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Budget tips for international car rentals
While the public transportation systems in many international
destinations are safe, clean, cheap and reliable, many seasoned
travelers prefer having their own transportation, and in many
areas it is necessary to rent a car to get from place to place.
There are a number of thing to remember to make renting a car
internationally less costly and less of a hassle.
One of the most important things to remember involves traveling
to Canada and Mexico in an American based rental car. In most
cases, the insurance that comes with the rental car does not
cover you once the car has left the country. If you are not sure
about your coverage, always be sure to check your rental
agreement. While this is important in Canada, it is vital in
Mexico. While it is possible to buy special Mexican car
insurance when traveling there, it is generally not recommended
that casual visitors drive into Mexico. It is generally better
to park in one of the border lots and take the shuttle bus to
the border.
If you plan to drive abroad, either in Canada, Mexico, Europe or
anywhere else outside the United States, it is a good idea to
obtain an international drivers permit. While an international
drivers permit is not required everywhere, it is a good idea to
get one. The fee to obtain an international drivers permit is
low, and the literature that comes along with it is quite
valuable. An international drivers permit can be obtained
through an AAA office.
It is also important to check with the company that provides
your auto insurance to see if you are covered for international
driving. If your normal policy does not cover you, inquire about
purchasing a special policy for your trip. Also check with your
credit card company to see if the rental car collision coverage
they offer is good outside the country.
When arranging for a rental car, it is usually less costly to do
so before you leave the United States. It can also be
considerably more trouble to wait until you arrive to rent a
car, and you always run the risk that the type of car you want
is not available.
When renting cars in Europe, it is generally best to choose a
compact or subcompact car, as many of the streets in European
cities are quite narrow, and parking is often very limited. It
is best to rent the smallest car you feel comfortable with.
If you plan to combine a car rental with a rail pass, there may
be discounts available. Always be sure to check with your travel
agent and take advantage of any discounts to which you are
entitled. Some hotels and airlines also have special deals on
rental cars for their customers.
If you will be dropping off your rental car in a different
location that where you picked it up, which is common in
European rentals, be sure to choose a rental agency that offers
a low drop off fee.
When planning your trip, always keep in mind that prices for gas
and diesel fuel are generally much higher than those in the
United States, often as much as three times as expensive. Be
sure to factor fuel costs into your travel budget. This is yet
another reason to rent the smallest car you can find.
Another reason a small car is important is the frequent lack of
available parking in many resort areas and near many major
tourist attractions. Even if you have a car, you may want to
leave it at the hotel and take public transportation to these
types of destinations.
When you pick up your car, be sure that you get the terms you
agreed to before you left home. If the terms are not agreeable
when you get there, be prepared to cancel the deal and make
alternate arrangements.
It is also important to take a company representative with you
and carefully examine the car's exterior for dings and
scratches. Be sure to note any preexisting damage to avoid being
charged for it when the car is returned.
About the author:
Tony Robinson has travelled extensively throughout this
wonderful planet with his family in tow. For great travel saving
tips, techniques and articles on visit
http://www.budget-travel-site.com
Written by: Tony Robinson
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