Hiring a Car? This Is What You Need to Know!

We like to keep car hire simple, but sometimes that's easier said than done. If you're a first time renter, or just don't rent that often, it might be a bit scary. That's why we collected the major three things that you need to know about when you hire a car.

A One Way Fee May Apply

When you hire a car from one destination and you drop it off at another, a one way fee may be charged by the supplier. This fee covers the relocation of the car back to the original depot.The fee is directly connected to the supplier's local depot so it needs to be paid in the local currency. The amount varies per location and supplier. If you travel between two popular destinations, the one way fee is likely to be lower than when you travel between two unique destinations. We will always confirm the one way fee with you prior to booking the car.

Insurance Is Important

All our vehicles include basic car rental coverage, which is a legal requirement in most countries. This will cover you up to a certain amount in case of an accident or theft, but will not cover the complete cost. So, for example, if the damage done is worth $1000 and your excess is worth $600, you'll have to pay $600 out of your own pocket. Always check the excess amount on your coverage to avoid unpleasant surprises. There is an option to take out an extra insurance, so there's a zero dollar excess. Auto Europe offers either Refundable Excess Rate or Refundable Breakdown Rate as an optional add-on, depending on the destination.

A Security Bond Will Be Required

A security bond is required when you pick up your vehicle. This is a security measure by the supplier. The amount varies per supplier. Some suppliers make a pre-authorisation whilst others withdraw the money from your account. The car hire supplier will refund the security bond or cancel the pre-authorisation after you have dropped off the car. This usually takes between 5 to 7 days.Suppliers usually don't accept debit cards as a safety measure, so be sure that you bring a credit card along to the counter.If you are travelling and renting a car in multiple countries, it is important that you inform your bank about your travel plans. The last thing you want is for you bank to block your card thinking that it's not you and for you to be unable to pick up your vehicle.

You should now be ready to jump online and book your car. Hiring a car has never been easier!