Renting a vehicle lets you get on the road quickly and easily. But you need to do a little research before hitting the rental lot. Learn what you need to know about car rental rates, fees, and policies so you can get the most from your ride.
If your car is in the shop for lengthy repairs, you’re traveling to a remote location for work or vacation, or you want to drive an exotic vehicle that’s not in your price range, Renting a vehicle in Al Barsha may make sense. In that case, either a long-term rental or a short-term lease could be the right choice.
A reputable car rental agency can help you save money by offering lower prices than you might find online. But be sure to compare quotes from multiple agencies before booking a car. Also, check with the car rental company directly to see if they have a deal or discount that’s not available elsewhere. If you’re a Costco member, you can often score the best rates on car rentals through their travel program.
Car rental companies generally offer a variety of vehicles that can accommodate almost any need. But it’s important to decide what type of vehicle you need before booking, because the specific model will have an impact on the price. Also, make sure to consider how much mileage you need, as some rental agencies limit the number of miles that can be driven.
If you’re planning to rent a vehicle for several weeks, a month, or longer, it’s worth checking whether the rental company offers a subscription service that will let you swap vehicles up to four times per month. For example, Enterprise’s Subscribe with Enterprise offers a monthly flat fee that includes insurance and maintenance. You can also add a second driver for an additional monthly charge.
Most rental companies require you to return the car with a full tank of gas. Some of them will even prepay for the fuel so you don’t have to worry about finding a gas station. But be aware that this can be expensive, and it’s a good idea to research local gas stations to find the lowest prices.
Many rental cars have GPS installed, which makes it easy to find your destination and get there on time. But you should always familiarize yourself with the GPS before you hit the road so you’re not surprised by any hidden costs. For example, you might be charged a fee for returning the vehicle with a stolen or damaged GPS device.
When you reserve a rental, most rental car companies will place a hold on your credit or debit card for more than the agreed-on total. This is a standard practice to ensure that you have enough funds or credit to cover any extra charges that may come up. Be sure to check your card’s terms and conditions to find out how to avoid being hit with these extra charges.