Driving a car or other vehicle that isn’t ours can be a nervous experience.

The hunt for the lights and indicator controls begins; the feel and reality of the drive are likely to be different and most of the time, you rent at least one vehicle size up – meaning there is often a whole new world of dimensions to consider.

You may also have a long journey and not know the exact route. Perhaps you will even be driving on the other side of the road at some point.

Not only are concerns about damage costs at the back of our minds, but it’s also sometimes hard to work out which vehicle you need, weighing up the size, practicality, and, when trying to keep costs at a minimum, the all-important fuel economy.

Not to forget, if the worst happens, am I covered?

At Alley Cat Car & Van Rentals, we want to ease your mind a little, so here are some great rental pointers that we believe will keep you focused on the road, getting safely to your destination, and less fixed on rental woes.

WHERE, WHAT, WHEN, WHO?

First, think about your journey.

Will you be doing a lot of stop-starts? What types of roads will you be on, are you hitting cobbled narrow streets or blundering down long motorways? How much space do you need, and will your passengers, if any, be comfortable for the ride?

What size vehicle do you need?

If you are moving lots of items and need a van, then ask the rental company team for the internal dimensions. Do not forget to consider the weight (generally speaking, not an issue unless it is a pile of bricks!). Also, consider whether you need that all-important tail lift.

Bear in mind most vans have internal wheel arches that can obscure a wide load.

After a little consideration, the right vehicle can often reduce trips and save on fuel costs. Lastly, do not hire a car for a tip dump to save a few pounds and end up damaging the interior, as this can result in costly damage fees.

Most rental companies provide a 24 hour period on a single day rate (this includes the time picking up and returning). If you run over, you can be charged an extra full day, so check to see if your rental company offers any overnight fees to get that little bit extra out of the vehicle and take the pressure off returns.

Who will be driving?

For over-25’s, it’s usually a doddle (assuming they have been driving for more than two years and stayed relatively claim and driving penalty free!)

Younger drivers are more likely to put up excess fees that impact the entire rental, but it is still possible.

Consider your rental company

Remember to look at the small print of the company rental conditions.

If they are in place – and they normally are – then consider any late fee and mileage policies.

Don’t forget to do some like-for-like comparisons and research a little on whether you will be getting a modern car (last 3-5 years) or something closer to the 8, 10 or even 12-year mark.

Check out the company’s reviews and see if they have happy renters. It will help you build up a good picture of the company (just pointing out that most only leave a review if there is something wrong, where as they might not have actually read the small print, so take them with a pinch of salt). Generally speaking, most companies out there are fair and good to use.

Consider your insurance options

Where does your excess start? What is included?

Some companies may offer low prices, but they then have you coughing up more on the day for the “a full insurance package” to reduce your excess below £500, for example.

Did you know you can book your own rental vehicle insurance through various websites? Just check if your rental company accepts these first.

Book in advance & confirm what you’ll need to take to the check-out desk

Who knew vehicle rental could be so involved!

Once you have considered the above, book your rental sooner rather than later when you can.

If you book too late you may risk availability on that all-important vehicle.

Booking locally will always give you great prices and friendly service, normally without the ludicrous “admin fees” and those last-minute fees, mileage penalty add-ons, or really high excess fees you didn’t know about until you got there.

More often than not the information is there just take your time to research properly.

Before arriving at your chosen rental company, make sure you have gathered all the necessary paperwork and bits in advance that you will most likely need for your first rental. Rental companies can refuse your booking if you do not bring all the necessary items, and if you have paid a booking deposit, you are likely to lose it. A vehicle is a high asset cost, so they will protect it at all costs!

You will need a valid debit/ credit card that will be used for the security deposit, ensuring there are enough funds (the security deposit is not to be confused with any possible booking deposit – note some booking deposits are non-refundable and can range between 20 – 50% of the booking).

The security deposit is ring-fenced (placed on hold) it isn’t normally withdrawn.

Please note that you are giving the company permission to charge your card should a charge, repair, or fine appear a month or so down the line.

Take your valid driving license (if you are going abroad check what permits you may need using International Driving Permit Tool).

If you have had points or fines in the past, then let the company know in advance to ensure you are permitted to hire under the company’s insurance policy.

Two additional POAs (proof of address) are normally required, and they must be dated recently, normally within the last three months.

They should be letters that have come through the door with the primary renter’s name, address and date; electronic versions aren’t normally permitted as they are not proof you received the letter where you actually live!

When it comes to checking out, ensure your peace of mind

Take photos—close-ups and far away—of any bumps, dings, dents, and scratches. Even if there is no damage, take shots that cover the vehicle. (Don’t ask staff to be in them—GDPR and all that.)

1) Always check the vehicle round with the team member.

Here is what to look for and don’t forget to keep hold of the ticket!

a) Scratches & dents all around the body.

b) Broken or Damaged body parts such as mirrors, bumpers and side indicators

c) The window screen for any chips or scratches.

d) Interior – look for any stains, burns or rips in the upholstery.

e) Check for hub cap and alloy damage as this can be expensive to repair.

f) Get a pic of the fuel level too.

2) Make sure you know what fuel type the vehicle runs on and how to fuel up.

a) Most point out the fuel type on the check sheet, the rental invoice, and, lastly, the fuel cap area.

b) How do you get to the fuel cap? Many makes and models differ. Some have keys or interior catches, and others work when the car is unlocked.

3) Know your mileage limitations. Excess mileage fees can apply depending on the vehicle and length of hire. Speak to the rental team if you are expecting a long road trip.

4) Keep all your rental paperwork together and safe in case you get pulled over, need to refer to the T&Cs, or need to refer to the damage report when you are back.

Driving off

Sometimes, you may still be a little nervous. The rental company is normally more than happy to explain the quirks of the vehicle (like how to get into reverse, where the wipers are, etc.). If you don’t ask, they will assume you know what you are doing, as most are not first-time renters. If the vehicle is parked awkwardly, ask them to move it, and then you can focus on getting used to the vehicle before any challenging manoeuvres.

Returning

Don’t be late (this is the number one additional charge).

Always notify the company if this is the case, as this can massively reduce the stress, especially if a customer is already waiting for your vehicle.

It will almost always result in a charge so be prepared.

Always give yourself more time, considering road and traffic conditions. Rushing is most likely to lead to accidents and/or damage, meaning more unwanted costs. Other customers will also be returning, so factor in that you may have to queue.

Simply put, leave plenty of time.

Fill up nearby so you don’t run short, which could lead to more fees. Make sure it is the right fuel.

Remove everything from the vehicle that’s yours. Clear rubbish, like the odd wrapper and drinks bottle. Returning a vehicle very dirty inside or out is not advised, but most accept a standard clean will be required, so it’s not normally an issue.

Review your vehicle again, we recommend taking a few pics again just for your piece of mind.

Finally, remember you can take out your own insurance rental policy. This comes in really handy for one-off to serial rentals, and it may even save you a few quid at the check-out, along with total peace of mind. The rental company will charge you for damage, and then you can claim your insurance. It’s not the rental company’s job to deal with your insurance.