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Global Guide

Eligibility

This might seem like an obvious question, but are you sure you can rent a car? Rental restrictions vary from state to state and from company to company. For example, at most major companies the minimum age requirement to rent a car is 25 years of age - but several companies will allow younger people to rent. Some companies may refuse to rent a car to you if they find problems with your driving record. Most companies will require a major credit card to secure a deposit from you at the time of rental; if you don't have a credit card, a substantial cash deposit will be required. Always check with the rental agency before you go.

Tip: If you're traveling for business and your company has an agreement with the rental agency whereby your employer assumes liability, that agency may overlook items that would otherwise have disqualified you from renting the car.

Rates and Charges

With a selection of different rental companies, you have the opportunity to shop around for the best deal. Fees are set by each company, and vary according to the location of the rental office, the time period the car will be rented, and the car's season or model. Watch for unexpected fees. Renting at an airport may be more expensive then renting at a suburban or urban location, because airports often add surcharges and taxes. Younger renters could be charged additional fees. Other fees you may come across include additional driver costs, child safety seats, refueling charges and vehicle drop-off fees. Most rental locations will accept cash, travelers checks, money orders or personal checks drawn on U.S. funds as payment for rental charges.

Tip: Ask up front about fees, taxes and other charges that might be added to the quoted price and get it in writing. Look into joining a rewards program, because these incentives offer discounts. If you're traveling for business, review your company's rental car program; you may get a special deal.

Rental Car Insurance

Did you know that each year, travelers in the U. S. spend millions of dollars on rental car insurance? These policies are often complex and confusing. Remember that insurance is a huge percentage of a rental company's revenue. That's why some rental agents may try to pressure you into buying various policies. This sales tactic can be intimidating, especially if you come unprepared.

State Farm Insurance agent Karen Pratt states that rental car insurance should have collision and comprehensive coverage. Many rental agencies offer a basic and premium insurance package with a maximum dollar amount. "If you're renting an expensive vehicle, select the appropriate coverage that would adequately pay for that vehicle.If you're renting an inexpensive car for a couple of days, the renter can elect a lower amount of insurance protection," says Pratt. She also suggests that renters check with their insurance professional prior to renting a car to determine how their personal auto insurance affects a rental vehicle.

Here are some of the categories of insurance:

● Loss Damage Waiver (LDW), also called Collision Damage Waiver: This is the most expensive rental car insurance.

● Personal Effects Insurance (PEI): Otherwise known as theft insurance. It covers personal belongings if they are lost or damaged because of theft or accident.

● Personal Accident Insurance (PAI): This covers rental car drivers and passengers for certain medical expenses resulting from an accident.

● Supplementary Liability Insurance Coverage: Covers damage you might do to other people or property.

Tip: If you own a car, your auto insurance may provide partial protection for rental cars. Before purchasing insurance from a rental car agency, check your own; it may provide you with the coverage you need. Also, if you pay with a charge card, you might receive some insurance coverage automatically. Check with your credit card company.

Using Your Own Car

Not renting? If you are using your own car, here are a couple of reminders before you hit the road:

Prepare the car: Have a mechanic look over the car by checking the oil, tires, windshield wipers and brakes. Make sure everything is in its place and working properly. Your glove compartment should contain the proper registration and insurance information. Fill your trunk with emergency items like a flashlight, a jug of water in case the car overheats, and motor oil. Don't forget the spare tire and jack. Finally, fill the tank before you leave!

Know where you are going and how to get there: With your destination in mind, a visit to your local AAA office can be very helpful. An agent can help map out the trip. If you're not a member of AAA, try www.mapquest.com. This online site will give you step by step instructions on how to get to your destination. At www.traffic.com you can check the roads you will be traveling on for accidents, street closings or detours.