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Here are a dozen suggestions every would-be Europe car rental customer should consider when the making their car rental decisions.
1. Avoid Automatic Transmission
While automatic may be standard in North America, in Europe automatic transmissions still command a premium price.
2. Avoid Airport Pickups
Airport pickups can be costly - always verify if any airport surcharges apply. It might be cheaper to take a taxi to your hotel (in the city) and then pick up the car from a city location.
3. Avoid Sunday Rentals
City pick up locations are often closed on Sunday forcing you to pick up your car at the airport and pay the airport surcharges.
4. Avoid Small Towns
Small towns often lead to small choices. If you reserve an automatic in a small town, you might have a surprise when you pick up the car, if the vehicle is simply not available.
5. Avoid Small Companies
The big car rental companies offer the best service. For the small discount that smaller companies offer, the trade-off simply is not worth the risk. The big companies have the best road service.
6. Avoid Full-Size and Larger Cars
Full size and larger cars don't have that much more room than your average mid-size car, however they do command a higher price, often because of the luxury features found on these vehicles.
7. Stick With One Driver
Extra fees are imposed for more than driver. Ask yourself "who will realistically" being driving?
8. Think Twice About International One-Way Rentals
Two problems with a one-way rental between countries: it can be expensive and sometimes is simply not possible. The one-way charge is always in addition to other rental charges and can range from around $70 to $4,000. One-ways involving small cities are frequently not possible or much more expensive. One-way rentals within the same country, however, are almost always free.
9. Request a Diesel
Diesel engines are no longer noisy, smelly and underpowered and they get great mileage. The fuel is cheaper than gas in Europe and available at every service station. Important Tip: Be sure to fill up with fuel just before turning in the car. Rental companies in Europe are currently charging up to $15 per gallon if they have to refuel returned vehicles.
10. Forget Having the Rental Car Delivered to Your Hotel
Yes, in past years this was a nice convenience that some rental companies offered as a free service. Now, however, you'll pay at least $35 and what if the delivered car isn't what you want? If you go yourself to the rental car station you'll likely have a choice of cars.
11. Remember, Germany Has the Best Rental Car Deals
Though your itinerary may limit your choice, it's still useful to know which countries have the best rental car rates. Generally speaking, Italy has the highest prices and Germany the lowest.
12. Rely on a Credit Card for Collision & Theft Insurance
This is probably the most common piece of information that most travelers know or at least should know. The car rental company covers third-party liability and fire, but the renter is responsible for the car itself. You can purchase insurance offered by the rental company, but it's expensive. Your credit card is free and there is no deductible, but be sure to check that your card offers CDW and theft coverage and that you decline the rental company's offer of insurance. In some countries you have no choice, such as Italy and Ireland, you must purchase the insurance. Also make sure your credit card protection will cover the vehicle you are renting. Most companies have placed limits on high end model vehicles.
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