Florence will be set up just as the in the U.S. You can choose from economy or luxury cars, standard transmissions or automatic, and choose between a minivan and an SUV. You will find the different sizes and classes of cars have different manufactures than in the U.S. with fewer U.S. models and more Italian, German, and other European makes. There are also models by these manufacturers that are rarely seen in the U.S., and usually the ones one the smaller end of the scale.

When you rent your car, you can choose to rent by the day or week. Reservations should be made ahead of time, although if on a whim you decide to go for a ride in the country, the rental agencies can usually accommodate your request.

Like U.S. rental agencies you can also choose to pick up and drop off your rental car in different locations, including different airports. For example, if you want to fly into Rome, spend a few days touring and then rent a car and drive to Florence you can. Then you can leave the car there and fly on out of Florence without making the trip to return the car in Rome. European car rental agencies work well with their surrounding countries as well, so a car can be rented in Switzerland and returned in Florence, Italy.

A car rental gives you the freedom to travel on your own schedule. Gasoline is a bit more expensive in Europe, but the economy cars are much more efficient than most of the larger American vehicles. The best part about a Florence car rental is that if anything goes wrong, you can get a new car and be on your way without much delay.

Jerry Blackburn repeatedly makes informative papers on questions about Italy and Tuscany. His articles on Florence car rental can be encountered on www.florence-italy-guide.com/florence-car-rental.html and other web pages.

Airport Car Rental

Are you renting a car? Have you thought about where you’re going to pick up your car.? If you’re flying on your holiday or business trip you may want to consider an airport car rental. Airport car rentals offer fast, convenient service, making it possible for you to collect your bags and your transport in the same place. The purpose of this article is to discuss the ins and outs of airport car rentals and to answer some of the most frequently asked questions regarding them.

How much choice will I have in doing an airport car rental? That depends on the airport as some are bigger than others. However, most of the major car rental companies are represented at most major US airports.

Do airport car rentals always cost more money? No not always, the best thing you can do to avoid paying premium rates is to book ahead. The more advanced notice you give generally the better rate you get. Also check to see if there are any weekend packages or weekly rates that you can have. It’s worth asking because it can save you loads of money.

Why should I consider an airport car rental? Airport car rentals are very convenient. Imagine that you have been flying for hours. Once you have landed you have to navigate your way through an unfamiliar airport to get your baggage. After all of this are you going to be up to navigating a strange cities public transport system. Also, are you going to want to spend time trying to get a taxi let alone paying the huge fairs to get you where you need to go. An airport car rental will make all of these problems go away. You can have your rental car literally minutes and be on your way to relaxing on your holiday.

Consider an airport car rental. The time saved and added convenience could make it worth any added expense.

For more information on Car Rentals visit http://www.allcarrentals.info.

Enterprise Car Rental

If you are looking for a good quality rental car then as far as companies are concerned you are spoiled for choice. The range of car rental agencies available is staggering. All of them advertise good quality service at affordable rates. When choosing a car rental agency perhaps giving enterprise car rental a call would be a good move.

One of the great advantages to enterprise car rental is their availability. Enterprise car rental has offices available in all 50 states. They are also available in Canada and several countries overseas. Enterprise has offices in nearly every US airport as well as contacts in most major cities. Enterprise is available to you in nearly every destination you wish to travel to.

Another advantage to Enterprise car rental is there rates. Enterprise car rental has rates to suit nearly any budget and tries to remain competitive with all other major rental car companies. Enterprise also frequently runs special offers and rates so be sure to ask.

Finally, Enterprise offers a wide range of choice when it comes to cars. Whether your looking for a little subcompact car or the finest in luxury vehicles, enterprise will likely have something available to suit your needs.

Enterprise car renal is one of the largest car rental agencies in the country. There are people on hand 24 hours a day to answer your questions and if need be make your reservation. Enterprise car rental promises, fast friendly and efficient service and will make the rental process more pleasant.

If you’re needing a car, give enterprise a call. Whether you’re in Phoenix or Florida, New York or North Dakota, Enterprise can help. Give Enterprise car rental a call as soon as you know your travel plans. You’ll be glad you did.

