As Travelers hit the road this summer, many will drive rental cars in other parts of the country or the world. While rental cars can be convenient, the associated costs are often confusing. Here’s a look at car rental mistakes that could cost you money – and how to avoid them.
1. Buying extra insurance you don’t need. If you have your own auto insurance policy, it may cover collision damage and personal liability for temporary use of a rental car .
Toyota Prius 8G
2. Prepaying for gas. Prepaying for gas may seem convenient (who wants to plan extra time for a pit stop on the way to an early morning flight?) but it means you’ll pay for a full tank of gas, even if you return with the tank half full. “It’s better to fill up yourself since you can usually find cheaper gas prices at a nearby station anyway,
2016-MINI-Cooper-S-Clubman
3. Paying extra for GPS or a car seat. Car rental companies are happy to charge you extra for accessories like a GPS or child car seat.
4. Rushing through the inspection. Thoroughly inspect your rental car before you drive away. Otherwise, you might be charged for damage you didn’t cause.
5. Returning a car late. Most car rental companies charge daily rates based on 24-hour periods. We allow for 1 hour late for traffic and its just good business.