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Before you travel
Check that your licence is valid in the country you are visiting; some require an international driving permit. Find out the credit card rule in advance too: the deposit is usually taken from a credit card in the driver's name.
When you book, look at the total price, what is included and the cancellation terms; extras offered at the counter often raise the price noticeably.
What to check in the contract
You do not need to understand every line, but make sure you understand these:
- The deposit amount and when it is released.
- What the insurance covers and the excess (the most you pay for damage).
- The fuel policy: full to full, or prepaid fuel.
- Mileage limits, additional driver fees and permission to cross borders.
- The return time and the charge for a late return.
Questions to ask at the counter
Ask short, clear questions and make sure you understand the answer in your own language: “How much is the deposit, and when is it released?”, “What is the most I pay if there is damage?”, “Should I bring it back full?”, “Where do I leave it if you are closed?”
Do not say yes to a clause you do not understand. When extra cover or a package is offered, ask what it covers; your credit card or travel insurance may already cover it.
Picking up the car
Walk around the car and photograph every scratch and dent, plus the mileage and the fuel gauge. Have the agent mark them on the damage form with you.
Road signs, parking signs and toll rules differ between countries; read any sign you are unsure of before you park.
Returning the car
If you can, return the car while staff are there and get written confirmation that it came back undamaged. On a full-to-full policy, keep the fuel receipt.
Check your card statement a few days later for the deposit release; if you see an unexpected charge, your handover photos are your strongest evidence when you write to the company.