Car hire: our tips for saving money

To avoid the pitfalls and make savings when hiring a vehicle, it is essential to understand your rights and adopt good practice. Class's Park offers you some recommendations for successful and affordable car hire. Assess your needs in terms of the size and type of vehicle required. Take into account the number of passengers, boot capacity and any special requirements, such as sports equipment or foreign travel.

Choosing the right rental agency:

To ensure successful and economical car hireHere are a few recommendations to follow:

1. Compare prices and offers : You can choose between large international agencies and local agencies. Make sure you compare rates and offers to find the option that suits you best.

2. Select the collection and return locations wisely: Choose convenient, accessible locations based on your itinerary. Avoid additional travel or parking costs.

3. Read the rental conditions carefully: Take the time to read the rental terms and conditions carefully, paying particular attention to insurance, fuel costs and penalties for delays or cancellations.

4. Carry out a thorough inspection of the vehicle: Before setting off, carefully inspect the condition of the vehicle and report any existing scratches or damage. This will prevent you from being unfairly accused of damage that occurred during the hire period.

By following these tips, you can ensure a successful and economical car hire experience.

Should you choose a local or international hire?

There are a number of factors to take into account when deciding whether to rent a car and save money:

1. Choose between a local agency and a major chain: Larger agencies offer better coverage, greater availability in the event of a problem and faster resolution of disputes. However, local agencies can sometimes offer better prices. Weigh up the advantages and disadvantages before making your choice.

2. Take into account the location of the agency: The proximity of the agency to your place of arrival or departure can influence the rental price. Although it's convenient to book a car directly at the airport, it can be more expensive. Compare prices and assess whether the convenience justifies the extra cost.

3. Book in advance and look for special offers: Booking in advance and looking for special offers online can help you save even more. However, read the terms and conditions carefully to avoid unpleasant surprises.

4. Use an online comparator : Online car hire platforms are useful for comparing prices and availability. They give you a clear picture of costs, extras included, mileage limits and cancellation conditions.
By taking these recommendations into account, you'll be able to hire a car without making a mistake and save money.

Don't forget to take into account any additional costs and associated fees.

There are two main types of supplement to consider when hiring a vehicle: those relating to the vehicle itself and those relating to its use.

Vehicle-related extras include options such as GPS or navigation systems, seats for babies, children or booster seats, snow tyres or chains, as well as special equipment such as ski racks.

Supplements linked to the use of the vehicle may include cleaning or refuelling charges, charges for an additional driver, charges for changing or cancelling the booking, surcharges for young drivers, surcharges for collection outside opening hours, late payment charges and surcharges for returning the vehicle to a different location from where it was collected.
It is important to read the terms and conditions of the car hire contract carefully, as each offer may vary. Some key elements to take into account are the distance travelled, the geographical area where the vehicle will be used, the excess and the deposit.

It is advisable to check whether the distance covered is limited and to opt for an unlimited option if you plan to make long journeys, to avoid extra charges for each additional kilometre. If you plan to cross a border, make sure that this is authorised by your rental contract, as you may not be covered by insurance in the event of damage and may be charged extra.

The franchise is the maximum amount you will have to pay in the event of damage to the vehicle. If the excess is high, it may be wise to take out additional insurance to avoid having to pay a large sum in the event of an accident.
Finally, find out how the deposit works, so that you don't end up with your bank account being debited in the event of a problem. It is preferable for the deposit to be blocked on your account rather than debited, to avoid any unpleasant surprises.

How do I return the leased vehicle?

Before returning the vehicle, it is essential to follow these steps:

1. Make sure the vehicle is clean: Before returning it, make sure the vehicle is clean inside and out. Remove any rubbish and vacuum it up if necessary.
   
2. Fill the fuel tank: Before returning it, make sure that the fuel tank is full, as required by the rental contract. This will avoid additional charges for missing fuel.
   
3. Draw up an inventory of fixtures Contradictory: If you are returning the vehicle during the agency's opening hours, ask to carry out a contradictory inventory of fixtures with a representative of the agency. This involves checking the condition of the vehicle together and noting any existing damage. This will prevent any subsequent disputes.
   
4. Take photos or videos : If you are returning the vehicle outside branch opening hours, take detailed photos or videos of the vehicle from all angles. This will provide you with visual proof of the condition of the vehicle at the time of return and protect you against any unjustified claims.

It is also important to note that if a clause in the rental contract states that you are responsible for any damage until the agency opens, even if you return the keys to the letterbox, this is considered abusive and therefore unenforceable. Make sure you know your rights and report any problems to the rental agency if necessary.

Here are some useful tips to keep in mind:

Make an early booking: Book your hire car in advance to benefit from the best rates and a wider choice of vehicles.

1. Compare offers : Use online comparison sites to compare the rental rates and conditions offered by different agencies.

2. Check insurance policies Understand the insurance options available and check whether your personal insurance or credit card covers car hire. This can help you avoid taking out unnecessary additional insurance.

3. Read the rental contract carefully Make sure you understand the terms and conditions of the contract, including charges, restrictions and fuel policies.

4. Inspect the vehicle before setting off Before picking up the car, check its condition thoroughly and report any existing damage to the agency. This will avoid you being held responsible for damage that you did not cause.

5. Use fuel wisely Check for nearby service stations to avoid paying excessive refuelling charges when you return your vehicle.

6. Respect return deadlines Return the vehicle on time to avoid additional rental extension charges.

7. Keep up to date with local rules of the road: Familiarise yourself with the driving rules and speed limits of the place you are visiting.

8. Watch out for hidden charges Read the contract carefully to identify any additional costs, such as airport charges, extra driver charges or unlimited mileage charges.

9. Contact the rental agency in the event of a problem If you have any difficulties or problems with the car, contact the rental agency immediately to find a solution.

By keeping these tips in mind, you can optimise your car hire and save money.