How to Rent a Car the Right Way

When renting a car, it pays to shop around and Sixt Belgium avoid add-ons. Aggregator websites can have rates that are significantly lower than what the rental agency charges at the counter.

If you have the patience to set a calendar reminder for two minutes per week, you can save by checking rates once or twice a month. Also, skip the airport and look to the suburbs.

Pick-up and Drop-off Locations

Depending on where you pick up and return the car, the price can vary. Airports and city train stations, for example, charge more than a location in town. The same is true of one-way rentals (where you start and end your trip in different cities) – the extra charges can add up quickly.

Some rental car companies allow you to reserve and lock in a specific Car Rental in London before your trip by using an app or phone. This is often cheaper than meeting someone at the car lot and can be even more convenient.

Zipcar, for example, has neighborhood locations where cars are parked and unlocked via an app on your phone. The company also offers free local pickup and drop-off. Other options, like additional drivers and equipment-rentals, cost extra.

Pick-up and Return Times

It's important to be punctual when picking up or returning the car. Most rental companies have a grace period for late returns, but going over that could cost you extra days' rent.

You should also make sure you return the car with a full tank of gas. Otherwise, you'll be charged for the company's price at the gas station.

Many rental companies have drop-off boxes with sensors that record the time you throw the keys in. If you return the car after hours, this could save you a long wait at the counter. It's also a good idea to take pictures of the vehicle as proof of its condition. That way, any unexpected charges on your credit card statement are easier to dispute.

Additional Drivers

In North America and some other countries, an additional driver can be added to the rental agreement for a fee. The person must be over 25 and present a valid license to drive the car. Some companies only charge for friends and family members, while others add a surcharge for employers or co-workers if the car is being rented under a business contract.

Costco members often get the fee waived when renting from Avis, Budget, Alamo and Enterprise. USAA also extends discounts on car rentals for military members and their families. Other companies like Dollar and Thrifty waive fees for spouses of loyalty program members. Additionally, Iowa and California state laws prohibit extra driver charges for the renter's spouse or domestic partner.

Insurance

Rental car companies offer insurance to limit their liability if the vehicle is stolen or damaged. But you may be able to decline this coverage if you have enough liability coverage under your own car or home policy.

Credit card companies often provide car rental coverage as a benefit to their cardholders. Check with your credit card company before your trip to see if you qualify for this option.

Be aware that rental car companies may place a hold -- or block -- on your debit or Sixt Belgium credit card for the total cost of your reservation. This is to make sure that you have the money available to pay for the rental when you pick it up. They will release the hold once the car is returned in good condition and all fees are paid.

Fuel Policy

A car rental company’s fuel policy dictates whether customers are expected to return the vehicle with a full tank or with a certain amount of fuel remaining. It’s important to check this policy before booking a rental as failing to do so can result in extra charges post-rental.

The most common fuel policies are full-to-full and prepaid gas options. Typically, a full-to-full policy requires renters to return the car with a fully filled tank. A prepaid fuel option allows customers to purchase the existing fuel tank of the rental and returns it at any level provided they present a receipt for purchasing the gas.

Avoid unethical surcharges after your rental by taking photos of the fuel gauge and odometer before returning the vehicle. These photos may not prevent the rental company from charging you for a forced refuel but they will provide the evidence needed to successfully dispute such erroneous charges.