We were driving to the airport the other night, and I saw something that prompted this ‘car rental best practices’ post. We’ve all done it, I know I have. We arrive after a long flight. We’re tired. We’re hungry. We just want to get to our condo. But do stop and do these things first.
So without further ado, here goes
Car Rental Best Practices
- After booking ~ sign up for the rental agency’s program that allows you to check-in and do all the paperwork online. Then skip the car rental counter and go directly to the lot. You’ll be glad you did.
- Pull up directions to get to your destination before leaving the lot. I know, it can be difficult to get any kind of connection in the parkade (thick concrete and all). How about doing it BEFORE entering the parkade? On Maui at least there is no place to pull over once you exit the parkade safely. Be ready to go.
- Carefully check the car for damage before leaving the car rental place. Take pictures of any dings, scratches and other damage, or take a video. Mark them on the sheet and have an employee sign off (I know, this means heading out takes even longer). At drop-off, re-inspect your vehicle, take more pictures, have an employee sign off that there is no additional damage. Keep your documentation and photos for several months after your vacation, just in case a claim is filed.
- I recently read an Autoslash newsletter about new AI damage detection tools. I’m not sure they are here on Maui, but be prepared to dispute damage assigned to you.
- Familiarize yourself with your car rental before leaving the lot. Where are the windshield wiper controls, lights? Adjust your seat, the steering wheel, the mirrors. What side is the gas tank on?
- Switch the car lights to ‘auto’ before leaving the lot. Just the other day, I again saw someone driving at night without lights on. Your daytime running lights may be on, but the lights on the back of the car are dark unless you step on the brakes. Dangerous! (Yes, I got waived down on a 5-lane highway in San Jose a few years ago for this very thing).
Got any additional car rental best practices? I’d love to hear yours!