What to look out for when hiring a car – especially for holiday road trips

Ben Whitmore, chief marketing officer at East Coast Car Rentals, has seen it all when it comes to vehicle rentals – for both for business and leisure purposes. In this Q&A, he offers a range of insights – laced with a load of common sense – that can help keep your car rental experience on the upside. 

Q: How can understanding rental car insurance options help consumers avoid paying for unnecessary coverage, ensuring they’re only paying for the protection they need while still being fully covered in case of accidents or damages?

A: Taking the time to understand rental car insurance options can save you a significant amount of money and ensure you have the right level of protection. Many vehicle renters are unaware that their existing personal auto insurance or benefits from certain credit cards may already provide coverage for rental cars, such as for collision damage or liability.

At the same time, some coverage offered by credit cards or travel insurance providers requires careful review, as renters often assume they’re fully protected and decline waivers, only to find later that specific types of damage are not included. Being informed helps avoid unnecessary expenses and unexpected gaps in coverage. 

By researching your coverage beforehand, you can make confident decisions about whether you need to buy supplemental protection or if you’re already covered. If gaps in coverage exist, like limited liability or insufficient personal injury protection, it’s worth exploring the rental company’s offerings to ensure you’re safeguarded against expensive repairs or accidents.

Taking this step not only prevents overspending but also gives you peace of mind knowing you’re adequately covered no matter what happens on the road. 

Q: How can preparing for potential disputes, like damage claims or cleaning fees, help renters avoid unexpected costs, protect their wallets, and enjoy a stress-free rental experience?

A: Being prepared for potential disputes, such as damage claims or cleaning fees, can make a huge difference in your rental car experience and help you avoid unpleasant surprises when it’s time to settle the bill.

Before you even drive off, inspect the vehicle thoroughly, looking for dents, scratches, or other imperfections. Use your phone to take photos or videos from multiple angles, making sure to capture any issues clearly.

If you notice anything concerning, report it to the rental agent and ensure it’s documented in the rental agreement. 

When returning the car, give it a quick once-over to confirm it’s in the same condition you received it and hasn’t picked up any damage during your trip. Keeping the car clean and following return guidelines, such as refueling it if required, can also help avoid disputes over extra charges. 

These small, proactive steps take only a few minutes but can protect your wallet and leave you with a smoother, stress-free rental experience. 

 

Q: How reviewing rental contracts closely allows consumers to spot important details like mileage limits and return policies, helping them avoid hidden fees and penalties that can quickly add up?

A: Carefully reviewing your rental contract before signing can save you from headaches later and ensure your rental experience stays on track with your budget. These agreements often include important details that renters may not immediately notice, such as mileage limits, fuel policies, or return requirements.

For example, some rental companies set mileage caps, and exceeding these limits may result in additional charges. Similarly, if a car is returned without the agreed level of fuel, a refuelling fee may apply. It's important to review these terms to ensure a smooth and cost-effective rental experience. 

Other policies, such as late return penalties or requirements for returning the car to the same location, can also catch renters off guard if not understood upfront.

Taking the time to read and ask questions about the fine print allows you to plan ahead, avoid unnecessary expenses, and confidently stick to your budget. It’s a small investment of time that can turn a great trip into an unexpectedly expensive one.

www.eastcoastcarrentals.com.au

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