Road trips are the most exciting adventure. You get to explore new places, meet new people and spend quality time with your loved ones. The trip can be made even more memorable by renting a top-class vehicle.
You don’t need to own a vehicle to enjoy a road trip and spend time creating magical memories at an RV park. There are several rental options available in the market. Instead of overspending on a car, rent a smooth vehicle to enjoy the scenic beauty on the way. It should be according to your family size. Moreover, it should fit all your things.
7 Important Things to Consider When Renting a Car
Still, there are some points to consider while renting a vehicle. It should save you money and provide added comfort. Only then your journey will be enjoyable. Here are some key factors to consider while renting a car. Whether you rent a car for a country trip or a short journey, these tips will come in handy.
Check the Insurance Options Carefully
Rental car insurance is a necessity. Anything can happen on your road trip. A vehicle might accidentally hit you, or something worse could happen. In such a situation, an insured vehicle will save you from further financial damage.
According to expert car accident lawyers in NYC,” The streets in every city are overflowing with pedestrians and vehicles, which might lead to unpredicted accidents. These life-changing circumstances for you and your family leave behind a permanent scar. “In such situations, you need a good insurance plan to cover your damages. Moreover, you need a professional car accident lawyer to protect you.
Still, keep in mind that rental car insurance is a complicated matter. Many aspects can confuse you. Insurance companies play tricks such as displaying lower-level insurance and selling full insurance upon pickup.
Choose an insurance that covers you for a majority of damages but doesn’t cost you more than your budget. If you plan to ride in a plain area with no tough terrain, you should opt for lower insurance. However, if you feel the chances of damage are higher, go for full insurance.
These life-changing circumstances for you and your family leave behind a permanent scar. In such situations, you need a good insurance plan to cover your damages. Moreover, you need a professional car accident lawyer to protect you. There is a chance that you could be hit by a truck on one of these roads, especially if you are in an area with a high amount of logistics businesses. Being hit by a truck is a lot more serious than a car, so it would be wise to read up on what you will need to do if this has the potential to occur. Having a reputable Tampa truck accident lawyer (or one in your area) will be of real benefit should you run into trouble whilst on your travels.
Things to Consider When Renting a Car – One Way Trip or Round Trip
The second point to ponder is your trip’s length and the route. Whether you plan to make a one-way trip or a round journey, it will affect your renting options. Several renting companies allow you to pick up a vehicle from one location and drop it off at another.
So, if you plan on a one-way trip, this option is perfect. For example, someone who needs to go to the airport should choose one-way rentals. You can take your car and drop it at the airport.
The cost for one-way trips and round trips will be different. You could manage according to your budget and won’t face any restraints. Your family could enjoy themselves without any tension. For example, I’ve traveled on the I-4 from Orlando to Tampa and know just how stressful it can be – there are accidents all of the time. Make sure you have plenty of gas in the tank when you do drive, as you’ll never know if you’ll be stuck in traffic for hours at a time.
Check the Mileage and Fuel Capacity
Road trips are meant to be lengthy. In such conditions, you need a vehicle that gives you good mileage. So consider both fuel capacity and mileage options before booking a car. The greater the fuel capacity, the longer the journey. If you don’t want to stop at every gas station, carefully check the fuel options.
Moreover, some companies charge you for a full fuel tank whether you plan on using it or not. Discuss this with your rental company in advance. The best option is to use a full-to-full policy. Through the policy, you will receive a full tank and fill it up before returning it to the rental company.
Along with fuel, your mileage needs also matter. Some rentals offer low initial rent but later on charge you hidden fees for high mileage. Don’t get lured by such tricks.
Things to Consider When Renting a Car – Is There a Need for Additional Drivers?
Long road trips are not easy to manage. If it’s your first trip, you might feel tired after a few hours. So, think about whether you need an additional driver to complete your road trip. An added driver will share your load and help you enjoy your trip to the fullest.
Instead of booking a driver, later on, do it while you are finalizing your rental vehicle. You could get a cheaper deal. Several rentals offer better rates on cars with drivers. Just make sure your driver is well-informed. Since you will use a rental company’s driver, there won’t be any safety issues.
Things to Consider When Renting a Car – Do You Need an Automatic or Manual Car?
Initially, manual cars were considered an ideal option, but now you also find automatic vehicles. The market has an abundance of manual and automatic options.
If you go with a manual vehicle, you will need to spend lesser money. However, driving long distances becomes tough. On the other side, automatic cars are more expensive. Thus, their rent is higher. However, life with an automatic car is simple.
You won’t have to constantly keep one foot on the clutch or change gears frequently. All you need to do is put your car in driving mode and carry on. Anyone who has driven a manual car can easily manage an automatic ride.
So, before renting an option, decide which vehicle you need.
Things to Consider When Renting a Car – Consider Additional Options like GPS Systems and Car Seats
If you have a large family, you could add additional seats to your rental vehicle. Many companies allow you to add seats for your kids. It allows you to accommodate the entire family. Similarly, having technologically advanced features also makes your journey comfortable.
GPS systems are one of the most necessary things. You might be traveling on unknown routes and without a GPS, could get lost. Having a guide with you 24/7 saves you from wasting time.
Similarly, breakdown covers and dash cams are also an ideal addition. These features offer comfort and protection at the same time.
Things to Consider When Renting a Car – Get a Heads-Up on Weather Conditions
Every place has different conditions and if you plan to travel to any place, look up its weather and road conditions. Traveling in extreme conditions could be dangerous for you and your vehicle. Check the prevailing conditions in an area, and then book a rental car.
All cars are not suited to every road. For example, if you plan to travel on a slippery road, you will need vehicles with durable tires. A slight misjudgment could result in a fatal crash. Similarly, if the conditions are too extreme, try changing your plans for the time being.
A small car won’t be able to support you on rough terrains. You will need a jeep or something massive to make it through. Choose a comfortable ride that doesn’t make you feel tired or scared. After all, it’s a matter of your family’s safety, and you shouldn’t take any risks.