Top 10 tips for renting a car at home and abroad

5 July 2002: With considerable changes in the car rental market over the years and the holiday season under way, Argus Car Rentals have issued a list of Top 10 Tips for renting a car, here in Ireland and abroad.

1 Reserve your car well in advance, to get the best rate available book on line. Just as with your flight tickets, the early bookings are the best value.

2 Bring your driving licence, credit card and rental voucher with you when collecting your car.

3 Familiarise yourself with your rental vehicle. Find out what type of fuel it takes.

4 Check to see if there is a hidden charge if you plan to return your car to a different location from where you collected it. This is known as a ‘one-way rental’.

5 Book your infant or child seat well in advance. Most car companies have a limited supply. Check for any additional charges.

6 Always return your car full of petrol, as it will cost extra on your final bill.

7 Always inspect the car for any marks and dents that are not stated on your contract. Before you drive away be happy with the condition of the car as you can always change the car or model if you are not satisfied.

8 Check the rental company has provided you with a road map of the area you are travelling and play your journey before you drive away.

9 Remember, if you want a second named driver, they must have a full drivers licence with them. They will have to present themselves with their current drivers licence at the rental agency on collection of the vehicle. There is usually a small additional charge for a second driver.

10 Most rental accidents happen on the first day of rental. Extra concentration is needed when starting off as you may be driving on a different side of the road. Ask about local driving conditions and driving laws and don’t forget to get an emergency contact number from the rental agency.

Argus Car Rentals are the first in Europe to have the technical capability of booking your reservations on your WAP enabled mobile phone. Reservations can also be made on line. www.argusrental.com

July 2002