Common Car Hire Mistakes
In most instances, choosing car hire for a holiday leads to greater peace of mind and a sense of full control over the trip, but as with anything in life, car hire can take a foul turn when approached from a bad angle. Preparing properly for car hire is an important part of ensuring that the experience is enjoyable and lends a positive quality to the holiday, and part of the preparation process is taking care to avoid the most common mistakes. Even when common sense is applied to hiring a car, a bit of inattention or neglecting to ask a key question can result in potentially frustrating –or even embarrassing– situations for drivers. By keeping these frequent mistakes in mind, travelers can save themselves a fair amount of hassle and enjoy car hire for the fun and helpful service it’s intended to be.
a bit of inattention or neglecting to ask a key question can result in potentially frustrating –or even embarrassing– situations for drivers
What type of fuel should I use?
With so many variables for modern vehicles in terms of petrol type and tank location, it’s not too surprising that some of the most common car hire mistakes revolve around fueling. Though it’s easy to assume a given car will take the same type of fuel one would use for their own vehicle at home, it’s best to ask the car hire company in advance when not absolutely sure of the right type. Using the wrong type of fuel may lead to performance issues with the vehicle, and rectifying the matter can quickly become very expensive.
Where the %@#! is the fuel tank?
Knowing which side of the car is home to the fuel tank input is also imperative before taking a rental out on the road. Indecision at the pump and the necessity of turning the vehicle around if the wrong choice is made can add many minutes to a fuel stop, and may cause unwanted attention from staff and other patrons. Taking a few minutes to note these important aspects of the vehicle’s fuel system can keep such unwanted experiences at bay and avoid an unnecessary red face.
What side of the road should I drive on?
We’ve all driven the wrong way down a one way street at some time, but driving on the wrong side of the road on a busy motorway is something a little more serious. Incidents where people have taken the wrong exit to join oncoming traffic are not unheard of and this can lead to a serious accident. Even if you are lucky enough to avoid any scrapes, you will still be left feeling like an idiot after doing it. Always check which side of the road you should be driving, and if the steering wheel is on the other side of the car from your car at home, then you are going to have to drive on the opposite side of the road.
What car do I need?
Variety is also an element of a common car hire mistake that people make as regards the size and type of vehicle. When selecting a vehicle type, such as a sedan, sports car, van, or SUV, car hire clients opt for the least expensive option or for the sort of car they’re used to driving, without first considering the requirements of their luggage or travel group size. Though some car hire companies are able to accommodate clients with car changes on the spot, many operate busy lots and may not have a more suitable model available on arrival, or may charge an exorbitant fee for the exchange. Ensuring that the vehicle selected has proper trunk space for luggage and has enough seats for everyone enjoying the holiday is a crucial step.
Taking care to avoid these typical mistakes may seem like a small matter, but travelers who heed the lessons of those who have experienced chaotic holidays before them will find that keeping these pitfalls in mind can make for a less stressful trip.