Car Rental Tips

Renting a car can enhance the flexibility of any trip - be it business or leisure. This information explains the process of renting a car and provides some car rental tips and car rental advice.

 
 

FINDING THE RIGHT CAR RENTAL COMPANY
Ask your ASTA travel agent to help you find the right car rental firm for each trip. Different firms serve different cities throughout the world. A travel agent can save you the time and effort of calling several different companies to find the best rate and car for you. Also, a travel agent may be aware of promotional rates and special programs that may not be advertised to the general public.


THE COST OF RENTING A CAR

Car rental companies generally charge four types of basic rates: a daily rate with a mileage charge; a daily rate with a limited number of free miles per day; a daily rate with unlimited mileage; and a rate that has free mileage over an extended period. Rates vary according to the size and style of vehicle but most firms rent economy, compact, intermediate and deluxe cars. Special promotional rates are often available, especially over weekends, but these should be specifically requested in advance.


CAR RENTAL CONFIRMATIONS
Travelers should always receive a voucher or confirmation from their travel agent before departing. This document should have a confirmation number, the car rental company name, type of car requested, flight information and date. If the car rental firm is located outside the airport, a telephone number for the courtesy car pick-up should be provided.

Confirmations also often help the car rental firms locate customers who have not picked up their reserved car. As a result of industry automation, the car rental firm can sometimes inquire to see if a renter's flight is delayed. Usually, a car rental firm will hold a reserved car for several hours before canceling.

If you are considering two different flights, be sure to advise the car rental firm. Also, the company should be notified of any cancellations so that they can rent that car to another customer.
 

INTERNATIONAL CAR RENTALS
If you are renting a car abroad, reserve it here through your ASTA travel agent. At your destination, ask the rental agent to explain the car's features, which may be different from cars at home. Know the international traffic signs and rules of the road. Ask your travel agent whether you need an International Driver's Permit. Also, ask about insurance coverage in each country; U.S. insurance may not be valid in all countries.

 

 

 

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