Blog Post

5 Top tips for hiring a car 

  • By First Self Drive
  • 18 Dec, 2018
Fiesta
Rental vehicles give you a great opportunity to visit an area, without being reliant on public transport. They’re excellent value for money and allow you the freedom to travel to wherever you wish.
Here are five tips for renting your next car:

1. Choose the right size vehicle

Car hire services will offer a range of vehicle sizes. It’s important to choose the right vehicle size for the purpose of your hire so that you have enough room for both passengers and luggage. Comfort is key and when it comes to choosing the right vehicle size. Ensure that you have a vehicle that isn’t too small for your travelling party.
Safety is equally an important consideration. Choosing a small vehicle based on a low price can be unfavourable as you might find the journey cramped and uncomfortable if there’s not sufficient space.

2. Check age restrictions

Age restrictions vary for car hire vehicles and suppliers. Generally, drivers will need to be 25 years of age to hire a vehicle, however, a limited selection of vehicles can be rented if you are younger.
Vehicles carrying a greater number of people have a higher age limit, and there are also upper age limits on vehicle rentals, so it’s best to check age restrictions in advance of hiring your next vehicle.

3. Book in advance

Pre-booking your vehicle will prevent disappointment when you arrive at the destination. Vehicles can sell out quickly so it’s beneficial to get it booked in advance. You also have the best pick of vehicles, whereas arriving in person might mean you forfeit the size or type of vehicle you want.

4. Familiarise yourself with the vehicle

Every car is different and it can take some time to familiarise yourself with the vehicle's functions; i.e which side the windscreen wipers are, where the fuel cap is located etc.
Particularly if you are unfamiliar with driving a people carrier, you might need assistance to get to grips with the differences. If you need any help with any of the vehicle’s functions, ask a member of staff to do a quick demonstration before you set off.

5. Check the fuel type

There’s nothing worse than filling up a car with the wrong fuel type- not to mention it can cause havoc to your engine and your subsequent journey.
Always check what the hire company’s policy is on fuel. Usually, you will need to return the vehicle with a full tank of fuel, as it is provided when you pick it up so you will only need to pay for what you have used.

Here at First Self Drive in Norwich, we’ve been providing quality car, van and people carrier hire for over twenty years. Our top priority is to give our customers a reliable experience with excellent customer service as well as value for money. Book your family or business car hire today!
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