Automobile Rental Tips
What Should I Keep In The Glovebox?
Check with the rental company to see what they require you to keep in the rental car. Usually you need the rental contract to inform the police that you are authorized to drive the car (and also a list of any other authorized additional drivers). Also keep the vehicle manual and an updated map. Make sure there's an emergency kit handy in case of accidents. Keep a list of emergency contact numbers (most major agencies will provide roadside assistance in case of break downs), because you never know what will happen on the road.
What If I Need the Car Longer?
Try calling the local number, or a toll-free 24 hour number to inform the rental company of your situation. Also check the company's procedure regarding extending car rentals beforehand. Keep the operating hours, any contact numbers and the name of the employee you're dealing with on hand. If you're renting from an independent company, then you might have to wait until the next business day if something bad happens. In any case, inform the agency ASAP.
Where Do We Go From Here?
Going to Houston, and thinking of dropping into Mexico while you're vacationing? It would be unsage to plan to drive to Mexico in your rental car without confirming with the rental company first. Don't forget to confirm any sort of mileage and limitation on your rental. These conditions should be stated in your rental contract. Although some companies allow unlimited mileage within the same state, it's best to check first before speeding to the state border. These mileage charges can rack up pretty quickly if you're unaware of the company's policy.
What If I Want To See the World (or just Kansas)?
Check what the policy is regarding out of state/country travel. If this is allowed, you will probably be charged per mile that you have driven out of state. Once again, ask about any mileage and travel restrictions before you sign any contract. You don't want to be hit with massive mileage charges if you decide to go gallavanting to Shawnee County.
What If I Want To Get In Touch With Nature?
Under contract, rental vehicles are required to be driven on paved, regularly maintained roads. Off-road driving is usually a violation of the rental agreement, and can void your rental contract and/or insurance policy.
Bad To The Bone
Looking to cause some trouble, punk? Then putting snow chains on the tires, towing a trailer, off-roading (as mentioned before), transporting people or property for hire, driving in Mexico (if the vehicle was rented in the U.S. or Canada) and the like will terminate any terms of contract you agreed to with the agency. This could also cause problems with your insurance carrier or credit card company. Don't be a troublemaker, and stick to the contract!
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