There are common mistakes that people make when renting a car. These mistakes can lead to unexpected costs, frustrations, and a poor experience, but most of them can be easily avoided with a little attention and planning. Below, we present the most common mistakes when renting a car and how you can avoid them.

Not Reviewing the Terms of the Contract

Before you sign the contract, take a few minutes to carefully read all the terms. If something is unclear, feel free to ask the agent for further clarification. Also, pay attention to whether the contract mentions hidden costs or additional fees.

One of the most common mistakes people make is not carefully reviewing the terms of the contract when renting a car. Many users do not take enough time to read the fine print and the terms set by the rental agency. This can include mileage limitations, fuel policies, vehicle return conditions, as well as costs in case of delays or vehicle damage.

Another thing to pay attention to is the location of the agency itself. Most car rental agencies falsely advertise on websites that they are located directly at the airport. This should be carefully checked and verified because, in such cases, it often turns out that they only deliver the cars to the parking lot and wait for you at the terminal with your name on a sign.

Ignoring Additional Insurance

Certain agencies, especially on brokerage channels, offer very low car rental prices, sometimes even less than €10 per day. The catch is that in this case, you have no insurance, and the deposit is very high. If you don’t purchase additional insurance, which can cost up to four times the price of the car, you will be charged an incredibly high fee for any minor damage, not to mention the potential costs for more significant damage.

Many travelers believe they do not need additional insurance when renting a car, especially if they already have basic auto insurance. However, often not all risks are considered, such as damage from vandalism, theft, or damages that your insurance may not cover. Ignoring additional insurance can leave you with high costs if an accident occurs.

Not Thoroughly Inspecting the Vehicle Before Pickup

When picking up the car, thoroughly inspect the vehicle, including all sides, tires, lights, and the interior. Taking photos of any existing damage is also a good practice. Be sure to report any irregularities to the rental agency before you set off, to protect yourself from any misunderstandings when returning the vehicle.

A common mistake is picking up the car without a detailed inspection of its condition. At first glance, the vehicle may look fine, but minor damages such as scratches or small dents often go unnoticed. If you do not report this damage before picking up the vehicle, the rental agency may hold you responsible for them when returning the car, which can lead to unexpected costs. Therefore, establishing good communication with the agency staff and ensuring that all potential issues are documented is crucial.

Many times, it happens that you receive a car you didn't reserve—an old and unsafe vehicle. The handover process often takes place in a parking lot, which carries risks such as robbery. By doing this, you also risk being arrested by municipal police, as most of these agencies operate illegally, without reporting taxes, thus contributing to the shadow economy.

Not Adhering to Mileage Limitations

Before renting a car, estimate how many kilometers you will drive. If you plan a longer drive or trip, consider opting for unlimited mileage, even if it is initially more expensive, to avoid extra costs at the end.

Many rental agencies offer different packages, some with limited mileage and some with unlimited mileage. If you rent a vehicle with limited mileage and exceed the set limit, you may face additional costs charged per kilometer. This can significantly increase the total rental price.

Not Following Fuel Policies

Follow the fuel policy of the rental agency. If you need to return the car with a full tank, plan to stop at a gas station before returning the vehicle. Also, find out where the nearest gas station is located near the drop-off point to avoid delays.

The fuel policy when renting a car can vary from agency to agency. The most common model is "full-to-full," meaning you pick up the car with a full tank and return it with a full tank. However, many users forget this rule or do not leave enough time for refueling before returning the vehicle, which can result in additional costs, as the agency usually charges fuel at a higher price.

Last-Minute Car Booking

One of the common mistakes users make is booking a car late, especially during holidays or tourist seasons. At the last minute, you may not have many options or may have to pay a higher price due to increased demand.

Plan ahead and book the car as soon as you know your travel dates. By booking early, you can get a better selection of vehicles at a more favorable price. Also, keep an eye on special offers and discounts that agencies often provide for early bookings.

Neglecting Additional Costs

The base price of renting a car may seem favorable, but there are often additional costs that go unnoticed. This includes fees for additional drivers, GPS devices, child seats, or young drivers. These additional costs can significantly increase the total rental price. Before finalizing your reservation, check all additional options and fees that the agency may charge. If you do not need any add-ons, be sure to exclude them when making your reservation.

Choosing a rent-a-car agency can be extremely beneficial, but it is important to approach the car rental process with care and understanding. Avoiding common mistakes, such as not reviewing the terms of the contract, ignoring additional insurance, and mishandling the fuel policy, can significantly enhance your experience and save you money.
Plan ahead, do thorough research, and ask questions to ensure that your car rental is as hassle-free and enjoyable as possible. Finally, with a little attention and preparation, you can enjoy the freedom that renting a car provides, without worrying about additional costs or unforeseen situations. When you decide on a rent-a-car agency, keep in mind all the tips from this text to make the most of your journey.