Paul's & Janita's Travel Site

There is nothing like a 'road trip' to really see a country, but there are some traps out there for the uninitiated.

1. Shop around

The hire car industry is extremely competitive. Use every edge you have to get the best price. Club affiliations, business discounts and promotional specials can save hundreds of dollars on a hire. Use the web and particularly, the many discount brokers that offer comparison rates from the major companies.

2. Look at leases for longer trips

Tax concessions are available for foreigners leasing vehicles in the European Union. These concessions can bring the price of leases way below hire rates and they include full comprehensive insurance. In the USA some companies also offer lease agreements for longer hires.

3. Use reputable companies

Rent-a-wreck class of hire companies may seem attractive on price comparison, but the quality of the vehicles and the back-up service can leave you in the lurch.

4. Select the smallest vehicle you can

Fuel can be one of the biggest expenses on your trip. A smaller, more economical vehicle will save you dollars and in most countries, it will also be easier to manoeuvre and park in crowded streets.

5. Don't take CDW

Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) covers the hirer for a pre-determined excess should they have an accident. In most countries hire vehicles come with third party insurance that covers damage to people and other vehicles, and some insurance to cover damage to the hire vehicle itself. The hirer is usually liable for an excess payment (up to $5000). CDW covers this excess. The cover can be expensive. If you have travel insurance, or pay with a credit card that has insurance cover, this excess is probably covered. However, in the USA the insurance issue is even more complex. In many cases vehicles have next to no insurance. This varies from state to state, but extra insurance is usual necessary. The cost can easily double the base hire rate. To avoid this, take cover with a specialist hire vehicle insurer.  

6. Don't take 'full out – back empty' deals

Many companies offer a return empty option that means that you don't have to fill the car up prior to returning it. You do however have to pay for a full tank of fuel at pick-up. The trap here is that it is almost impossible to manage to use all the fuel prior to returning the vehicle. With the price of fuel in most countries, even returning with a half full tank you can be gifting the company a significant amount of money. Returning the vehicle full means that you don't pay for the full tank on pick-up. You only pay for fuel you use.

7. Always get a car with a boot (trunk)

Hatch-backs and SUVs expose your luggage to possible theft. Never leave anything in the cabin of your vehicle.

8. Check vehicle condition carefully

Always inspect your vehicle inside and out before you take delivery. Mark even the smallest scratch or dint on the report form. Take digital photos of any damage. If tyres are worn or there are any obvious mechanical problems, demand another vehicle.

9. Take the GPS option

Unless you are extremely familiar with the country or area you are visiting, take the GPS option offered by most companies. You will save fuel, minimise stress and probably even save your marriage.

10. Know where you can go

Some companies don't allow you to take vehicles on unsealed roads. There are often restrictions on which countries you can drive in. Any insurance cover will be void if vehicles are used outside contract specifications. Check contracts carefully.

Peugeot Lease Cars