Litoc.com -- Home and Family

It's vacation time, and you're ready to explore the world with your family.  In a rented car, you're free to enjoy more of the holiday, and endure less of the hassle.

A family vacation is incomplete without having a clean and reliable mode of transportation.  These days, there are many alternatives available to secure good quality, rented cars that can help your family travel in comfort and safety.  Know what to look for when shopping for rented cars, and you can all enjoy a vacation to remember.

Common Inclusions with Rented Cars

When you rent a car, you'll usually receive a package that includes the following products and services:
* Basic rental fee
* Unlimited or limited mileage, depending on the choice of car and the rental agreement
* Legal liabilities
* Insurance to cover damage and other difficulties that you may encounter en route
* Delivery charges
* Applicable taxes

Common Exclusions with Rented Cars

Don't assume that you're paying for everything when you agree to a package price.  There are other fees that will likely be payable at the end of your trip:
* Fuel (you can avoid paying premium rates for fuel by filling the tank before you return the car)
* Accident and liability insurance.  This is generally shouldered by your regular automobile insurance, although some car rental companies offers accident and liability insurances if you have none.
* Drivers charge (applicable to drivers under a specified age, usually 21 to 25.  An additional driver may also cost extra)

Car Rental Period

The term or rental period will vary depending upon your agreement.  Rented cars are available by the day, week or month.  Usually, when renting on a per-day basis, one day is considered to be a twenty-four hour period.  A one-week rental is then considered to be seven successive days, counting a 24-hour cycle everyday.

Modes of Payment and Additional Fees

Payment is usually made before you leave with the vehicle, and is arranged by you and the car rental company.  The payment can be made by personally visiting the company, over the phone or via the Internet.  Almost all car rental agencies insist on receiving payment with a credit card, although some will deal directly through the bank.  Don't be surprised to find that there will be additional fees payable with your pre-payment, on top of the basic car rental fee:
* Reservation fees
* Deposit fees to cover fuel and additional costs that may be incurred during the rental period.
* Cancellation fees.  If you reserve a vehicle beforehand and decide to cancel the agreement, you will likely be required to pay a cancellation fee to cover any charges incurred by the company.

Regulations and Restrictions

Car rental companies often impose regulations in regards to the following areas:
* Driver's age.  Most car rental companies prefer well-experienced drivers, and younger drivers usually pay extra.
* Driver's license.  This is a given.  You must have an active, valid drivers license to rent a car.
* Pick-up and return.  The time and location that you pick up and return the vehicle should be taken into consideration. Late returns will result in additional costs.
* Accessories and options.  Be sure to verify with the car rental company if there will be an additional charge for extra accessories, such as a child car seat or roof rack.

A rented car can be a great way to enjoy a holiday with your family.  Consider these points and you'll all enjoy a more stress-free vacation.