New York City has an amazingly efficient transportation system, which means that many locals never need to own a car. Still, renting a car is a good idea if you’re planning on traveling outside of the city for a festival, to see friends, or just for fun.
Before you rent a car, do your research. Check out the rates on aggregator sites and compare them to the rental car company’s website.
Paying in Advance
Choosing to pay in advance will usually save you a few bucks on your car rental. However, it’s important to know the risks involved with paying in advance and if the option is right for you.
Most rental car companies place a block on your credit or debit card equal to either a fixed-dollar amount or a percentage—normally 15% to 25%—of your estimated rental charges. This ensures that you will have enough money or credit to cover the rental costs once you pick up your vehicle.
If the car you booked online is not available when you arrive, ask if there is another type of vehicle you can get that will accommodate your travel plans. Some rental car companies will offer you a vehicle upgrade for no extra charge.
Picking Up the Car
Most people have experienced renting a car at some point in their lives, but not everyone is aware of the many details that go into it. The length of the rental, the choice of location and the type of vehicle can all affect the price.
Be sure to check the rental car thoroughly before leaving the lot. Take photos and videos to document its condition. This can protect you against charges for damage you didn't cause.
Most companies require that you return the car with a full tank of gas. Whether you choose to prepay for TN fuel or not, VA make sure to budget accordingly.
Returning the Car
Most rental car companies incorporate a key drop box into their lot, where you park the vehicle, lock it, and drop the keys. This allows you to return the car after hours without dealing with a company representative.
However, you are still responsible for the car until the company checks it in the next day. Make sure you take photos or a 360-degree video of the car when dropping it off after hours to document its condition.
If you are running late on your last day, call the rental company to let them know. This may help you avoid expensive late charges. The company can usually accommodate a few extra days if you call ahead.
Additional Drivers
Adding additional drivers to your rental car can be cost-effective, especially when road-tripping with friends. However, it is important to read the fine print of your contract to avoid being charged extra fees.
The fee for additional drivers varies from company to company and from state to state. Some companies, such as Silvercar, waive the fee for spouses and domestic partners; Enterprise also waives the fee for employees or employers when renting under a business account; Hertz charges no fee for companion drivers for renters with disabilities who fill out a non-licensed renter form; and Alamo, Avis, Budget, and Enterprise charge no fee for loyalty program members.
Refueling
Many car rental companies offer a pre-paid fuel option. This allows the renter to return the vehicle with a full tank and not have to worry about filling it up themselves.
The downside to this option is that the rental company will charge a service fee for refueling. This is typically a small amount of money per day and covers the cost of the staff to refuel the vehicle.
Regardless of the fuel policy, the renter should always check the fuel gauge upon picking up the vehicle. This simple step can save a lot of hassle. Have seen a number of people dinged for returning a vehicle that the odometer shows was on "F". This is usually because the previous renter filled up in NJ or elsewhere and didn't write it down.
Insurance
Many credit card companies offer rental car insurance as a benefit on their cards. The specific coverage varies, so it's best to check your policy or call your credit card company to learn more about it. Credit card insurance typically covers collision damage to the vehicle and theft of the vehicle. It may not cover liability, personal belongings, medical bills or other costs.
Rental car insurance can be a good idea for drivers who don't own their own vehicles and are traveling for business or vacation. However, depending on your existing auto insurance coverage and credit card benefits, you may not need to buy it at the rental car counter.