When traveling to a different state or country, instead of
taking a public utility vehicle (i.e. cab, bus, train) to commute from one
place to another, we have an option of renting a car instead. Renting a car has
its advantages. For one, you have total control of the wheel. You can go
wherever and whenever you want. You also don’t have to fall in queue or wait
for long hours for the bus or for a cab. However, when renting a car, you still
have to be on your guard for any type of scam that a rental car company might
pull on you.  Below are some helpful tips
on how to make your renting experience more enjoyable and less hassling.

1. Before driving away in a rental car, always make sure to heck
the car for any problems and damages. We’re not just talking about engine but
also the exterior of the car. Check the body of the car for any scratches and
if the tires are in good, running condition. Also make sure that the engine is
running smoothly. Some rental companies may end up pulling a fast one on you
and charge you for this if you fail to report any damages you see before
driving the car. If you have any concerns about a specific car part or
accessory, you can check this site for reference: http://www.aboutus.org/AutoPartsWarehouse.com.
The last thing you want is to be billed for something that wasn’t your doing.

2. Read the fine print. It’s important that you know the
rental car company’s policies so you know what to do and what not to do. It
will also help prevent you from being caught off guard by unscrupulous
companies attempting to rip you off. It will also help you in determining
whether it’s worth dealing with them or not.

3. Go through the damage waiver issued by the rental car
companies. A damage waiver or Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) is an optional
coverage offered by rental car companies to cover accidental damage due to
vandalism, weather and if the car is stolen. If the waiver isn’t accepted and
the rental car is damaged, the renter is obligated to pay for the full cost of
damages incurred or the full cost of the car in case it’s stolen. This coverage
may vary depending on the company so make sure to read it carefully. Again,
some companies try to use this waiver to charge customers without their consent
so be wary.

4. Should you opt not to avail of the rental car company’s
damage waiver, you can also use your credit card to pay off any damages or loss
that you may incur while driving the rented car. However, make sure that you
are familiar with the coverage that your card offers since it varies depending
on the card company. What may be available with MasterCard or American Express
might not be available with Visa or Discover.

5. Lastly, make sure the rental car company you’re dealing
with has a good reputation. If you’ve been hearing negative reports about the
company, don’t avail of its services. Stick to the ones you trust and to those
who have been able to deliver when you needed their services the most.

Hopefully these tips will prove helpful to you and make your
traveling experience more enjoyable. Happy trip!

Sources: Kicking Tires, Motherproof, Wikipedia / Damage Waiver