Sometimes, renting a car is a necessity, and other times it’s a convenience. When drivers are involved in an accident and have to be without their car for a time, the most cost effective solution is to rent a car. For anyone that’s been down this road, this is the time you’re thankful you included the car rental option in your auto insurance policy. As for convenience, renting a car for a business trip, or an SUV for a vacation will save wear and tear on the family car, and afford the pleasure of driving a near new vehicle.
With the wealth of websites and rental agencies that are competing for your business, it would seem that renting a car is about as easy as anything could be. Special deals are everywhere, in all shapes and sizes, and one gets the feeling that there won’t be any problems walking in, and driving out in a shinny rental car. However, there are requirements that can end up being a deal-breaker, and sometimes prove disappointing if you’re not familiar with the way the rental car business operates. Taking a little time to become familiar with these will end up being the indicator that directs you to the right agency.
The bigger agencies, like Hertz, Budget and Avis have corporate clients that pay the bills, so their requirements are tougher than other agencies when it comes to walk-in customers. In addition, they have hundreds of cars at any given location, and their attitude is one of providing availability. In short, finding a dollar saving dFeal with a big name agency is not likely to happen, and you can expect to pay the going rate for a rental. In addition, if you happen to be like most walk-in customers, and don’t have a rental car clause in your personal automobile coverage, you can plan to pay a few dollars for this as well.
Many of the mid-level agencies like Enterprise and Thrifty tend to be more flexible, mainly because they depend on a certain amount of walk-in trade. These companies don’t compete with the big boys for fleet rental contracts, and they actually welcome your business. Basic requirements, such as a valid driver’s license and credit card will get a rental contract going, and they offer the option of providing insurance if you choose. Typically, the mid-level agencies don’t have more than a few cars on hand at one location, so it’s best to reserve a rental ahead of time.
For the one time rental at a fairly reasonable rate, one should consider an independent agency. Typically, these companies can be found on line and in local directories, and many of them offer unique cars. Station wagons, pick-up trucks, sports cars and hybrids are often featured on local rental car lots. Of course, there are the basic requirements, and sometimes cash still speaks a language at these places. Calling ahead is always a good idea, and most likely, you’ll find a fun car is available at a pretty good price.
For information about car hire Sydney and car rentals in other areas, please visit airport car rental.