Secrets of favourable car rental abroad: how to save money and avoid problems

Travelling in a rented car abroad certainly gives you a lot of freedom. It essentially allows you to explore new places. And, of course, it allows you to do so at your own pace. However, the leasing process can certainly be full of hidden fees. It can also certainly be full of unexpected problems. Knowing some basic rules and lifehacks will, in fact, help you save money. And also it will certainly help make your trip as comfortable as possible. In this article, we will go through in detail how to get the most favourable car hire abroad. We'll also look at what to look out for.

1. How to choose and book: first steps to saving money

Choosing the right company and booking is definitely key.

Compare prices and book in advance

Early booking is actually one of the most effective ways to save money. The earlier you book your car, the cheaper it will certainly be. Use online aggregators. They essentially compare prices. They also, of course, show offers from different companies. This will certainly help you find the most favourable one.

Choose the right class of car

You should not, of course, take a car that is too big. If you are travelling as a couple, a small car will, in fact, be ideal. It certainly costs less. And, of course, it consumes less fuel. In addition, in some European cities, in fact, parking for large cars can be a problem. Therefore, choose a car that suits your needs.

2. Insurance: how not to overpay

Insurance is certainly one of the most important aspects. At the same time, it is the cause of many overpayments.

Understand the types of insurance

Basic insurance, in fact, is usually included in the rental price. However, it certainly doesn't cover all risks. And, of course, it has a high deductible. Additional insurance, in fact, can significantly increase the cost.

• CDW (Collision Damage Waiver). This is essentially insurance for damage. It does, of course, cover the damage. But it certainly has a deductible.
• TP (Theft Protection). This is essentially insurance against theft. It also has a deductible, of course.
• SCDW (Super Collision Damage Waiver). This is essentially extended insurance. It, of course, reduces the deductible to zero.

Don't buy too much

You may, in fact, be offered many additional insurances. For example, glass or tyre insurance. Often, these are not actually compulsory. You need to weigh up the risks carefully, of course. If you have your own insurance, it may already cover these cases.

3. Getting a car: what to look out for

When you are getting a car, you have to be very careful.

Inspect the vehicle and take a photo

Inspect the vehicle thoroughly. Take pictures of all scratches and dents. This will certainly help you avoid problems. For example, you will not have to pay for someone else's damage.

Check the fuel level

Make sure the tank is full. As a rule, you must return the car with a full tank. If you don't, you will have to pay a fee. And, of course, you will pay an inflated price.

4. Return of the vehicle: important points

The return of the car is, of course, also a very important consideration.

Return the vehicle on time and in the same condition

Make sure that you return the car at the same time you picked it up. A delay can, of course, cost you extra money. And, of course, make sure the car is clean.

Check the cheque

Examine the final cheque carefully. Make sure there are no extra charges on it. If you see something you do not understand, then by all means ask about it.

5. Helpful Lifehacks for saving money

• Don't take the GPS. Use the navigator in your phone.
• Bring your own baby seat. Renting a child seat is, of course, very expensive.
• Avoid airports. Renting at the airport, of course, costs more.

Conclusion

Profitable car hire abroad - is, in fact, an achievable goal. To do this, of course, you need to be careful. It is necessary, of course, to compare prices. And, of course, you need to carefully study the contract. By following these tips, you will be able to save money. And you will be able to enjoy every minute of your trip.