Auto Rentals

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There are many different car rental agencies, that offer many different types of cars. Sometimes their classification systems can vary, but they are usually similar in most ways. Here is an example of the different classes of cars available by most rental agencies.

So now that you know what is available, it is time to make a decision on what you need, and when you need it, and also (most importantly) who you will rent it from. Here are some of the most helpful tips we could come up with, to help make you car renting experience more enjoyable.

Before You Rent
How long will you be renting? Make sure ask about special deals, and discounts. Some places will give you weekly or weekend special prices. For rentals of a week or longer, you will definitely get better rates from local companies.

Internet Resources
Always shop around, even on the Web. Many companies often offer Web-only discounts, take advantage of them whenever possible. If you're booking online or on the phone, make sure to ask about any restrictions or extra fees.

Discounts
Ask about discounts for major national organizations, frequent-flier programs and credit card programs you may belong to. They'll frequently offer deals on car rentals. Those offered through AAA can be very good. If you're employed by a company that frequently rents cars, they may have a negotiated rate. Make sure to check.

Get All the Details
Be sure you understand all the conditions of your reservation. Is there a penalty for a no show? How long will the car be held if you're stuck in traffic on the way to the pickup station? Is there a fee for additional drivers; must their names be listed in the contract? Is your 20-year-old daughter old enough to drive the car? If applicable ask about any restrictions on interstate travel. For one-way rentals, ask about drop-off charges, this is important, as they can be outrageously expensive. Always get a confirmation number. For airport rentals, be sure to give the customer service representative your flight number and scheduled arrival time. This will usually protect your reservation if the flight is delayed.

The Base Rate?
The rate you see advertised in big print is most likely not what you will be paying. That rate will be increased by state and local taxes, airport surcharges, additional driver fees, insurance and gasoline bills and drop-off charges, which could mean paying more than double what you expected. Also, the advertised rate may be valid only in off-season Florida or California, when many cars are idle there, but not where you are planning on renting. Finally, it may be only for a car size that you would find unsuitable.

Pickup
If your first drive will be from an airport to a hotel for the night, it is a good idea to take a shuttle to the hotel to save the price of day's rental. In major cities, you could probably pick up the car downtown. Even if you must drive the same day your flight lands, you don't have to necessarily get the car at the airport. By picking it up downtown, you can often avoid airport surcharges. Before you drive away with the car, inspect it carefully for body damage. Be sure the lights and turn signals are working properly. Check the mileage odometer. Report any defects to rental personnel at once.

Return
Be aware that returning the car early may be expensive because your rate structure may change. Also be sure the check-in attendant inspects the car's body in your presence and that you agree about any damage. Examine your rental agreement carefully for all charges and make sure they credit any deposit to your account while you wait.