When you see an ad for incredibly cheap car rentals, sometimes you have to ask yourself “how could they possibly afford it?” Well, as the old saying goes, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. While there are a few legitimate deals to be had out there, all too often the deal is destroyed by small print. The loser? You, when you get hit with hidden charges and fees that you were not expecting. Arm yourself with knowledge and don’t get ripped off.
Mileage fees are one of the most common charges you will incur. When renting the car, be sure to check if mileage is unlimited, or how many miles you can drive for free before getting charged. Fees can be upward of 25 cents a mile, which adds up quick when you’re driving everywhere. But before you go on driving everywhere, you need to see if you can even drive across state lines!
Some car rental agencies restrict where you can drive. For instance, if you rent your car in New York you’ll be able to drive your car anywhere in New York free of charge. But drive to Pennsylvania and get hit with a $100 fee. These are the types of question you need to ask before you book.
Finally, take a look at the rental company before you commit. Sure they might have the best deal on the block, but what is their reputation? Are you willing to risk your entire vacation on a sub-par car rental agency, just to save a few bucks? Sometimes, paying a bit extra is worth the peace of mind.
