Car rental is an ideal option for travelers who want to avoid the cost and hassle of owning a vehicle. Many credit cards offer rental car benefits such as free upgrades, discounted rates and bonus points.
Before booking a car, be sure to ask about add-on fees and restrictions. Some companies check driving records and may not Rent a Car Los Angeles International Airport to drivers under 25.
Choosing a car
When renting a car, you want to choose a vehicle that meets your needs and will make your trip as stress-free as possible. Choosing the right car can be a challenge, but you can minimize the amount of distress you experience by doing a little research and asking plenty of questions. Some important things to consider include mileage limits, cancellation policies, fuel charges, caution deposits, types of payment accepted and process while returning.
It is also a good idea to take a car for a test drive. This will give you an idea of how it drives and handles, as well as help you decide if it is the best choice for your trip. If you have any doubts about the condition of the car, it is a good idea to take pictures of its interior and exterior. These photos can help you avoid a charge for damage when you return the car. You should also be sure to fill up the tank before you return it so that you don’t get charged for gas that you didn’t use.
Picking up the car
It’s a good idea to arrive at the car rental location early. This will ensure that you can get your pick of vehicles, especially during peak travel seasons.
Once you’re at the rental car counter, make sure to bring your ID and credit card. You’ll also need a copy of your reservation confirmation. This is important because you may be charged extra for late returns if you don’t return the vehicle by closing time.
Upon picking up the car, take some time to inspect it carefully. If you notice any damage, make sure to note it with the agent and take photos for backup. This will protect you if there are any disputes when you return the car. It’s also a good idea to fill up the gas tank before returning the car. This will avoid having the company charge you for an extra tank of gas. In some cases, this will even save you money.
Returning the car
Many rental car companies have a policy that requires customers to return the vehicle with a full tank of gas. If you do not, the company will charge you a fee for the gas that is often higher than what you would pay at a local pump. It’s best to fill up before returning the car, but you should check your agreement for exact details.
If you’re running late for your drop-off time, try to call the company and let them know. A simple phone call could save you costly late fees.
Before you leave the rental car, make sure to take photos or a 360-degree video of it from all angles. This will help you avoid any dispute about damages when the vehicle is returned. It’s also a good idea to delete any personal information that you might have left in the car, including GPS locations, your phone number, and call and text logs.
Insurance
Many major credit cards offer some form of rental car insurance, usually as a secondary coverage. American Express and Visa, for example, both provide coverage if you reserve and pay for your rental with the card. Be sure to know the details of your own card’s coverage, however, before declining the add-on from the rental counter.
The insurance typically covers collision and comprehensive damage to the vehicle, but not personal belongings that may be stolen in the car. It also doesn’t cover medical bills or liability concerns, which you’ll likely have covered by your personal auto insurance policy or, in the case of a business trip, by your employer.
The rental company may charge daily fees if the vehicle is out of commission for an accident or other damage. You can avoid these fees by purchasing a loss-damage waiver (LDW) from the rental agency. LDW policies can cost up to $1 a day, Rent a Car Los Angeles International Airport but they typically bridge the gap between your own auto or travel insurance coverage and the minimal coverage provided by the rental company.