For more information on Car Rentals visit http://www.allcarrentals.info

Car Rental Agency

Have you ever rented a car? Are you needing a to rent a car for holiday or business purposes? Do you know who to contact and what you need? How do you know that you are getting the best possible price/ the purpose of this article is to inform you of the ins and outs of the car rental agency? We will also answer some of the most frequently asked questions about rental and car rental agencies.

I have never rented a car before, what do I need to do? You need to ring up several car rental agencies and ask what they require. Most require that your are at least 18 and have a major credit card. You don’t necessarily have to pay with the card but you need one many times for insurance purposes.

What does a car rental agency actually do? The car rental agency will take you reservation and hold the care for you once you confirm. The car rental agency will also draw up the rental contract and arrange for the insurance should you choose to purchase it.

Are there any other things that car rental agencies do? Yes, they provide 24 hour assistance should you have a problem with your car. Should you unfortunately have an accident with your rental car then your car rental agency is one of the first places you contact after the police. Most of the major companies have 24 hour emergency contact numbers available to give you assistance in matters like this.

How do I find a good car rental agency? There are tons of places available. The phonebook and the internet are 2 excellent sources. It’s up to you to get in touch with them.

If you are in need of a car rental then you need a car rental agency. They will help you through the rental process and get you on the road as soon as possible.

For more information on Car Rentals visit http://www.allcarrentals.info.

Economy Car Rental

Are you planning a vacation or a business trip? Have you thought about everything that you will need? Do you know what you are going to use for transport? Is the idea of navigating the subway system of New York, Chicago or Los Angeles giving you the shakes? If this idea does not appeal to you then you are most likely looking into renting a car. Most car rental companies offer good rates however, you want to be assured that you are getting the best possible deal. The purpose of this article is to inform you of the ins and outs of economy car rental.

Economy car rental is not as difficult as it may seem. You also don’t need to go to less than reputable companies to get cheap rates. Many of the major car rental companies offer good rates to help keep their profits high. They also offer discounted rates at certain times of the year or certain days of the week. Avis car Rental Company offers a weekend package. Usually, you get the car from Friday afternoon until Monday morning. The rate is substantially lower than the 3 day charge on their daily rate.

Economy car rental is quire readily available. Most of the major car companies offer weekend rates similar to Avis. If you need a car for several days, you may wish to enquire about a weekly rate if you need the car for more than 4 days. This can amount to a lot of savings for you. The amount of days and the charges will vary from company to company but when you phone up it is definitely worth asking. This could amount in savings of 30-50 percent.

Finally, when looking for economy car rental, you may want to look at smaller companies. Many are reputable and offer rates lower than the major national companies in order to stay competitive.

With some persistence and knowledge you can get a good rate and an excellent car. You will have the freedom you need without the hassles and constraints of unfamiliar public transport systems. Keep calling around and your guaranteed success.

For more articles like this one, go to http://www.allcarrentals.info.

Car Rental Rates

Are you looking to rent a car/ are you going on a holiday of a lifetime or a business trip that you want as few hassles as possible? Are you sure that you have gotten the best rental car rate that you can? Contrary to popular belief, not all car rental companies are the same. Even the major national companies have their own rates and special offers so it’s worth checking the competition out. The purpose of this article is to answer some of the most frequently asked questions regarding rental car and rental car rates.

Don’t all of the major companies charge about the same in car rental rates? Not always, even the major carriers get into competition with each other. They are always trying to get each others business. Many will also have their own promotions and special offers so it’s worth calling around and checking.

Is it cheaper to rent weekly or daily? You will surely get a cheaper rental rate if you rent per week. Even if you only rent the car for 4 or 5 days ask the company if the will charge you via the weekly rate. This could result in substantial savings for you.

Should I only consider the major companies? Not always, smaller companies can quite often offer a better car rental rate. Just make sure that you are dealing with a reputable company. Beware of places that offer extremely low rates. These quite often don’t give unlimited mileage and involve hidden costs

The secret to finding the best car rental rate is to do your homework. Don’t be afraid to put companies against each other. Quite often they will bid for your business. Keep looking, and do your homework. It could save you loads.

For more information on Car Rentals visit http://www.allcarrentals.info.